Whether you’re travelling with a baby, toddler, tween (or all three) there’s no shortage of things to see and do in Lake Garda. We’re talking biking along the waterfront, riding rip-roaring rollercoasters at Gardaland and dot-to-dotting around pretty-as-a-postcard towns. Add tasty food (gelato, we’re looking at you) and you’ve got the right recipe for a family holiday to remember. Let’s get to know Italy’s largest lake a little better…

Gardaland

Welcome to one of the country’s most iconic theme parks, where a heart-thumping catalogue of rides and experiences awaits. Daredevils can tackle Space Vertigo, which plunges you down a 40-metre drop. There’s loads for younger tots to enjoy too, as well as the fascinating Sea Life Aquarium. And that’s not all, you can even get wet and wild at Gardaland’s LEGOLAND® Water Park. Kids will love the LEGO® River Adventure, where they’ll whoosh past famous Italian landmarks built from over 4 million LEGO bricks!

Top tip: Base yourself in Peschiera and you can make the most of the free shuttle bus to the park!

CanevaWorld Resort

Whether you’re after a full-throttle or a laidback day out, CanevaWorld Resort has family fun covered. Start at the aqua park and take your pick of swirling slides and racing rapids. Once you’ve got your adrenaline fix, check out Coral Bay, where you can laze on the white-sand beach or let the gentle current tug you around the lazy river. Then, it’s lights, camera, action at Movieland. Here, you can discover impressive movie sets, watch exciting stunt shows and make your way around more than 20 film-focused attractions.

Aquatic adventures

If you’re a clan of water babies, you’ll find so many ways to fill your days here. In the north, watersports are particularly popular, especially windsurfing, sailing, kitesurfing and kayaking. After something a little more low-key? The lake’s clear waters are ideal for a dip and there are plenty of private and public beaches to lounge on.

Top tip: The beaches are pebbly, so it’s well worth purchasing a pair of water shoes.

Ace activities

Flat terrain and car-free paths makes Lake Garda a treat to explore on two wheels, especially for youngsters. One of the nicest lakefront trails connects the towns of Lazise, Bardolino and Garda. Plus, there are lots of restaurants en-route for post-pedalling pit stops. If you prefer getting out and about on two feet rather than two wheels, make a beeline for Malcesine and the Monte Baldo cable car. Kids will love whizzing to the top and taking in the epic views!

Top tip: It’s a good idea to pack some layers if you’re heading to the top of Monte Baldo. It sits at 1760m, which means it can be a lot cooler than down on the lake.

Delightful daytrips

Lake Garda’s perfectly positioned for ticking off some of northern Italy’s most iconic cities. Verona is the closest and offers an easy-to-navigate centre and stacks of fairytale sights. Spark their imaginations with tales of gladiators at the Roman amphitheatre, then roam the ramparts of Castelvecchio. Milan’s museums and landmarks are also easily accessible by train from Peschiera or Desenzano.