Lazise is a small walled town on Lake Garda's southeastern shore, with a Scaliger castle, a customs house that was once Venice's inland port, and a compact old centre enclosed by medieval walls. It's popular with German and Austrian visitors, who fill the campsites and holiday parks that surround the town, but the old centre itself retains a pleasant, walkable character. We think it's a good family base for the southern lake: Gardaland is close, Verona is easy, and the lakefront is attractive if not spectacular.
Why Stay in Lazise
- Walled old town: The medieval walls, the castle (exterior only), and the small harbour give Lazise more character than many southern Garda towns.
- Family attractions nearby: Gardaland (10 minutes), Canevaworld (5 minutes), and Movie Studios (5 minutes) are all within easy reach. Southern Garda is the family entertainment hub of the lake.
- Lakefront promenade: A pleasant walk along the lake south towards Peschiera. Flat, easy, and with views across the water.
- Crowded in summer: The old town is small and the surrounding holiday parks bring a lot of visitors. Parking is difficult in August and the lakefront restaurants are busy. German is spoken as often as Italian in tourist areas.
Things to Do in Lazise
Walk the old town within the walls. The harbour, the customs house, and the small church on the square are the highlights. The Wednesday market fills the old centre with stalls.
Visit Gardaland (10 minutes) for rides and the Sea Life aquarium. Canevaworld (5 minutes) has a water park and a movie-themed park.
Take the lakefront path to Peschiera del Garda (about 40 minutes on foot). Peschiera has a UNESCO-listed star-shaped fortress and a more relaxed atmosphere. The Mincio river cycle path starts here and runs to Mantua (a flat, scenic 40km ride). Verona (20 minutes by car) is the cultural day trip. Bardolino (10 minutes north) has wine tastings (Bardolino DOC) and a lively Thursday market.