Limone sul Garda occupies a narrow strip between the lake and the steep cliffs of the western shore, roughly halfway up the lake in the province of Brescia. The village is hemmed in so tightly that the historic centre rises in tiers up the cliff face, connected by steep lanes and stairways. The lemon terraces (limonaie) - the stone column-and-beam frames that once supported glass winter protection over the lemon trees - are the architectural emblem of the western shore. Lake Garda boat tours from Riva del Garda often include a stop at Limone, making the ferry an easy way to arrive without navigating the narrow shore road.
The Lemon Terraces (Limonaie)
The cultivation of lemons in Limone was a significant economic activity from the 14th century through to the early 20th century. The lake’s mild microclimate, sheltered from northern winds by the surrounding mountains and warmed by the lake’s thermal mass, allowed lemons to grow at a latitude (45°N) where they would normally be impossible. The distinctive limonaie - tall stone pillars connected by wooden beams, designed to support glass panels that protected the trees from frost in winter - are scattered along the hillside above and within the village.
The Limonaia del Castel (Via IV Novembre) is the best-restored example, open to visitors. Entry approximately €4 as of 2026. Inside, lemon and citrus trees grow in the original stone-floored beds between the columns. The history of the trade and the cultivation technique is explained. A few other limonaie can be viewed from the outside by walking the lanes above the main road - the Via Limonaia path runs through several terraced areas.
Swimming and Beaches
Limone’s position on the western shore gives it good afternoon sun (the shore faces east). The main public beach area is north of the ferry landing - a mix of pebble and small-stone shore. Several beach establishments (lidos) charge approximately €10–15 per person for sunbed and umbrella hire as of 2026; the free public area is at the northern end.
The water in this section of the lake is clear and deep close to shore, which is characteristic of the narrow central lake. Swimming is good from May through September. The cliffs rising directly from the lake to the north of the village create a dramatic backdrop.
Cycling
The western shore cycleway (Ciclovia del Garda) passes through Limone as part of a route that will eventually circle the entire lake. The section between Riva del Garda and Limone, completed in recent years, runs on a dedicated path largely separated from the main road. The ride from Riva to Limone takes approximately 45 minutes and is broadly flat along the waterside, making it accessible to casual cyclists.
Beyond Limone southward, the road becomes the SS45bis Gardesana Occidentale, which passes through several tunnels and has narrow sections. This stretch is not ideal for cycling without road experience. Bike hire is available in Riva del Garda (see the Riva del Garda guide) and in Limone from several operators near the ferry landing.
Eating in Limone
Ristorante Gemma (Via IV Novembre 32) - a long-established restaurant in the historic centre with lake fish, lake trout carpaccio, and regional Lombard dishes. Mains approximately €16–24 as of 2026. The terrace seats on the narrow lane are atmospheric.
Trattoria La Baia (Via del Porto 23) - casual lakefront dining near the ferry landing. Pasta and grilled fish, mains approximately €12–18. Better for lunch than dinner.
Limone’s lemon products: The village has a small industry in lemon-based products - limoncello, lemon liqueur, lemon cosmetics, and lemon preserves are sold in shops along the main street. The quality varies; the better products are made locally rather than being generic souvenirs.
Getting There
By ferry: The most pleasant approach is by water. Ferries from Riva del Garda take approximately 15 minutes. From Malcesine (fast ferry, approximately 15 minutes). From Desenzano (slow ferry, approximately 2.5 hours with stops). Ferry day passes allow unlimited hop-on travel - see the ferry guide.
By car: The Gardesana Occidentale road runs along the western shore. From Riva del Garda (approximately 20 minutes), the road passes through the Tunnel del Fenile and a series of other tunnels cut into the cliff. The road is narrow in places and single-lane in some tunnel sections. Summer traffic can be heavy. Limited parking in the village itself; there are larger car parks at the northern edge of town.
By bus: Brescia to Limone takes approximately 1.5 hours with a change. Riva del Garda to Limone by bus takes approximately 30 minutes. Services are less frequent than on the eastern shore.
Where to Stay
Hotel Capo Reamol (Via IV Novembre 92) - a four-star on the lake north of the village with its own beach, indoor and outdoor pools. Doubles from approximately €140/night as of 2026. Good for those who want a resort hotel rather than a village location.
Hotel Sole (Via Lungolago 15) - a three-star in the centre of the village with lake views. Doubles from approximately €95/night. Small pool and direct access to the lake.
Il Sogno (Via Soprariva 1) - a small family-run guesthouse in the old town. Rooms from approximately €70/night. Simple but in an excellent position, with views from the terrace.
For the complete accommodation picture across the lake, see best hotels on Lake Garda.
Book Limone sul Garda Tours on GetYourGuide
| Tour | Duration | From price | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Limone sul Garda guided village and lemon terrace tour | 2–3 hrs | From €22 | Historic limonaie, village streets, lake views, local produce |
| Lake Garda e-bike tour from Limone sul Garda | 3 hrs | From €55 | Western shore cycling, olive groves, Gargnano and back |
| Lake Garda ferry hop from Limone to Sirmione | Full day | From €65 | Scaliger Castle, Roman ruins, lake panoramas, village lunch |