Things To Do
in Castiglione del Lago

A selection of freshly caught lake fish (perch, tench, whitefish) lightly fried; commonly found at lakefront restaurants and seasonal festivals.

Must-Try!

Baked tench—an old Trasimeno specialty prepared simply with herbs, olive oil and sometimes lemon; served in traditional trattorie.

Thick, hand-rolled pasta often served with butter and shaved black truffle in season—look for this at local osterie and agriturismi.

Roast pork and various salumi from nearby valleys appear on antipasto platters in town eateries.

A small weekly market (day varies by season) where vendors sell local cheeses, olive oil, vegetables, cured meats and sometimes baked goods—good for picnic supplies.

In summer and during events you’ll find seasonal stalls offering fried lake fish, pizza al taglio and sweets; ideal for casual tasting while walking the promenade.

Use formal greetings (Buongiorno/Buonasera) when entering shops or meeting people; a handshake is common for first meetings.

Dress modestly when visiting churches (cover shoulders and knees) and remove hats indoors for respect.

Meals are social; wait for the host signal to start and don’t expect quick service—dining can be leisurely, especially in the evening.

Keep noise down in residential areas late at night, especially in smaller towns and villages.

Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory: round up small bills, leave 5–10% in restaurants for good service, and a euro or two for bar staff after table service. Taxi drivers and hotel porters appreciate small tips for good service.

Cash (euros) remains widely used in small shops and markets; credit/debit cards are accepted at most restaurants, hotels and shops though small businesses may prefer cash. Contactless payments are increasingly common; notify your bank of travel plans to avoid card blocks.

Mild temperatures, blooming countryside and ideal conditions for hiking, cycling and photography; some tourist facilities begin reopening. Pack layers for cool mornings and evenings.

Warm to hot days with busy lakeside activity, outdoor concerts and festivals; perfect for swimming and boating but expect crowds in July–August and book accommodation ahead.

Harvest season with chestnuts, truffles and wine events; pleasant daytime temperatures and crisp evenings—great for food-focused visits and quieter sightseeing.

Cool to cold weather with the possibility of fog over the lake and fewer tourists; some restaurants and services close off-season—check opening hours and bring a warm coat.

A network of gentle trails across woodland and lakeside paths on the largest island in Lake Trasimeno—good for birdwatching and short hikes.

Walking routes along the lake connect small ports and scenic viewpoints—mostly flat and suitable for all levels.

A larger natural area southeast of the lake offering more substantial hikes through forests and limestone landscapes, with panoramic viewpoints; suitable for half-day excursions.

Rolling-country hikes and country-lane walks through olive groves and vineyards, offering quieter rural scenery and opportunities to visit agriturismi.

Closest regional airport (about 40–60 km away depending on route) with domestic and selected European flights; car rental or bus connections to Castiglione del Lago are available.

Around 150–180 km north (approximately 1.5–2.5 hours by car depending on traffic); good option if combining with Tuscany travel.

Major international airport roughly 2–3 hours by car or train plus local transfer; offers the widest flight connections and car rental options.

A secondary option on the Adriatic coast at a similar driving distance as Florence for some routes; useful for certain seasonal flights.

Vegetarians will find seasonal salads, grilled vegetables, egg- and cheese-based pasta and legume stews; ask about broths or sauces made with meat stock and look for vegetable-based antipasti.

More limited but possible—many restaurants can adapt dishes (vegetable mains, pasta with tomato or olive oil). Carry a translation card for dietary needs and request no cheese or butter.

Gluten-free options are increasingly available: many restaurants offer gluten-free pasta and breads—always confirm with staff; smaller places may have limited options.

Inform staff clearly about allergies (nuts, shellfish, dairy); a simple Italian phrase or printed translation helps. Pharmacies also sell antihistamines and other basic medicines.