Padua to Sirmione and Riva del Garda: Private day trip

Wedged at the end of a finger-thin peninsula, Sirmione has been a resort destination since the 1st century BC, when rich families from Verona began building villas on the lake shore. The town’s aggressive position also made it a military stronghold for almost the entirety of modern history, with a garrison occupying the castle into the 19th century. To this day, you can still explore the ruins of a Roman villa, and the town itself is dominated by one of Italy’s best-preserved medieval castles, complete with a rare port fortification. turn attracting writers for the past 2000 years. Poet Gaius Valerius Catullus had a villa here in the 1st century, Alfred Tennyson, Giosuè Carducci wrote about it, and Ezra Pound and James Joyce met in Sirmione. If you’re thinking that there must be something in the water that’s attracting so many writers, you’d be right - Sirmione natural hot springs!

Riva del Garda is surrounded by stunning valleys, hills, and lakes. It features a harbor, park, and a long beach. The historic center, Citta Vecchia, is protected by the Rocca, an elegant 12th century fortress. Within the fortress itself lies a civic library and museum to be discovered. Another notable sight is Torre Apponale, a 13th century clock tower. Climb the stairs to the top of the tower for a splendid view of town. Riva del Garda has many restaurants, cafes, bars, and a large shopping area. It’s also one of the top spots in Europe for water sports. Whether you’re seeking scenery, shopping, or sports, Riva del Garda has something for everyone.