Europe, Italy

How to get to Sirmione (Complete Guide to Visiting)

August 28, 2024

Wondering How to Get to Sirmione?

When I was in Italy earlier this year, I discovered that this cute Italian town, Sirmione, was going to be in the area we were exploring, so of course, we had to visit!

Table of Contents

I had seen photos of Sirmione on Lake Garda and, spoiler, pictures don’t do it justice.

The moment I arrived, it was easy to fall in love with this picturesque town. Known for its rich history, Sirmione is famous for its stunning Scaligero Castle, ancient Roman ruins like the Grotte di Catullo, and beautiful thermal baths.

Today, it is a popular destination for travellers looking to experience the charm of Lake Garda, offering everything from luxury hotels and charming bed-and-breakfasts to quaint shops and delicious Italian cuisine.

Although I only planned a day trip, which I regretted as soon as we arrived, Sirmione is definitely a place where you could spend the night to fully enjoy all it has to offer. If you ever have the chance to visit, I highly recommend setting aside enough time to explore this incredible town to the fullest.

⏰ Short on time?

🗺️ Here a the top activities to do in Sirmione
25-Minute Boat Cruise Around the Peninsula
Tour and Tasting of Lugana Wines
Sunset Boat Cruise with Local Wine

👉 Day trips to Sirmione
Day Trip from Milan
Half-Day Tour from Verona

Disclaimer: Please note that some of the links in this article may be affiliate links. This means that, at no extra cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you click on or make a purchase through these links.

Where is Sirmione?

Sirmione is located on the southern tip of Lake Garda in northern Italy, nestled between the cities of Verona and Milan, which makes it handy for a day trip. We actually stopped in there while we were driving from Verona to Milan.

The town is famous for its stunning views, ancient Roman ruins known as the Grotte di Catullo, and the beautiful Scaligero Castle. This medieval fortress sits at the entrance of the old town as well as its charming Italian narrow streets and scenic beaches.

When to Visit Sirmione

The best time to visit Sirmione is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild, and the town is less crowded. However, we visited in winter and loved it, so I would not overlook a winter trip there. The cooler weather meant we had many sights and pockets of the town almost to ourselves, which made it more fun to explore.

How Much Time to Spend in Sirmione

You can easily enjoy Sirmione on a day trip, as we did, especially if you’re coming by car. However, there’s so much to see and do that you could easily spend more time here. If you have the chance, I highly recommend staying overnight to fully appreciate the town’s charm both during the day and in the evening when most day-trippers have left.

What to See in Sirmione

Scaligero Castle

This medieval castle, built in the 13th century, is one of the best-preserved castles in Italy. It offers stunning views of Lake Garda and a glimpse into the region’s history. Walking through the castle’s towers and walls is a great way to start your visit.

Grotte di Catullo

These are the ruins of an ancient Roman villa that offer spectacular views of Lake Garda. Surrounded by olive trees, the site is perfect for a stroll and a deep dive into history.

Jamaica Beach

Known for its flat rock formations and crystal-clear waters, Jamaica Beach is a popular spot for sunbathing and swimming during the warmer months.

Santa Maria Maggiore Church

Located in the heart of the old town, this charming church is known for its beautiful frescoes and peaceful atmosphere. It’s a lovely place to explore if you’re interested in art and history.

Thermal Baths

Sirmione is famous for its thermal baths, particularly Aquaria Thermal SPA, which offers a relaxing experience with views of the lake. It’s a great way to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

Things to Do in Sirmione

25-Minute Boat Cruise Around the Peninsula

This boat tour is a fantastic way to see Sirmione from a different perspective. You’ll sail around the peninsula, enjoying panoramic views of the castle, Grotte di Catullo, and the beautiful lakeshore. It’s a quick but memorable experience perfect for capturing stunning photos.

Tour and Tasting of Lugana Wines

If you’re a fan of Italian wine, this tour is a must. You’ll visit local vineyards, learn about the wine-making process, and enjoy tasting some of the best Lugana wines, which are typical of the Lake Garda region. It’s an excellent way to immerse yourself in the local culture and flavours.

Sunset Boat Cruise with Local Wine

For a romantic evening, consider this sunset cruise. You’ll sail around the peninsula while sipping local wine and enjoying the stunning sunset over Lake Garda. It’s a perfect way to end the day with someone special.

How to Get to Sirmione

Travelling to Sirmione by Train

To get to Sirmione by train, you’ll need to head to one of the nearby railway stations, as Sirmione itself does not have its own train station. The nearest train station is Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione, which is about 10 kilometres away from Sirmione. Another nearby station is Peschiera del Garda, which is also conveniently located for accessing Sirmione.

From Milan
You can take a train from Milan’s main train station, Milano Centrale, to Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione or Peschiera del Garda. The journey takes about an hour, making it a quick and easy trip. Alternatively, you can join a guided day trip from Milan that includes transportation and a boat cruise on Lake Garda.

From Verona
Verona’s Porta Nuova station also offers frequent trains to Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione and Peschiera del Garda. The train ride from Verona to these stations takes about 20-30 minutes. If you prefer an organised tour, you can book a half-day tour from Verona that covers all the highlights of Sirmione and Lake Garda. Once you arrive at Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione or Peschiera del Garda, you can take a taxi, bus, or ferry to reach Sirmione.

Where I Stayed in Verona

👉 Watch our hotel review staying at this beautiful hotel in the heart of Verona!

👉 View the hotel here

Travelling to Sirmione by Car

If you prefer driving, Sirmione is easily accessible by car, which is how we did it. It’s about a 40-minute drive from Verona and just over an hour from Milan. The town is well-connected by the A4 motorway, which runs from Milan to Venice, passing close to Lake Garda.

Parking: Keep in mind that Sirmione’s old town is a pedestrian-only zone, so you will need to park your car outside the town centre. There are several parking areas available near the entrance to the old town. We could not find any free parking after 10 a.m. when we arrived, so be prepared to pay.

👉 If you are looking for more tips about visiting Rome? Make sure to check out my Rome Tourist Attractions! Free and Paid Sights you Can’t Miss and Travel Guide to Visiting Rome, Italy!

Travelling to Sirmione by Plane

If you’re flying into Italy, the closest airports to Sirmione are Verona Villafranca Airport (Valerio Catullo) and Milan Bergamo Airport (Orio al Serio).

Verona Villafranca Airport (Valerio Catullo): Located about 30 kilometres from Sirmione, this is the closest airport. From the airport, you can rent a car, take a taxi, or use public transport to reach Sirmione.

Milan Bergamo Airport (Orio al Serio): About 85 kilometres away, this airport is a good option if you’re coming from further afield. From Bergamo, you can rent a car or take a train to Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione or Peschiera del Garda, and then a bus or taxi to Sirmione.

Travelling to Sirmione by Bus

Several bus lines connect Sirmione to nearby towns and cities around Lake Garda. From Desenzano del Garda or Peschiera del Garda, you can take a local bus to Sirmione. The buses are an affordable and convenient way to travel around the lake, especially if you’re not renting a car.

Travelling to Sirmione by Ferry

During the warmer months, ferries operate regularly on Lake Garda, connecting Sirmione with other lakeside towns. Travelling by ferry is a scenic and relaxing way to reach Sirmione, offering beautiful views of the lake and surrounding area. Ferries depart from Desenzano del Garda, Peschiera del Garda, and other towns around Lake Garda.

Day Trip Tours to Sirmione

If you prefer an organized day trip, there are several tours that include transportation to Sirmione. Here are the ones we recommend.

Day Trip from Milan: This tour includes transportation from Milan to Sirmione and Verona, along with a boat cruise on Lake Garda. It’s an excellent option for those who want to see the highlights of the area without worrying about logistics.

Half-Day Tour from Verona: For those staying in Verona, this half-day tour is perfect for a quick visit to Sirmione and Lake Garda. It includes transportation and a guided tour of Sirmione’s top sights.

Getting Around Sirmione

Once in Sirmione, the best way to get around is on foot. The old town is pedestrian-friendly, and most attractions, such as the Scaligero Castle and Grotte di Catullo, are within walking distance of each other.

👉 If you are looking for more tips about visiting Verona? Make sure to check out Best Things to Do in Verona in One Day (Walking Itinerary + Sights)

FAQ for Visiting Sirmione

Is Sirmione closed up in the winter?

No, Sirmione is not closed in the winter. While some attractions may have reduced hours, the town remains open year-round. We went in winter and found we could do and see everything.

Does Sirmione have a beach?

Yes, Sirmione has several beaches, including Jamaica Beach, which is popular for its clear water and scenic views.

How do you get to Sirmione?

You can get to Sirmione by train (via Desenzano del Garda or Peschiera del Garda), car, plane (via Verona or Milan airports), bus, or ferry.

Is it worth going to Sirmione?

Absolutely! Sirmione is worth visiting for its beautiful location on Lake Garda, historic Scaligero Castle, thermal baths, and charming old town.