Brescia isn’t just famous for its impressive Roman ruins and medieval architecture; it’s also a fantastic base for exploring Italy’s stunning lakes via boat. While Brescia itself isn’t directly on a large lake, it’s perfectly positioned close enough to Lake Garda—Italy’s largest lake—to enjoy memorable boat tours and cruises. Among the options, we love the Desenzano Sunset Walking and Boat Tour, which combines the charm of walking through a lively lakeside town with a relaxing boat ride at sunset. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a taste of local life along with scenic views.
For those seeking a more exclusive experience, the Private Full-Day Tour by Boat in Lake Garda offers a private, customizable journey across the lake, ideal for honeymooners or families who want to avoid crowded spots. And if you’re after a convenient day trip from Brescia to explore multiple lakeside villages, the Lake Garda Tour with Boat Trip from Western Hotels combines scenic boat rides with visits to Limone, Riva del Garda, and Malcesine.
Below, you’ll find a detailed overview of each tour, including highlights, what makes each unique, and who they’re best suited for—helping you pick the perfect way to enjoy Italy’s beautiful lakes by boat.
1. Desenzano Sunset Walking and Boat Tour with a Drink On Board
This 3-hour experience captures the essence of Lake Garda’s most authentic town, Desenzano del Garda, with a leisurely walking tour followed by a sunset boat ride. The walk guides you through tiny alleys and Medieval ruins, offering panoramic views and insights into local life. You’ll explore Porto Vecchio, the Old Harbour, and learn about the town’s Venetian influences, which are vividly reflected in its architecture.
After the walk, meet your captain for a relaxing boat ride along Desenzano’s coast. The boat cruise is a highlight, especially at sunset, with the mountains of Monte Baldo and the mountain parks of Brescia forming a stunning backdrop. You’ll enjoy a local drink on board as the sun dips below the horizon—an ideal way to unwind after a day of exploring.
The tour includes visits to the Villa Romana ed Antiquarium, where ancient mosaics tell stories of Roman grandeur, and the Castello di Desenzano, which offers sweeping views of the lake and the surrounding landscape. With top reviews praising the flexibility and the stunning sunset views, it’s great for travelers seeking a relaxed but picturesque experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who appreciate a mix of history, scenic views, and a laid-back atmosphere, all wrapped into a short, well-paced outing.
2. Private Full-Day Tour by Boat in Lake Garda
For around $1,793.07, this private, customizable 8-hour boat tour offers an intimate way to experience Lake Garda’s highlights without the hassle of crowds or traffic. It’s especially suited for families, couples, or groups who want to craft their day around specific spots and interests. With your own captain and vessel, you’re free to set the pace and choose the stops.
The itinerary begins with a pick-up in Gardone di Sotto and a cruise to the Gulf of Salo. Here, you can disembark for a coffee or aperitif on the lakeside—perfect for soaking in the atmosphere. Then, you’ll sail toward the Isola del Garda, home to a majestic Venetian neo-Gothic villa surrounded by lush gardens. This private island is a highlight, with fascinating details and plenty of photo opportunities.
Next, you’ll cruise past San Biagio Island—also called the Island of the Rabbits—and enjoy views of the Rocca di Manerba, a natural reserve rising from the water. The flexibility to stop wherever you want means you can include swims, sightseeing, or simply relax on deck. The tour concludes with a scenic pass by other lakeside towns, making it a comprehensive way to see the lake’s most beautiful corners.
Guests consistently praise the experience for its personalized approach and scenic stops. One reviewer notes, “Having a private tour allowed us to adjust the itinerary as desired,” making it ideal for travelers craving exclusivity and tailored adventures.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those wanting a luxurious, flexible day on Lake Garda, with plenty of time for swimming, sightseeing, and private moments.
3. Lake Garda Tour with Boat Trip from Western Hotels
This full-day guided tour offers a well-rounded experience of Lake Garda’s most picturesque spots. Starting from Brescia, you’ll visit Limone sul Garda, famous for its lemon groves and colorful houses, where you can wander for about 3 hours. Later, a boat trip across the lake brings you to Riva del Garda, with its medieval town center and 13th-century castle. The final stop is Malcesine, where you can explore the scenic castle and enjoy views over the lake from its tower.
The boat ride itself offers a refreshing way to move between villages, providing an alternative to car travel and delivering spectacular views of the lake’s cliffs and surrounding mountains. The tour’s pace balances sightseeing with leisure, making it ideal for those who want a taste of multiple locations in one day.
While the tour is praised for its educational guide—who shares insights about each town—some travelers noted that the timing in Limone makes it a bit rushed. Still, the combination of land visits and boat rides offers a rundown of Lake Garda’s highlights.
Guests appreciate Tina’s knowledge, with one noting, “Her understanding of the area is amazing,” making the experience both educational and enjoyable.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want to see multiple lakeside villages comfortably in one day without the stress of planning logistics.
How to Choose Your Perfect Lake Garda Boat Experience
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, interest in private versus group experiences, and how much time you want to spend on the water. The Desenzano Sunset Tour is perfect for a relaxed evening with scenic views and history; it’s budget-friendly and short. The Private Full-Day Tour offers exclusivity and flexibility, ideal for private groups. And the Lake Garda Tour with Boat Trip suits those wanting a guided, multi-stop experience covering several towns.
Practical tips include booking early, especially in peak seasons, and choosing a tour based on your physical activity level and interests—whether you prefer a laid-back sunset cruise or a full-day exploration.
To sum it up, Brescia isn’t directly on the lakes, but its close proximity to Lake Garda makes it a perfect starting point for a variety of memorable boat experiences. From romantic sunset cruises to private all-day adventures and guided shore visits, there’s something for every type of traveler. For a relaxing evening, the Desenzano sunset tour is hard to beat, while those craving privacy and customization will love the full-day private option. If you’re short on time but want a taste of the lakeside charm, the guided day trip hits the sweet spot.
No matter which you choose, these boat tours promise a chance to see Italy’s most beautiful lake from a fresh perspective—so don’t wait too long to book your spot on the water.
