The Closest Airport to Lake Garda

Verona Villafranca Airport (VRN)

The closest airport to Lake Garda is Verona Villafranca Airport (VRN), also known as Valerio Catullo Airport.

• Distance to Lake Garda: Approximately 15 kilometers to the southeastern shore and a 30-40 minute drive to towns like Peschiera del Garda or Lazise.
• Transport Options:
  • Shuttle Services: Dedicated shuttles operate directly from the airport to major towns on Lake Garda, particularly during peak tourist seasons.
  • Train Connections: A short bus ride from the airport will take you to Verona Porta Nuova station, where you can hop on a direct train to the lake. Train travel to towns like Peschiera or Desenzano takes roughly 20-30 minutes.
  • Taxi or Car Rental: Taxis are available outside the terminal, or you can rent a car for more convenience if you plan to explore the region extensively.
• Direct Flights: Verona Airport offers flights to numerous European destinations and is served by major airlines, including Ryanair, Lufthansa, and easyJet.

NOTE: Verona Airport is the most convenient spot if you’re aiming to reach Lake Garda quickly and hassle-free.

Alternative Nearby Airports

While Verona Villafranca Airport is the closest option, there are a few other nearby airports that might work depending on your travel itinerary or budget.

Milan Bergamo Airport (BGY)

• Distance: Approximately 85 kilometers, with a driving time of about 1.5 hours to the western shore of Lake Garda.
• Pros:
  • It accommodates several budget airlines, such as Ryanair, making it ideal for cost-conscious travelers.
  • It is located conveniently for travelers planning to visit both Milan and Lake Garda on the same trip.
• Cons:
  • There are fewer direct public transport options; bus and train combinations are required to reach Lake Garda.
  • Longer travel time compared to Verona Airport.

Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP)

• Distance: Roughly 190 kilometers, with a 2-2.5-hour drive to Lake Garda.
• Pros:
  • It offers a wide range of international flights, making it an excellent option for long-haul travelers.
  • Well-connected to Milan, where you can switch to trains heading to Lake Garda.
• Cons:
  • Longer distance and commute time compared to VRN or BGY.

Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE)

• Distance: Around 140 kilometers, with an average driving time of 1.5-2 hours.
• Pros:
  • Perfect for combining a Lake Garda trip with a Venice city break.
  • Several train options are available from Venice Santa Lucia to the lake.
• Cons:
  • It is less convenient to access Lake Garda directly compared to Verona Airport.

How to Get to Lake Garda from the Airport

Once you’ve landed, the next step is getting from the airport to Lake Garda. Here are the main options, along with their associated costs and travel times.

Train Travel

Italy’s efficient train system makes reaching Lake Garda from nearby cities a breeze.

• Cost: 5–10 EUR for regional train tickets.
• Travel Time: 20–30 minutes from Verona Porta Nuova; around 60–90 minutes from Milan.

Bus Services

During summer, direct buses operate from key regional airports to Lake Garda. Regional buses can also connect you to smaller towns around the lake.

• Cost: 5–12 EUR, depending on the route.
• Travel Time: 30–90 minutes, depending on your starting point.

Car Rental

If you plan on exploring Lake Garda and its surroundings, renting a car is the most flexible option.

• Cost: Starting around 40–50 EUR/day.
• Travel Time: Commute times from nearby airports (e.g., 30 minutes from Verona).

Booking Tip: Pre-book your car rental or shuttle service to avoid last-minute hassles.

Tips for Choosing the Right Airport

Choosing the best airport for your Lake Garda trip depends on several factors.

Budget vs. Convenience

If you’re looking to save on airfare, Milan Bergamo Airport is often a budget-friendly option thanks to low-cost airlines. However, for the shortest and most convenient commute, Verona Villafranca Airport is unmatched.

Seasonality

During peak summer months and major Italian holidays, you may find more connectivity to Lake Garda via shuttle or public transit from regional airports. However, this also means greater congestion at popular arrival points, such as Verona.

Exploring Beyond Lake Garda

If you plan to visit other Northern Italian destinations (e.g., Milan, Venice), it might make sense to choose airports like Milan Malpensa or Venice Marco Polo, which offer easy onward connections to Lake Garda.

Elevate Your Airport Experience

Long layovers or early arrivals? Make the most of your airport time with Comfortpass.travel’s Fast Track and Lounge Services.

• Fast Track Service ensures seamless immigration and security clearance, saving you time and stress.
• Airport Lounges provide a relaxing space with gourmet catering, premium drinks, and even business facilities, all designed to keep you refreshed and ready for your next adventure.

Explore Fast Track Services or Airport Lounge Access today.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Lake Garda from Verona Airport?

Lake Garda is approximately 15 kilometers from Verona Villafranca Airport, making it a 30–40 minute drive.

What’s the best way to travel from Verona Airport to Lake Garda?

The easiest option is renting a car or taking a direct shuttle. Alternatively, a combination of bus and train works well for budget travelers.

Are there direct flights to Verona Villafranca Airport?

Yes, Verona serves multiple direct flights across Europe with airlines like Ryanair, Lufthansa, and easyJet.

Is it better to rent a car or use public transport?

For flexibility, especially if you plan to visit multiple towns, renting a car is ideal. If you’re on a budget or traveling solo, Italy’s public transport is very efficient.

Can I reach Lake Garda directly by train?

Yes, trains stopping in Peschiera Del Garda or Desenzano make direct access to the lake possible from cities like Verona or Milan.

Your Gateway to Lake Garda

When it comes to reaching Lake Garda, Verona Villafranca Airport is the clear winner for its proximity and convenience. However, other nearby airports like Milan Bergamo or Venice Marco Polo can also be great options, depending on your travel plans.

Plan, check your flight and transport schedules, and utilize premium services like Fast Track and Lounge Access to ensure your trip starts smoothly. Whether you’re drawn to the lake for its scenic beauty or vibrant culture, one thing is certain—it’s worth the trip!