Lake Garda lies at the southern edge of the Alps but is much milder than the surrounding land. The large body of water stores heat and evens out temperatures, so olive and lemon trees grow on the shore while snow still lies on Monte Baldo. How the weather feels depends on the shore: the north shore around Riva and Torbole is windier and cooler, while the flat south shore is warmer and more often humid.
Our top pick: Peschiera: 2-hour speedboat tour in the south of the lake
This page describes typical values. It is not a forecast; about a week before your trip, check the weather service of your choice for your dates.
Climate and water through the year
| Period | Daytime air | Water | Character |
|---|---|---|---|
| December to February | about 5-9 °C | about 8-10 °C | cool, often foggy in the south, clear days in the north |
| March | about 12-14 °C | about 10-11 °C | almond and cherry blossom, changeable |
| April | about 18 °C | 13-14 °C | mild, a few rainy days |
| May | about 22 °C | 16-17 °C | green and fresh, showers possible |
| June | about 26 °C | 20-22 °C | swimming season begins |
| July, August | about 27-29 °C | 22-24 °C | hot, thunderstorms in the late afternoon |
| September | about 25 °C | 20-21 °C | settled, quieter |
| October | about 18-19 °C | about 17-18 °C | clear days, more rain in autumn |
| November | about 11-13 °C | about 13-14 °C | damp, many businesses closed |
The figures are rounded long-term averages and differ by a degree or two depending on the source. A fuller month-by-month table is on our page about the best time to visit Lake Garda.
Pelèr and Ora: the north-shore winds
Two wind systems shape the day between Torbole, Riva del Garda and Malcesine:
- Pelèr comes from the north in the early morning, down the lake, and usually eases by late morning. It is gentler and suits sailors and early risers.
- Ora starts around midday and blows from the south up the lake. It is strongest in the afternoon and makes the north one of Europe’s best-known windsurfing and sailing areas.
If you want calm water for swimming or paddling, go in the morning. When the Ora is strong, take your boat trip in the morning. In the south near Sirmione and Peschiera the winds are weaker.
Allow for thunderstorms: in summer, hot days often break in the late afternoon. Plan cable cars, hikes and boat trips for the morning, and keep rainy-day options such as the aquarium, an old town or a trip to Verona in mind.
Best time by activity
- Swimming: June to September, warmest in July and August.
- Hiking: April, May, September and October; details on hiking at Lake Garda.
- Cycling: April to June and September to October, when it is not too hot.
- Windsurfing and sailing: May to September, on the north shore with the Ora in the afternoon.
- City visits and day trips: spring and autumn, when the old towns are not oppressively hot.
- Theme parks: Gardaland is best outside the holiday peaks.
On the water in settled weather
In calm weather a boat trip is the best experience on the lake. These options are available on GetYourGuide.
Peschiera: 2-hour speedboat tour in the south of the lake
A short tour over the southern basin. 4.6/5 from nearly 200 reviews.
From Verona: Sirmione and Lake Garda day tour with cruise
A full-day tour with a boat trip. 4.7/5 from nearly 1,000 reviews.
From Verona: Lake Garda, Sirmione, Desenzano and Borghetto
Several places in one day. 4.9/5 from over 220 reviews.
Why book online
- Free cancellation on most tickets, usually up to 24 hours before
- Reserved time slot: no queue at the ticket desk
- Mobile ticket on your phone
- Reviews from verified travelers
Check hotel prices for your travel month
Frequently asked questions
What is the weather like at Lake Garda in summer?
In July and August daytime highs are usually 27 to 30 degrees and the water is 22 to 24 degrees. Thunderstorms sometimes build in the late afternoon and often pass quickly.
What are the Pelèr and the Ora?
The Pelèr is a wind that blows down the lake from the north in the morning. The Ora starts around midday and blows up the lake from the south. Both are strongest on the north shore.
When is the lake warm enough to swim?
From June, when the water reaches 20 to 22 degrees. It is warmest in July and August, and September stays pleasant at around 20 degrees.
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