Desenzano in a day, from the old harbour to the castle
What to see on foot in one day, starting from the station: old harbour, old town, castle and Roman villa.
Desenzano is the gateway to the lake for anyone arriving by train: the station is on the Milan–Venice line and the waterfront is a few minutes’ walk away.
The old harbour
The heart of town is the old harbour, with boats moored in front of colourful houses and arcades. Scheduled ferries to the other lake towns also leave from here.
Old town and cathedral
A short walk away is Piazza Malvezzi, with the Tuesday morning market along the lake. The cathedral of Santa Maria Maddalena holds a Last Supper by Giandomenico Tiepolo.
The castle and the Roman villa
Uphill you reach the castle, with views over the whole southern lake. On the way back, stop at the Roman villa and its mosaics.
Editor’s tip
In the evening, before dinner, the lighthouse pier is the best spot for sunset.
