Sirmione is the most famous resort on Lake Garda. Weekend in sirmione. Attractions and excursions

40 km from Verona and 45 km from the city of Brescia (Brescia) is located one of its most beautiful cities - Sirmione. From time immemorial, its lush and rich greenery, combined with the incredible color of turquoise water against a clear blue sky, has attracted the families of the Veronese nobility here. Famous Italian poets sang it in their creations. Valery Catullo(who had his own summer villa here) and Giosue Carducci.

Sirmione - a city on a peninsula

If we look at the map, we will no doubt see that Sirmione is located on a peninsula that separates the water surface of the southern part of Lake Garda with a thin line. Initially, it was an island. Subsequently, bridges were built to it, which connected it with the mainland. The length of the peninsula is approx. 4 km. Heading into the city center you can see a large number of small but very beautiful villas.

This is no accident, because Sirmione is enough prestigious places recreation. This was influenced by a large number of factors, including its relative proximity to Milan (140 km). In the city center is a villa where the greatest opera singer loved to stay Maria Callas

Fortress of the Scaligers (Rocca Scaligera)

The history of the city and its architecture owe a lot to the famous Veronese Scaliger family. It was on their orders that this building was built in the 13th century. unprecedented beauty fortress, the walls of which now surround the historical part of the city.

Currently, the castle is open to the public and here you can climb viewing platforms and admire the city and the lake from above. Incredibly beautiful landscape.

I am especially fascinated by the view of tiled roofs. Which will not be a secret for those who follow me on Instagram.

It was there that I talked about the fact that while still at school, when I saw photographs of these famous Italian roofs in a magazine, I dreamed of getting to Italy precisely in order to admire them live. This small digression to the fact that dreams come true, the main thing is to allow yourself to dream, even about what seems so far and unreal). Everything is possible, as they say.

Cost of visiting

Walking through the narrow streets of the city you can see 15th century church of Santa Maria Maggiore. Do not be lazy and go to admire its interior decoration.

Grottoes of Catullus

Interest is Grottoes of Catullus- ruins of an ancient Roman villa. Construction dates back to the 1st century BC. and 1st century AD

Currently, visiting this monument is open to tourists. Here you can walk among the olive groves and admire the remains of the foundations, as well as the walls of the villa, which have been preserved.

All over the territory museum complex you will be accompanied by cards indicating which part of the villa was located here.

If you notice, then the name of this place is associated with the name of the famous poet Valery Catullo, whom I already mentioned at the beginning of the article. There are two explanations for this:

• the first, unlikely, that the villa belonged to the poet himself
• the second, more likely interpretation is associated with the mention of this architectural monument in one of the works of Valerius Catullo.

Visit cost:

Opening hours:

The grottoes of Catullo are open to the public all days except Monday

• from April to September from 9 to 18
• from October to March from 9 to 16

Coming to the end of my tale of beauty and sights Sirmione I note that we should not forget that the city is famous for its thermal springs. In the historical center of the city there is a five-star hotel with thermal pools. There are several centers on the peninsula itself. It is interesting that walking along the shore, you can notice, not far from the building where the thermal water intake system is located, steam that rises above the surface of the lake. Apparently there is a small key here, or excess water is dumped here. In summer, you can see here those who want to pamper themselves with the warmth of thermal waters.

In the city, you can see thermal water for sale for home use for medicinal purposes. To be honest, I didn’t buy it myself, so I can’t say anything about its healing effects.

It is worth coming to Sirmione at least once just to walk along the quiet ancient streets of the old city, breathe in the incredible aroma of the city, filled with notes of flowering plants and listen to the sound of waves crashing against stones, which are quite high here for the lake...

P.S. I forgot to say that on the shore of the lake, where a large wooden pier goes far into the lake, there is a small restaurant where prices are quite moderate compared to other places in the city center. Perfect place in order to escape from the hustle and bustle of the historic center and enjoy the views of the lake with a glass of local wine.

Best regards, Mila

Sirmione is a small resort town ok, located on the shores of Lake Garda. If you look at the map of Italy, you can see that Sirmione is located in the north of Italy.

Sirmione on the map of Italy

The city gained wide popularity among tourists due to the presence of unique thermal (hot) springs in it.

Also attracts travelers beautiful beach on the shores of Lake Garda. And lovers of unique medieval buildings come here to admire beautiful fortress built in the 13th century.

The city has become a popular holiday destination since the time of the Roman Empire. It was at that time that the wealthy and wealthy residents of Verona were actively buying a small Villa and several acres of land in Sirmione in order to relax with their children and friends.

Main Attractions

The main tourist attractions of Sirmione are:

Thermae

I would like to pay special attention to another "highlight" of the city of Sirmione - the baths. The city has many different recreational facilities with medicinal waters. All of them use natural thermal water enriched with mineral salts, sulfur, bromine and iodine.

According to the reviews of people who have visited the thermal springs of Sirmione, the most suitable for the treatment of rhinitis, various gynecological and respiratory diseases are the sulfurous waters of the Boiola spring.

It should be noted that the treatment centers in this small town located both separately and at hotels.
In addition to treatment, those who come to rest at the Baths di Sirmione are invited to attend various weight loss courses, health improvement, rejuvenation programs, as well as special programs for cleansing and restoring the body. The most popular wellness center in Sirmione is Aquaria.

All Sirmione baths use natural thermal water enriched with sulphur, bromine and iodine

Beaches

Those who like to bask in the sun, sunbathe, can have a great time on the beaches of Sirmione.

The beaches here are pebble-sand, lime and vegetable.

The seating areas are well equipped. There are paid and free beaches.

Weather

The resort is located in the subtropical climate zone. It is characterized by a large amount of precipitation throughout the year.

The weather in Sirmione is moderately warm.

The average air temperature in the coldest month of the year, February, is +3°C, and in the warmest month, July, +26°C. Despite the weather conditions, every tourist can come for treatment thermal waters in any season.

How to get to Sirmione

The resort of Sirmione is located at a distance of 44 kilometers from the city of Verona.
On the route Verona - Sirmione runs bus.
You can also get from Verona to Sirmione by car or train. Closest to resort railway station is located 10 kilometers. Trains arrive from Milan, Brescia, Verona and Venice. From the railway station to the city itself can be reached by car or bus.

You can move around the city on foot or on a small tourist train, which will take any person from the Scaliger fortress to the thermal waters. The fare on this train is 1.5 euros.

Where to stay for vacation

Throughout Sirmione there are a large number of hotels with different pricing policies. Clean, tidy and beautiful rooms will not leave a bad impression.
The most popular and prestigious in the city is hotel " Grand Hotel Terme". This is a great 5 star hotel in the city center.

5-star hotel located in the historic center of Sirmione, provides open pool, spa and sun terrace

It is a 10 minute walk from most of the city's attractions. There is a lake not far from the hotel. The rooms are clean and beautiful with every possible comfort.

Also popular among tourists are hotels:

• "Hotel Continental";
• "Hotel Sirmione";
• "Hotel Eden" and others.

Cuisine and restaurants

Sirmione has many different restaurants where you can experience Italian cuisine.

Anyone can order Neapolitan pizza, marinated fish, seafood, salads and other dishes.

The following restaurants are especially popular among tourists:

• La Speranzina;
• Il Porticciolo;
• Caruso and others.

commit virtual walk around the city of Sirmione, you can watch the video:

Sirmione is an excellent Italian resort town where you can enjoy the wonderful nature, touch the monuments of medieval Italy and have a good rest on the thermal waters and improve your health.

We had many historical cities on our trip, and for a change we decided to spend one relaxed and "non-historical" day on Lake Garda, especially since I had long wanted to see these places. Since we initially did not want to rush anywhere, we decided not to bother with the lake and stop in the town of Sirmione - the very close city on our route.

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Lake District

These places fall in love completely and irrevocably. lakes Northern Italy - separate topic for the trip. Moreover, even I, who likes to rest no more than 7-8 days, admit that such a trip should take two weeks, no less! Feel the unhurried rhythm, blissful atmosphere, admire the amazing landscapes and enjoy a truly respectable vacation.

I don't know when I'll be able to drive around all the lakes. I'll tell you a little - what if one of you decides?

Here is Italy. Lake District - in its north, near Milan

Here they are closer. I circled Milan for orientation. Below the numbers are the largest and famous lakes. Marked Mantua with an asterisk.

1 - Maggiore
2 - Como
3 - Garda

Mantova in my mind, this lake district is not included, although it is also located on lakes, even on a chain of lakes. I really wanted to talk about it, because Palazzo Del Te is located on its territory. Unremarkable from the outside, this palace contains amazing, fantastic murals that I really want to see! Everything is painted - both the walls and the ceiling. In some places, the painting is pornographic to the point of eerily, but what can you do - art))

Photo from the Internet

Recently I was at a lecture on Italy, and there the lecturer mentioned the lake Maggiore. There are such delights that at least pack your bags and rush to see it urgently. On small private islands, stunning villas, historical and natural beauties are located.

For example, Isola Bella, or beautiful island. Look at this photo from space

I think that already says it all. And here is a photo from the Internet - look at these terraces, at this palace - this is where the fairy tale lives!

There is a similar island nearby - Madre with the Borromeo Palace

And in the north of Lake Maggiore, there is a legend from chivalrous times - the Di Cannero Fortress, which was built on a small piece of land in such a way that it seems as if the Middle Ages emerged directly from the lake

Miracle, isn't it?

Lake Como, in my opinion, the most famous lakeside resort in Italy. There is also a lot of beautiful and interesting things, elderly Europeans and George Clooney's villa.

Most big lake of all - Garda, but about him a little lower.

Between these large lakes there are also smaller ones - each with its own zest - Lugano, Varese, Iseo ... And this is not counting the historical cities such as Bergamo and Brescia, which also deserve attention. And also Milan at hand.

In short, a trip around the lakes, if anyone dares, will be absolutely fabulous! But it's better not to go in the summer - I think in the summer there are tourists like dirt.

garda

We decided to stay only in Sirmione, because we wanted to relax. Purely theoretically, you can drive around Garda in a day, but why? To be honest, it seems to me that you can safely allocate a whole week to this lake. Judge for yourself - we spent the whole day in Sirmione and we really missed it! We even regretted that we decided to go to Milan - we had to stay here again and immediately go to the airport.

Garda is very different. In the south - the lake is one, in the north - quite another. There, in the north, the lake is surrounded by mountains, Dolomites. Look at the photos on the Internet - the nature here is crazy beautiful. If you do not want to go on foot, you can climb the mountains on the lift. They say the views are magical.

Around the Garda are also ordinary resort towns, and towns with a twist. For example, Limone sul Garda (it is beautiful in itself, but is also famous for the fact that a unique protein was found in the blood of local residents that prevents the occurrence of atherosclerosis and heart attacks; now scientists are trying to create a medicine based on this protein).

Near Garda there are activities that may be more suitable for children, but adults can also cheer up. First, the safari park (but I already forgot where exactly). Secondly, the largest in Italy and one of the largest amusement parks in Europe is Gardaland. It's all the same more water park and is only open from May to October.

Still north of Garda there is natural Park, in which the vopodad Nardis is located.

That is, here is nature, and history, and pleasure.

Sirmione

And finally, about Sirmione. This is the most famous town on the Garda, if I'm not lying.

It is located on the southern part of the lake, crawling out like a thin worm from the land

The thin isthmus is filled with narrow streets with stone pavements, with old castle Scaligers (I mentioned this family in a post), with a large archaeological park and luxurious spa hotels.

We arrived closer to dinner, checked into the hotel and went for a walk.

Went to a small pier

I think there are a lot of tourists here in the summer, and sunbeds are put up on this wooden platform

Ducks and swans swim here (it's a pity I didn't take a picture of the swan!) The water is the purest!

The town is like this

Quiet and deserted, because it's not the season. And finding where to dine was also a problem, I must say)

Then we went to see the Scaliger castle. Once this fortress was designed to protect the Scaligerian borders from attacks from the north. Pay attention - again "dovetails"

Ducks crowded under a small bridge leading to the castle, asking for yum-yum

We climbed a high observation tower

side view mainland- see what a narrow peninsula?

View towards the lake. Despite sunny weather, the lake was covered with haze, so you can’t see anything in the distance, and this is how mountains should be

Then we just went for a walk along the shore.

Sirmione has thermal springs, which is why there are many spa hotels. The springs have been known since time immemorial, and have long flowed through lead pipes (as it is written on the Internet), some of which go directly into the lake. For example, here. Since the waters contain sulfur, in some places in Sirmione it smells, let's say, not very pleasant)

Then we went up through the olive grove to archaeological park called the Grottoes of Catullus.

Lyrical digression. Catullus, if anyone does not know, it was such a Roman poet. We can say the founder of love lyrics. Or maybe you can't tell. But he is known precisely for love lyrics - he dedicated his works to one aunt, who, along the way, was a very frivolous lady and changed men like gloves. And the young Catullus foolishly fell in love with her and suffered. And even jealous of her tame sparrow, with whom she often played. So if you meet somewhere in art the mention of Lesbia with a sparrow, this is about her. Lesbia is the pseudonym that Catullus gave to his muse.

Well, Catullus had a villa on Sirmione. Of course, it is known exactly where it was, but when the Roman ruins were found, they were instantly attributed to Catullus. They called them grottoes because when they stumbled upon them, the ruins were covered with earth and resembled caves.

Now it's very big archaeological park. I even doubt that there was one villa here - too fat for one.

In general, in Sirmione you feel an amazing peace. Without saying a word, we thought how good it would be to come here for a few days - just to be here. This is materialized meditation...

Our hotel was chic, charming, cozy - just a miracle. The only bummer we had was that children were not allowed in the spa area. Seeing how upset we were about this, the management went along and allowed us to visit the pools after the end of the spa. We also wanted to take turns going to some procedures, but we walked for so long that it was already too late to sign up. In general, we blonded for several hours in a row! What is there to go around the lake in one day, if only on Sirmione it is desirable to lower at least 2-3 days.

We went to dinner. Oh, it was a lovely, tasty and atmospheric restaurant. It got a little colder in the evening, we sat on fresh air wrapped in blankets. It was wonderful.

By the way, that's where it was not cheap in terms of food, so it's on Sirmione. In general, lakes are an expensive vacation. For the most part, a respectable older audience rests in these places, which is why life here is so sedate, measured.

Yes, and it was also interesting in the morning. I have long had a picture that Europe is all completely democratic, but I was somewhat mistaken, because I did not get into such hotels. Breakfast was truly chic, and those who wished could treat themselves to champagne. At some point, I realized that we are the only young people and we are the only ones who dared to go down to the table in jeans. All the ladies were: a) brightly made up and combed; b) dressed to the nines; c) with huge rings and sparkling earrings; d) with bags with giant inscriptions PRADA and DOLCE GABBANA. All the men are in light-coloured trousers with ruffles, v-neck pullovers and neckerchiefs, and barefoot leather moccasins. Like all Italians. Perhaps this is such an old Italian "school".

And back to our evening. After dinner we returned to the hotel and went to the thermal pools. One of them was inside, one was outside. thermal springs it is hot here, the water is soft, but it is felt that it is saturated with all sorts of substances. The pool is stuffed with all sorts of bulbulators, and we swam there with great pleasure.

On the street, the pool was with more saturated water, so we were told not to take the child there. And we took turns going out into the cold (it was 12 degrees - not frost, of course, but it's not hot in a wet swimsuit)).

Street thermal pool made in the form of a bowl that hangs over the ground. Water overflows this bowl and overflows with every movement you make. The pool is illuminated, and steam comes from the water. And now, in complete darkness, there is only you in the luminous water, around steam, the splash of water pouring out of the bowl ... The feeling is that you are floating in the middle of the universe. Such is the fantasy...

Sirmione (Italy) - detailed description with photo, the main attractions of Sirmione and location on the map.

City of Sirmione

Sirmione is a city in the province of Brescia in Italy on picturesque lake Garda. Sirmione can rightly be called the pearl of Garda and one of the most popular tourist centers Northern Italy. The historic center of the city is located on a peninsula that seems to run into the lake. Sirmione will captivate you with its picturesque nature, interesting sights, relaxing atmosphere and delicious cuisine.

How to get there?

Attractions Sirmione

The territory of Sirmione and the coast of Garda was inhabited already in bronze age. And the Romans turned the city into a holiday destination.

The iconic landmark of Sirmione is water castle Scaligerov. Built in the 13th century in the lake harbor, this is a real outpost with powerful walls and towers connected by stairs and passages. The most high tower- 47 meters. On it is located observation platform. Previously, the entrance to the castle protected suspension bridge. The bridge is currently permanent. He connects historical Center and new areas.

The castle used to serve as a fortified port for the Venetian flotilla. It should be noted that the walls protect almost the entire harbor, and the castle itself is a unique building in Europe.

Another famous attraction is the Cattula Grottoes.

Grottoes of Cattula in Sirmione

The Cattula Grottoes is a complex of ancient ruins at the very end of the peninsula, built in the period 30 BC. - 68 AD These are one of the largest ancient complexes in Northern Italy discovered in the 15th century. They were called grottoes because before the excavations they resembled sea ​​caves. In fact, this is an ancient villa, which many associate with the ancient Roman poet Cattul, but there is no reliable evidence that he lived here.

Also in Sirmione you can find several interesting religious buildings.

The Church of San Pietro in Mavino is an ancient church built in Sirmione during the time of the Lombards. Although it was rebuilt in the 14th century, the frescoes of the 12th century, as well as the Romanesque bell tower of the 11th century, have been preserved in the interior.

The Church of Santa Maria Maggiore is another historic church in Sirmione, built in the 15th century with preserved frescoes from the 15th century.

After passing through the bridge in the Scaliger castle, you can get to the crowded streets of Sirmione. Here you can find many authentic shops, chic restaurants and delicious pizzerias. In general, everything for have a great holiday and shopping!

Video - Sirmione city

For many centuries, Sirmione has been a town located on a peninsula that divides southern part Lake Garda, is popular with famous travelers And ordinary people heard about him natural beauties And historical monuments. The city keeps important evidence of the Roman era and the Middle Ages, remembers the voices of artists and poets - there were such famous people arts such as Catullus, Joyce, Tennyson, Maria Callas, and pleases guests with its beaches, thermal waters and a rich selection of wines and delicacies.

View of the Sirmione peninsula / Shutterstock.com

Story

The first traces of human presence on the Sirmione peninsula were recorded as early as the Neolithic era. During the period of the Roman Empire, this corner was chosen by wealthy residents of neighboring Verona, who built several luxurious villas here. At the beginning of the 1st millennium a.d. a fortified settlement is born here, which performs an important strategic function; not far from here, a number of major battles are unfolding, such as the first clash between the troops of Constantine I and Massentius in 312.

After the fall of the empire, Sirmione passes to the Longobards; in the 8th century the city becomes the capital of a judicial district, headed by the king himself. The king's wife Desiderius founds a monastery in Sirmione and builds a church here. In subsequent centuries, the city becomes more and more closely connected with Verona: in 1197, the local podestà takes an oath of allegiance to the neighboring commune.

In the XIII century. in Verona, the Scaliger dynasty comes to power, which confirms the privileges previously received by Sirmione. But in 1276, Mastino della Scala organized a campaign against the Patareni sect, which had become widespread in Sirmione. Members of this movement opposed the wealth and immorality of senior officials catholic church who, in turn, declared the Patareni heretics. Alberto della Scala, brother of Mastino, besieged Sirmione and captured a whole group of heretics.

In 1378 Sirmione falls under the rule of a new lord, Gian Galeazzo Visconti; then the city is again in the hands of the ruler of Verona, Francesco da Carrara; finally, in 1405, the city passes to the Venetian Republic, and over time it strategic importance starts to decrease. Sirmione becomes part of the Kingdom of Sardinia after the second Italian War of Independence, in 1859.

What to see

Scaliger Castle

Scaliger Castle / Shutterstock.com

The impressive battlemented castle that guards the entrance to the historic center of Sirmione is one of the most visited sights not only in this region but throughout Italy. Spectacular fortress, consisting of a central 47-meter mastio tower and three towers smaller, was founded by Mastino I della Scala, Verona's yard, in the middle of the 13th century. The castle is perfectly preserved along with a fortified inner harbor. Capturing the citadel, completely surrounded by water, was not easy due to its concentric structure, a number of defensive systems, including a classic drawbridge and internal gates.

Not far from the castle is the church of Sant'Anna, built in the 15th century, inside which fresco paintings have been preserved.

Palazzo Maria Callas

Walking around the old town, it is worth taking a look at the palazzo bearing the name of Maria Callas; This is a late 18th century building. is located central square Carducci; exhibitions, conferences and other events are often held here.

"Catullian Grottoes"

Panorama of the Catullus Grottoes from the lake / Shutterstock.com

Sirmione became famous thanks to the so-called "Catullian grottoes": these are the ruins of an ancient Roman mansion of the 1st century BC. AD The name “grottoes” dates back to the 15th century: the building stood abandoned for many centuries, so that nature gradually won this area for itself, and the building was covered with such dense vegetation that it really looked like grottoes.

Large cryptoportico in the Grottoes of Catullus / Shutterstock.com

The first poet Catullus attributed this villa to the Venetian historian and statesman Marin Sanudo; This conclusion was based solely on literary evidence. In fact, there is no evidence that the famous poet lived here, but tradition sometimes turns out to be stronger than archeology: the name has survived, and the spectacular ruins attract crowds of visitors.

Baths of Catullus and Virgil

One of Sirmione's spas / Shutterstock.com

Sirmione is also known for its thermal baths: there are springs of sulphurous water with iodine-bromine salts, which stimulates cell renewal, fights stress caused by smog and allergies, tones the nervous and cardiovascular systems, and has a number of other beneficial properties for the body. Two thermal centers - "Catullus" and "Virgil" allow you to combine healing procedures with pure relaxation.

What to try

Olive oil from Lake Garda / Shutterstock.com

Lake Garda offers a variety of dishes and recipes related to the traditions of the Alpine peoples and the Padan Plain. There are both meat and freshwater fish. Even the most demanding gourmets will find here tastes worthy of an exquisite table. The environment, culture, history and traditions of the coast of Lake Garda are the perfect basis for gastronomic journey in one of the most stunning regions of northern Italy.

There are excellent quality wines, olive oil, lake fish and meat grown on alpine pastures.

Lake fish © illatosaporito.com

Four separate gastronomic regions can be distinguished: the lakeside in the Trentino region, the Val Tenesi valley, the hills on the Mantua side and the Verona coast, stretching all the way to the peaks of Monte Baldo.

Each of them differs in traditions and specialties, but their delicate taste unites all four, as well as products grown in the mild winter and fresh summer climate of the lake.

How to get there

By plane:

Nearest airports: Brescia (Gabriele d'Annunzio Airport), 25 km; Verona (Valerius Catullus Airport), 30 km; Orio al Serio, Bergamo - 90 km; Linate, Milan - 135 km; Venice (Marco Polo Airport) - 155 km; Malpensa, Milan - 175 km. Verona Valerius Catullus Airport is associated with railway station Verona shuttle that runs every 20 minutes

By car:

The main road leading to Sirmione is the Milan-Venice motorway. We must leave it in Sirmione; if you are coming from the west, exit at Desenzano and then take the two-lane bypass road (tangenziale).

By train:

Sirmione is located close to the Milan-Venice railway line. There is no railway station, but you can get off at Desenzano (if coming from the west) or Peschiera (if coming from the east) and then take a bus to Sirmione.