Trains from Venice to Desenzano del Gardafrom € 9.00

Take the fast and scenic route with a train ride from Venice to Desenzano-del-Garda! With the shortest duration of 1 hour 16 minutes, you can visit some of the main stations such as Venezia Santa Lucia, Padova, Verona Porta Nuova, and Brescia before arriving at Desenzano-del-Garda. This 87.5-mile journey is a great way to explore enchanting cities and countryside from the comfort of your seat, as the train passes through Padova, Vicenza, and Verona on route. During the departure and arrival, keep your eyes peeled for iconic landmarks like the Grand Canal in Venice and the Castello Scaligero in Desenzano-del-Garda.

While on the train, you can also take advantage of the convenient amenities on board. Consider indulging in some regional snacks while admiring the various views, or take a nap and enjoy a peaceful journey from one stunning destination to the next.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape or a fun-filled day trip, a train ride from Venice to Desenzano-del-Garda ticks all the boxes. With so much to see and do en route, it’s the perfect way to get to know the Venetian region!

Venice is a beautiful and captivating city, located in Italy adrift in its own lagoon. It is almost like a fairytale, with old churches, ancient bridges, picturesque canals, and narrow alleyways that all beg to be explored. If you’re planning a trip to Venice, here is a list of must-visit historical and architectural sites, as well as a few suggestions of what to eat: 

The Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto): This iconic bridge crossing the Grand Canal is the oldest and one of the most popular in Venice. With its impressive architecture and picturesque surroundings, it is a great place to snap some photos or simply soak in the views. Location: Rialto, Venice; Hours: Open 24/7; Fees: Free; Insider Tip: Visit at sunset to witness the stunning colors of Venice in the evening sky.

St Mark's Basilica (Basilica di San Marco): This Venetian-Byzantine church is one of the most incredible examples of religious architecture in the world. The grand and ornate interior gives insight into the city’s rich and powerful history. Location: St Mark’s Square, Venice; Hours: 9 am to 5 pm (Mon-Sat); Fees: €3; Insider Tip: Check out the basilica in the evening, when it is lit up and even more magical.

St Mark’s Campanile (Campanile di San Marco): This famous bell tower is a popular landmark in Venice, offering wonderful views of the city from the top. Location: St Mark’s Square, Venice; Hours: 9 am to 9 pm (Mon-Sat); Fees: €8; Insider Tip: Purchase tickets online to avoid long queues.

Ducal Palace (Palazzo Ducale): Home to the Doges of Venice, this impressive Gothic-style palace is a must-visit spot. Inside, admire the ornate masterpieces of Venetian art, take a walk through the secret passageways, and explore the incredible art collection. Location: St Mark’s Square, Venice; Hours: 9 am to 7 pm (Mon-Sat); Fees: €30; Insider Tip: Early morning visits are best to avoid the crowds.

Food to Try: Venetian cuisine is amazing. Try some traditional dishes, such as polenta con schie (small shrimp), risi e bisi (rice and peas), and baccalà alla vicentina (salt cod). Don’t forget to grab a couple of pizzettas or some delicious gelato!

In conclusion, a trip to Venice is like a dream come true, as it is home to so many incredible historical and architectural sights. Whether you’re exploring the city’s secrets or indulging in traditional Venetian cuisine, it is sure to be an unforgettable journey.

Desenzano del Garda, an enchanting Italian town situated on the southwest corner of Lake Garda, is a breathtaking destination for all who seek a romantic and sun-drenched getaway. Today, this old-world gem may be best known for its lively local parks, vibrant nightlife, and sprawling lakefront, but centuries of history have also left behind a plethora of historical and architectural marvels, making it a cultural hub in the northern part of the country.

Desenzano Castle (Castello di Desenzano): this ancient castle is situated atop a hill overlooking the city and can be accessed via a curved stairway. This ancient stronghold, which dates back to the 17th century, has been recently restored, so its fortifications, lookout towers, and keep are all in remarkably good condition. Location: Viale Rovereto, Desenzano del Garda. Hours: 8am–8pm daily. Entrance fee: 5€ per person, 1€ per student. Insider tip: try to visit during the late afternoon for a beautiful view of the lake!

San Martino Church (Chiesa di San Martino): this stunning church was constructed in the 6th century and has been renovated several times over the centuries. Its most prominent feature is its façade, decorated with graceful marble statues. Location: Corso Vittorio Emanuele, Desenzano del Garda. Hours: 9am–6pm daily. Entrance fee: free. Insider tip: make sure to bring a camera to capture the vivid paintings and sculptures inside!

Santa Maria Maggiore Church (Chiesa di Santa Maria Maggiore): located in the city center, this church is known for its Baroque architecture, ornate marble altar, and awe-inspiring dome. Location: Piazza Malvezzi, Desenzano del Garda. Hours: 7am–7pm daily. Entrance fee: free. Insider tip: make sure to appreciate the intricate carvings adorning the marble columns inside!

Valtenesi Wine Museum (Museo del Vino Valtenesi): situated in the old town, this museum is a great way to learn more about the local wine-making tradition. It offers guided tours, tastings, and lectures by master winemakers. Location: Via Roma, Desenzano del Garda. Hours: 10am–6pm daily. Entrance fee: 10€. Insider tip: book a tasting session to sample the finest local wines!

Piazza del Porto: this picturesque square is a bustling hub of activity in the summer months, where locals and visitors alike come to enjoy a refreshing gelato while admiring the beautiful views of the lake. Location: Via Medarda, Desenzano del Garda. Hours: 8am–8pm daily. Entrance fee: free. Insider tip: plan your visit for the evening to savor the romantic ambiance of the square!

Parco dello Spinarolo: this lush and tranquil park is a favorite among locals, offering a nice place for a stroll and plenty of green lawns for picnicking. Location: Porto San Fermo, Desenzano del Garda. Hours: 8am–8pm daily. Entrance fee: free. Insider tip: visit the park during the springtime, when its vibrant colors are at their best!

Torri dei Contarini (Contarini Towers): this pair of towers, once part of Desenzano’s ancient fortifications, are the symbol of the city and provide stunning views of Lake Garda. Location: Via Diaz, Desenzano del Garda. Hours: 10am–6pm daily. Entrance fee: 3€ per person. Insider tip: bring a pair of binoculars and take a peek at the distant mountains beyond the lake!

So, why not make Desenzano del Garda your next holiday destination? Savour its old-world charm and take advantage of its cultural offerings. And of course, be sure to sample some of the local delicacies like gnocchi and tiramisu -- after all, Italy is known for its gastronomy!