Malcesine Travel Guide

Explore the culturally and naturally rich Malcesine town of Italy with this comprehensive travel guide and its list of places, things to do, food and drinks to try, safety tips, and more.


Malcesine is a beautiful town situated in the province of Verona, nestled in the scenic Veneto region of Northeast Italy. It’s a place for adventure-seekers and nature lovers who are looking for a perfect escape from the bustling city life.

This comprehensive travel guide to Malcesine will provide you with everything you need to create your itinerary, which includes the best places to visit, top things to do, where to eat and drink, and much more. Whether you are planning for a weekend or a week-long trip, let’s dive into the wonders of Malcesine.

Introduction to Malcesine

Malcesine is a small town located on the eastern shore of Lake Garda, Italy’s largest lake, surrounded by mountains that seem to reach for the sky. This charming town has been a popular tourist destination since the Roman times. It’s famous for its well-preserved medieval castle, quaint cobbled streets and charming lakeshore promenade. The town caters to all types of travelers, from nature enthusiasts to culture aficionados.

List of Places to Visit in Malcesine

Here are some of Malcesine’s must-see places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Castello Scaligero (Scaliger Castle): The castle dates back to the 14th century and offers breathtaking views of Lake Garda.
  • Palazzo dei Capitani: This palace served as a residence for the Venetian governors of Malcesine and is now an art museum.
  • Museo del Parco - Alto Garda Bresciano: The museum offers an insight into the flora, fauna, and lifestyle in the region.

Natural Attractions of Malcesine: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Monte Baldo: Take the cable car up to Monte Baldo for stunning views of Lake Garda and the surrounding mountains.
  • Parco delle Cascate: Hike to the stunning Cascate di Varone waterfalls.
  • Malcesine-Monte Baldo Path: This hiking trail offers scenic views of the lake and mountains

Hiking/Biking Routes of Malcesine

  • Monte Baldo Trek: A challenging, multi-day hike through the mountains surrounding Malcesine.
  • Valle di Bondo Loop: A scenic route through small villages and verdant valleys.
  • Mountain Bike Trail: A thrilling mountain bike trail begins in Malcesine and climbs over Monte Baldo’s rugged terrain.

Best Things to Do in Malcesine: Activities and Tours

  • Sailing: Take a sailing tour of Lake Garda to explore the clear blue waters.
  • Kite Surfing: The steady winds of the lake make it an ideal place for kite surfing.
  • Windsurfing: Rent a board and glide over the lake’s calm waters.
  • Wine Tasting: Visit a nearby winery for a taste of the local wines.

Week-Long Itinerary for Malcesine

Day 1-2: Explore the town center, visit Scaliger Castle and Palazzo dei Capitani. Take a stroll along the promenade and dine in one of the town’s cozy restaurants.

Day 3: Take a cable car up to Monte Baldo and enjoy spectacular views.

Day 4: Hike to the Cascate di Varone waterfalls.

Day 5: Take a sailing trip around Lake Garda and explore its many towns.

Day 6: Rent a mountain bike and explore the Monte Baldo trails.

Day 7: Visit a nearby winery for a wine tour and tasting.

Food and Drink Scene of Malcesine

Malcesine offers an excellent culinary experience with dishes that reflect the region’s tradition and history. Here are some must-try dishes and drinks:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Polenta: A delicious staple of northern Italy that pairs well with meats and cheeses.
  • Risotto: Try the classic saffron risotto that’s popular in the Verona region.
  • Soppressa Veneta: A type of dry-cured sausage made from local pork.
  • Pesce di Lago (Lake Fish): Try a fresh fish dish made with local fish caught in Lake Garda.

Local Beverages

  • Bardolino: A red wine unique to the region, made with Corvina and Rondinella grapes.
  • Prosecco: A sparkling wine produced less than a hundred miles from Malcesine.
  • Grappa: A traditional Italian digestif made from grape pomace.

Where to Stay in Malcesine: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Malcesine offers a wide range of accommodation options, including luxurious hotels, quaint guesthouses, and affordable hostels. Some top picks include:

  • Hotel Castello Lake Front: A charming hotel overlooking Lake Garda.
  • Albergo San Remo: A cozy guesthouse located in the heart of the town.
  • Ostello della Gioventu Benacus: An affordable hostel ideal for budget travelers.

What to Buy in Malcesine: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Some of the souvenirs and local products to bring home from Malcesine include:

  • Olive oil: The region is known for producing high-quality olive oil.
  • Limoncello: A lemon-flavored liqueur that’s popular in Italy.
  • Lacework: The town is famous for its intricate lacework designs.
  • Handmade pottery: Pick up some unique, handmade pieces of pottery produced by local artisans.

Local Culture and Customs of Malcesine

The locals in Malcesine are warm and friendly, and their culture reflects the town’s rich history. The locals celebrate many festivals throughout the year, including the Feast of St. Stephen on December 26th and the feast of St. Peter on June 29th.

Best Time to Visit Malcesine

The best time to visit Malcesine is from April to October when the weather is sunny and pleasant. The summer months of July and August are the busiest, and the town can be crowded. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring or autumn when the crowds are thinner, and the weather is still mild.

Do’s and Don’ts of Malcesine

Do:

  • Respect the town’s culture: Dress appropriately, especially while visiting churches and other cultural landmarks.
  • Tip: It is customary to leave a tip if the service has been excellent.
  • Learn a few Italian phrases: It helps to know a few phrases to communicate with the locals easily.

Don’t:

  • Don’t disrespect the local culture: Avoid wearing revealing clothing when visiting cultural landmarks.
  • Don’t litter: Keep the town’s surroundings clean by disposing of your waste properly.
  • Don’t be loud in public areas: Keep your volume down while visiting public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Malcesine

Malcesine is a safe town, and visitors do not have much to worry about. However, as with any place, taking basic precautions, such as keeping valuables safe, is a good idea.

Health in Malcesine

Malcesine has several hospitals and clinics. If you need emergency medical care, head to the local hospital - Ospedale di Peschiera del Garda in Verona’s nearby city.

Getting to Malcesine: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Malcesine

The nearest international airport to Malcesine is the Verona Villafranca Airport, which is about 43 miles away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Malcesine.

Bus Stations Near Malcesine

Malcesine has a bus station that connects to other cities like Verona and Venice. The town is accessible from many other cities in Italy and Europe.

Other Options

You can also reach Malcesine by car, bike or train, though the latter requires a change at a nearby city.

How to Get Around in Malcesine

Walking is the easiest mode of transportation in Malcesine, but you can also rent a bike or scooter. Taxis and buses are available in the town.

Where to Go Next from Malcesine: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Verona: The romantic city of Verona is less than an hour’s drive from Malcesine.
  • Venice: The City of Canals is about 2 hours away from Malcesine, where you can explore the pleasure of boats, parks and international eateries.
  • Trento: This city is an hour’s drive away from Malcesine and is famous for its museums and fine wine bars.

Conclusion

Malcesine is a captivating town with unique cultural landmarks, natural wonders, and outdoor activities. This guide will help you plan your itinerary for a fantastic trip to Malcesine! Remember to enjoy your surroundings and respect the local culture. Happy travels!

Harbour Harbour The castle The castle Frescos at the Castello di Avio Frescos at the Castello di Avio