Farewell, Lake Como – Off to Lake Garda!

After four wonderful days, it was time to say goodbye to Lake Como. We woke to a peaceful morning, with no need to rush—checkout wasn’t until noon. After a relaxed breakfast, my husband went out to the garden to play with Liny, while I packed up our things. Before leaving, we thanked our hosts once again for their warm hospitality. Around 11 a.m., we set off for our next destination: Sirmione, where we would spend the next four nights.

A Quick Stop in Lecco

We planned our departure to coincide with our daughter’s nap time, so Liny dozed peacefully in the car as we headed toward Sirmione. On the way, we made a quick stop in Lecco—a place we had missed on the way in and didn’t want to skip again.

Getting to Lecco

Lecco is easily accessible by train or car. It’s a great base for exploring Lake Como, especially since boats depart from here to the lake’s most popular towns, including Bellagio and Varenna. If you’re someone who loves nature, culture, and quieter, less touristy destinations, Lecco is a fantastic choice for a lakeside getaway, and you can also find a variety of tours and activities on trusted platforms like GetYourGuide.

The Southeastern Gateway to Lake Como

Situated on the southeastern shore of Lake Como, Lecco is known not only for its natural beauty but also for its rich history. The surrounding mountains create a dramatic backdrop, making it especially appealing to hikers. There’s even a cable car near Lecco—the Piani d’Erna—which offers a fun escape into the hills, particularly if you’re planning a longer stay in the area.

We spent a lovely afternoon in Lecco. We explored the city on foot. Though Lecco is larger than many of the lake’s other towns, it felt calm and uncrowded—much less touristy than the better-known spots.

Top Things to Do in Lecco

We began by strolling through the charming old town, full of narrow alleyways, cozy cafés, and little shops. The area around Piazza XX Settembre is especially well-maintained, and the historic center boasts some impressive architecture.

One of the city’s most iconic sights is the Campanile di San Nicolò—the bell tower of Saint Nicholas Church. It’s a symbol of Lecco, and if you have more time, it’s worth climbing for the panoramic view over the town and the lake.

Lunch and Dessert

After a bit of sightseeing, we were ready for lunch. We found a lovely spot for a meal, and afterwards, treated ourselves to dessert at Grom, a gelateria next to McDonald’s. Grom is famous for its artisanal gelato and hot chocolate—there was no question we’d stop here for a sweet indulgence.

Lungolago di Lecco – The Lakeside Promenade

Following lunch, we took a peaceful walk along the Lungolago di Lecco promenade. This long, tree-lined stretch is perfect for relaxing, with benches and playgrounds making it ideal for families with young children. While strolling, we admired the golden statue of Saint Nicholas, Lecco’s patron saint, which rises from the water, shimmering in the sunlight. Then we sat on a bench, watching the ducks and swans drift calmly on the waves—Liny was completely captivated.

Before heading back to the car, we took one last deep breath of the Lake Como atmosphere. Then it was time to move on—next stop: Lake Garda.

Lecco with a Young Child

Lecco is an excellent destination for families with young children. The lakeside promenade is stroller-friendly, and there are several playgrounds throughout the city. The green parks and waterfront provide plenty of space to relax and recharge, all while parents enjoy the stunning scenery.

If you love nature, culture, and peaceful spots away from the crowds, Lecco is a perfect choice.

Lake Garda – A Mediterranean Gem with an Alpine Backdrop

If there’s a place in Europe where mountains and water come together in a truly magical way, it’s Lake Garda. As Italy’s largest lake, it offers a unique atmosphere where the Mediterranean lifestyle meets the breathtaking beauty of Alpine landscapes. The region is a perfect blend of peaceful relaxation and thrilling adventures, making it an ideal destination for family travel.

Postcard-perfect towns line the lakeshore, with narrow cobblestone streets, gelaterias, and cozy trattorias inviting visitors to slow down and savor the moment. Sitting with a gelato or a rich Italian coffee, it’s easy to lose track of time. Nature lovers can explore scenic hiking trails, while water sports enthusiasts have plenty of options—from sailing and windsurfing to a leisurely boat ride on the lake.

Geography and Climate

Lake Garda lies at the intersection of three Italian regions—Veneto, Lombardy, and Trentino-Alto Adige. Its northern shores are surrounded by towering mountains, often snow-capped in winter, while the southern end offers a milder, Mediterranean climate with rolling hills and sun-drenched landscapes. The southern part of the lake is livelier and more bustling, while the north has a calmer, more nature-focused atmosphere.

Sights and Activities

Lake Garda offers countless activities, stunning scenery, and attractions for all ages. You’ll find plenty of tours and activities on platforms like GetYourGuide, Tiqets, and others.

The region is dotted with medieval castles and fortresses that make exciting excursions for the whole family. In summer, Monte Baldo is a favorite among hikers and paragliders, while the northern shores are popular with windsurfers, thanks to the consistent breeze.

The landscape is incredibly diverse—olive groves, palm trees, oleanders, and cypresses add to the area’s distinctive charm. Beyond its natural beauty, Lake Garda also appeals to culture lovers. Local markets, museums, and historic churches offer insight into the region’s rich heritage. It’s a truly special destination, full of variety and charm.

Lake Garda is one of those places where one visit is never enough. No matter how many times you return, there’s always something new to discover.

Before you go, it’s worth learning about the best places to visit and things to do—our travel story is here to help!

Lake Garda Adventures with a Toddler – Exploring Sirmione

Lake Garda is so vast that it’s nearly impossible to explore it all in one trip. That’s why we carefully planned which places we wanted to visit during our four-day stay. When putting together your itinerary—especially if you’re traveling with a toddler—it’s helpful to consider the location of your accommodation and your family’s interests.

Our Stay in Sirmione

We chose to stay in Sirmione, a charming town on a narrow peninsula, and one of the most picturesque spots on Lake Garda. Even if you don’t stay here, it’s absolutely worth a visit. The medieval castle and the famous thermal baths give the town a special ambiance, with the Scaligero Castle being its most iconic sight.

Travel and Accommodation Experience

The drive from Lecco to Sirmione took about an hour and a half. We booked our stay through booking.com and stayed at Appartamenti Altea. To our delight, it was even more beautiful in person than in the photos! The apartment was clean and spacious, with a private parking space, separate bedroom, travel cot, and high chair—everything a family with a young child could need. Our host was extremely friendly, which always adds a lovely touch to any stay.

After arriving, we quickly did our usual check of what was available in the apartment, then headed to a nearby grocery store to stock up on essentials. A quick and light dinner later, we settled in for the night, ready to start our adventures refreshed the next day.