Lake Como vs Lake Garda
With a mix of serene waters, forest-clad hillsides and medieval villages, it’s not hard to see why the Italian Lakes are a popular destination for travellers in the know.
While there are over 1500 lakes in Italy, some of the largest are spread across the centre of Lombardy. Known for its stunning scenery, Lombardy stretches from the flat plains of the river Po in the south to the towering snow-covered Alps in the North. Within its border are Lake Maggiore, Lake Varese, Lake Lugano, Lake Iseo, Lake Idro and two of the most popular, Lake Como and Lake Garda. You can visit Lake Maggiore, Lake Como and Lake Orta on a Walk & Discover tour: The Italian Lakes.
It can take around three hours to travel from Lake Como to Lake Garda by car, meaning most visitors only opt to see one. But which is right for you?
Lake Como Or Lake Garda
Atmosphere
While both lakes are popular with tourists, Lake Garda is considered the most popular due to its lively atmosphere. As some areas around the lake are less accessible, Lake Garda can often feel busier, especially in hubs like Sirmione. While Sirmione is definitely worth a visit, venture up into the cooler climate of the surrounding mountains to find yourself in an untouched paradise.
Lake Garda is also considered more family-friendly. While we don't visit them on our tours, it's worth noting that Gardaland amusement park, waterpark and Aquarium are both close by, making the area popular to families with children. On the other hand, adults can enjoy the sophisticated atmosphere in the trendy bars in Desenzano, Peschiera and Bardolino.
Visit Sirmione and Bardolino on our Lake Garda, Venice and Verona tour.
The Lake Garda region must be one of the prettiest places on earth – quite simply breathtaking
On the other hand, Lake Como is more peaceful. While the lake is accessible to day-trippers from Milan, every town and village around its edge is more spread out than Lake Garda’s, making Lake Como appear less popular. This makes it much easier to escape the bustling crowds to somewhere more peaceful.
When it comes to romance, Lake Como has everything you could need making it the perfect destination for a big anniversary. Impressive villas, cosy restaurants, inspiring architecture and open green spaces make it perfect for a romantic getaway. It’s also considered more exclusive; home to small towns and villages, there’s less accommodation and more luxury. Luxurious hotels, like the UNESCO World Heritage Site Villa d’Este built to be the summer homes of Princess Caroline of Brunswick and still hold that royal charm, are dotted around the lake.
Very relaxing, with plenty of time to enjoy the views, boat trips train journey and lakeside villages and nearby towns – so beautiful it all seemed a little unreal.
Hilary in Plymouth on our Lake Como, St. Moritz & The Bernina Express tour
Things To Do
In addition to the amusement park on Lake Garda, there are plenty of other things to do.
As the largest of the Italian lakes, Lake Garda is a dream destination for sailors, surfers and the very active. Interestingly, Lake Garda has its own micro-climate which has mild winters, springs and summers. The weather and climate are also different between Upper Lake Garda and Lower Lake Garda. The constant winds of Upper Lake Garda are perfect for wind sports like sailing, surfing, kitesurfing and windsurfing. While Lower Lake Garda has calm waters perfect for diving, kayaking, canoeing and water skiing. For the less active, simply watching the Lake from a waterfront cafe or restaurant can be a very pleasant way to spend the afternoon.
There are also plenty of historical sites to uncover, including castles, a Roman amphitheatre and a dinosaur footprint. Further afield, Lake Garda borders the stunning Dolomite Mountains the result of geological activity 230 million years ago, with an unusual pink and lime-green hue. For those who are active, there are hiking trails or ascend to the top and enjoy panoramic views of the entire area. Or travel to nearby Venice or Verona to explore these historic cities.
Lake Garda is breathtakingly beautiful and the lakeside towns are enchanting and lovely to explore.
– Graham in Durham on the Lake Garda, Venice & Verona tour
A favourite of Shelley and Wordsworth, the delights of Lake Como are many and varied. And where Lake Garda has castles, Lake Como has villas. One of the finest is Villa del Balbianello built in the 18th century by Cardinal Angelo Maria Durini on the site of an ancient Franciscan monastery. The villa houses a renowned collection of art and historic furniture and the garden consists of a series of terraces full of fragrant flowers, which you can explore on a tour of the property.
For those who are more active, many of the mule tracks and makeshift roads of yesteryear that crisscross the hillside have been carefully restored and make wonderful walking paths today. And, as with Lake Garda, many visitors engage in watersports on the lake.
Lake Como also has the advantage of being close to two of the other major Italian Lakes, Maggiore and Lugano. So, if you feel like you’ve explored all that Como has to offer, these give you even more to discover.
You can visit Villa del Balbianello and Lake Maggiore on our Lake Como, St Moritz and the Bernina Express tour.
View our Lake Como, St Moritz and the Bernina Express Tour
“Lake Como is stunning and Riviera Travel delivered what it promised. Loved going to a new place everyday having expert advice on what to do and the history of the place.
– Alison in Plymouth on the Lake Como, St. Moritz & The Bernina Express tour
Lake Garda Or Como: Which Is Best For You?
Lake Garda truly magnificent – been to Como and absolutely loved it and we agreed this is on the same level.
– Colin in York on our Lake Garda, Venice & Verona tour
There’s no denying that a holiday to Italy would be a fantastic choice for any traveller. The lakes offer an authentic Italian experience, refreshing temperatures and stunning mountain views so there is no universal right answer, only an answer that’s right for you
If you’re looking for a peaceful holiday or a romantic getaway, Lake Como will not disappoint. If you love exploring small towns and villages and are willing to spend a bit more for that high-end, luxury experience, Lake Como is the best destination for you.
However, if you’re looking to enjoy a magical holiday with your children and grandchildren, Lake Garda is the right choice for your family. If you are looking for a lively atmosphere and enjoy physical activity, Lake Garda offers you an exceptional choice of heart-pounding experiences you won’t forget.
Find out more about the exceptional range of Italian tours we offer and enjoy an authentic Italian experience.
Or find out more about the most popular Italian Lakes on our Blog: The Best Italian Lakes to Visit.
Featured holidays
