Ever dreamed of wandering hand-in-hand through the winding lanes of a medieval village with your other half? Or strolling through an ancient castle, imagining tales of knights and ladies, and ending the day with a dreamy sunset over the lake? If that’s a yes, then Lake Garda is your perfect love nest.
I’ve put together a 7-day itinerary for you, way off the usual tourist trail, to uncover hidden gems and magical vibes. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure packed with history, culture, and jaw-dropping scenery. But don’t expect a boring list of places to see. This trip’s a proper adventure, a love story waiting to be written, with a few surprises and detours along the way.
Day 1: Soave, Montorio, and Verona – A Cracking Trio
Kick things off in Soave, spending the morning exploring its castle. As you wander its mighty walls, pretend you’re a medieval lady waiting for your knight in shining armour. Get lost in the keep and courtyards, and step back in time. Don’t forget to pop into one of the village’s wine bars for a taste of Soave DOC, a local white with a delicate flavour.
Early afternoon, we’re taking a little detour to Montorio Veronese, a hidden gem in the hills. Its hilltop castle has panoramic views of the valley that’ll take your breath away. To top off the day, what’s better than a romantic stroll in Verona? Soak up the city’s magic, climb up to Castel San Pietro for a sunset snap with the Ponte Pietra and the illuminated city skyline, and finish with dinner at a riverside restaurant, trying Verona’s speciality: bollito with pearà.
Day 2: Mantua – Renaissance Vibes (and Lotus Flowers)
Today, we’re diving into Mantua, a city packed with history and art. Visit Palazzo Ducale and Castello di San Giorgio, two Renaissance masterpieces, and prepare to be amazed. Wander through the frescoed rooms, picture court life, balls, and intrigue… and find your reflection in the antique mirrors.
Check out the new Palazzo Te gardens, an oasis of calm and beauty. If you’re there in July or August, take a boat trip on Lago Superiore to see the lotus flowers blooming – a proper sight! (bring your insect repellent!). For dinner, tuck into Mantuan grub: pumpkin tortelli, risotto alla pilota (or “menà” as they say here), agnolini in brodo, luccio in salsa… you’ll be spoilt for choice.
But if you want something really special, find a small trattoria hidden away in the city centre, where you can savour traditional dishes in an intimate and authentic setting.
Day 3: Mantuan Castles and Villages
Today’s an adventure into the lesser-known castles of Garda, deep in the Mantuan countryside. We start at Ponti sul Mincio, with its Scaliger Castle overlooking the valley. Climb the highest tower and pretend you’re a guard, watching the horizon. Then we head to Monzambano, where you’ll see another perfectly preserved castle. For lunch? Book a table in Borghetto sul Mincio – because a romantic getaway isn’t complete without trying the famous tortellini di Valeggio, or “nodo d’amore,” while gazing at the ancient Visconti bridge. Finally, we reach Castellaro Lagusello, a charming village with a medieval castle and a heart-shaped lake, perfect for a romantic walk.
Day 4: Castle Hopping and Salò’s Romantic Lakeside
Get ready for a day of proper castle exploring. Today’s all about Valtenesi, an area bursting with history and fortified villages. Start at Padenghe sul Garda, with its ancient castle, three towers, and lake views. Then it’s on to Moniga del Garda to see its castle-refuge, once a haven for villagers during attacks.
A stop at Pozzolengo is a must, with its imposing medieval castle and Don Giussani Park, ideal for a relaxing nature stroll. If you’ve got time, pop over to Soiano del Lago to see the ruins of its old castle, a reminder of a past filled with battles and intrigue.
In the evening, enjoy a romantic walk along Salò’s lakeside and have dinner at one of the many lake-view restaurants, soaking up Garda’s magical atmosphere.
For added romance, organise a sunset boat trip with aperitifs, sailing around Isola del Garda, and seal those memories.
Day 5: Brescia – History, Art, and Local Flavours
Today, we head to Brescia, a city packed with hidden treasures. Begin at the castle on Cidneo hill, discovering its ancient past. Continue to the Santa Giulia Museum, a journey through time, and the Tosio Martinengo Art Gallery.
Don’t miss the Capitolium, a relic of ancient Roman Brixia. For lunch, you’ve got to try Brescia’s classic dishes: casoncelli, bigoi col pestöm (a salami-based sauce), manzo all’olio di Rovato, or spiedo with polenta. But for a true experience, find a family-run trattoria for a taste of authentic Brescian cuisine.
For a stylish, romantic experience, have aperitifs at the Teatro Grande bar in the city centre.
Day 6: A Trentino Trip – Castles, Lakes, and Cheese
Today, we’re off to Trentino to explore its most impressive castles. We start at Castel Campo in Fiavè, an ancient castle with a magical vibe.
Check out the Fiavé pile dwellings, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and visit the local dairy for cheese tasting. Then it’s onto Stenico Castle, with its frescoed chapel and inlaid furniture collection.
In the afternoon, be captivated by the beauty of Lake Toblino and Castel Toblino, perched on a rock in the middle of the lake. To finish, why not have a romantic dinner in a mountain hut? The views and local food will make it unforgettable.
Day 7: Trento – History, Art, and Mountain Flavours
We finish our trip with a visit to Trento, Trentino’s capital. Visit the Buonconsiglio Castle, the region’s most important historical and artistic monument, with its impressive structure and art collections. Stroll through the historic centre, admiring Trento Cathedral and its square.
For lunch, enjoy Trentino’s typical dishes: canederli, strangolapreti, or tasty tortel di patate. If you’ve got time in the afternoon, visit Castel Beseno, the region’s largest fortified structure, or Castel Pietra in Calliano, a slice of the Middle Ages where time stands still.
I hope this itinerary inspires your romantic getaway on Garda. This is just a taster of 7 days among villages and castles, so feel free to adapt it to suit you.
The most important thing is to enjoy every moment with your loved one, letting the magic of these enchanting places sweep you away.
