Located on the eastern shore of Lake Garda, Lazise is a charming town that has been captivating travelers for centuries. With its stunning lake views, rich history, and abundance of things to do, Lazise is an ideal destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway. In this article, we will explore the top attractions in Lazise, including the historic center, picturesque churches, and beautiful beaches.
Piazza Vittorio Emanuele: The Heart of Lazise
Our journey begins at Piazza Vittorio Emanuele, the central square of Lazise. This charming piazza is surrounded by colorful buildings, shops, and cafes, making it a perfect spot to relax and people-watch. The piazza’s unique checkerboard patterned flooring is a must-see attraction.
The piazza is also home to several statues, including a beautiful bronze statue of Vittorio Emanuele II, the king who ruled Italy from 1861 until his death in 1878. Visitors can take a stroll around the piazza and enjoy the lively atmosphere, which is filled with locals and tourists alike.
Scaliger Castle of Lazise: A Medieval Fortress
Next, we head to the Scaliger Castle of Lazise, a medieval fortress that dates back to the 9th century. Although it cannot be visited inside, its panoramic garden offers breathtaking views of Lake Garda. The castle is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in history and architecture.
The castle was built by the Scaliger family, who were the rulers of Verona at the time. Over the centuries, the castle has undergone several renovations and restorations, but it still retains much of its original charm.
Church of Saints Zeno and Martino: A Neoclassical Gem
The Church of Saints Zeno and Martino is another must-visit attraction in Lazise. This neoclassical church features a stunning white facade and beautifully decorated columns, making it a striking example of 18th-century architecture.
The church was built in the late 17th century as part of a larger complex of buildings that included a monastery, a convent, and several other churches. Today, the church is still used for religious services and is open to visitors during certain hours of the day.
Romanesque Parish Church of San Nicolò: A Historic Treasure
The Romanesque Parish Church of San Nicolò is located near the old port and war memorial. This historic church has undergone various renovations over the centuries but still maintains its original charm.
The church was built in the 12th century, during a time when Lazise was an important center of trade and commerce on Lake Garda. Today, visitors can explore the church’s interior, which features several beautiful stained glass windows and intricate stone carvings.
Old Port and War Memorial: A Tribute to History
The old port is a bustling area filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants. The war memorial is a poignant tribute to those who lost their lives in war, located near the old port.
The port has been an important hub for trade and commerce on Lake Garda for centuries, and it continues to be a popular spot for locals and tourists alike today. Visitors can take a stroll along the harbor and enjoy the views of the lake.
Marconi Lakefront and the Little Mermaid on the Lake
The Marconi lakefront is one of the most beautiful stretches of the lake, featuring a unique wavy pattern on its flooring. Visitors can also see the bronze statue of the little mermaid, which adds to the area’s charm.
The lakefront was named after Guglielmo Marconi, who built a radio station there in 1900. Today, visitors can enjoy the beautiful views of the lake and take part in various activities such as sailing, fishing, and swimming.
Lazise Beach: A Haven for Sun-Lovers
For those seeking relaxation, Lazise beach offers stunning views of Lake Garda and is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or water sports.
The beach is located near the old port and is easily accessible by foot. Visitors can also take part in various activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and boat tours.
Lazise-Bardolino Walk: A Nature Lover’s Paradise
The Lazise-Bardolino walk is a scenic route that takes you through the picturesque towns of Lazise and Bardolino. The walk offers breathtaking views of Lake Garda and is perfect for nature lovers.
The walk begins in Lazise and follows a gentle slope up to Bardolino, where it passes through several beautiful vineyards and olive groves. Visitors can enjoy the stunning views of the lake and take part in various activities such as wine tastings and cooking classes.
- Featuring 120 new destinations, this best-selling inspirational travel guide reveals 500 celebrated...
- Completely revised and updated for its 10th anniversary
- Compiled from the favorite trips of National Geographic's legendary travel writers, this fully...
Caneva Aquapark: A Waterpark for All Ages
For families, Caneva Aquapark is an ideal destination offering a range of water slides, pools, and attractions suitable for all ages.
The park was founded by the Italian entrepreneur, Giovanni Caneva, who wanted to create a place where people could have fun in the sun. Today, visitors can enjoy the beautiful views of Lake Garda while taking part in various activities such as swimming, surfing, and snorkeling.
Living Nature Park: An Animal Sanctuary
Finally, the Living Nature Park is a haven for animal lovers, featuring a large collection of animals in natural habitats. Visitors can explore both the safari section, where animals roam free, and the wildlife section, which features exhibits showcasing various species.
The park was founded by the Italian organization, ARPA-PGCI, who wanted to create a place where people could learn about and appreciate nature and wildlife. Today, visitors can enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding countryside while taking part in various activities such as birdwatching and animal tracking.
One Day Itinerary in Lazise
To make the most of your visit to Lazise, consider our suggested one-day itinerary:
- Start with breakfast at Caffè Beccherie in Piazzetta Beccherie
- Visit the Church of Saints Zeno and Martino and cross over to the old port
- Take a stroll along the Marconi lakefront and admire the little mermaid statue
- Relax on Lazise beach or visit Caneva Aquapark
- Enjoy lunch at one of the local restaurants, such as La Taverna da Oreste or Il Marina Fish Restaurant
- Visit the Scaliger Castle of Lazise and its panoramic garden
- Take a walk through the picturesque town of Bardolino and enjoy the views of Lake Garda
Where to Eat in Lazise: The Best Restaurants
For delicious local cuisine, head to:
- La Taverna da Oreste for traditional recipes
- Il Marina Fish Restaurant for fresh seafood
- Restaurant at the Castle for well-kept garden and lake views
- Osteria sul Granar for typical Italian cuisine
What to Do in the Evening: Nightlife Areas and Clubs
While Lazise doesn’t have a crazy nightlife, there are still plenty of options to enjoy an evening out:
- Tiki Beach Bar for cocktails and live music
- La Pacheca for grilled meat and beer
- Café Posta Bar for quiet evenings with excellent cocktails
Organize Your Stay in Lazise: Useful Information and Advice
To make the most of your trip, consider the following tips:
- How to get there: From Peschiera del Garda by car or bus; from Bardolino by car or bus; from Verona by car via state road 12 and SP5
- Getting around: Walk through the historic center or use the urban bus service (daily €10.00)
- Accommodation: Stay in the historic center for easy access to attractions
What to See in the Surroundings
Don’t miss these nearby attractions:
- Caneva Aquapark (4 km)
- Bardolino (6 km)
- Gardaland amusement park (7 km)
- Parco Natura Viva (8 km)
- Peschiera del Garda (10 km)
- Baia delle Sirene Park (12 km)
In conclusion, Lazise is a hidden gem on Lake Garda that offers something for everyone. With its stunning lake views, rich history, and abundance of things to do, it’s the perfect destination for your next vacation.
Additional Tips
Here are some additional tips to help you make the most of your trip to Lazise:
- Be sure to try some local specialties such as risotto con pesce (risotto with fish) or polenta e funghi (polenta and mushrooms).
- Visit the local markets, which offer a range of fresh produce, cheeses, and crafts.
- Take part in one of the many festivals and events that take place throughout the year, such as the Festa della Madonna del Bosco (Festival of the Madonna of the Woods) or the Festa di San Nicolò (Feast of Saint Nicholas).
- Consider renting a boat or taking a guided tour to explore the surrounding countryside and islands.
- Be sure to try some of the local wines, such as Lugana or Oseleta.
We hope you have a wonderful trip to Lazise!