Salo is a picturesque town set on the banks of Lake Garda and fringed by a waterfront promenade. Forested mountains frame the town and form a picturesque backdrop. Relax by the lake, stroll around the historic centre and discover the town’s legacy as the capital of the Italian Social Republic.
Things to do in Salò
Piazza Vittoria overlooks the lake and is the beating heart of Salo. The promenade passes by the plaza and is one of the longest in Italy. Cafes and restaurants dot the 2.5-kilometre-long walkway and treat you to front-row views of Lake Garda. Sip an Aperol spritz in the sunshine and watch boats sail past.
Compact and walkable, the old town unfolds just behind Piazza Vittoria. Get lost in a maze of medieval streets lined with brightly painted townhouses, then stop to admire the centuries-old Gothic cathedral that is a local landmark. Frescoes painted by Italian master Palma il Giovane decorate the domed ceiling.
Day trip to the Franciacorta winemaking region and spend the day touring boutique vineyards. The sparkling wine produced here has DOCG status and is made using ancient techniques. Hop between the hillside vineyards of Bardolino and try light, fruit-forward reds and refreshing rosés.
Learn about the town’s unique narrative at Museo di Salo. The museum is housed in a historic monastery and traces the town’s story with paintings, sculptures and archeological finds. Highlights include beautiful instruments crafted by Gasparo da Salò, one of the world’s first violin makers.
Board a boat and sail to Isola del Garda. The private island is set just off the Salo shoreline and anchored by a magnificent villa. Terrace gardens cascade down to the lakeshore and command beautiful views over the cobalt-blue water.
Getting around Salò
Salo is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. The town is on the western side of Lake Garda in the Province of Brescia, a 1.5-hour drive from Milan and two hours from Venice.