The best weekly food markets on Lake Garda
If you're looking to eat in and recreate an authentic Italian meal during your stay, then a trip to a local food market is a must!Lake Garda food markets are the ideal place to buy fresh and local productsThe weekly markets around Lake Garda are bursting with regional produce, and those all-important fresh cooking ingredients to stock up the kitchen cupboards. Shopping there will give you a true taste of Lake Garda. With our useful guide to the top weekly markets in Lake Garda’s various towns, you’ll also be able to combine market trips with sightseeing trips!So build that appetite and let us introduce you to the best markets in Lake Garda!Best Monday markets in Lake GardaMoniga del GardaA great market stocked with high-quality leather goods and delicious treats, including Lake Garda’s very own rosé wine, the classic ‘Chiaretto’. Combine it with a trip to the town’s very own castle or hop on board your rental boat and enjoy sipping your bottle of vino on Lake Garda’s stunning waters.When: 8 am – 1 pmWhere: Piazza S. MartinoPeschiera del GardaThis well-stocked market offers everything from fresh food and produce, to regional craft ware, clothing, toys, shoes and household items. Once you’ve completed your shopping list, take in the heritage attractions of this pretty and fascinating town, which include fine military buildings, palaces, churches and the Sanctuary of the Madonna del Frassino. Families can also let their hair down at one of the many nearby theme parks that are an essential part of Lake Garda holidays.When: MorningsWhere: Via Campo SportivoSan Zeno di MontagnaThis characteristic weekly market invites visitors to sample local delicacies and regional delights, including the lake’s own speciality chestnut produce. Afterwards, you can visit the nearby sites of Grotta Tanella and Madonna delle Corona.When: 8 am – 1 pmWhere: In the center of San Zeno di Montagna (off via Val Masson)Torri del BenacoAmongst many things, Torri del Benaco’s large weekly market stocks hand-crafted olive wood items, artisan foods and staple fresh produce, which will all come in handy when looking to recreate those all-important Italian dishes! After visiting this bustling local market, take a trip back in time and explore the iconic Scaliger castle.When: 8 am – 2 pmWhere: Extends from the town centre to the ferry docThe typical hand-crafted olive wood items of Torri del Benaco’s marketsBest Tuesday markets in Lake GardaCampione di TremosineA varied weekly market selling the usual items, accompanied by a wide and varied range of tasty regional produce; from cheeses and olive oil to divine local honey. Once you’ve enjoyed buying your favourite ingredients and some holiday souvenirs, make some time to enjoy the picturesque qualities of this lakeside village. In particular, the scenic Strada della Forra (the Street of the Gorge) is a rather spectacular place to visit!When: 8 am – 1 pmWhere: Town centreCastelletto di BrenzonePurveyors of inspiring regional food and produce, high-quality leather goods and fashion, this market will not disappoint. Enjoy visiting the Rock of Castelletto and the ancient Roman Villa whilst you’re here. If you’re feeling like some high-energy fun then take to the trees and zip wires, at the nearby Jungle Adventure park.When: 8 am – 1 pmWhere: Situated along the banks of the lakeCastelnuovo del GardaThe perfect place to savour an authentic market experience, in a characterful and historical setting. After you’ve finished immersing yourself in the market, enjoy a spot of sightseeing, or a refreshing dip in the crystal lake water of Lido Campanello and Lido Ronchi. Visitors are also temptingly close to Lake Garda’s top theme parks, so you can easily make a day of it.When: 8 am – 1 pm Where: Town CentreCavaion VeroneseA typical weekly market selling a superb selection of authentic Italian produce. Afterwards, treat yourself to a wine tour or unique wine tasting experience at the exceptionally scenic Tenuta Preella Lamberti vineyard.When: 8 am – 1 pmWhere: Piazza delle PalafitteDo not miss a wine-tasting experience at Lake GardaDesenzano del GardaOffering a varied selection of stalls, this popular weekly market draws a large throng of locals and visitors alike. The picturesque location of the market leads in no time to the top visitor sites of beautiful Desenzano, which includes its romantic Roman villa and castle, so do make time to explore!When: 8 am – 1 pmWhere: Along the historical promenade of Caesare Battisti beachThe picturesque lakeside promenade of Desenzano del GardaLimoneThis versatile weekly market sells a superb selection of lake Garda food specialities, including a plentiful supply of fresh fruit and vegetables – perfect for preparing mouth-watering dishes back at your holiday home. Whilst you’re there, take in the quaint port and soak up a refreshing lake swim, or visit the historical lemon grove of Limonaia del Castèl.When: 8 am – 1 pm (on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month)Where: Town centrePieve di TremosineAn Italian food market offers a wide variety of speciality local cheeses, from the soft cheese ‘Formagella di Tremosine’ to the unique, unpasteurised cheese ‘Formaggio Latte Crudo’, which is produced in the Grotta Tremosine. After a scenic walk or idyllic hike, why not enjoy sitting down to a delicious evening meal at one of the many local 'Agriturismi' restaurants?When: 8 am – 1 pm (on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month)Where: Town centre Ponti sul Mincio This is a weekly market geared at the health-food and ‘Agriturismi’ crowds. Bursting with fresh top-quality produce, shoppers will enjoy filling up their shopping bags, before savouring a meal at one of the local eateries. Take the time to appreciate the unique historical scenery of this town.When: 8 am – 1 pm Where: Town centreThe medieval Visconti bridge on the Mincio river at Valeggio sul MincioTignalePacked with a diverse range of local produce, this market sells regional lake delicacies, including bottles of olive oil produced within the township. Once you’ve finished your food shopping, seek out the delicious, typical Tignale desert known as ‘Spongadì’, from one of the local cafes. Popular events in the town include medieval costumed markets and the annual truffle party ‘Festa del Tartufo’. If you’re feeling at all active afterwards, head out for a walk or bike ride along one of the paths in the surrounding nature park.When: 8 am – 1 pm Where: Gardola townBest Wednesday markets on Lake GardaRiva del GardaFor those looking to savour the best regional goodies, this authentic weekly market in northern Lake Garda stocks a variety of delicious cheeses, sausages and take-home souvenirs. Set within the ‘Centro Storico’, visitors are within easy walking distance of the all-weather tourist attractions and windsurfing opportunities of Riva del Garda, so it is well worth dedicating an entire day to this popular place. Plus, the resort is one of the best towns on Lake Garda for a tranquil evening out or a romantic date as it has several exclusive dining options that are perfect to bring a long day to a close!When: 8 am – 2 pm (2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month)Where: Old TownLake Garda’s stunning waterfront view of the bridge at Riva del GardaRoè VolcianoThis is a great local market for souring fresh Italian cooking ingredients, fruit and vegetables and speciality regional wines. After you’ve got everything you need, explore this local resort village on foot or visit the beautiful botanical gardens of André Heller (10 minutes drive away).When: 8 am – 1 pm (Fortnightly)Where: Town centreSan Felice del BenacoThis weekly market is the ideal shopping destination for budding chefs; with fresh fish, artisan sausages, regional cheeses and fresh fruit and vegetables all on offer, at great local prices! Afterwards, take a tranquil trip to the Sanctuary of Madonna del Carmine, or take in the ancient remains of the former Castello di Portese.When: 8 am – 1 pmWhere: Town centreBest Thursday markets on Lake GardaBardolino This typical weekly market stocks everything for the avid tourist and ‘Formaggio fan’, with artisan crafts and speciality cheeses all on offer. Wine lovers are also in for a treat, with an excursion to the highly recommended local wine museum, Cantina Zeni e Museo del Vino (which boasts a free wine tasting experience to boot!)When: 8 am – 1 pmWhere: Town centreBussolengoThis large market offers a buzzing shopping experience; with everything from souvenirs and high-quality leather goods to that all-important fine Italian food and wine! Wine buffs simply must take a trip afterwards to the local Cantina Il Pignetto. For families and wildlife fans, an outing to the popular Parco Natura Viva wildlife park will prove to be a popular choice.When: 8 am – 1 pmWhere: Downtown and along the lake promenadeGarda olives and olive oil are a real local delicacy, and also recognized by the European Union as a PDO (Protected Designation of Origin)CapovalleThis large authentic Italian market offers a colourful array of stalls, which burst with everything from souvenirs and clothing to fresh fruit and vegetables, speciality olive oils and produce direct from the farmer’s field. After whizzing around the market, head down the road to the popular local ‘Trattoria Bianca’ for some replenishment - which is open all day and has been serving happy diners since 1901! Local tourist attractions include Rocca d’Anfo and Castello San Giovanni.When: 8 am – 1 pmWhere: Via XXIV MaggioLonatoFor those looking to enjoy a spot of home-cooking, this typical weekly market stocks those must-have Italian ingredients. Those in search of a souvenir or collectable antique will be presently surprised too. Afterwards why not enjoy a trip to the local historical landmark of Rocca di Lonato, or if you’re with the kids, keep them amused at the town’s water park, Parco La Quiete.When: 8 am – 1 pmWhere: Historic market square and side streetsPeschiera del Garda This lovely farmers’ market offers delicious regional treats and traditional produce from across the region. After you’ve found everything you came for (and more), head to one of the many historical and military attractions here, or leave the picturesque lake setting and rev things up at one of the nearby Lake Garda theme parks!When: 8 am – 1 pmWhere: Via FalconeTip: If you are looking for pet-friendly rentals near Lake Garda theme parks, then they are right here in Peschiera!ToscolanoThis is the perfect weekly market for sourcing organic fruit and vegetables, freshly caught fish and regional produce, including homemade olive oils, cured meats, wines, honey and artisan gifts. You’ll be equally impressed by the honest, local prices too! Toscolano Maderno is also home to a beautiful botanical garden, a paper museum and the ancient remains of Villa Romana.When: 8 am – 1 pmWhere: Viale Marconi, Piazza Caduti NassiryaBest Friday markets on Lake GardaManerba del GardaThis well-stocked market offers everything you could ever wish for, including a welcome selection of local delicacies, such as fine regional liqueurs. After treating yourself to a bottle of Limoncello, stroll around the open-air museum and lakeside nature reserve site of Rocca di Manerba.When: 8 am – 1 pmWhere: By the churchSirmioneThis small-yet-perfectly formed market provides a fantastic range of products for foodie fans. The appealing stands sell top-quality ingredients and items from a host of regional farms. Once you’ve filled your boots with delicious treats, enjoy a romp around the beautiful resort town of Sirmione, with its timeless heritage sites, beaches and spas.When: 8 am – 1 pmWhere: Lugana districtBest weekend marketsOn Saturday mornings, visit the buzzing regional food markets of Calmasino di Bardolino (open 7.30 am – 1 pm) and Polpenazze, as well as the typical farmer’s markets of Lonato del Garda (8 am – 1 pm) and Trento. The local tourist market in Padenghe sul Garda (open Saturday afternoons) is ideal for holidaymakers in search of an edible gift or souvenir.Buy some edible gift or souvenir at the local marketsOn Sundays, meander around the regional food and drink stalls of Monzambano market (8 am – 1 pm) and savour the premium-quality produce and health food stands on offer at Castelnuovo del Garda market (on each Sunday, April - December, from 8 am – 1 pm).If you’re looking for a curious gift or collectable, then Lake Garda and nearby Verona also host a variety of Antique markets. The best of the bunch are:Wednesday mornings: Bogliaco, near Gargano3rd Saturday of the month: Verona – Piazza San Zeno1st Sunday of the month: Verona – Piazzale Porta Palio and in Desenzano (except January and August)2nd Sunday of the month: Brescia (except July and August)4th Sunday of the month: Valeggio sul MincioWhichever Lake Garda markets float your boat, you can find a convenient holiday rental for the entire cohort. But if you are still thinking if it is worth visiting Lake Garda, then check out the top attractions of this magnificent lake that will surely melt your heart and tempt you to start planning your Lake Garda holidays right away!
