Think you know Lake Garda? Think again! Meet one of our Senior Context Executives, Louisa, who spent a summer living and working here. She’s a bit of an expert when it comes to the top things to see, do and eat, so let’s dive in...

1. Where’s the best place to see the sunset?

“La Motta in Garda is the perfect place to catch the sunset. It’s a bar right on the shingle shore, so grab a table and a cocktail and get ready to fill up your camera roll.”

2. Where's the best place to enjoy a drink with a view?

“The Locanda San Vigilio hotel at Punta San Vigilio is one of my fave spots for a drink. Head to the taverna and enjoy an aperitivo while soaking up those lake views.”

3. Where's the best place to take a stroll?

“All the resorts are lovely to walk around, but the promenade from Garda to Bardolino is really nice. It takes about 45 minutes and there are lots of cafés on the way if you fancy a spritz stop. You can continue past Bardolino to the towns of Cisano and Lazise too.”

4. What's the most Instagrammable experience?

“The Monte Baldo cable car in Malcesine. The cable car slowly rotates, so you can take in 360-degree views as you whizz to the top. Bring extra layers as it can get quite chilly up there. There’s also a restaurant with fab panoramas at the mid station called Locanda Monte Baldo.”

5. Where's the best place for cocktails?

“Oasi Bar in Malcesine always has a buzzy vibe. It’s just a short walk from the town centre along the lakeside promenade. I also like Can e Gato in Garda, it’s a tiny wine bar which regularly plays live music.”

6. Where's the best place to go shopping?

“If you’re after big-name brands, there’s a shopping centre in Affi. Verona is also an option, if you don’t mind travelling a bit further.”

7. Where's the best place to dine in Lake Garda?

“La Bussola in Garda will always get my vote. The family who run this restaurant are so welcoming and the food is delicious! I still think about their truffle pasta. Ristorante Leon D'Oro in Riva is another to add to your list, especially if you’re a pizza fan.”

8. Where can you find something quirky?

“Isola del Garda is beautiful island in the middle of the lake. As it’s privately owned, the only way to visit is if you book a guided tour here. You’ll get a welcome drink in the grounds, as well as a tour of the beautiful gardens and part of the 19th-century neo-Gothic villa.”

9. Where's the best place to grab a souvenir?

“It depends on what you’re looking for. There are markets in each of the towns throughout the week, but I think the one in Limone on a Tuesday is the best. If you’re after food and drink-style gifts, Bardolino has some great wine shops.”

10. Where's the best place for traditional Italian food?

“It’s much easier to find traditional Italian restaurants than one’s serving international cuisine here. Ristorante Pizzeria Catullo and La Losa are fab for fish fans. Try the sardines caught fresh from the lake!”

11. Any cool photo spots?

“I think Sirmione is one of the prettiest towns on the lake. You can take a boat ride around it to see the Scaligeri Castle. For hikers, the walk up to La Rocca is a must. There are signs from the centre of Garda, and once you reach the top you’ll be rewarded with stunning views across the town.”

12. What are the best sights to tick off?

“One of the best ways to see the lake is by using the local ferry system. That way, you can enjoy the views from the boat, while also ticking off some of the different villages and towns. Malcesine Castle and Arco Castle are two highlights for history buffs. Travelling with tots? You can’t beat Gardaland and Caneva Aquapark.”

13. What are the best sports and activities to try?

“I recommend hiring an e-bike and cycling along the old Ponale Road from Riva to Lake Ledro. The scenery en-route is breathtaking, and nothing beats having a dip in the lake when you get there.”

14. Where’s the best place to try local wine?

“I never drank red wine before I lived here, but after a summer sipping on the local tipple, Bardolino, I was converted. A wine tasting is the best way to learn all about the area’s history (and try some wines!). Cascina Maddalena in Sirmione is one of the most popular, and for good reason. There are three tours, each dedicated to a different member of the owner’s family.”

15. Where's the best place for a day trip?

“Lake Garda’s a great springboard for visiting other towns and cities in northern Italy. If you’re staying in the south, I’d recommend spending the day in Verona. If you’re in the north, the Dolomites and Lake Molveno are highlights.”