Riva del Garda vacation packages

Best things to do in Riva del Garda

Riva del Garda is a picturesque lakeside town where Alpine charm meets Mediterranean vibes. Visiting Riva del Garda offers the perfect mix of outdoor activities, cultural sights, and stunning scenery. Here's what you don't want to miss:

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Torre Apponale: This medieval clock tower stands tall over Piazza III Novembre, Riva's main square and the heart of the town. Climb the 165 steps to the top for an incredible view of the rooftops below and the shimmering lake beyond. It’s an especially beautiful sight at sunset.

• Bastione di Riva (Bastion of Riva): Take the short hike from the town center to this 16th-century Venetian fort. Its terrace provides sweeping lake views, and you can relax with a coffee or cold drink at the on-site café.

The best districts

• Historic Center: Riva’s charming old town is a maze of narrow streets filled with colorful buildings, charming cafés, and boutiques. Piazza III Novembre is the main square, framed by medieval architecture and home to bustling local markets.

• Lakeside Promenade: Riva’s palm tree-lined lakeside promenade is perfect for a leisurely walk. Head here for an atmospheric evening stroll after dinner at one of the nearby restaurants.

Parks and gardens

• Parco dell’Alto Garda Bresciano (Alto Garda Bresciano Park): This expansive national park offers countless walking, hiking, and cycling trails among its lush forests and rolling hills.

• Spiaggia Sabbioni (Sabbioni Beach): Riva’s main beach park combines green, shaded areas with stretches of sandy beach-plus playgrounds, volleyball courts, and picnic spots.

Historical monuments

• Rocca di Riva (Riva Castle): This historic 12th-century fortress houses the Museo Alto Garda. Inside, you'll find exhibits on local art, history, and archaeology, while the scenic grounds are perfect for a peaceful stroll.

• Inviolata Church: This stunning Baroque church is just a short walk from the town center. The interior showcases an ornate decorative style, including beautiful frescoes and marble details.

Day trips in the area

• Arco: Located just a short drive away, Arco is famous for its impressive cliffside castle. The town itself also has a lovely historic center and a picturesque botanical garden.

• Malcesine: Take the ferry across the lake to Malcesine, a charming medieval town with a lively waterfront and the stunning 13th-century castle. You can also take the cable car from here to Monte Baldo for breathtaking views over Lake Garda.

Activities for families in Riva del Garda

Riva del Garda is a great choice for family getaways thanks to its mix of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and fun attractions. Here are some family-approved highlights:

• Busatte Adventure Park: This adventure park in a pine forest near Riva has walking paths, treetop rope courses, and scenic lookouts. For older kids and teens, there’s also a thrilling downhill cycling trail with panoramic views of the lake.

• Riva del Garda Beaches: Spiaggia Sabbioni is an ideal spot for families, with a sandy shoreline, shallow waters, and plenty of nearby amenities. The lake's calm waters are perfect for families interested in trying out water sports.

• Museo Alto Garda: Housed in the Rocca di Riva fortress, this museum brings local history to life through fantastic interactive exhibits. Kids will love exploring the castle-like setting and discovering Riva’s past.

Free things to do in Riva del Garda

Riva offers a range of free and low-cost activities that let you experience the best of the town without breaking the bank. From local events to outdoor adventures, here are some options available:

• Free events: Enjoy the warm evenings at Riva’s Piazza III Novembre, where you can participate in various free festivals, concerts, and cultural events throughout the summer season.

• Hiking trails: Like all of Lake Garda’s towns, Riva is surrounded by scenic hiking trails, many of which are free to access. The Sentiero del Ponale is a favorite, winding along lakeside cliffs with incredible views at every turn. For something more intense, tackle the trail to Monte Brione, which offers a breathtaking vista of Lake Garda from the summit.

• Walking tours of the old town: Some local guides offer tips-only walking tours of Riva del Garda’s historic center, where you pay what you feel is appropriate. They’re a fun and budget-friendly way to learn about the town’s history and perhaps discover some hidden gems.

Best beaches for your Riva del Garda vacation

Riva del Garda, nestled against the sparkling waters of Lake Garda and framed by dramatic mountains, offers a variety of stunning beaches perfect for relaxation and adventure. Whether you want to soak up the sun, swim in crystal-clear waters, or enjoy water sports, there’s a beach here for every type of traveler.

Spiaggia Sabbioni – perfect for families

Spiaggia Sabbioni is the largest and most popular beach in Riva del Garda, ideal for families and groups. With its soft grassy areas, pebbled shoreline, and shallow waters, it’s perfect for kids to play safely while adults relax. The beach offers excellent facilities, including sunbed rentals, picnic areas, and nearby cafes, ensuring a stress-free day by the lake.

Spiaggia dei Pini – for water sports enthusiasts

If you’re after a more active beach day, Spiaggia dei Pini, also known as the “Beach of Pines,” is the place to be. Popular with windsurfers and kayakers, this beach offers steady breezes and clear waters, ideal for water sports. It’s also a great spot to enjoy a lively atmosphere, with beach bars and chill-out zones perfect for grabbing a drink after an adventure on the lake.

Porfina Beach – for a laid-back vibe

Located just a short walk from the town center, Porfina Beach is a quieter option for those seeking a more relaxed experience. With its pebbly shores and tranquil waters, it’s ideal for sunbathing, swimming, or enjoying the stunning mountain backdrop. This beach is a favorite for couples and solo travelers looking for a peaceful escape.

Spiaggia Miralago – for scenic views

Spiaggia Miralago is a small, scenic beach offering postcard-perfect views of the lake and surrounding mountains. It’s a wonderful spot for picnics, sunbathing, and leisurely swims. Its proximity to local hotels and restaurants makes it a convenient choice for travelers looking to spend a day enjoying the lake’s beauty without venturing far.

Torbole Beach – for adventurers and explorers

Just a short drive or bike ride from Riva del Garda, Torbole Beach is a haven for adventurers. Known for its strong winds, it’s a hotspot for windsurfing and sailing enthusiasts. If you prefer staying on land, the promenade is perfect for a scenic walk or cycle, offering breathtaking views of the lake.

Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly day out, thrilling water sports, or a peaceful spot to take in the views, Riva del Garda’s beaches have something for everyone. Your Riva del Garda vacation will be filled with sunshine, relaxation, and unforgettable lakeside moments.

Local dishes in Riva del Garda

One of the great joys of a Riva del Garda getaway is sampling the food and drink that define this part of Italy. From sweet pastry treats to the lake’s fresh catch of the day, Riva’s culinary scene is an irresistible mix of fresh, local ingredients and traditional Italian flavors.

Some typical dishes

• Bigoli con le Sarde: Bigoli is a thick, spaghetti-like pasta traditionally served with freshly caught sardines from the lake, seasoned with garlic, parsley, and chili.

• Risotto al Pesce Persico: A creamy risotto cooked with herbs and a touch of white wine, topped with fresh perch. It’s a staple in lakeside restaurants and makes a lovely light lunch.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Lavarello alla Griglia: Also known as whitefish, lavarello is a popular catch in Lake Garda. It’s often grilled or lightly fried, then served with just a squeeze of lemon to best showcase the flavor of the fish.

• Trout with Lemon and Rosemary: Another common catch of the day, trout is often baked or grilled with lemon and herbs to create a simple dish that pairs well with the region’s wines.

Sweets and desserts

• Strudel di Mele: This apple strudel is popular in Italy’s northern regions, where it’s often found served with a dusting of sugar and a scoop of gelato.

• Polenta e Uvetta: A sweet polenta cake made with raisins and often enjoyed as a dessert.

Local drinks

• Trentino Wines: Riva del Garda sits in the heart of Trentino, a region known for its excellent wines like local white Nosiola and red Teroldego. Trento DOC – Trentino’s sparkling wine – is one of Italy’s finest and also a must-try.

• Grappa: This strong, aromatic spirit is made from grape pomace and often sipped as a post-dinner digestif. Lake Garda’s local versions are particularly smooth and well worth a try.

This culinary journey through Riva del Garda is sure to delight your senses and leave you with a taste of Italy you'll never forget.