Gardaland and Verona

Gardaland, the park by the lake

Gardaland is in Castelnuovo del Garda, on the south-eastern shore of Lake Garda, and is Italy's largest theme park, open since 1975. It has fast coasters for older riders, themed areas for younger children and shows through the day. The Sea Life aquarium and a water park sit in the same area, on separate tickets. The park opens seasonally, from spring to early November, with special events in some periods, so check the official calendar before you book. Weekdays outside school holidays are quieter.

Verona, the city of Romeo and Juliet

By car or train, Verona is about 30 km away. Piazza Bra holds the first-century Roman Arena, which hosts the opera festival in summer. From there walk to Piazza delle Erbe, the Torre dei Lamberti and Ponte Pietra over the Adige. Juliet's House, with its balcony, is packed: go early in the morning, and remember that Romeo and Juliet are a literary invention. For dinner, look for risotto all'Amarone and pastissada de caval, the traditional dish, or — lighter — lake fish.

Lake Garda and getting there

From Peschiera del Garda, close to the park, boats carry on to Sirmione, with its Scaliger castle, or to Bardolino for the wine. Verona airport (Villafranca) is about 15 km from Gardaland; from Albania you can also fly to Milan or Venice and continue by train to Peschiera del Garda, the nearest station. The best season runs from May to September; July and August are busier, while September brings mild weather and thinner crowds. The most common mistake is planning the park and Verona in a single day: it can be done, but it is tiring. Tell us the children's ages and the pace you like, and we will help you choose where to stay.