Activities in Sirmione

Culture

At the entrance to the old town walls stands a fairytale castle that looks straight out of a movie. The Rocca Scaligera has swallowtail battlements and a tower affording jaw droppingly beautiful views of Sirmione and the lake. From up here it is easy to see why Sirmione has been popular with tourists for centuries. As far back as the Romans the peninsula has been inhabited by those wanting to be close to Lake Garda. One of the best examples of this, and biggest draws for modern tourists, is the Grotto of Catullus. If you are starting from the castle the grotto is about 1km on foot, there is also a tourist train if you are feeling more lethargic. The ruins of the Roman poet Catullus' house are some of the most important in northern Italy and well worth a visit. As well as archaeology, any trip to Italy is not complete without looking into some beautiful catholic churches. San Pietro in Mavino was built in the 14th century and has a Romanesque bell tower and some beautiful frescoes. If you visit Santa Maria Maggiore you'll see 15th century frescoes and a contemporary wooden statue of the Madonna Enthroned. With so many wonderful things to see in Sirmione, your holiday photo album will be full in no time!

Why not try -

• a speedboat trip around the peninsula - its exhilarating and a great way to see Sirmione from a new perspective.
• to choose your favourite flavour of ice cream, it will be a near impossible task, there are 100s to choose from!
• a swim in the lake at the Lido delle Bionde. The southern shore of the lake has the warmest and calmest water.