Experience the charm of Sirmione with an immersive half-day tour that combines a scenic boat ride and an enriching walk through its historic center. Begin your journey with a peaceful cruise along the shimmering waters surrounding the Sirmione peninsula, offering you captivating views of this idyllic town. Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, stroll through its winding cobblestone streets and absorb fascinating tales about the region’s rich cultural and historical legacy.

Your walking tour continues toward the awe-inspiring Scaligero Castle, a striking medieval fortress built by the Lords of Verona toward the end of the 13th century. As you enter the historical core of the town through a quaint stone bridge, you’ll find yourself in Piazza Castello, the castle’s main square located beside the lovely Saint Anna Church. Next, explore the Church of Saint Maria Maggiore, whose colonnaded entrance includes a remarkable Roman stone, originally carved for the ancient Gallica Road. Inside the church, you’ll discover significant religious artwork, including a moving depiction of the Last Supper by Brusasorci, a Veronese painter, and several intricately designed marble altars from the 1700s.

From there, ascend slightly to where elegant villas overlook the lake—a testament to the long-standing tradition of affluent families choosing lakeside retreats for peace and inspiration. Take a break to admire the impressive Villa Cortine, surrounded by five hectares (approximately 12 acres) of beautifully maintained green gardens. From this vantage point, witness the vibrant color palette of Lake Garda, shifting from crystal blue to emerald green as you gaze upon the picturesque Lido of Blondes (Blonde Beach).

Your tour concludes with a visit to the Grotte di Catullo, the evocative ruins of a grand Roman villa believed to have belonged to the poet Catullus. As the most important archaeological site in Lombardy, this location features ancient walls and remnants that reveal the opulence of Roman architecture and lifestyle right on the shores of Lake Garda.

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