Winter can be a special time to visit Lake Garda, and December is probably the best time to visit in winter. From fresh winter walks along the lake to enjoy the Christmas festivities around Lake Garda, there’s a lot to do and love about Lake Garda in December.
Read on to discover more about December, and Christmas, at Lake Garda.
Lake Garda In December
Lake Garda In December
Winter in Lake Garda is a hidden secret that not many people know about. Whilst the peak of the tourist season is in the summer, we think one of the best times to visit Lake Garda is in winter, specifically, in December.
Is Lake Garda worth visiting in December?
Absolutely. As we just mentioned above, it’s one of our favorite times of the year to visit. There are far fewer tourists than in the summer months, the prices of flights & hotels are cheaper, and you get to experience Christmas at Lake Garda, which can be quite magical!
On top of the Christmas celebrations, you can also enjoy the winter sports Lake Garda has to offer, with snowing and skiing on Monte Baldo.
Lake Garda Weather In December
Thanks to Lake Garda’s micro-climate, the weather in Lake Garda is milder than the surrounding regions in North Italy.
The average temperature in December is 3°C, with highs of 6°C and lows of -1°C.
There are around 9 days of rainfall in December in Lake Garda and the average hours of sunshine per day is 3.
Things To Do In December In Lake Garda
Christmas In Lake Garda
As we mentioned above, Lake Garda at Christmas can be quite magical. Here are some of the best things to do whilst your in Lake Garda at Christmas:
1. Visit Acro Christmas market
Acro Christmas market is probably the most famous Christmas market in Lake Garda. Situated just north of Riva del Garda, at the northernmost point of the lake.
The Christmas markets begin in November and end in early January each year. On top fo the amazing Christmas markets, with great food, wine & gifts, there’s also some really good entertainment in the form of street artists, fireworks and even a Christmas train.
You can find out more about Arco Christmas Markets on the Trentino website.
2. Pay a visit to Santa Clause
You can visit Santa Clause in numerous places throughout Lake Garda, including Malcesine Castle, Riva del Garda, and Sirmione.
We would recommend visiting Santa in Malcesine Castle, as the experience is pretty magical, especially with the backdrop of the snowy Monte Baldo in the background.
3. Take a visit to nearby Verona
There’s a lot going on in Verona during Christmas time, so we would recommend taking a trip to Verona from Lake Garda if you are there near Christmas.
On top of the marvelous Christmas markets, which sell traditional Christmas treats such as the Pandoro Christmas cake, there’s also the Feast Of Saint Lucy, which is celebrated on the 13th of December. During the Feast Of Saint Lucy, traditional stalls are set up in Piazza Bra which sell sweets, treats, and toys.
On top of the above, there are also Christmas shows, ballets, and New Years concerts throughout December and early January.
4. Gardaland at Christmas
Gardaland is one of the best theme parks in Europe, and they know how to put on a show when it comes to Christmas celebrations.
From the beginning of December to early January, Gardaland turns into a winter wonderland with festive decorations throughout, as well as a Santa’s grotto and a variety of Christmas shows.
