September is when Lake Garda begins to slow down. The busiest weeks of summer are behind us, the days become a little gentler, and the colours around the lake slowly begin to change.
For us, September is one of the loveliest times to experience Lake Garda. Here are ten of our favourite things to do on Lake Garda in these weeks.
1. Take the Limonaie Tour
One of the most distinctive sights around Lake Garda, the historic lemon houses, the so called limonaie, are a wonderful way to discover a different side of the lake. Built into the steep slopes above the western shore, these traditional structures were once used to protect lemon trees from the winter cold. Today, visiting a limonaia offers a glimpse into the agricultural history and unique microclimate of Lake Garda, as well as beautiful views across the water.
In Gargnano, Terre&Sapori offers a fascinating guided walk through this unique landscape every Tuesday and Friday at 9:45 am. The approximately 2.5-hour tour takes you through the historic lemon houses and the surrounding area, revealing the stories, traditions and agricultural heritage behind one of the lake’s most characteristic landscapes.
Learn more about the Limonaie Tour in our experience section.
2. Learn to make fresh Pasta
For us, food is one of the best ways to experience Italy, which is why we love inviting our guests to join our fresh pasta course here at Hotel Gardenia al Lago.
Every Wednesday at 11:00 am, our dining room becomes the setting for a hands-on cooking experience, where you can discover the art of making traditional Italian pasta from scratch.
Learn more about our pasta course in our experience section
3. Sail on Lake Garda on Galeotto II
For a different perspective of the lake, take to the water aboard the Galeotto II, one of Lake Garda’s most historic sailing boats.
Sail past charming villages, mountains and the beautiful shoreline while enjoying the timeless atmosphere of this remarkable boat. With September’s softer light and quieter pace, it is a particularly lovely way to experience the lake.
Learn more about the tours on Galeotto II here.
4. Go Hiking in the Hinterland
As temperatures become more comfortable, September is an ideal month to explore the mountains and countryside behind Lake Garda.
One of our favourite options is Cima Comer, above Gargnano. The hike takes you into a quieter landscape of woodland, open slopes and spectacular views, with the lake stretching out below.
The beauty of hiking here is that you quickly leave the busy lakeside behind. Within a short time, you can find yourself surrounded by nature, with only the sound of the trees and the occasional glimpse of the lake below.
Learn more about the region.
5. Spend a Day in Verona
September is also a wonderful time for a day trip to Verona.
The city is, of course, one of Italy’s most popular destinations, but visiting outside the height of summer can make a noticeable difference. With fewer visitors and slightly cooler temperatures, it is easier to wander through the historic centre, stop for a long lunch or explore the city’s beautiful squares and streets at your own pace.
6. Discover Parco Giardino Sigurtà
If you love flowers, make time for Parco Giardino Sigurtà.
This extraordinary garden near Valeggio sul Mincio covers around 600,000 square metres, with vast lawns, ponds, seasonal flowers, tree-lined paths and plenty of places to simply stop and enjoy the surroundings.
By September, the garden has a different character from its spectacular spring displays. Summer flowers are still in bloom, while the first hints of autumn begin to appear among the trees. You can explore on foot, by e-bike or by golf cart, making it an easy and enjoyable day trip from Lake Garda.
Learn more about Parco Giardino Sigurtà in our Hotel Gardenia al Lago Journal
7. Visit the Vittoriale and Heller Garden
On the western shore of the lake, just a 15 minutes drive from our hotel, two very different gardens make a beautiful pairing: Il Vittoriale degli Italiani and Heller Garden.
The Vittoriale is the extraordinary former estate of writer Gabriele D’Annunzio, filled with gardens, buildings, artworks and unexpected details. Nearby, the Heller Garden is a more dreamlike experience, where plants, sculptures and contemporary art come together in an imaginative landscape.
Learn more about the region here.
8. Experience the Tignale Truffle Festival
September is a great time to discover one of Lake Garda’s local culinary traditions. The Tignale Truffle Festival celebrates the area’s prized truffles with tastings, local dishes, food stalls and traditional entertainment.
For a unique experience, join a guided truffle hunt through the surrounding woods with trained truffle dogs.
Dates: September 26th–27th, 2026, in Gardola, Tignale.
9. Visit Salò for Salò Botanica
If you are visiting Lake Garda in September, make sure to set aside some time for Salò Botanica, taking place in Salò from 17–20 September.
For a few days, the elegant lakeside town becomes a celebration of flowers, plants and the world of gardening. It is a wonderful opportunity to stroll through Salò while discovering botanical displays, floral inspiration and the work of plant and garden enthusiasts.
The event is particularly fitting for this time of year, when summer is beginning to give way to autumn and the colours of the landscape slowly start to change.
10. Explore the Lake Without a Plan
Our final suggestion may be the simplest.
September is the perfect month to leave some space in your itinerary and simply follow the lake.
Take a boat to another town. Stop for coffee somewhere you have never been. Follow a road into the hills. Find a quiet spot beside the water. Stay for sunset.
After the busy rhythm of summer, September invites you to experience Lake Garda at a gentler pace.
And sometimes the best days are the ones you did not plan.
