USD ($)
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JPY (¥)Embark on an extraordinary adventure from Milan to Lake Garda, where urban sophistication meets natural splendor, captivating landscapes, and cultural richness. As you plan your excursion, the crucial question arises: How to get there? The distance from Milan to Lake Garda is approximately 120km (75 miles), and there are multiple options for navigating this route.
This guide will walk you through the advantages and disadvantages of each choice, helping you make an informed decision tailored to your preferences. Whether it’s the utter relaxation of a guided tour, the convenience of trains and buses, the freedom of driving, or the luxury of private transfers, each mode has its merits.
Best Way to Get From Milan to Lake Garda: Join a Tour
Joining a guided tour is the ultimate way to make the most of your travel experience from Milan to Lake Garda. Our tours allow you to sit back, relax, and fully immerse yourself in the picturesque landscapes as our expert guides take care of all the details. No need to stress about navigation or schedules—we’ll transfer you there seamlessly in an air-conditioned and comfortable vehicle.
Our Verona, Sirmione & Lake Garda Small Group Tour from Milan not only includes a stress-free transfer from Milan to Lake Garda but enables you to also see Verona and Sirmione on the same day. From charming towns to breathtaking viewpoints, our itinerary is crafted to showcase the very best of this picturesque region in the most time-efficient way. Our tours go beyond the obvious, ensuring you witness the authentic charm and allure that this region has to offer.
If you want to see even more of Italy in this carefree manner, book one of our Italy tour packages. This Milan, Verona & Italy’s Lakes 5 Day Tour Package, is a popular choice for those wishing to travel from Milan to the lakes with an organized tour. Over 5 days, you’ll see the best of Northern Italy, including Milan, Lake Como, Bellagio, Verona, and Sirmione on Lake Garda. Including all inter-city transfers, 4 nights accommodation, and all tours, there’s no better way to travel.
Other Ways to Get From Milan to Lake Garda
By Train
Taking the train from Milan to Lake Garda is a comfortable and eco-friendly option for travelers. The journey from Milan to Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione, a popular access point to Lake Garda, takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. The Milan to Lake Garda train runs regularly, offering flexibility for your schedule. For those who prefer a more independent journey, trains offer a convenient and efficient mode of transportation. However, navigating the train schedules and making connections can be challenging, especially if you’re not familiar with the area.
- Practical Information:
- Costs: Train tickets typically range from €10 to €30, depending on the class and time of booking.
- Timings: Trains operate multiple times throughout the day, providing options to suit your preferred departure time.
- Pick-up Spot: Milan’s main train station, Milano Centrale.
By Bus
Buses offer an economical choice for those seeking a budget-friendly Italy adventure. The travel time from Milan to Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione by bus is around 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic. Buses are another option for the adventurous traveler. While they provide a budget-friendly choice, they may lack the comfort and personalized experience that a guided tour can offer.
- Practical Information:
- Costs: Bus fares usually start from €8 to €20, making it a cost-effective option.
- Timings: Buses run regularly, and the schedule is available from the main bus stations or online.
- Pick-up Spot: Buses typically depart from Milan’s Lampugnano Bus Station.
By Car
Driving allows you to enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions. Tolls may apply on the highway. Driving from Milan to Lake Garda gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Yet, dealing with traffic and parking can be stressful, detracting from the joy of the scenic drive.
- Practical Information:
- Costs: Consider fuel and toll expenses, totaling around €20 to €40, depending on your car’s fuel efficiency and the route taken.
- Timings: Departure time is flexible, but it’s advisable to avoid peak traffic hours.
- Pick-up Spot: Pick up a rental car from one of Milan’s city-center locations or the airports.
Private Transfers
For a more personalized experience, private transfers offer door-to-door service, ensuring comfort and convenience. You’ll have the flexibility to choose your departure time. Opting for a private transfer ensures a degree of convenience, but it might not offer the same depth of insight and engagement that a guided tour provides. If you’re looking to get from Milan airport to Lake Garda, or vice versa, we also offer private airport transfer services which include arrivals pick-up, licensed drivers, and top-quality vehicles.
- Practical Information:
- Costs: Private transfers can range from €150 to €300, depending on the type of vehicle and the company.
- Timings: Schedule the transfer according to your preferences.
- Pick-up Spot: Your driver will meet you at your chosen location in Milan, whether it’s your hotel, the airport, or another designated spot.
Milan to Lake Garda: Unveiling the Journey
While there are various ways to travel from Milan to Lake Garda, joining a guided tour is evidently the superior choice. Let us take care of the details so you can focus on creating memories and relishing the enchanting landscapes. Book your adventure today and elevate your journey from Milan to Lake Garda with comfort, efficiency, and unparalleled experiences.
If you choose to do the journey alone, allow us to upgrade your travels in other ways. Whether that be with recommendations on what to do in Milan or helping you secure an unbeatable rate on your hotel in Milan or Lake Garda. If you’re based in Milan, make sure to check out our list of the best day trips from Milan, as well as our range of highly popular Milan tours.
Wherever you’re off to, our Italy travel guides are packed full of helpful tips and tricks for planning your trip to Italy. For example, in our Italy events and monthly guides section, you’ll discover that May and June in Italy are considered the best times to travel to the lake regions due to the ideal weather and water conditions. Whatever you need, we’re here to help. Buon viaggio!
