10.10.2024.
Limone sul Garda is a charming town in the northern corners of the wonderful Italian lake, nestled in the mountains. Lying on the Brescia side, it will exquisitely enrich your journey at Lake Garda with its pretty towns. Lake Garda offers an epic Italian adventure, full of castles and amazing hiking views.
When speaking of Brescia, you should visit the underrated Lake Iseo, which is easily done as a day trip.
Only 20 minutes by ferry from Malcesine, Limone sul Garda deserves your visit and will entice your soul with its allure. Despite the crowds, Limone keeps the soul of authenticity.
The ancient tradition of lemon cultivation, however, was not a reason for the town’s name. It derives from the Latin word limen meaning border, as the town signifies the border with the Trentino region.
Come with me to the journey in Limone and be prepared to see the captivating sights it offers.
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Shortly About the History of Limone sul Garda
Once an isolated village began to flourish during the dominance of the Venice Republic. Fishing and olive growing were the main activities preceding this bloom. The powerful Visconti family from Milan established its influence in the 14th century, also before the Republic of Venice.
With the continuing prosperity the cultivation of lemons brought in the Renaissance, Limone became economically significant.
Another fascinating revival happened thanks to the touristic shine in the 19th century. Limone became an alluring destination at Lake Garda, perhaps even thanks to its name.
How much time do you need in Limone
A few hours is sufficient time for the leisurely stroll around this picturesque town. Take yourself at ease and don’t rush, considering the possible crowds- enjoy the pretty streets. Off course, it would be more peaceful during the off-season. While mentioning rush, do not only take two hours.
One whole day gives you a perfect opportunity to discover all the treasures of Limone. If you add a few museums mentioned below, you’ll be more at ease to take the whole day.
Adding some hiking around Limone, definitely deserves an overnight stay or you can squeeze it if staying in Malcesine or Riva.
The roundabout journey is easiest to reach by ferry, costing 9€ from Malcesine. If you’re coming from Riva del Garda, you can take either a ferry or bus.
The Heart of Limone- the Historical Center
Through the cobblestone streets of Limone, you’ll find an explosive charm. Even if you only follow the straight route from the ferry port, you’ll be delightful at every corner.
Just see the street name signs, everything in the town celebrates the charm of lemons. Plenty of souvenir shops, restaurants and pastry shops will give to a reason to stop the day. Taking Limone home with you would be the best solution to its charm.
In this lovely maze, the Church of San Benedetto is worth the visit. The Church of San Rocco lying uphill offers a breathtaking view of Limone.
Enjoy the Lakeside Promenade
Following Piazza Garibaldi you’ll arrive at the main gathering place in the town- the Lakeside promenade. Admiring the view, several fountains or enjoying a lovely meal will bring you Limone in its unforgettable version.
It’s here where the traditional market happens every Tuesday, mostly you’ll find clothes (sports clothes in abundance). Also, there are a few more stands with fruits and vegetables which I expected to be more.
Limonaia del Castèl
Learning about lemons is the most inspiring reason to visit Limone. Limonaia del Castel unveils the magic that makes Limone so authentic. It’s an open-air museum dating back to the 18th century that depicts the traditional ways of lemon cultivation. On several terraces you’ll find about fifty citrus fruits, not only lemons.
The panoramic view is a delightful essence of this incredible place. Lying in the pure center, you need to walk uphill between Via Orti and Via Castello.
Fishermen’s Museum
Considering fishing the base of economy here, you’ll get fantastic insight into the traditional life of Limone. Once it belonged to Villa Boghi, but now belongs to the Municipal Park. Among the objects of former fishermen, you’ll also see a traditional boat.
Park of Villa Boghi
The Park of Villa Boghi represents the seat of the Municipality, a perfect place to relax with the gorgeous lake view. It also hosts a traditional lemon house with several kinds of citrus trees.
Tourism Museum with the free entrance
The town with such a name will entice you to learn more about its history so head to the Tourism Museum. Incredible photos depict the history from early days to modern times.
Biking in Limone- Cyclopista del Garda
The new 4 km long bike path is the longest of this kind at Lake Garda. Inaugurated in 2018, it offers breathtaking views over the lake at a height of 50 km.
Connecting Limone sul Garda with Capo Reamol, it’s in the process of extension towards Riva del Garda. It’s a fascinating activity in Limone, but not the only bike route on the lake. Thanks to the LED lighting, the route can even be done at night.
Even if you walk, enjoying the amazing scenery is rewarding.
Hiking in Limone
Sentiero del Sole is the most stunning route to honour yourself with the great hike. With lovely panoramic views you’ll get plenty of photo inspiration.
Beaches of Limone
If you’re not taking a day trip, the crystal clear waters of Limone are incredible refreshment after the crowds. Among the lovely pebble beaches, Grostol and Cola beach are pretty cozy, specially for families. They’re centrally located with several bars and restaurants around. Spiaggia via Garbera is excellent for a quick dip.
Nothing Without the Ice Cream
Italy and ice cream blend perfectly together, enrich your day and enjoy the fantastic views of Limone. With the colourful boats and lovely flowers in sight, your ice cream will be even more delicious.
Admire the Souvenirs
Limone is the place where souvenirs have an exquisite note of being so unique, bringing a treasure of art. Everything is in the style of lemons so you can easily choose your next dress, shirt or bag. The cute boutiques burst with the ideas for your gifts so don’t hesitate.
You’ll find limoncello, lemon soaps, cups, olive oils ets.
Take a trip to Lake Tenno or Lake Ledro
Probably you didn’t hear for either of two, but you’ll reach them easier from Riva del Garda. Lake Ledro will captivate you with its fascinating scenery and I do prefer this one. Buses are not common, so staying overnight in Riva, Limone, Rovereto or similar would be better. Having a car would be a perfect solution.
Where to stay
Budget:
Hotel Royal Village– awesome view from the pool and free breakfast will make your stay delightful in the center of Limone;
Hotel Cristina– with its hilltop location panoramic views are outstanding. Lovely gardens near the pool are so charming;
Mid range:
Hotel Atilius– awesome hotel near the beach with fabulous views;
Hotel Splendid Palace– close to the pier, this fabulous hotel has incredible garden, views and splendid spa;
Luxurious:
Park Hotel Imperial– awesome spa and fabulous gardens;
Final thoughts
Limone is a delightful place on the Lake Garda and the ancient traditions of lemon production make it so special. The lemon style that dominates the town is an attractive reason to visit and enjoy the stroll for a few hours. Experiencing Lago di Garda on a ferry is the cherry on top as you can feel this fabulous lake in its essence.
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The Cyclopista del Garda looks absolutely spectacular! We’re always looking for new and beautiful ideas for great hikes and bikes.
Reading your travel blog made me want to book a flight to Limone. The lake views are spectacular. It seems like the food culture there is a great experience.
That bike path is incredible! The chance to cycle around the lake like that has put this firmly to the top of my travel bucket list 🙂
The views are gorgeous and ice-cream super delicious!
I enjoyed very much exploring Lake Garda during my visits. Limone is definitely a town to head to for an authentic lake side living experience. Love your photos!
What a magical place!
Limone sul Garda looks like an awesome town to visit. I love that image showing mountains in the background and lake and tower in the foreground. The biking / walking path hugging the mountain has such a spectacular scenery!