A family vacation in Northern Italy, specifically in the Lake Garda area, is undoubtedly the perfect trip for a family looking to experience a diverse and especially enjoyable holiday.
The combination of amazing parks of all kinds, breathtaking landscapes, lakes with endless colors, vibrant markets, and a plethora of attractions, along with charming museums and picturesque towns by the lake – make Northern Italy and Lake Garda a top destination in Italy and Europe for the perfect family vacation.
If you’re looking for how to effectively plan one week of travel with the coolest attractions and parks – check out this recommended family itinerary at Lake Garda.
And for those who haven’t yet checked out the complete family itinerary to the Dolomites, you are invited to click here.
1) Amazing Parks for the Whole Family
In the Lake Garda area, you can find numerous amazing parks for children and the whole family. We reviewed them in a separate post 13 parks that you must know before planning a family trip to Northern Italy.
2) Amazing Towns Along Lake Garda
Lake Garda is known for the abundance of picturesque towns that sit along its shores. We want to recommend three that you must visit:
Sirmione – the most famous of them all, located at the southern part of the lake, sitting on a peninsula. Wow.
Malcesine – located in the northwestern part of the lake. From here, a cable car to the summit of MONTE BALDO departs.
Limone sul Garda – one of the most beautiful spots on the lake, situated in its northwestern section. A true wow. You can reach it by boat from Riva del Garda and Malcesine.
3) Breathtaking Nature Trails in the Dolomites and Amazing Rafting
From the area of Lake Garda, you can dedicate at least one day trip north to the Dolomite Mountains.
You can take a long route for a full day through the Val Gardena valleys + the Sela Pass + the town of Canazei + a trip through the Val di Fiemme valley ending at the beautiful Lake Carezza.
For a shorter route, about two hours of drive each way, we recommend a trip to the enchanting Lake Tovel, around which you can combine a short family trek of about an hour and a half more. Amazing!
4) City of Canals, Venice and City of Lovers, Verona
A trip to northern Italy with the family won’t be complete without a visit to the city of canals, Venice (a full day) and the city of love, Verona (half a day).
5) Awesome Museums Your Kids Will Love!
Northern Italy is filled with various types of museums. However, there are 3 special ones that children can enjoy very much:
Oil Museum in the town of Cisano
Wine Museum and Winery in the town of Bardolino
Nicolis Museum of Vintage Vehicles in the town of Villafranca di Verona
6) Visiting the picturesque markets of the towns along Lake Garda
The daily markets in the various towns along the lake are undoubtedly a cultural attraction worth dedicating a morning to during your family vacation at Lake Garda. In the attached link, you can find all the markets Day by Day with the name of the town and the day the market takes place.
8) Family Cooking Course Including Lunch or Dinner
Discover the most authentic side of Lake Garda with a unique culinary experience in the homes of the Cesarine—local home cooks ready to share the secrets of traditional Italian cuisine. From handmade pasta to classic tiramisù, enjoy a special moment filled with flavor and warmth. Book your exclusive experience now and take home an unforgettable—and delicious—memory!
9) Driving on a Professional Karting Track
In the southern part of Lake Garda, an amazing karting track, South Garda Karting, for both adults and children alike.
10) Family Bike Ride
Cycling is one of the beautiful and recommended attractions for families on vacation at Lake Garda. You can ride along the lake, in rural areas, or enjoy mountain biking.
