This active lakeside town on Lake Garda is known for its medieval fortifications and prime location. It's a popular summer destination with beach clubs and restaurants.
Peschiera del Garda sits on the southern shore of Lake Garda in Italy. The town is encircled by 16th-century fortifications, now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located at the point where the Mincio River flows out of Lake Garda, Peschiera serves as a gateway to various experiences. You can swim in the lake, cycle along riverside paths, visit the nearby Gardaland amusement park, or take a short trip to the town of Sirmione.
Exploring the Old Town's Streets
Begin your walk through Peschiera's old town at Piazza Ferdinando di Savoia, the central square. Here, you can see remnants of Roman ruins, evidence of the town's ancient origins as Arilica. As you navigate the cobblestone streets, you'll come across the 16th-century parish church of San Martino, which contains frescoes from various periods. The Voltoni Bridge, built in 1556, spans a canal and connects two parts of the old town.
The 16th-Century Fortress
Venetians constructed Peschiera's pentagonal fortress in the 16th century, completely enclosing the old town. As you walk along the massive walls, you'll notice they extend from the waters of the Mincio River, which acts as a natural moat. The Porta Verona, a gate designed by Renaissance architect Michele Sanmicheli, is a key feature of the fortress. From the walls, you can see the lake and surrounding landscape.
Activities on Lake Garda
Peschiera's location at the southern tip of Lake Garda makes it convenient for water activities. You can rent a boat to navigate the lake independently or join boat tours that depart from the town's harbor. These tours often stop at other lakeside towns like Sirmione or Lazise. For swimming and sunbathing, head to one of Peschiera's beaches. The Lido Cappuccini and Lido Pioppi provide access to the lake and have facilities for visitors.
Cycling Along the Mincio River
Peschiera marks the beginning of the Mincio Cycle Path, a 43-kilometer route that follows the Mincio River to Mantua. This flat, paved path suits cyclists of various skill levels and passes through fields, orchards, and small villages. Borghetto sul Mincio, known for its medieval buildings, is one of the towns along the way. You can rent bikes in Peschiera for a full day trip or a shorter ride on a portion of the path.
Sampling Regional Food and Wine
The area surrounding Peschiera produces Lugana wine, a crisp white that pairs well with fish from Lake Garda. You can visit local wineries for tastings or try a glass with your meal at restaurants in town. Local specialties include bigoli pasta with sardines and risotto with tench, a fish found in Lake Garda. For a quick treat, you'll find gelaterias in town serving Italian ice cream in various flavors.
Transportation to and Around Peschiera
Trains connect Peschiera del Garda to Verona (30 minutes away) and Milan (about 1.5 hours away). The train station is within walking distance of the old town. If you're driving, you can reach Peschiera via the A4 motorway. Once in town, you can walk to most attractions. For trips to other parts of Lake Garda, you can use the ferry service that links Peschiera with other lakeside towns.
