7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Lake Garda

Nestled between the Alps and the northern Italian plains, Lake Garda is a haven for digital nomads seeking the perfect blend of work and leisure. With its mild climate, stunning landscapes, and vibrant towns, it's an ideal base for exploring the region. When the workweek winds down, the allure of weekend getaways beckons. From the popular to the peculiar, here are seven destinations that promise to rejuvenate the spirit of any traveler.

Verona

Just a stone's throw from Lake Garda, Verona is a city of romance and history, famously known as the setting for Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet." Wander through the ancient streets, visit the well-preserved Roman Arena, and perhaps leave a note at Juliet's balcony. The city's rich cultural tapestry is complemented by its gastronomic offerings, from fine wines to traditional Veronese dishes.

How to Get There: Verona is easily accessible from Lake Garda by train or bus, with the journey taking approximately 1 to 1.5 hours depending on your starting point around the lake.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to see an opera at the Verona Arena during the summer months. The ancient amphitheater's acoustics and atmosphere are truly unparalleled.

Where to Stay: Hotel Milano & Spa offers a rooftop terrace with a stunning view of the Arena, perfect for a luxurious stay. For a more intimate experience, consider the charming B&B Agli Scaligeri.

Where to Eat: Ristorante Maffei, set in a historic palazzo in Piazza delle Erbe, is renowned for its innovative takes on classic Veronese dishes.

Brescia

Brescia is an often-overlooked gem with a wealth of historical and cultural sites, including a Roman forum and a UNESCO-listed monastery. The city's museums and galleries offer a deep dive into local and Italian art, while the Mille Miglia car race, held annually, adds a touch of excitement for motor enthusiasts.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Brescia from Lake Garda is by train, with frequent services taking around 30 minutes to an hour.

Travel Tip: Explore the Santa Giulia Museum, a complex that includes a Roman villa, medieval church, and a nunnery, offering a journey through time.

Where to Stay: Albergo Orologio is a cozy option in the heart of the city, while the Hotel Vittoria offers a more upscale experience near the main square.

Where to Eat: Trattoria Al Fontenone is a local favorite, serving up hearty Brescian cuisine in a rustic setting.

Mantua

Mantua (Mantova in Italian) is a cultural powerhouse, surrounded on three sides by artificial lakes. Its Renaissance architecture, spearheaded by the Gonzaga family, is evident in the Palazzo Ducale and the Palazzo Te. The city's literary heritage, as the birthplace of the poet Virgil and the setting for "Rigoletto," adds to its allure.

How to Get There: Reaching Mantua from Lake Garda requires a combination of train and bus, with the total journey taking around 1.5 to 2 hours.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to take a leisurely boat tour around the lakes that cradle the city, offering a unique perspective on its grandeur.

Where to Stay: Casa San Domenico is an elegant B&B located in the heart of Mantua, while Hotel Casa Poli offers modern comforts with a minimalist design.

Where to Eat: Osteria dell'Oca serves traditional Mantuan dishes, such as pumpkin tortelli, in a cozy atmosphere.

Valle dei Laghi

For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience, the Valle dei Laghi is a picturesque valley dotted with lakes and castles, nestled between Lake Garda and the Dolomites. It's a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and wine tasting at local vineyards.

How to Get There: The Valle dei Laghi is best reached by car from Lake Garda, with the drive taking about 1 to 2 hours depending on your exact location.

Travel Tip: Visit the stunning Toblino Castle, which sits on a small peninsula in Lake Toblino, and enjoy a meal at its restaurant with breathtaking views.

Where to Stay: The eco-friendly Agriturismo Ai Masi offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of the valley, complete with stunning views and homegrown produce.

Where to Eat: Ristorante Castel Toblino offers exquisite local cuisine with the added romance of dining in a castle setting.

Bolzano

Bolzano, the gateway to the Dolomites, presents a fascinating blend of Italian and Austrian cultures. Visit the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology to meet Ötzi the Iceman, or take a cable car up to the high plateaus for jaw-dropping mountain views. The city's Christmas markets are a highlight for those visiting in the winter months.

How to Get There: Bolzano is accessible by train from Lake Garda, with the journey taking around 2 to 3 hours.

Travel Tip: Explore the Ritten/Renon plateau via the historic narrow-gauge railway and the modern cable car system for a day of stunning alpine scenery.

Where to Stay: Parkhotel Laurin boasts a beautiful park setting and an art-nouveau style, while Stadt Hotel Città offers a central location on Piazza Walther.

Where to Eat: For a taste of the local fusion cuisine, head to Hopfen & Co, a brewery and restaurant that serves South Tyrolean specialties with a contemporary twist.

Limone sul Garda

Limone sul Garda is a charming town on the northwestern shores of Lake Garda, known for its lemon groves and picturesque waterfront. Take a stroll along the old port, visit the Limonaia del Castèl to learn about the town's citrus-growing history, and enjoy water sports on the lake.

How to Get There: Limone sul Garda is easily reachable by ferry from various points around Lake Garda, offering a scenic approach to the town.

Travel Tip: Hike up to the Chapel of San Pietro for a panoramic view of the town and lake, especially enchanting at sunset.

Where to Stay: Hotel Monte Baldo offers a lakeside location with a private beach, while Hotel Splendid Palace features a pool with stunning lake views.

Where to Eat: Al Vecchio Fontec is a delightful spot for fresh seafood and traditional Italian dishes, with a terrace overlooking the lake.

Canale di Tenno

Canale di Tenno is a medieval village that seems frozen in time, perched in the hills above Lake Garda. This small, stone-built hamlet is listed among the most beautiful villages in Italy and offers a tranquil escape with its narrow alleys, artisan shops, and art galleries.

How to Get There: The journey to Canale di Tenno from Lake Garda typically involves a combination of bus and walking, taking around 1 to 2 hours.

Travel Tip: Time your visit to coincide with one of the village's many festivals, such as the Rustico Medioevo, which celebrates medieval culture with costumes, music, and food.

Where to Stay: For a rustic experience, stay at the charming B&B Ai Castagni, nestled in the nearby hills with a homely atmosphere.

Where to Eat: Osteria del Pettirosso is a cozy spot in the village, offering local Trentino dishes and a selection of regional wines.

Whether you're looking for cultural immersion, historical exploration, or simply a peaceful retreat into nature, these weekend getaways from Lake Garda offer something for every digital nomad's taste.