One of the pleasures of Lake Garda is that it sits right between Milan and Venice, two of Italy's major gateways. Getting to Gargnano is straightforward, and with a little planning, the journey becomes part of the stay.
Flying from the United States
The most convenient international airports for Gargnano are Milan Malpensa and Venice Marco Polo, both with direct flights from several US cities (some routes are seasonal). Alternatively, you can connect through a major European hub and fly into Verona or Milan Bergamo, which are closer to the lake.
Airports and driving times
| Airport | Distance to Gargnano | Driving time |
|---|---|---|
| Verona (VRN) | approx. 85 km / 53 mi | about 1 h 15 min |
| Milan Bergamo (BGY) | approx. 110 km / 68 mi | about 1 h 35 min |
| Milan Malpensa (MXP) | approx. 200 km / 124 mi | about 2 h 15 min |
| Venice Marco Polo (VCE) | approx. 195 km / 121 mi | about 2 h 20 min |
Driving times are approximate and may be longer in peak summer, especially on the lakeside road.
Private transfer
The simplest way to arrive is to be met at the airport. Our concierge can arrange a private transfer from any of the airports above, so that after a long flight, the only thing left to do is enjoy the view. Transfers can also be combined with a stop along the way: lunch in Verona, or a winery visit in Franciacorta or Valpolicella.
By car
Many guests rent a car, which makes it easy to explore the lake and the surrounding region. A few things worth knowing:
- International Driving Permit. US drivers need an International Driving Permit together with their US license to drive in Italy. You can get one from AAA before you travel.
- Highways and tolls. The main route from Milan, Bergamo, Verona and Venice is the A4 highway. Tolls can be paid by credit card at the exit.
- The lakeside road. The last stretch follows the Gardesana Occidentale, the scenic road along the western shore, with tunnels cut into the rock. It's beautiful, but narrow in places, so allow extra time in summer.
- Limited traffic zones. Many Italian historic centers have restricted zones (ZTL) where cars without a permit are fined automatically. Look for the signs and park outside.
- Parking. Villa Giulia has two private parking spaces.
By train
Italy's high-speed trains run between Milan and Venice, stopping at Desenzano del Garda and Peschiera del Garda, on the southern shore of the lake. From Desenzano, Gargnano is about 40 km by car along the western shore. Our concierge can arrange a car to meet you at the station.
Getting around the lake
Once you've arrived, the lake itself becomes your road. Public ferries connect Gargnano with other lakeside towns, and a private boat with a skipper is the most beautiful way to discover the shore. For days inland, a car with or without a chauffeur can be arranged on request.
← All journal entries