Things To Do
in Riva del Garda

Riva del Garda is a picturesque town located at the northern tip of Lake Garda in Italy, known for its stunning mountain backdrop and vibrant lakeside promenade. The town offers a rich blend of history, culture, and outdoor activities, making it a popular destination for tourists. Visitors can explore charming streets filled with cafes, shops, and historical landmarks such as the medieval Rocca di Riva.

With its temperate climate and beautiful scenery, Riva del Garda is a year-round attraction for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the Lakeside and Town Center
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café followed by a stroll along the lake promenade, enjoying the views of the water and mountains.

afternoon
:

Visit the historic Rocca di Riva and explore its museum, then wander the charming streets of the town center, stopping for lunch at a pizzeria.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a lakeside restaurant, sampling local seafood, and finish your day with a gelato while watching the sunset over the lake.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Culture
morning
:

After breakfast, head to the nearby mountains for a morning hike on one of the scenic trails, such as the Sentiero del Ponale.

afternoon
:

Return to town for lunch and then visit the local market for some shopping or to sample local products.

evening
:

End your trip with a wine tasting experience at a vineyard in the surrounding area, followed by dinner at a traditional Trattoria.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍕Meal at a restaurant$15-30
Coffee$2-4
🚌Public transport ticket$1.50
🍦Gelato$2-5
🏨Hotel per night$80-200

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Breathtaking natural scenery with mountains and lakes.
  • Rich cultural history and charming architecture.
  • Wide range of outdoor activities for all seasons.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist season.
  • Higher prices in tourist areas compared to local spots.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • "Buongiorno" - Good morning
  • "Grazie" - Thank you
  • "Scusi" - Excuse me
  • "Dove si trova...?" - Where is...?
  • "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Riva del Garda

Visit one of these nice places.

Piazza 3 Novembre

The main square of Riva del Garda, featuring beautiful architecture and the iconic Apponale Tower.

Sentiero del Ponale

A scenic hiking trail offering breathtaking views of Lake Garda and the surrounding mountains, ideal for landscape photography.

Rocca di Riva

A medieval fortress with stunning views over the town and lake, perfect for capturing sunset shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Riva del Garda

Riva del Garda offers a delightful culinary experience with a rich variety of local dishes that reflect the region's history and culture.

Riva del Garda Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tortellini di Valeggio

A type of stuffed pasta that originates from the nearby Valeggio sul Mincio, often served with a meat sauce.

Must-Try!

Polenta

A traditional dish made from cornmeal, often served with meats or cheeses.

Sgombro alla Griglia

Grilled mackerel seasoned with local herbs, a popular dish along the lakeside.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercato Settimanale

A weekly market held every Thursday where locals sell fresh produce, cheeses, and local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Riva del Garda has a Mediterranean climate characterized by warm summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), making it perfect for outdoor activities. Spring and autumn are mild, with average temperatures around 15-20°C (59-68°F). Winters are cooler, with temperatures averaging around 0-5°C (32-41°F), and occasional snowfall in the mountains.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

It is customary to greet people with a friendly 'Buongiorno' (Good morning) or 'Buonasera' (Good evening).

Dining Etiquette

Wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat, and it's polite to say 'Buon Appetito' before meals.

Dress Code

Dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites; swimwear is not appropriate outside of beach areas.

Safety Guide

Safety

Riva del Garda is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates. However, standard safety precautions should be taken, such as keeping an eye on personal belongings. It’s also advisable to be cautious near the lake, especially when engaging in water sports. Emergency services can be reached easily, and local hospitals are equipped to handle tourist needs.

Tipping in Riva del Garda

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated in restaurants, typically rounding up to the nearest euro or leaving 10% for good service.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and at markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings mild weather and blooming flowers, making it an ideal time for hiking and outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer is warm and bustling with tourists, perfect for swimming and enjoying water sports on the lake.

Autumn

Autumn offers cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage, great for photography and wine harvest festivities.

Winter

Winter is quiet, with occasional snowfall in the surrounding mountains, attracting visitors for skiing and winter sports.

Nightlife Guide

Riva del Garda at Night

Riva del Garda has a vibrant nightlife scene with a mix of bars, pubs, and dance clubs. The lakeside area is alive with outdoor bars where you can enjoy a cocktail while listening to live music. For those looking for a dance scene, clubs like 'Disco Club' offer a lively atmosphere with DJs playing until the early hours. Many venues also host themed nights and events, especially during the summer months, catering to both locals and tourists.

Hiking in Riva del Garda

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sentiero del Ponale

A scenic trail that runs along the cliffs above the lake, offering panoramic views and is suitable for all skill levels.

Cima Sat

A more challenging hike that leads to a peak with stunning views over Lake Garda and the surrounding mountains, ideal for experienced hikers.

Airports

How to reach Riva del Garda by plane.

Verona Villafranca Airport (VRN)

Situated about 80 kilometers from Riva del Garda, this airport services both domestic and international flights, making it the primary gateway for visitors to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Riva del Garda is highly walkable, with a compact layout that makes it easy to explore on foot. The lakeside promenade is particularly beautiful for strolling and connecting to various attractions, restaurants, and shops. Side streets are lined with shops and cafes, all within a short distance, making it convenient for visitors to navigate without the need for a car.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Tourists

Riva del Garda attracts a wide array of tourists from around the world, particularly during the summer months, drawn by its natural beauty and outdoor activities.

Local Residents

The local population is predominantly Italian, with a strong community spirit and a lifestyle centered around the lake and outdoor pursuits.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Sailing

Due to its location on Lake Garda, sailing is a very popular sport, with many clubs and schools offering lessons and rentals.

Mountain Biking

The mountainous terrain around Riva del Garda provides excellent trails for mountain biking, attracting enthusiasts year-round.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Riva del Garda is generally light, especially outside of peak tourist seasons. The town is small, and most attractions are within walking distance. Public transportation options include buses that connect to nearby towns and cities, making it easy to explore the region without a car.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Riva del Garda.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, particularly pasta and vegetable-based meals.

Gluten-Free Options

Some restaurants provide gluten-free pasta and bread, but it's advisable to check in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Riva del Garda is quite good, with several clinics and a main hospital available for residents and tourists. Emergency services can be reached via the local number 112, and most healthcare providers are equipped to handle common medical needs. It's advisable for travelers to have health insurance that covers overseas medical expenses.

Discover Italy

Read more in our Italy 2025 Travel Guide.

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