Not only is it the largest lake in Italy, but it is also the most visited inland body of water in the country, at least among guests from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. After a lively summer season, the Lago di Garda settles into a quieter rhythm come autumn and winter, and in some areas a pre-Christmas atmosphere begins to settle over the historic towns as early as November. Several of the Christmas markets even run into January, making this an ideal opportunity to experience the lake from a different angle and mingle with the locals.
Glamping with a Lake View: La Rocca Camping Village
Passionate campers will find attractive options even during the cooler months. Two sites belonging to the Lago di Garda Camping association remain open. In Bardolino on the eastern shore of the lake, in the province of Verona, sits La Rocca Camping Village. A particular highlight is the Garda Bubble, three interconnected domes featuring a living room, a bedroom with a canopy bed, and a private bathroom. Elegant Geo Suites and Geo Domes with lake views and private bathrooms round out the exclusive glamping experience. Each of these accommodations comes with a private wooden terrace, a whirlpool, and a barrel sauna, wellness with a lake view included. Glamping units are available in winter from €150 per night for two people, breakfast included. La Rocca Camping Village is open from December 4, 2025 through March 1, 2026, Thursday through Sunday, and daily during the holiday season from December 18, 2025 through January 11, 2026.
Open Year-Round: Camping Iris Park in Moniga del Garda
Camping Iris Park in Moniga del Garda is open throughout the year. Located just a few minutes' drive from the southwestern shore, it is perfectly suited for a family vacation. The heated mobile homes are comfortably furnished, the pitches are spacious and well equipped. The campsite has everything one could need: a restaurant with pizzeria, a bar, and a small supermarket. Pitches start at €15 per day, mobile homes from €60 per day. The recreational appeal of Lake Garda remains high even in the winter season. November is nicknamed the St. Martin's Summer, as mild and sunny days create ideal conditions for walks, day trips, or a round on one of the golf courses surrounding the lake. From the campsite in Moniga del Garda, it is possible to reach the historic old town and the medieval fortress on foot.
Lights and Markets: Christmas at Lake Garda
Moniga is also known for its wine production, particularly the Chiaretto, the rosé of Lake Garda. Traditional dishes such as "Bigoli con le sarde" (homemade pasta with sardines) and "Polenta e funghi" can be savored in the small trattorien of the region. Every Monday, a weekly market is held in Moniga, an ideal opportunity to pick up the finest fresh local produce.
From December 6, 2025 through January 6, 2026, the Christmas market in Bardolino runs along the lakeside promenade. Craftsmanship and holiday decorations are on offer at the stalls, and visitors can warm up with mulled wine inside a heated, transparent igloo. Nearby, children and adults alike take turns on the covered ice-skating rink. Just a few minutes away by car is the underwater nativity scene in Peschiera del Garda, colorfully illuminated figures that float beneath the surface where Lake Garda meets the Mincio river, creating an almost mystical atmosphere. Additional festive Christmas markets can be found in Arco, Riva del Garda, Canale di Tenno, Garda, Lazise, Manerba del Garda, and Bussolengo.
Hiking and Cycling in the Valtènesi
On the Lombard side of Lake Garda, the rolling hinterland of Valtènesi invites visitors to stroll and hike through olive groves, vineyards, and villages such as Soiano or Polpenazze. Those who prefer to explore by bicycle will discover the landscape along the Mincio on idyllic back roads and well-maintained cycling paths, ideal for e-bikes as well. From both campsites, Verona, the city of love, opera, and Roman history, is easily accessible. From the western shore, the drive takes about an hour; from Bardolino, the journey is under 40 minutes. During the Christmas season, Verona transforms into a festively illuminated city filled with romantic markets, light installations and traditional events.
A large Christmas tree stands at Piazza Bra
The Christmas market, which runs from November 14 through December 26, is organized in cooperation with the Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt. A large Christmas treegraces the Piazza Bra, and a glowing comet rises high above the Arena. On December 13, the city celebrates the feast of Santa Lucia with sweets, gifts, and a market designed especially for children. A special event is the "Babbo Natale Run" on December 21, 2025, a race through the historic center of Veronain which all participants dress up as Santa Claus. The spirit of the event is all about taking part, not winning. Registration is open until December 18 at veronachristmasrun.it.