Sirmione: A historic pearl with thermal baths on Lake Garda

Sirmione – a historic pearl with thermal baths in the south of Lake Garda

Historic town of Sirmione lies on a narrow peninsula extending deep into the southern part of Lake Garda. Without embellishment, it is a jewel on Lake Garda that has charmed vacationers for centuries. It is a place where history meets elegance, and thermal springs meet the summer bustle on the shores of Lake Garda. You can also admire the contrast between the calm lake and the view of the snow-capped Alps.

Sirmione Lago di Garda

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Sirmione

Sirmione is the perfect symbol of the Italian dolce vita. In its stone streets, the scent of coffee, thermal air, and old walls mingle, which could tell stories of Roman poets and noble families. In previous articles from Lake Garda, I introduced you to two different places, and Sirmione is a bit different as well. Read my previous travel tips:

Transportation and parking in Sirmione

Sirmione is best accessed from the A4 highway connecting Milan and Venice; the “Sirmione” exit is approximately 10 kilometers from the town. The journey from Prague will take approximately 8 hours without breaks, and from České Budějovice, approximately one hour less. The nearest airports are Verona (approx. 35 km) and Bergamo (90 km). Buses and trains run daily from Verona to nearby Desenzano del Garda, from where you can take a local connection or a taxi.

Entry to the historical center itself is restricted, and most visitors park in front of the Rocca Scaligera entrance gate. Paid parking lots such as Parcheggio Monte Baldo and Parcheggio Grifo are well-marked, but they fill up quickly, especially in the summer. I recommend arriving early in the morning or parking a little further away and using the shuttle minibus.

Accommodation in Sirmione

Sirmione offers a wide range of accommodations, from romantic hotels overlooking the lake to family-run guesthouses tucked away in quiet neighborhoods. I recommend booking your accommodation well in advance during the season, especially for hotels that are right in the center, behind the gates of Sirmione.

Cheap accommodation in Sirmione

Hotel Marolda (near the southern entrance to the peninsula) offers clean rooms, a swimming pool, and a friendly atmosphere. Alternatively, there are smaller apartments or B&Bs in the Colombare di Sirmione area, where prices remain favorable even in the high season.

Hotels with access to thermal baths

Hotel Olivi Thermae & Natural Spa combines comfort, an excellent location, and access to thermal baths. An ideal choice for those who want to relax without paying exorbitant prices.

iconic Grand Hotel Terme stands directly on the water and offers its own thermal pools, views of the castle, and top-notch cuisine. No wonder it is a favorite of European celebrities.

Villa Cortine Palace Relais Chateaux

One of the most beautiful luxury accommodations around Lake Garda
5 minutes walk from the historical city center
Located in beautiful private gardens with a swimming pool and a private pier to the lake
Ideal for honeymoons and anniversaries

>> CHECK AVAILABILITY AND PRICE

What to see and do in Sirmione

Sirmione Garda can be explored on foot, but it is definitely not a city you can see in an hour. I recommend setting aside at least one morning or afternoon, ideally a whole day. You won’t regret staying here for two or more nights. I have written down 5 tips for you on what to do here and which places in Sirmione I recommend visiting:

1. Rocca Scaligera

Rocca Scaligera is a medieval castle from the 13th century that protected the city from attacks from the lake. The observation tower offers a panoramic view of the entire Garda Riviera. You can buy tickets on site.

Sirmione Lago di Garda

2. Grotte di Catullo – Sirmione Lago di Garda

Grotte di Catullo are the extensive remains of a Roman villa from the 1st century BC and are among the most important ancient monuments in northern Italy. The ruins offer a breathtaking view of the lake, and just a few meters away you will find beaches where you can relax and cool off.

3. Terme di Sirmione

The local thermal springs have been famous for their healing effects since Roman times. Today, they attract visitors to modern spa complexes that offer wellness overlooking the water.
I recommend it especially outside the main season. Especially from autumn to spring, you can enjoy a perfect wellness vacation here. I mentioned two hotels above that allow access to the thermal baths.

4. Walk through the town and along the promenade – Sirmione Lago di Garda

Do you also like those narrow cobbled streets in historical cities? Then you will like Sirmione too. Flower-filled balconies, small piers, and beaches with azure water only complete the atmosphere that you will fall in love with on your first visit.

Sirmione

Sirmione – Lago di Garda

5. Boat trip on Lake Lago di Garda

Boats depart from the harbor to other towns around Lago di Garda. You can plan day trips to the towns of Desenzano, Bardolino, and Malcesine if you stay in Sirmione for several nights. It is an ideal way to combine the history of this city with the discovery of other towns on the lake.

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What restaurants and cafes to visit in Sirmione?

La Speranzina Restaurant & Relais

Luxurious fine dining with Michelin precision and a view of the lake. If you are looking for an ideal place for a romantic dinner at sunset, book a dinner at this restaurant.

Trattoria Clementina

Do you prefer authentic homemade cuisine? Then go for a meal to Trattoria Clementina, where fresh pasta, fish from Garda, and local wines are served. You can look forward to friendly staff and fair prices.

Caffè Grande Italia

For something sweet and good Italian coffee, visit the local historical café directly on the main square, Piazza Carducci. You will find the perfect place for a good espresso and tiramisu while watching the hustle and bustle of the city.

Practical tips for visiting:

Outside the season (October–April), Sirmione is much quieter than during the holiday months. Likewise, parking and accommodation will be cheaper, but expect limited operation of some restaurants.
If you are traveling here in the summer (July–August), Sirmione is crowded with tourists and you need to book hotels and restaurants in advance. In spring and autumn, there is ideal weather for walks and boat trips.
Forget the heels and rather put on comfortable shoes. Narrow and paved streets await you.
If you want to enjoy the peace of the city without large crowds of tourists, arrive early in the morning or stay overnight; the evening and early morning Sirmione has an unmistakable charm that disappears during the day in the crowd.

Did you like my tip for a trip and vacation on Lago di Garda today? Save this post on Pinterest so you can easily find it next time:

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Sirmione: A historic pearl with thermal baths in the south of Lake Garda

Sirmione

Transportation and parking in Sirmione