Verona is a city that knows how to impress — not just with its Roman arena and romantic balconies, but also with its proximity to Italy’s largest lake, Lake Garda. For travelers who love being on the water, Verona offers some fantastic boat and cruise tours. Whether you want a leisurely boat ride around the Sirmione peninsula, a guided exploration of charming lakeside villages, or a refreshing spritz in a lakeside cafe, there’s something for every water-loving visitor. One of our favorite options, the From Verona: Sirmione and Lake Garda Day Tour with Cruise, combines scenic boat rides, charming towns, and flexible free time — perfect for those who want a well-rounded experience.
If you’re short on time but still want to soak in the beauty of Lake Garda, the From Verona: Sirmione, Lake Garda with Boat & Spritz Tasting offers an efficient half-day trip with a private boat cruise and a tasting of Italy’s famous aperitif, all in just five hours. Lastly, for those who want a more intimate experience, the From Verona: Sirmione Boat Tour with Spritz Tasting lets you explore Sirmione’s historic streets and castle on foot before relaxing on a boat around the peninsula. Below, we break down each tour to help you pick the best option for your style and schedule.
1. From Verona: Sirmione and Lake Garda Day Tour with Cruise
At number one on our list, this full-day adventure provides a comprehensive look at Lake Garda’s most picturesque spots. It’s a 7.5-hour trip that includes round-trip transport from Verona, a boat cruise around the Sirmione Peninsula, and plenty of time for exploring. The tour kicks off with a scenic bus ride from Verona’s city center, heading toward the south of Lake Garda. Once in Sirmione, you’ll hop on a boat ride that offers stunning views of the castle and lakeside villas, then enjoy a guided tour of Sirmione’s charming old town, passing by the famous Scaligero Castle.
The itinerary balances sightseeing and leisure. After exploring Sirmione, you’ll visit Lazise, Italy’s oldest village, with free time for shopping or a coffee before taking a ferry to Lazise’s lakeside streets. The tour concludes with a bus ride back to Verona. Rated 4.6/5 from 548 reviews, travelers enjoy the well-organized schedule and the opportunity to experience both boat rides and cultural sights in one day.
The bottom line: This tour offers excellent value for those wanting a full, relaxed day of lakeside scenery, history, and charming Italian villages. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate structure but want enough free time to soak in the atmosphere.
2. From Verona: Sirmione, Lake Garda with Boat & Spritz Tasting
Coming in at number two, this 5-hour tour packs a punch by combining a scenic boat ride with a tasty Italian tradition — the Spritz. It’s perfect for those who want a quick but memorable experience without the longer full-day commitment. The highlight is a private boat cruise around Sirmione with a captain, giving you the chance to admire the castle, the Grottoes of Catullus, and the stunning lakeside scenery from the water.
After the boat tour, you’ll have free time to explore Sirmione at your own pace — maybe visit the ruins or enjoy some gelato. The tour wraps up back in Verona with a refreshing Spritz tasting, a classic Italian aperitif that captures the essence of lakeside leisure. This tour has earned a high rating of 4.7/5 from 28 reviews, with travelers praising the intimate boat ride and the flexibility of exploration afterward.
The bottom line: Best suited for travelers seeking a shorter, more relaxed day with a focus on enjoying the water and a local drink. It’s a great option if you want to avoid long bus rides but still experience Sirmione’s beauty from the water.
3. From Verona: Sirmione Boat Tour with Spritz Tasting
At number three, this more intimate tour offers a combination of walking and boating to explore Sirmione’s highlights. It starts with a walking tour of the town, visiting key sites like the Castello Scaligero, the Grotte di Catullo, and the villa of Maria Callas, giving you a close-up look at Sirmione’s historic charm.
After the walking portion, you’ll enjoy a boat cruise around the peninsula, offering a different perspective on the town’s scenic location. The tour lasts just five hours, making it ideal for travelers with limited time who still want a taste of lake life and history. The inclusion of a Spritz tasting adds a relaxing finish to your day.
This tour has only three reviews but a perfect 5/5 rating, indicating high satisfaction among those who’ve experienced it. Guests appreciate the detailed city walk and the opportunity to see Sirmione from both land and water.
The bottom line: If you love walking tours combined with boat rides and want to explore at a leisurely pace, this is an excellent choice. It offers a more personalized feel and a chance to enjoy Sirmione’s best sights.
How to Choose the Best Cruises and Boat Tours in Verona
When deciding which tour suits you, consider your time constraints, interest in history or leisure, and your budget. The full-day tour provides a comprehensive experience with plenty of sightseeing and free time, ideal for those who want a bit of everything. If you prefer a shorter, more relaxed outing with a focus on saying “cheers” with a Spritz, the second option is perfect.
For travelers who love walking and exploring, the third tour offers a more in-depth look at Sirmione’s streets and castle, with the bonus of a boat cruise. Think about your fitness level, as some tours involve walking, and your schedule — booking early can help secure your preferred time and ensure a smooth experience.
Final Thoughts
Verona’s lakeside treasures are best enjoyed from the water, and these tours offer a variety of ways to do just that. For a full immersion—combining boat rides, cultural stops, and free exploration—the From Verona: Sirmione and Lake Garda Day Tour with Cruise is hard to beat. If you’re short on time but still want a memorable lakeside experience, the Lake Garda with Boat & Spritz Tasting hits all the highlights efficiently. And for a more personalized experience, the Sirmione Boat Tour with Spritz Tasting provides a relaxed, intimate day.
No matter which you choose, these tours are a perfect way to enjoy the stunning scenery of Lake Garda and get a taste of Italy’s lakeside charm. Be sure to book early, especially in peak season, and prepare for a day filled with beautiful views, history, and maybe even a sip of Spritz.