What to do in Salò (even when it rains): 10 ideas
Wondering what to do in Salò and what to see in this beautiful town? In this guide, we'll share 10 original ideas to help you make the most of your time, even when it rains. But first, let’s learn a little more about the city.
Salò, a key location of the Italian Social Republic from 1943 to 1945, is situated on the Brescia side of Lake Garda. It’s the first town on the Lemon Riviera, the stretch of the lake’s west coast that runs from Salò to Limone sul Garda. With its charming streets and squares, elegant historic buildings, boutiques, and restaurants, and its stunning view of the lake, Salò is a popular destination for travellers from all over the world. Nestled between Monte San Bartolomeo and the morainic hills, this area boasts untouched, lush nature - perfect for both outdoor and indoor activities. The town is also home to the historic Cedral Tassoni company. Established as a spice shop in 1750, it is now famous for its 'cedrata', an iconic drink still widely consumed in Italian cafés today.
But what are the best things to do and see in Salò when the weather is good? In addition to shopping and enjoying cafés and restaurants, there are some interesting sights to visit, including:
- the Duomo of Salò (piazza Duomo), a late Gothic church with an unfinished façade and a Renaissance marble entrance portal. Inside, you’ll find numerous valuable artworks by Romanino, Moretto, Zenone Veronese, Palma il Giovane, and Paolo Veneziano;
- MuSa (via Brunati 9), the museum dedicated to the town’s history. It houses artefacts from various eras, from Roman times to the present, covering topics from history to science;
- the Clock Tower (piazza Vittorio Emanuele II), once the main entrance to the town;
- the Sanctuary of Madonna del Rio (via Madonna del Rio), a charming 18th-century sanctuary nestled in nature, about a 6-minute drive from Salò’s historic centre;
- the beaches, where you can relax by the lake. Some of the most popular include Mulino Beach, Rive Grandi, and Spiaggetta delle Rive.
All of these are wonderful places to explore during your stay in this town. But what activities can make your holiday in Salò truly special?
What to do in Salò: 5 outdoor experiences
Salò is the perfect destination for those who want to delve into history and culture, as well as for those who love relaxation or outdoor activities. Here are 5 useful tips for having fun in Salò, whether you’re travelling with family, friends, or as a couple. These experiences are also ideal for team-building events at Lake Garda or as unique gifts for graduations, stag and hen parties.
1. Boat tour
One way to get to know Salò and be enchanted by its beauty is to hop on a boat. This magical experience allows you to discover the area from an unexpected perspective: the lake’s waters. You could book a private tour with a driver, heading towards Punta San Vigilio and Garda, sailing along the east coast to reach Isola del Garda, Isola dei Conigli, and then disembarking at the town of Garda and Punta San Vigilio - with opportunities for swimming along the way! For luxury lovers, there's nothing better than a ride on a Riva boat with a driver, a prestigious speedboat famous worldwide. It’s an icon of Italian craftsmanship, beloved by celebrities and featured in many films, commercials, and TV series.
2. Trekking to discover the area
Walking is a relaxing activity, suitable for all ages, and it’s a great way to get to know a place at a slower pace. Salò offers numerous areas to explore, providing unique views of the lake and unexpected spots rich in history and culture. The trek to the small church of San Bartolomeo, overlooking the Gulf of Salò, is perfect for immersing yourself in nature, discovering this historic site, and admiring the lake from above. Another option is the 'Three Sanctuaries' trek in the Alto Garda Bresciano Park, where you can visit the Madonna del Rio, Madonna del Buon Consiglio, and San Bartolomeo sanctuaries, following trails through woods and small villages.
3. Wine tasting by the natural bio pool
Location plays a big role in a successful wine tasting, which is why this activity at a natural bio pool in a 18th-century villa will pleasantly surprise you. Besides tasting three local wines and learning about their histories, you’ll spend your time in a magical setting, completely surrounded by greenery. You’ll have the whole day to enjoy the sounds of birds, admire flowers and dragonflies, and take a dip in the bio-natural pool.
4. Fun activities on Lake Garda
Looking for a fun day out on Lake Garda? Just a few kilometres from Salò, in Toscolano Maderno, you can enjoy a variety of options. A kayak excursion is great for both experts and beginners who want to explore the lake with an experienced guide, while practising an enjoyable sport. Alternatively, you can opt for a canoe outing. The differences between a canoe and a kayak? The position you take once on board and the type of paddle (single for a canoe, double for a kayak). For a more relaxed activity, you could try stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), where you stand on a surf-like board and use a paddle to move across the lake.
5. Horseback riding in nature
If you love nature and animals, head to Gavardo, not far from Salò, where you can go horseback riding through the Valtenesi. This hour-and-a-half-long itinerary takes you through vineyards and olive groves, guided by an expert instructor. For a more romantic and magical experience, you could also consider a carriage ride with a driver along country paths, dirt roads, and backroads of the Valtenesi, with the option to book a lunch at a farm with lake views.
5 Things to do in Salò when it rains
Wondering what to do when it rains in Salò? Here are five suggestions to help you spend your days relaxing, exploring, and having fun.
1. Local wine tasting
When it’s raining in Salò, the perfect activity is to visit a 18th-century villa for a wine tasting of the wines produced on-site. It’s a great way to deepen your knowledge of Lake Garda’s wine culture while tasting some of the finest wines made by a renowned winery that owns historic vineyards—complete with local food pairings.
2. Traditional cooking classes
Want to improve your cooking skills? In Salò, you can take a cooking class with a renowned chef at a 18th-century villa, or join a traditional cooking lesson with an expert cook. Both experiences are perfect for learning how to make typical dishes from Lake Garda and Italian cuisine, which you’ll enjoy with the other participants at the end.
3. Olive oil tasting on a farm
In nearby Toscolano Maderno, you can participate in an olive oil tasting of Garda’s extra virgin olive oil. It’s a great opportunity to discover the various olive varieties of the area, how they’re grown, harvested, and processed, as explained by a renowned local producer. The experience includes a tour of the olive mill and the actual tasting, making it ideal for food lovers and families with children seeking new experiences.
4. Craft lesson with a local frame maker
When it rains in Salò, you can head to nearby Rezzato, where a master frame maker offers practical lessons on creating original frames. This activity is perfect for those with a creative spirit who want to try their hand at this ancient craft.
5. Relax at the Spa
On a rainy day, you can retreat to the spa. Near Salò, the Vallio Terme offers a peaceful escape, with a large park, pine forests, and well-maintained gardens - perfect for completely unwinding and clearing your mind of stress. Vallio specialises in hydropinic and inhalation treatments, but they also offer toning treatments for skin relaxation. A short drive from Salò will also take you to other Lake Garda spas that offer services like massages and relaxing baths, suitable for couples, groups of friends, and families with children.
What to do around Salò?
From Salò, you can easily reach other nearby destinations by train, car, or public transport. Lake Garda is a beloved destination offering plenty of exciting, unique, and fun activities, both indoors and outdoors. Discover all the experiences available at Lake Garda with NowMyPlace!
