Walking in Malcesine

Walking Trails:
210km of walking trails

Terrain:
Diverse terrain from lake side strolls to mountain trails

Malcesine at a glance

  • Italian
  • Euro (EUR)
  • Manchester Int. (MAN), London Gatwick (LGW), Birmingham Int. (BHX), Bristol (BRS), Edinburgh (EDI), London Stansted (STN), East Midlands (EMA), Leeds Bradford (LBA), Newcastle (NCL), Belfast Int. (BFS)

Travel included to Malcesine

Depart on: Wednesday or Saturday

Arrive into: Verona airport

Transfer time: approx. 1 hour 30 minutes by coach

Included in your Malcesine walking holiday

  • Inghams Guided Walks included from 16 May-26 Sep 25 and 11 May-25 Sep 26
  • On holiday support and tailored advice from our Destination Expert based in Lake Garda
  • Inghams Digital Resort Guide with things to do, walks and useful information on holiday
  • Flights from the UK, transfers and accommodation

Walking in Malcesine

Walks and hikes

Walking Trails:
210km of walking trails
Terrain:
Diverse terrain from lake side strolls to mountain trails

Walking holidays in Malcesine offer a fantastic opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Lake Garda and its surrounding mountains. With scenic trails that cater to all levels, you can enjoy leisurely walks along the lake or challenge yourself with more adventurous hikes up Monte Baldo, where panoramic views of Lake Garda's fjord-like waters and the Alps await. The area is dotted with charming paths through vineyards, olive groves, and ancient villages, and lakeside strolls lead to towns such as Navene and Campagnola (Northbound). So whether you’re seeking a peaceful stroll or an invigorating hike, walking in Malcesine provides a unique way to experience the stunning landscapes of this beautiful part of Italy.

We’ve included two guided walks per week in Malcesine, just for Inghams guests. Join a small group and be led by a professional walking guide on some of their favourite trails. It’s a great way to get to know the area. The walks will run every Monday and Friday from 16 May-26 Sep 25 and 11 May-25 Sep 26. You can add the walks onto your holiday at the time of booking, through Manage My Booking or by calling us.

Routes may vary from week to week but as a guide you can see some of our planned routes below.

Spaces are limited, so early booking is recommended. Walks depend on weather, guide availability, and group size, and routes may change. Details are provided on arrival, and some may include a small local transport fee. Walks are not suitable for under 12s (under 18s must be with an adult). Please ensure the walk is right for you, our guides have the final say. See our booking conditions for full details.

Our guided walks in Malcesine

Limone's Sentiero Natura (nature trail) is a really relaxed walk that allows you to immerse yourself in the nature around Limone sul Garda and admire beautiful views over the lake. It's a circular route starting from the town centre and passing the lake, beaches and mountains. You'll end this walk with a tasting of some fantastic quality olive oil from Lake Garda.

  • Grade: Easy-Moderate (a standard fitness level is required)
  • Distance: 5km
  • Duration: Half day (Walking time approx. 1.5 hours)
  • Ascent/Descent: 200m
  • Terrain: Asphalt, dirt tracks, natural trails
  • Useful information: This walk begins in Limone. Information on getting to the starting point of the walk will be provided in your Digital Resort Guide before departure (some extra travel costs may apply).

Summer 2025- This walk will run on Fridays: 16 May, 30 May, 13 Jun, 27 Jun, 11 Jul, 25 Jul, 08 Aug, 22 Aug, 05 Sep, 19 Sep

Summer 2026- This walk will run on Fridays: 15 May, 29 May, 12 Jun, 26 Jun, 10 Jul, 24 Jul, 07 Aug, 21 Aug, 04 Sep, 18 Sep

Head up Monte Brione, a natural panoramic platform with a spectacular viewpoint over Lake Garda, which separates Riva del Garda from Torbole. Covered with olive trees, it bears witness to the Mediterranean climate all year round.

  • Grade: Moderate (a decent fitness level is required)
  • Distance: 9km
  • Duration: Half day (Walking time approx. 3.5 hours)
  • Ascent/Descent: 300m
    Terrain: 
    Asphalt, dirt tracks, natural trails
  • Useful information: This walk begins in Riva del Garda. Information on getting to the starting point of the walk will be provided in your Digital Resort Guide before departure (some extra travel costs may apply).

Summer 2025 – This walk will run on Mondays: 26 May, 09 Jun, 23 Jun, 07 Jul, 21 Jul, 04 Aug, 18 Aug, 01 Sep, 15 Sep

Summer 2026 – This walk will run on Mondays: 11 May, 25 May, 08 Jun, 22 Jun, 06 Jul, 20 Jul, 04 Aug, 17 Aug, 31 Aug, 14 Sep

This fantastic walk will take you through some of the most beautiful and less known streets of Limone. You'll get the chance to experience a really stunning stretch of the Sentiero del Sole, which has great views over-looking Lake Garda! You'll end the day with a visit to a waterfall and some historical WWI fortifications.

  • Grade: Easy-Moderate (a decent fitness level is required)
  • Distance: 8km 
  • Duration: Half day (walking time approx. 3 hours)
  • Ascent/Descent: 200m
  • Terrain: Asphalt surfaces, dirt tracks, natural trails
  • Useful information: This walk begins in Limone. Information on getting to the starting point of the walk will be provided in your Digital Resort Guide before departure (some extra travel costs may apply).

Summer 2025 – This walk will run on Fridays: 23 May, 06 Jun, 20 Jun, 04 Jul, 18 Jul, 01 Aug, 15 Aug, 29 Aug, 12 Sep, 26 Sep

Summer 2026 – This walk will run on Fridays: 22 May, 05 Jun, 19 Jun, 03 Jul, 17 Jul, 31 Jul, 14 Aug, 28 Aug, 11 Sep, 25 Sep

This is a relaxed walk which offers stunning views of the lake. You'll walk along the ancient Ponale road which overlooks the glistening lake. This is a great way to learn about the history of the area, as our guides are very knowledgeable and are always happy to teach you about different sections of the routes.

  • Grade: Moderate-Challenging (a decent fitness level is required)
  • Distance: 10km 
  • Duration: Full day (walking time approx. 4 hours)
  • Ascent/Descent: 440m (ascent) & 440m (descent)
  • Terrain: Asphalt surfaces, dirt tracks, natural trails
  • Useful information: This walk begins in Riva del Garda. Information on getting to the starting point of the walk will be provided in your Digital Resort Guide before departure (some extra travel costs may apply).

Summer 2025 – This walk will run on Mondays: 19 May, 02 Jun, 16 Jun, 30 Jun, 14 Jul, 28 Jul, 11 Aug, 25 Aug, 08 Sep, 22 Sep

Summer 2026 – This walk will run on Mondays: 18 May, 01 Jun, 15 Jun, 29 Jun, 13 Jul, 27 Jul, 10 Aug, 24 Aug, 07 Sep, 21 Sep

Our favourite self-guided walks in Malcesine

Malcesine, Lake Garda, Walking on Monte Baldo, Walking Holidays in Italy

This fairly gentle walk that offers stunning views over Lake Garda. On a clear day, you'll take in panoramic views of the lake, and the rugged peaks of Lake Garda's northern region. With plenty of places to stop and enjoy the views, this loop on Lake Garda's tallest mountain is a great way to stretch your legs and enjoy the fresh mountain air.

  • Grade: Easy-Moderate
  • Distance: 3.9km
  • Walking time: 1 hour, 30 minutes
Malcesine, Lake Garda, Lakeside View With Scaligero Castle

Starting at the pretty harbour in the centre of Malcesine, this leisurely walk takes you along the lake promenade past numerous cafés and pretty beaches, eventually passing through the two old fishing villages of Cassone and Porto. 

  • Grade: Easy
  • Distance: 6.4km to Porto or 10.4km to Casteletto
  • Walking time: approx. 2 hours to Porto or 3 hours to Casteletto

Walk along this old mule track for panoramic views of Lake Garda. You’ll pass through meadows and wooded areas, as well as open paths bordered by the olive trees that are so typical of the area.

  • Grade: Easy-Moderate
  • Distance: 6.3km 
  • Walking time: approx. 2 hours

Our accommodations in Malcesine

Discover Malcesine

  • Take a walk on Monte Baldo and enjoy stunning views of the lake and mountains
  • Step back in time with a visit to Malcesine's historic Scaligero Castle
  • Relax in the sunshine on Paina’s pebble beach, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere by the lake

Holidays in Malcesine offer a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Garda and the surrounding mountains. This picturesque town is known for its charming cobbled streets, medieval architecture, and its impressive Scaligero Castle, which offers breath-taking views of the lake. Whether you're exploring ancient churches, strolling through vibrant courtyards, or enjoying a meal at one of the town's authentic Italian restaurants, there’s something for everyone. Malcesine's a lively, family-friendly destination with plenty of shops, gelaterie, trattorie, and bars, and creates a welcoming atmosphere for both relaxation and adventure.

Where's the best place to stay on Lake Garda for culture and history you may ask? It’s a hard one to call, Lake Garda being so beautiful and culturally rich (and one of Italy’s best loved summer holiday spots), but fort the above, summer holidays in Malcesine really do stand out from the crowd. Scaligero Castle is built on a rock jutting over the lake, with fantastic views all around. There’s the Palazzo dei Capitani near the port- with its waterfront gardens, natural history museum and paintings- the 1200-year-old church Antica Pieve di Santo Stefano, and the huge white statue of Madonna dell’Accoglienze looking over the town (a relatively easy 8km round-trip walk from town).

Summer holidays in Malcesine are a great opportunity to head to the water. Just 100 metres from the centre of Malcesine is pebbly Paina beach, with lifeguards, volleyball courts, a skate park, bars, restaurants and a beach club. It's a must-do on a hot summer day. Wander up the coast and the beaches multiply; most have floating swim rafts and a pizzeria close by. A few kilometres south of town is Val di Sogno beach, and when the lake water is low you can walk over to Isola del Sogno (Dream Island) or even swim to it just 20 metres from the shore. Scuba divers might like to rent gear and visit the boat wreck just beyond Isola del Sogno.

Family holidays in Malcesine offer a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Take the cable car to Monte Baldo for stunning views over Lake Garda and enjoy a variety of walking and biking trails suitable for all ages. Whether exploring gentle paths for young children or more exciting routes for teens, there’s something for everyone. For a relaxing option, take the cable car to San Michele and walk back to Malcesine along a scenic mule track. Malcesine is also a great base for exploring nearby towns; take a boat to Riva or Limone, and enjoy a beautiful, easy walk along the cliff-hugging Ciclopista del Garda path in Limone.

Cable Car

Monte Baldo cable car is particularly useful if you want to head up high and immerse yourself in nature, walking or biking. The cable car is within walking distance from our hotels (10-35 mins) and there are local buses which will take you there from the further out hotels in under 15 minutes.

Buses

The bus network around Malcesine is particularly useful if you’re staying in one of our further out hotels, you can get to the centre of town and the ferry departure point in under 15 minutes on the bus and it will get you closer to the Monte Baldo Cable Car. While the buses are useful, we’d also recommend walking, as it’s the best way to really get to know an area and none of our hotels are more than a 25 minute walk from the centre of town. Some of the walking routes are mostly along the lakeside so you’ll have a lovely view to enjoy along the way.

The buses also run from Malcesine to nearby towns on Lake Garda such as Riva which you can get to in under half an hour on a direct bus (484). The same bus line travels in the other direction as well and can get you to Garda in under 45 minutes. This is a more cost efficient way of exploring nearby towns.

Ferries

Looking to explore further afield? The ferries depart from the centre of Malcesine regularly and are a scenic way to visit other towns around the lake such as Limone or Riva. The ferry timetable can be found on the Navigazione Laghi website.

Travel to Malcesine

Travel by air

Flights to Verona depart on Wednesday or Saturday between 03 May - 27 Sep 25  &  02 May - 26 Sep 26

  • Manchester, London Gatwick, Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, Stansted, East Midlands, Leeds Bradford, Newcastle, and Belfast

Transfer times: 

  • Verona airport: approx. 1 hour 30 mins by coach

Private transfers are available on request, for a supplement.

Things to do in Malcesine

The Verona Opera is definitely one for the bucket list! The season runs from mid-June to early-September and covers all the classics including Aida by Verdi or Turnadot by Puccini. Whichever performance you choose; you’ll have an incredible evening.

Scaligero Castle, Malcesine, Lake Garda

Scaligero Castle is a must-see in Malcesine. It’s been there since the 13th Century so history buffs will love walking around and reading about it’s interesting past. Head to museum to find out more. Before you go back into town, make the climb to the top of the tower where the lake views are incredible – don’t forget your camera.

Palazzo dei Capitani is probably the second most important historic building in the town. In the 15th Century it was the headquarters for the Venetian rulers of the area. It’s close to the harbour and once you’ve finished exploring inside, you can admire the lake views from the gardens.

If you want to learn more about the history and culture of the area, why not head to a museum. There are a few to choose from including, the Lake Museum or the Museum of Natural History of Monte Baldo.

When on your family holiday Malcesine, you can't miss the famous Scaligero Castle in the town- this is a great opportunity to teach youngsters a bit of history. It's a great town if you want to go for a family walk, stroll along the lakeside or by head up to Monte Baldo on the cable car; see if you can spot the paragliders flying over Monte Baldo as you go along. The views from the top of Monte Baldo are fantastic!

If you're a food loving family then make sure you try Malcesine's famous spit-roasted chicken and chips at the Speck Stube. Here you'll enjoy some al fresco dining on tressle tables in a large garden area with a playground for children to run around in. For dessert, grab an ice-cream by the lake- there are some fantastic artisanal ice-cream shops in the old town, why not buy a cone and walk around the cobbled streets.

If you're looking for some evening entertainment with the young ones, Malcesine occasionally hosts local evenings dedicated to children (mid-July onwards) which feature children's entertainment including magic shows at the 'Padre Mario Casella' gardens. 

It’s almost impossible to resist taking to the water in Malcesine. Paddle boarding is a great activity for everyone and gives you a unique view of the town. Get more serious and take a sailing or kite surfing course. It’s always nice to come back from holiday with a few new skills.

If cycling's more your speed, there’s nothing quite like jumping on your saddle and peddling along side Lake Garda. It’s such a relaxing thing to do and a great way to build up your appetite! We'd recommend a leisurely bike ride along the shore to one of Malcesine’s nearby resorts where you can stop for lunch. If all that sounds a bit tame, then take to the sky. The top of Monte Baldo has some great, thrill-seeking routes down the mountain.

from £62 per person

Who doesn't love a wine tour. On this trip you'll get to visit a traditional wine cellar in Valpolicella, where you'll have a wine tasting with a very knowledgeable guide. Enjoy a lunch of fresh, local ingredients where you can experience 'agri-turismo' first-hand. After lunch, you'll be taken to the historic church and cloisters of St Giorgio. There's no better way to spend a day than by indulging in wine, food, history and stunning vineyard views.

Details: Departs on Thursdays. Available from Bardolino, Garda, Riva, Limone & Malcesine.

We act at all times as a selling agent for the suppliers. All excursions require minimum numbers to run and are subject to change. Some excursions may not be available to pre-book in low season but may be available to book locally subject to numbers. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking. Please see our terms & conditions.

from £79 per person

Venice is not to be missed! This excursion allows you to explore the city with a guide and at your own pace. You’ll arrive by coach and grab a water taxi to the centre. You’ll also have the option to add on a gondola ride (payable locally). There’s plenty of time to take in sights of the Basilica, Doge's Palace, St Mark's square and the Rialto bridge- this is the perfect introduction to one of Italy's most magical cities.

You may also have the option to join an optional lagoon trip, which is a lovely opportunity to experience the lagoon and its monuments and learn more about Venetian history from the water (optional extra, payable locally to the excursion guide). If you're not going on the lagoon trip you'll have an hour of free time to roam around Venice at your own pace.

Details: 

  • Departs on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays.
  • Available from all Lake Garda resorts.
  • Guests taking part in this excursion on Monday 2nd June 2025 will need to pay a €10 tourist tax to enter Venice in addition to the cost of the excursion (ask your Destination Expert for more details on how to pay).

We act at all times as a selling agent for the suppliers. All excursions require minimum numbers to run and are subject to change. Some excursions may not be available to pre-book in low season but may be available to book locally subject to numbers. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking. Please see our terms & conditions.

from £59 per person

Start with a scenic drive through the exceptional South Tyrol, Val di Fiemme, Cavalese and Moena regions. You’ll then stop off at Passa Pordoi and take in the incredible views from this 2,000-metre-high vantage point. There’s some free time to explore the terrain at your own pace, either by taking one of the trekking paths or simply enjoying an Aperol at a rifugio and taking in the views. A stop off at the chocolate box town of Ortisei is included on the way back to your hotel as well as plenty of stops for photo opportunities in this awe inspiring landscape. Make sure you take some warmer clothes as temperatures really drop when you get up to the top!

Details: Departs on Mondays & Fridays. Available from all Lake Garda resorts. Guests may have the opportunity to go up in a cable car for an additional fee of approx. €23pp (payable locally). 

Departure days by resort: 

  • Bardolino, Garda, Sirmione- Fridays
  • Riva, Malcesine, Limone- Mondays and Fridays

We act at all times as a selling agent for the suppliers. All excursions require minimum numbers to run and are subject to change. Some excursions may not be available to pre-book in low season but may be available to book locally subject to numbers. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking. Please see our terms & conditions.

Spend the day exploring the Trentino region, led by a guide. You'll travel from place to place on a bus, learning about the Trentino region's local produce and discovering hidden gems. One of the highlights of the excursion is Lake Molveno, surrounded by the stunning Brenta Dolomites mountain landscape. Whilst at the lake you'll have the chance to take a dip in the water and cool off, before heading to a honey mill and distillery. Learn about the local bee-keeping industry and taste some home-made honey and grappa.

Details: Departs on Tuesdays. Available from Garda, Bardolino, Malcesine & Riva. You can book this excursion locally with your Destination Expert.

Please note that the price of excursions will vary depending on the resort you are staying in. We act at all times as a selling agent for the suppliers. All excursions require minimum numbers to run and are subject to change. Some excursions may not be available to pre-book in low season but may be available to book locally subject to numbers. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking. Please see our Terms & Conditions.

Head to Bolzano with a local guide for the day and spend a few hours exploring the historical streets, fruit and vegetable market and the town's archaeological museum. This beautiful mountainous region is a lovely contrast to Italy's lake district and will give you a taste of a different aspect of Italy's northern landscapes. Later you'll hop on a funicular and a cable car up to Renon where you'll have more free time to scope out the famous natural pyramids in Collalbo and soak up the incredible scenery surrounding them.

Details:

  • Departs on Mondays and Thursdays.
  • Travel on the cable car is included in the price of the excursion.
  • Available from Garda, Bardolino, Limone, Malcesine, Riva.
  • You can book this excursion locally with your Destination Expert

Please note that the price of excursions will vary depending on the resort you are staying in. We act at all times as a selling agent for the suppliers. All excursions require minimum numbers to run and are subject to change. Some excursions may not be available to pre-book in low season but may be available to book locally subject to numbers. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking. Please see our Terms & Conditions.

Malcesine, Lake Garda, Colourful Street in Malcesine Old Town
from £56 per person

Get ready to explore the best of Lake Garda on this excursion- there’s so much natural beauty and picturesque towns to discover. See the spectacular mountain scenery of the north and the sunny plains of the south. Travelling by both coach and ferry, the tour itinerary for this excursion varies depending on where you start but will usually follow the famous Gardesana road lined with fragrant olive and lemon trees to reach the likes of Malcesine, Sirmione, Salo and Limone. This is the ideal taster tour of the entire lake where you'll get to spend a short period of time in a variety of stunning towns.

This excursion won't run on the 15th August 25, due to a public bank holiday

Details:

  • Departs on Mondays & Fridays (resort dependant)
  • Available from Bardolino, Garda, Limone, Malcesine, Sirmione and Riva
  • You can book this excursion locally with your Destination Expert

We act at all times as a selling agent for the suppliers. All excursions require minimum numbers to run and are subject to change. Some excursions may not be available to pre-book in low season but may be available to book locally subject to numbers. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking. Please see our terms & conditions.

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