Lake Garda ferry travel can connect you with towns on both sides of the lake, but the published scheduled ship service is Desenzano–Peschiera–Riva, and the vehicle ferry runs between Maderno and Torri. For a journey starting in Garda, check the operator’s timetable to confirm whether a suitable departure is available.
- Scheduled ship service: Desenzano–Peschiera–Riva.
- Vehicle ferry: Maderno–Torri–Maderno.
- Ticket-office timing: Aim to arrive about 20 minutes before departure.
- Another crossing: The ferry between Torri del Benaco and Toscolano Maderno takes 20 minutes.
Finding the ferry pier in Garda
Confirm the departure port before heading to a pier: the scheduled ship service and vehicle ferry do not name Garda as a departure point. The official Garda tourism portal describes a 20-minute ferry crossing between Torri del Benaco and Toscolano Maderno, connecting opposite shores; it does not identify this as a service from Garda town.
For a wider look at the town and its waterfront, read what to know about Garda town. Use the operator’s timetable to establish the actual departure point and service for your chosen journey.
How do you check Lake Garda ferry routes and timetables?
Navigazione Laghi publishes timetables for Lake Garda services, and you should check the relevant timetable before setting out. The scheduled ship service runs between Desenzano, Peschiera and Riva; the vehicle ferry runs between Maderno and Torri.
Timetable periods can change, so check the official site before you go. Bad weather or strong waves may lead to route suspensions. For updates, Navigazione Laghi gives the Italy-only information number 800-551801.
Tickets and boarding
For a scheduled departure, plan to reach the ticket office about 20 minutes beforehand. Summer and holiday traffic can cause queues, so allow time for buying tickets before boarding.
At ports without an onshore ticket office, you can buy a ticket on board without an extra charge. Passengers with disabilities can also always buy tickets on board without an extra charge.
One-way fares depend on the fare section, which is determined by the departure and arrival ports. Check the operator’s fare information for the price that applies to your route.
Planning a return journey
Check the return service as well as the outward departure before you travel. Confirm its port and timetable with the operator, particularly if your plan depends on a same-day connection or a specific route.
If you are considering the Torri del Benaco–Toscolano Maderno crossing, allow for its 20-minute sailing time and verify the departure details for your travel day. This crossing links opposite shores; it is not described as a ferry service from Garda town.
Ferry access from the hotel area
Hotel Centrale is in Garda, but the scheduled ship service and vehicle ferry routes do not establish a departure from the town. Confirm where your chosen service leaves from before arranging how to reach it. The hotel’s available rooms are in Garda.
The town’s official tourism portal describes a shuttle connecting main tourist points with the Garda surroundings from April to October, between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m.
For other plans in the area, you can check how to plan a visit to Museo del Vino.
FAQs
Does the scheduled ship service depart from Garda?
The scheduled ship service runs between Desenzano, Peschiera and Riva. Check Navigazione Laghi’s timetable to confirm the departure port for your intended trip.
How early should you arrive at the ticket office?
Navigazione Laghi advises reaching the ticket office about 20 minutes before departure. Queues can occur during summer and holidays.
How long is the ferry crossing between Torri del Benaco and Toscolano Maderno?
The crossing takes 20 minutes and connects the lake’s opposite shores. It is not identified as a service from Garda town.