What to do in Bardolino (even when it rains): 10 unique ideas
If you want to spend your holidays in Bardolino and are looking for advice on what to do in this beautiful destination, this is the right guide for you. Bardolino is one of the most famous tourist destinations on Lake Garda. It falls within the province of Verona and is located along the central-eastern shore of the lake, also known as the Riviera degli Ulivi, which stretches from Peschiera del Garda to Malcesine.
Its privileged position, enjoying views of the Benaco and its proximity to the mountains - including Monte Baldo - is just one of the features that travellers appreciate about Bardolino. What also wins them over is its delightful historic centre, where one breathes an atmosphere suspended in time, between present and past.
Strolling through the streets of the town, you can admire what remains of the ancient medieval walls, dating back to the 12th century. A colourful and joyful town, perfect for a holiday, a weekend, a day trip, a birthday or a graduation, at any time of the year. Whether the weather is fine or rainy, in fact, there are several things you can do in Bardolino to discover its culture, traditions and territory.
What to do in Bardolino? 5 ideas for a fantastic trip
If you want to visit Bardolino, there are some famous places you absolutely must see. In particular, we advise you to mark these places on your map:
- the historical centre, to be discovered by strolling along the narrow streets to admire the old houses (once home to fishermen) and flower-decked balconies;
- the Church of San Severo (Via San Severo 5), a small Romanesque masterpiece rich in frescoes;
- Porta San Giovanni and Porta Verona, the two city gates, one to the north and one to the south of the town;
- the lakefront, a beautiful pedestrian promenade that runs along Lake Garda from Punta Mirabello to Punta Cornicello;
- the preonda or wave stone (near the lakefront), an ancient stone table whose origins date back to the 1200s. Legend has it that anyone who goes around the stone will have a lot of luck (and will soon return to visit Bardolino);
- beaches, such as Punta Cornicello, Lido Mirabello and Lido di Cisano.
In addition to the well-known places worth visiting in Bardolino, there are some original experiences one can have in this beautiful location, especially when the weather is fine. Let's look at five of them.
1. A tour to discover the Venetian villas
Bardolino is home to 13 Venetian villas, magnificent noble residences built during the rule of the Venetian Republic between the late 15th century and the 19th century. They cannot be visited from the inside but only from the outside. This is enough to attract the gaze of the curious and travellers in search of unusual sights.
The tour includes: Villa Bassani-Raimondi, Villa Guerrieri-Rizzardi-Loredan, Villa Giuliari Revedin-Gianfilippi Canestrari-Campostrini, Villa Terzi-Cristanini (or 'Delle Rose' because of its garden), Villa Revedin (or 'Delle Magnolie' because of the presence of these splendid plants), Villa Carrara-Bottagisio, Villa Ferrari and Villa Da Persico-Marzan. Immersed in rural settings are: Corte San Colombano; Rural House Caldana-Dalle Vedove-Sabaini-Andreoli, Villa Guerrieri, Villa Belvedere and Villa Bettellini.
2. A walk to discover the territory
Starting from Bardolino's lakefront, you can walk to enchanting places, completely immersed in nature. An example? A walk to the Rocca di Garda and the Camaldolesi sanctuary will allow you to explore the fortress and its splendid view, as well as the hermitage of San Giorgio of the Camaldolesi order, where the cloistered monks still produce their own liqueurs, oil, jams, creams and soaps (to try and buy!).
3. A boat trip to admire the beauty of Lake Garda
One of the many activities one can do in Bardolino in the open air is to board a boat to new destinations. Accompanied by an experienced skipper, you can enjoy an exclusive experience, even a luxury one. A private outing on a Riva with a skipper, for example, is perfect for those who love boats and want to enjoy a unique outing on a boat where everything is taken care of down to the last detail.
A tour to the Garda Island and Gardone Riviera in the direction of the Brescia coast can also be considered, to admire the Rocca di Manerba, Isola dei Conigli, Garda Island and Gardone Riviera, also known as the 'Garden City' for its charm and Art Nouveau architecture.
4. A Vespa ride in the hinterland
A Vespa ride is an original experience in and around Bardolino. You can slip into the saddle and discover the hinterland of Lake Garda on board the iconic Italian scooter.
This is a fun way to indulge in the pleasure of discovering the area, the beauty of the landscape and nature surrounding the well-known village, following a 120 km route to new destinations. One can also consider crossing the lake by ferry to reach the other shore and continue the tour from the Brescia coast, stopping then to taste delicious typical dishes in a local agriturismo.
5. Doing yoga and meditation in the open air
You can try your hand at numerous water sports in Bardolino, but have you ever tried yoga and meditation with an exceptional view of Lake Garda? We assure you that this activity deserves a lot of attention and creates a unique atmosphere. You can try a group lesson, trying out different asana positions, or experience SUP yoga, either in the morning or at sunset. The difference? In this case, you will treat yourself to a yoga session on the water, to be performed directly on the board and at two magical times of the day: a suggestive and relaxing experience.
What to do in Bardolino when it rains? 5 activities not to be missed
In and around the village of Bardolino one can do many things even when the weather promises rain. The ideal, in these cases, is to prefer indoor activities that meet the many different needs of travellers. So, let's take a quick look at some tips on what to do when it rains in Bardolino.
1. A tour of the museums
One of the activities to do in Bardolino, even when it rains, is to visit its museums. In particular, it is worth exploring the treasures of the Museo dell'Olio (Via Peschiera 54) and the Museo del Vino Bardolino (Via Costabella 9), both great tributes to the agricultural products and traditions linked to the Benaco area. The Sisàn Museum (Via Federico Marzan 24/3), on the other hand, is dedicated to the fish and ornithological heritage of the Garda area.
2. A private yoga class
Yoga is a panacea for body and mind. That is why, if you have never done it, a rainy day in Bardolino is the right opportunity to test yourself with this discipline. You can book an individual lesson in the studio and be followed by experienced professionals to start controlling your body and breathing.
3. A stop in the centre's taverns, tastings and cooking classes
The village of Bardolino is famous for its wine of the same name and for its unique gastronomy, from extra virgin olive oil to lake fish. When it rains, there is nothing better than to be tempted by its dishes, perhaps stopping at a restaurant or osteria in the historic centre where you can savour old traditional recipes or innovative dishes. Alternatively, you can take part in a cooking class in an ancient estate in the hills of Bardolino, to learn how to prepare some traditional Italian dishes, or take part in a wine tasting in a magnificent winery.
4. Relaxation and wellness at the spa
On holiday, relaxation is sacred and when it is raining outside you can treat yourself to a day at the spa. Don't you find this a nice idea? Near Bardolino there are a number of spas perfect for individual travellers as well as couples or families with children, such as Aquardens, a well-equipped spa park full of activities and services. There are also other spas on Lake Garda not far from Bardolino, to be evaluated according to your needs and to try if the rainy days continue!
5. Creative workshops, also for families
There are many locations near Bardolino and when it rains you may prefer a creative and artistic indoor activity. If you are on holiday with children, for example, you can go to Ponti sul Mincio and try your hand at various courses - also suitable for adults - such as the fresco, intaglio or watercolour painting course. Food lovers? In this case, you can also consider a cooking class in a historic residence to learn and taste local dishes.
What to do around Bardolino?
Other locations can be easily reached from Bardolino, either by train or by car. Lake Garda is a popular destination that has a lot to offer for those looking for fun, engaging, exciting and unique indoor and outdoor activities. Discover all Lake Garda experiences NowMyPlace!
