Riva del Garda Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, stay and eat in Riva del Garda, a picturesque town located near the stunning Lake Garda in Italy.


Introduction to Riva del Garda

Riva del Garda is a picturesque little town located in the Trentino province of northern Italy, near the stunning Lake Garda. It is a popular tourist destination that offers a perfect mix of natural beauty, history, culture, and adventure. This town is surrounded by mountains that create a beautiful backdrop and offer scenic hiking and biking trails. The town itself is replete with historical sites, museums, and cultural landmarks.

List of Places to Visit in Riva del Garda

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. The Museum of Riva del Garda: This museum offers an in-depth view of the history and culture of Riva del Garda, with fascinating exhibits that span everything from prehistoric artifacts to Renaissance paintings.

  2. The Rocca: This medieval fortress, built in 1124, stands tall and proud on a hill above the town, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

  3. Chiesa di Santa Maria Inviolata: This church is a beautiful example of Baroque architecture. It is located in the heart of Riva del Garda and is a must-visit for history lovers.

Natural Attractions of Riva del Garda: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Lake Garda: Riva del Garda is located on the banks of Lake Garda, which is Italy’s largest lake. It is known for its crystal-clear waters, stunning vistas, and numerous recreational activities such as swimming, boating, and fishing.

  2. Monte Brione: This mountain offers excellent hiking and biking trails and is famous for its scenic views of Lake Garda and the surrounding mountains.

  3. The Varone Waterfall: The Varone Waterfall is located just outside Riva del Garda and is one of the most popular natural attractions in the area. It is a 98-meter high waterfall that cascades down a rocky gorge into a deep pool of water.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Riva del Garda

  1. Monte Brione Trail: This trail offers an excellent opportunity to explore the beauty of Monte Brione. It is a circular route that takes around 3 hours to complete

  2. Ponale Trail: This trail takes hikers through tunnels and along a cliff edge overlooking Lake Garda. It is about 11 km long and takes around 3-4 hours to complete.

  3. The Busatte-Tempesta Trail: This trail offers breathtaking views of Lake Garda and takes hikers through some of the most beautiful and scenic spots in the area. It is about 10 km long and takes around 3-4 hours to complete.

Best Things to Do in Riva del Garda: Activities and Tours

  1. Climb the Torre Apponale: This is an iconic bell tower in the center of Riva del Garda. It opens up to an incredible 360-degree view of the city, and a climb up the tower is well worth the effort.

  2. Take a Boat Tour on Lake Garda: One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Lake Garda is on a boat tour. A variety of boating tours are available to suit every budget and schedule.

  3. Try Windsurfing or Kitesurfing: Riva del Garda is a popular destination for windsurfers and kitesurfers. The town’s windy weather and calm waters make it the perfect destination to experience these thrilling sports.

Week-Long Itinerary for Riva del Garda

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Rocca fortress and explore the charming streets of Riva del Garda
Day 2 Go on a boat tour to explore Lake Garda and its surroundings
Day 3 Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Ponale Trail and take in the stunning views of the lake
Day 4 Try your hand at windsurfing or kitesurfing
Day 5 Visit the Museum of Riva del Garda to learn about the town’s history and culture
Day 6 Take a trip to the Varone Waterfall and enjoy the natural beauty of the area
Day 7 Go on a cycling tour of the area, exploring mountain trails and scenic routes

Food and Drink Scene of Riva del Garda

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Carne Salada: A traditional dish made from cured meat that is often served with salad.

  2. Polenta: A staple dish made from cornmeal that is often served as a side dish for meats or vegetables.

  3. Risotto: A delicious Italian rice dish that can be found in many restaurants in Riva del Garda.

Local Beverages

  1. Wine: Trentino is famous for its wine, and Riva del Garda is home to many local vineyards. Try a glass of Marzemino, a local red wine.

  2. Grappa: This is a strong alcoholic drink made from the pomace of grapes that are left over from wine production. It is a popular after-dinner drink in Riva del Garda.

Where to Stay in Riva del Garda: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Du Lac et Du Parc Grand Resort: This luxurious resort is located on the shores of Lake Garda and offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

  2. Hotel Kristal Palace: This four-star hotel is located in the center of Riva del Garda and offers beautiful views of the town and its surroundings.

  3. B&B Riva Dreams: This bed and breakfast is located in a quiet area of Riva del Garda and offers comfortable rooms and a terrace with mountain views.

What to Buy in Riva del Garda: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Olive Oil: You can find a variety of local, organic olive oils in Riva del Garda that are delicious and healthy.

  2. Wine: Trentino is known for its wine, and bringing a bottle of local wine back home is always a great idea.

  3. Handmade Crafts: Riva del Garda is home to many skilled artisans who create beautiful handmade crafts, including pottery, glass, and woodwork.

Local Culture and Customs of Riva del Garda

Riva del Garda is a small town with a rich history and culture. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and visitors are encouraged to learn about their customs and traditions. The town also has a strong religious heritage, and many religious festivals are celebrated throughout the year.

Best Time to Visit Riva del Garda

The best time to visit Riva del Garda is from April to October when the weather is warm and the outdoor activities are in full swing. However, the town is also beautiful during the winter months, with snow-capped mountains and cozy cafes.

Do’s and Don’ts of Riva del Garda

Do:

  1. Respect the local customs and traditions.

  2. Try the local food and drinks.

  3. Learn some basic Italian phrases to communicate with the locals.

Don’t:

  1. Wear revealing clothing when visiting religious sites.

  2. Litter or damage the natural environment.

  3. Speak loudly in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Riva del Garda

Riva del Garda is a safe town, and the crime rate is low. However, it is always important to be vigilant and take basic precautions to ensure your safety.

Health in Riva del Garda

Medical facilities in Riva del Garda are of a high standard. The town has a hospital and several medical clinics that provide quality medical care.

Getting to Riva del Garda: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Riva del Garda

  1. Verona Airport: This is the closest airport to Riva del Garda, located around 80 km away.

  2. Bergamo Airport: This airport is located around 130 km away from Riva del Garda.

Bus Stations Near Riva del Garda

  1. Rovereto bus station: This bus station is located around 20 km away from Riva del Garda.

  2. Trento bus station: This bus station is located around 30 km away from Riva del Garda.

Other Options

Riva del Garda can also be reached by train, with the closest train station being in Rovereto (around 20 km away).

How to Get Around in Riva del Garda

The best way to get around Riva del Garda is on foot, as the town is small and easily walkable. Alternatively, bicycles and e-bikes are available for rent at many shops in town.

Where to Go Next from Riva del Garda: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Trento: This historic town is located around 30 km away from Riva del Garda and is renowned for its beautiful architecture and cultural landmarks.

  2. Lake Ledro: This lake is located around 15 km away from Riva del Garda and is known for its crystal-clear waters and scenic hiking trails.

Conclusion

Riva del Garda is a beautiful town that perfectly combines natural beauty, history, culture, and adventure. From hiking and biking trails to cultural landmarks and museums, Riva del Garda offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing holiday or an exciting outdoor adventure, Riva del Garda is the perfect destination.

Lake Garda from the Riva Lake Garda from the Riva Interior of Santa Maria Assunta in Riva del Garda Interior of Santa Maria Assunta in Riva del Garda Ponale trail Ponale trail