Sirmione is one of those places where a simple walk along the waterfront can turn into an unforgettable experience. Its dramatic peninsula, dotted with ruins, castles, and thermal springs, makes it an ideal setting for diverse tours that reveal both natural beauty and history. We particularly love the scenic boat cruises, which offer a fresh perspective on the town’s iconic landmarks like the Grotte di Catullo and Scaliger Castle. These boat rides are not only picturesque but also informative—your friendly captain will share stories and insights that bring the sights to life. If you’re seeking a relaxed way to see the area, you might also consider the Lake Garda boat tours that combine scenic cruising with time on land.
Whether you prefer a quick water glance or a full-day exploration, Sirmione’s tours have something to offer. From wine tastings to archaeological visits, each experience is designed to deepen your understanding and enjoyment of this charming town. Below, you’ll find a carefully curated list of the best tours in Sirmione, complete with practical details and honest assessments.
1. Sirmione: 25 Minute Boat Cruise around the Peninsula
At number one, this quick 25-minute boat cruise offers a relaxed yet visual introduction to Sirmione. For just $14 per person, you get to see the town from a new angle—gliding past the harbor, Grotte di Catullo, and Scaligero Castle. The small size of this tour makes it ideal for travelers with tight schedules or those wanting a taste of lake-side scenery without a big time commitment. The narration by your friendly captain adds a layer of local color, enriching the experience with stories about the sights you pass.
What makes this tour stand out is its balance of affordability, accessibility, and picturesque value. The reviews reflect a high level of satisfaction, with many praising the boat’s dog-friendly policy and the informative guides. One reviewer noted, “Good way to spend half an hour,” emphasizing how perfect it is for a quick, scenic break. It’s especially suitable for families and first-time visitors craving a gentle introduction to Sirmione’s waters.
Bottom Line: For a short, budget-friendly view of Sirmione from the water, this cruise hits the mark. It’s best suited for those with limited time or wanting an easy, scenic activity.
2. From Peschiera: Garda East Coast Cruise to Sirmione
At number two, this 4-hour cruise takes you along the east coast of Lake Garda, including a stop in Sirmione. For around $55.80, you’ll enjoy a mix of cruising, swimming, and sightseeing, making it a perfect half-day activity. The trip features stops to swim in Lake Garda’s clear waters and marvel at views of Jamaica Beach and the Grottoes of Catullus (from the boat, with no stop), giving you a layered experience of the area.
Guests have praised the tour for its balance—enjoying both relaxation and sightseeing. One reviewer called it the “highlight of our holiday,” noting the knowledgeable guide and the chance to swim before leaving Sirmione. The boat provides a comfortable way to see landmarks without the need for extensive walking, ideal for travelers who want scenic beauty combined with gentle activity.
Bottom Line: This trip is well-suited for those who want to combine lake cruising with some leisure time on the water, especially if you enjoy swimming or just want to soak in Lake Garda’s landscapes.
3. Sirmione: Vineyard Tour with Lugana Wines and Local Tastings
Number three on our list is a vineyard experience, offering a taste of local flavors including three wines paired with cheeses, jam, and olive oil. For $39, this 1.5-hour guided tour takes you through the vineyards and cellar of a family-run farm close to Sirmione. The highlight is sampling two Lugana wines plus a red Cabernet—each one showcasing the region’s unique grape varieties.
Guests rave about the personal touch of the family-run business and Margarita’s friendly, multilingual explanations. Many report purchasing wines and olive oils as souvenirs, making this a memorable and authentic experience. The small size and intimate setting foster personal interactions and insights into local winemaking traditions.
Bottom Line: Ideal for wine lovers craving authentic, small-scale tastings combined with local cuisine, this tour offers excellent value and a delicious introduction to Lugana wines.
4. Lake Garda: 4-hour Guided Boat Cruise with Stop in Sirmione
At number four, this full 4-hour boat tour blends sightseeing with guided commentary. The route includes stops at Fonte Boiola, Villa Canossa, and Maria Callas’ Villa, with plenty of time to explore Sirmione’s Scaliger Castle and other highlights. The cruise offers stunning views of Punta San Vigilio and the famous Grottoes of Catullus.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want a rundown of Lake Garda’s most scenic spots while enjoying the comfort of a guided boat. The itinerary balances photo stops, free time, and guided commentary, making it suitable for those who want to learn while enjoying beautiful scenery. The reviews mention the skill of the captain and the excellent scenery, with one calling it an “extremely memorable trip.”
Bottom Line: For a full-day exploration of Lake Garda’s most iconic sights from the water, this guided cruise is hard to beat—especially for those who appreciate detailed commentary.
5. Sirmione: Village Highlights Walking & Lake Garda Boat Tour
Number five offers a combination of walking and boat—a 2-hour tour that unveils Sirmione’s secrets and offers panoramic views. Your guide, Serena, takes you through the hidden corners of the town, while the boat ride provides a stunning perspective of the peninsula from the lake. The tour is praised for its relaxed pace and insightful commentary.
Guests appreciated the personal approach, with comments highlighting Serena’s enthusiasm. The boat trip at the start sets a scenic tone, making this tour especially appealing for travelers who want a balance of land and water experiences. It suits those looking for a manageable, engaging introduction to Sirmione’s landscape and stories.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who prefer a mix of walking and boat touring, this experience offers a well-rounded taste of Sirmione’s beauty and charm.
6. Lake Garda: between Desenzano del Garda and Sirmione
Number six is a day trip that covers Desenzano del Garda and Sirmione, with a focus on exploring two key towns. For $55.80, the itinerary includes visits to Villa Romana di Desenzano, Scaligero Castle, and the Grottoes of Catullus. The trip includes ferry rides and plenty of free time for sightseeing or relaxing.
This tour appeals to travelers who want a structured but flexible day exploring the lake’s most notable locations. The reviews are positive, emphasizing the fun and engaging nature of the trip, and how it offers a rundown in just one day.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those wanting an overview of Lake Garda’s highlights in a single day, combining history, scenery, and leisure.
7. Sirmione: Grotte di Catullo Archeological Tour
Number seven features a 1-hour archaeological tour of the Grotte di Catullo, the ancient Roman villa ruins at the tip of the peninsula. This site offers a glimpse into early Roman life and incredible panoramic views over the lake. The tour provides a focused exploration of the ruins, with storytelling that brings the site’s legends to life.
The reviews note the site’s accessibility and the stunning lake vistas. It’s an excellent choice for history enthusiasts or those wanting a manageable, in-depth visit without the crowds.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history buffs or travelers with limited time who want a meaningful visit to the archaeological site with spectacular views.
8. Lake Garda: between Sirmione and Desenzano del Garda
Number eight repeats the theme of exploring both Sirmione and Desenzano, with similar highlights as the previous day trip. The route includes visits to Castello Scaligero, Grottoes of Catullus, and ferry crossings, with about 2 hours at each stop to explore.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive day with flexible sightseeing options. Its detailed itinerary promises a thorough experience of Lake Garda’s main attractions.
Bottom Line: Suitable for those who want an all-in-one lake experience, combining history, scenery, and leisure.
9. Desenzano: 1-Hour Afternoon Boat Tour to Sirmione
The final option is a 1-hour boat ride from Desenzano to Sirmione. It’s a short, relaxing cruise with views of the Grotte di Catullo and Jamaica Beach. For travelers short on time but wanting a scenic perspective, this offers a quick, enjoyable experience.
Reviews are positive, noting the stunning views and the unique perspective of the shoreline. It’s a good choice if you’re passing through or want a simple boat ride as part of your day.
Bottom Line: An excellent quick cruise for those who want a scenic, water-based overview of Sirmione and Lake Garda.
How to Choose the Best Tour in Sirmione
When deciding which tour is right for you, consider your budget, time, interests, and physical activity level. For a quick taste, the 25-minute boat cruise offers great views without a big time commitment. If you’re interested in wine, the Lugana vineyard tour provides a delicious, authentic experience. For a full day of exploring, the guided boat cruise or the day trip between Desenzano and Sirmione give a broader, more detailed look at Lake Garda’s highlights.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak summer months, as popular tours fill quickly. Think about what you value most—whether it’s history, scenery, gastronomy, or relaxation—and choose accordingly.
In summary, Sirmione’s diverse tour options mean there’s something for all—from quick water glimpses to full-day explorations. The scenic boat cruises are particularly popular for their ease and stunning views, while the vineyard tour appeals to those wanting a more intimate taste of local flavors. For history lovers, the Grotte di Catullo offers a fascinating glimpse into Roman times. No matter your choice, booking early will ensure you don’t miss out on experiencing the best of Sirmione.