Walled peninsula on Lake Garda with medieval architecture, warm swimming waters, and ancient Roman graffiti in the Grotto of Catullus. Home to the medieval Scaliger Castle.
Sirmione sits on a narrow peninsula jutting into the southern end of Lake Garda in northern Italy. This small town is home to the 13th-century Scaligero Castle, the ancient Roman villa Grotte di Catullo, and thermal spas like Aquaria. In the car-free old town, you'll walk along winding medieval streets between colorful buildings, with views of turquoise lake waters on all sides. From Sirmione, you can easily explore other parts of Lake Garda while enjoying the town's unique charm.
Exploring Scaligero Castle
The 13th-century Scaligero Castle marks the entrance to Sirmione's old town. Its walls rise directly from Lake Garda's waters, creating an impressive sight as you approach. You can cross the drawbridge and climb the towers for wide-ranging views over the red rooftops and blue lake. The castle's docks and fortifications showcase medieval military architecture. Arrive early in the day to encounter fewer people and take better photos.
Uncovering Roman History at Grotte di Catullo
At the northern tip of the Sirmione peninsula, you'll find the ruins of a grand Roman villa dating to the 1st century BCE. Despite the name "Grotte di Catullo" (Caves of Catullus), these are not caves but the remains of a sprawling 20,000 square meter complex. You can walk through crumbling stone arches and walls while taking in lake views. An on-site museum displays artifacts found during excavations. The site is about a 20-minute walk from the town center.
Relaxing at Thermal Spas and Beaches
Sirmione's thermal waters have drawn visitors since Roman times. Today, you can soak in the sulfur-rich springs at modern spa complexes like Aquaria Thermal Spa. Many hotels also have their own thermal pools and treatments. For a more natural experience, head to Jamaica Beach at the tip of the peninsula. Here you can swim in the clear lake waters and sunbathe on smooth rocks with views of the mountains.
Strolling Through the Old Town
Sirmione's compact historic center is best explored on foot. Narrow cobblestone lanes wind between pastel-colored buildings adorned with flower boxes. You can browse small shops selling locally produced olive oil, wines from nearby vineyards, and handmade crafts. Stop for gelato or an aperitivo at a lakeside cafe. Key buildings include the 15th-century church of Santa Maria Maggiore with its frescoed interior. At the highest point of town, the 8th-century church of San Pietro in Mavino offers sweeping lake views.
Getting to Sirmione
The closest airports are Verona (30 km) and Bergamo (80 km). From either airport, you can reach Sirmione by bus or rental car in about an hour. If arriving by train, get off at Desenzano del Garda station and take a 15-minute bus or taxi ride to Sirmione. Remember that cars cannot enter the old town, so you'll need to park outside the walls and walk in. Ferries also connect Sirmione to other towns around Lake Garda.
Where to Stay in Sirmione
Sirmione has accommodations for various budgets, from luxury lakefront resorts to family-run guesthouses. For easy access to sights, stay within the old town walls. Hotels here tend to cost more but put you steps from restaurants and points of interest. More affordable options exist in the newer part of town south of the castle. Many hotels have their own thermal pools. Book well in advance for summer visits, as Sirmione gets very busy in peak season.
