Riva del Garda: what to see and do near the lake

The main town in the north of Lake Garda is a destination waiting to be explored, with pockets of unspoiled nature, strolls through the narrow streets of the historic centre and relaxing beaches. Discover what to visit near Riva del Garda with us.

Do you have one day to dedicate to Riva del Garda and its surroundings? Here is our mini-guide with the top 5 places not to miss, let yourself be inspired and choose the experience that is right for you.

The town of Riva is located at the northern tip of Lake Garda, where the mountains dive majestically into the water.A place to discover slowly by getting lost in the narrow streets of the Marocco district, one of the oldest areas with its fountains and medieval-style views, and the characteristic Fiume street, where the old Jewish ghetto was also located.
The spectacular squares directly on the lake, filled with tables, invite you to take a break with a good coffee or a glass of spritz, to fully enjoy the dolce vita flair of Garda Trentino. After a stop, they deserve a visit the Venetian Rocca with the MAG civic museum, the Apponale towerand the Bastionreachable by the panoramic elevator.

The extra tip? For a different visit to Riva del Garda, include the spectacular Hydroelectric Power Plant in your itinerary; a guided tour will take you through the old power plant, which is still in operation, and offer you a unique view of Lake Garda.

One of the must-see highlights of Garda Trentino is definitely the Ponale road, the ancient route that connected Riva del Garda with the Val di Ledro and which during the two World Wars was also a fortified line.
You can travel it on foot, by bike or by e-bike… in any case it will be a truly evocative experience that in about an hour and a half will lead you to the gates of the Val di Ledro.
Once you reach the top you can decide how to continue: a stop at the Belvedere for a refreshing break, a walk to the spectacular Larci peak or a trip to Lake Ledro among stilt houses, giant benches and beaches.

The extra tip? To savor the flavors of the Val di Ledro don't miss the small local businesses in the area, all waiting to be discovered: the Foletto pharmacy with its liqueurs such as the famous Picco Rosso, the Leder brewery and the cured meats from the Macelleria Cis. 

Where to go for a swim in Riva del Garda? There are plenty of options, with the long lakeside promenade beginning just outside the historic center and continuing to Porto San Nicolò. One of the best places to stop for a relaxing swim is definitely the Sabbioni beachwith its piers for diving in or sunbathing, a large playground and a comfortable lawn where you can enjoy the view. The more breezy Purfina beachnear Porto San Nicolò, where you can go diving, is also not to be missed. 
Looking for the right place for water sports? The VentosaTorboleawaits you with Segnana Watersportsand day courses insurfing, windsurfing and many other disciplines.

Our extra tip? If you are looking for quiet beaches and unspoiled places, don't miss our article dedicated to the most beautiful lakesaround the Grand Hotel Terme di Comano

An absolute must-see for anyone visiting Riva del Garda is the impressive Varone waterfall, which can also be reached by public transport. Just 3 km from the town centre, you can cool off with a visit to this waterfall created by the Magnone stream, a thunderous 100-metre drop set in a fascinating canyon. 
This attraction has been open to visitors since 1874, and you can spend a couple of hours exploring the botanical garden and its Mediterranean flora, as well as having a picnic in one of the many areas along the route.

An extra tip? Want to see another spectacular waterfall? Don’t miss the Rio Bianco waterfall in Stenico, just a few minutes from the Grand Hotel Terme di Comano and close to the unmissable Bosco Arte Stenico.

Have you ever tried one of the top experiences in Garda Trentino? Must-try gems to make your day in Riva del Garda unique and unforgettable.

Choose between a classic aperitif on a sailboat, rocked by the gentle waves of the lake while you sip a glass of Trento Doc, a SUP outing to discover the Ponale waterfall, or a special tour of the historic center.
Once you return to the hotel, don't miss the Experiencetaking place in the Comano Terme valley: delicious picnics with a view, healthy e-bike rides along the UNESCO Biosphere, and visits to the area's wineries and cultural attractions.
For more information, visit the dedicated page.

Our extra tip? The Comano Terme Spa also participates in the Experience with the Mind and Body in Harmonyoffer: an afternoon dedicated to psycho-physical well-being in the thermal park with our staff, including drinking water to purify and feel good, forest bathing in the thermal park, and a healthy aperitif prepared by Chef Christian Venturini.

The Thermal Spa is at your disposal for a dip in the pool, a relaxing moment among the centuries-old trees of the thermal park, and a wide range of wellness and health treatments. In September, don't miss the inhalation therapy packagesto help you prepare for autumn and the exfoliating and nourishing treatmentswith Terme di Comano skincare productsto preserve your tan and give your skin a radiant glow.

Take advantage of our Early Autumn Wellness Weekendpackage from September 16 to 18. The perfect offer to end the summer on a high note: it includes a thermal wellness experience and a dinner dedicated to September's seasonal delights. 

Credits: APT Garda Dolomiti SpA - Visittrentino - www.cascata-varone.com ©