Closest Airport to Lake Garda – Find Your Best Travel Option

The shimmering waters of Lake Garda, Italy’s largest lake, draw travellers from across the globe. Located in Northern Italy, it offers stunning landscapes, charming towns, and endless opportunities for adventure. But before you dip your toes in its azure water, you’ll need to figure out the best way to get there. If you’re wondering about the closest airport to Lake Garda, we’ve got you covered. Read on to find the perfect travel option for your dream holiday.

Quick Guide to Nearby Airports (Summary Table)

Airport Name	Distance to Lake Garda (km)	Travel Time by Car	Best For
Verona Villafranca Airport	20	~30 minutes	Proximity, direct access
Milan Bergamo Airport	92	~1 hour 15 minutes	Budget flights
Venice Marco Polo Airport	154	~2 hours	Exploring Venice beforehand
Milan Malpensa Airport	173	~2 hours 15 minutes	International connections

Now, let’s explore these airports in detail and learn about the best ways to travel from them to Lake Garda.

Verona Villafranca Airport (VRN)

Why It’s the Closest

Located just 20 km from Lake Garda, Verona Villafranca Airport, also known as Valerio Catullo Airport, is the most convenient gateway to this stunning destination. Its manageable size and frequent flights from European cities make it a favourite for many travellers.

Travel Options to Lake Garda

Car Rental: Renting a car is one of the fastest ways to reach Lake Garda, especially if you’re staying in towns like Peschiera, Sirmione, or Bardolino. Car hire desks are available at the airport, and the scenic drive takes roughly 30 minutes.
Bus Services: Regular shuttle buses connect Verona Airport to towns like Verona and Peschiera. From there, regional buses can get you to the lake.
Luxury Taxi: For a more comfortable option, you can book a private transfer. Prices vary but typically start at €70-€100.

User Ratings and Reviews

Google Reviews Rating: 4.2/5

Travellers appreciate the airport’s friendly staff and short queues. However, some mention limited dining options.

Best For

Travellers prioritising proximity and quick access to Lake Garda.

Milan Bergamo Airport (BGY)

About the Airport

Officially named Il Caravaggio International Airport, Milan Bergamo is a budget flyer’s paradise. It’s a hub for Ryanair and other low-cost airlines, offering excellent flight deals to and from major European cities.

Distance and Travel Time

Though it’s located about 92 km from Lake Garda, its reputation as a budget-friendly option has made it a top choice for savvy travellers. The drive to the lake takes around 75 minutes.

Travel Options to Lake Garda

Shuttle Services: Daily airport shuttles connect Bergamo to Desenzano and Peschiera, starting at €15 per person.
Car Hire: A great option for flexibility. The drive gives you the chance to explore nearby gems like Brescia along the way.
Train Connections: A shuttle bus from the airport will take you to Bergamo’s main station, where you can catch a train to Lake Garda towns. Expect an overall travel time of 2-3 hours.

User Ratings and Reviews

Google Reviews Rating: 4.1/5

Passengers like its affordability but advise travellers to arrive early, as the airport gets busy during peak times.

Best For

Budget-conscious travellers and value seekers.

Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE)

Explore Venice Beforehand

Situated approximately 154 km from Lake Garda, Venice Marco Polo Airport offers excellent connections for international and regional travellers. It’s ideal if you’d like to combine a visit to Venice with your Lake Garda holiday.

Distance and Travel Time

Although slightly farther, travelling from Venice to Lake Garda is easy and scenic. By car, the total travel time is around 2 hours.

Travel Options

Car Hire: The motorway route from Venice to Lake Garda is mostly direct. Along the way, you may consider stopping at picturesque towns like Vicenza.
Trains: From Venice’s Mestre station, direct trains to towns like Desenzano are convenient and affordable.
Buses: Direct coach services also operate to the southern edge of Lake Garda.

User Ratings and Reviews

Google Reviews Rating: 4.4/5

Praised for cleanliness and clear signage. However, travellers recommend allowing extra time for baggage and security checks.

Best For

Travellers who want to explore Venice and Garda in one trip.

Other Options to Consider

Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP)

Although located 173 km from Lake Garda, Milan Malpensa is a great alternative for travellers flying long-haul. It connects to several international hubs and offers an array of car hire and transfer services. Expect a travel time of about 2 hours and 15 minutes by car.

Brescia Airport (VBS)

While less well-known and smaller, Brescia Airport is designed mainly for cargo but occasionally sees limited passenger flights. It’s 60 km away from Lake Garda and can be a viable option if available.

Tips for Travelling to Lake Garda

Timing Matters: Summer months can see heavy traffic, so plan your route carefully.
Advance Booking: Whether you’re renting a car or booking a taxi, make arrangements in advance for the best rates and availability.
Local Transport Options: Regional buses and ferries around Lake Garda make it easy to explore different towns once you’ve arrived.

FAQs

1. Which airport is the closest to Lake Garda?

The closest airport to Lake Garda is Verona Villafranca Airport (VRN), just 20 km away. It’s especially convenient for those staying in towns on the southern shore.

2. Can I take public transport to Lake Garda from the airport?

Yes. Airports like Verona and Milan Bergamo offer direct bus or coach services to Lake Garda. Train connections are also available from Venice and Milan.

3. Is it better to rent a car or rely on public transport?

Renting a car provides flexibility, especially if you’re planning to explore multiple towns around the lake. Public transport, however, is cost-effective and a greener option.

4. How much does a taxi from Verona Airport to Lake Garda cost?

Taxi prices range from €70 to €100, depending on the exact destination.

5. Which airport is best for budget airlines?

Milan Bergamo Airport (BGY) is a hub for low-cost carriers like Ryanair, making it an excellent choice for budget travellers.

With this guide, your visit to Lake Garda will start on the perfect note. Whether you prioritise proximity, budget, or a scenic route, there’s an airport and travel option to suit every traveller. Get ready to immerse yourself in the charm of Italy’s jewel. Buon viaggio!