Set between Lake Garda and Monte Baldo, Malcesine is a small town with plenty of charm. The picturesque town is built around a centuries-old castle and is criss-crossed with cobbled lanes and alleys. Stroll around the lively harbour, relax on a pebble beach or get your pulse racing with hiking and adventure sports.

Things to do

Built in the 6th century, Castello Scaligero recalls the town’s ancient past. The castle commands stunning views over Lake Garda and is one of the best-preserved fortresses in Italy. Square-shaped towers and turrets topped give Castello Scaligero a fairy-tale look. You can also visit the on-site museum for more information on the fascinating history of the castle.

The harbour is lined with atmospheric cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a meal with a view. Try local specialties such as “carne salada” cured beef, porcini mushroom risotto and pork stew. Pair your meal with a glass of Bardolino, one of the region’s most famous wines.

A cable car whisks you over 1,700 metres up Monte Baldo and unlocks sweeping views over Lake Garda and the surrounding peaks. The first few hundred metres take you past lush citrus and olive groves. Higher ground is dominated by towering chestnut and oak trees before giving way to flower-filled alpine meadows.

Alight at the halfway point of San Michele for access to some fantastic hiking trails. The family-friendly trail back down to Malcesine takes you past postcard-perfect fields and working farms. Monte Baldo also features steep mountain bike trails that will get your pulse racing. Paragliding off the ridge is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Getting around

Pedestrian-friendly Malcesine is compact and easy to get around on foot. Local buses run between Malcesine and other popular Lake Garda resorts. The town is a one-hour drive from Verona and three hours from Milan. The closest train stations are in Peschiera del Garda and Verona.