Sirmione is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the shores of Lake Garda, attracting a large number of tourists every year, especially during the summer season when its waters become perfect for swimming.
There are truly interesting and fun activities to enjoy, from visiting charming historical sites to cruising from shore to shore, always discovering a new detail in the landscape that changes throughout the day.
If you're thinking about treating yourself to a stay in this dreamlike location, don't miss the tips in this article, which will immerse you in a magical and enchanting world under the warm sun high in the sky.
The Best Things to Do or See in Sirmione During Summer
- Rent a boat, to drive yourself or with a skipper on board
For your first day in Sirmione, we suggest renting a boat. You can choose the "self-drive" option (renting a 40 HP motorboat that doesn't require a boating license) or, if you prefer, opt for a boat rental with a skipper, offering a privileged view of the landscape far from the summer crowds of July and August.
This way, you can admire all the small, characteristic villages lining the shores, painting the skyline in white.
For romantics, it's possible to organize a true cruise to spend quality time with your partner or family.
In some areas, you can also take refreshing swims, much to the delight of children and everyone on board.
From time to time, you can stop along secluded coves to better admire the surrounding beauty.
- Visit the Grotte di Catullo
Don't be misled by the name—this is one of the oldest Roman residences in northern Italy, believed to have been built by the famous poet in ancient times.
Many of the original elements are still well preserved, and inside, you can find a collection of all the artifacts discovered during excavations, some of which are perfectly intact.
During summer days, the surrounding landscape is bathed in a bright, dazzling light that gently touches the vegetation around the grand structure.
Let yourself be enchanted by the guide's stories and imagine what life was like inside the palace centuries ago.
This is probably the most famous symbol of the city, as it stands right at the entrance to the historic center.
Its beauty lies not only in the panoramic view you can enjoy from the top—offering a 360-degree view of the entire lake—but also in the richly decorated towers and the medieval atmosphere you can feel as you explore inside.
Although it can be very hot in the summer, we recommend not missing this opportunity, perhaps visiting during sunset when the waters take on a delightful pink and golden hue.
For those looking to relax in the sun in a well-organized yet natural setting, this is the perfect beach.
It’s a stretch of light-colored stones that enhance the clear waters, along with a grassy area where you can place a sunbed and enjoy the breeze often coming from the center of the lake.
Some areas are naturally shaded, so families with children or those who prefer not to spend too much time under the midday sun can find a comfortable spot.
- The Historic Center of Sirmione
When the temperatures cool down later in the day, you must visit the historic center of the city. It features a series of charming small squares connected by narrow streets leading to the lakeside promenade. Each path is filled with unique restaurants and artisan boutiques, allowing you to purchase a one-of-a-kind souvenir to remember your wonderful vacation.
