Sant'Anna della Misericordia
A medieval gem on Lake Garda, Sirmione captivates with its Scaliger Castle, Roman ruins, and turquoise waters.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Sant'Anna della Misericordia
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A medieval gem on Lake Garda, Sirmione captivates with its Scaliger Castle, Roman ruins, and turquoise waters.
"Sirmione is a beautiful historic town on Lake Garda, a must-see for its castle and charming streets."
Park outside the ZTL
Park in public lots before entering the historic center to avoid fines. :car:
Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on cobblestone streets. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Scaliger Castle
Sirmione Old Town
A stunning medieval fortress jutting into Lake Garda, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into history.
Grotte di Catullo
Northern tip of Sirmione Peninsula
Impressive Roman ruins of a grand villa, set amidst olive groves with panoramic lake views.
Chiesa di Sant'Anna della Rocca
Adjacent to Scaliger Castle
A charming, small 14th-century church with peaceful frescoes and votive offerings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Sirmione's Charm
Navigating Sirmione's ZTL
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Park outside the ZTL
Park in public lots before entering the historic center to avoid fines. :car:
Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on cobblestone streets. :athletic_shoe:
Visit early or late
Beat the crowds by arriving early morning or late afternoon. :clock:
Enjoy lake views
Take time to admire the turquoise waters of Lake Garda. :blue_heart:
Tips
from all over the internet
Park outside the ZTL
Park in public lots before entering the historic center to avoid fines. :car:
Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on cobblestone streets. :athletic_shoe:
Visit early or late
Beat the crowds by arriving early morning or late afternoon. :clock:
Enjoy lake views
Take time to admire the turquoise waters of Lake Garda. :blue_heart:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Sirmione for its stunning medieval castle, picturesque lakefront, and charming old town. The Grotte di Catullo offers a fascinating historical site with beautiful views. However, many note that the town can become extremely crowded, impacting the overall experience.
"📍 Chiesa di Sant’Anna della Rocca – Sirmione, Lake Garda, Italy 🇮🇹
A small 14th-century church ⛪ located just beside Scaliger Castle 🏰. Simple and quiet inside, with frescoes 🎨 and votive offerings that reflect its history as a chapel for soldiers and guards. It’s easy to visit as you stroll through the old town 🚶♂️, and offers a peaceful moment away from the crowds 🌿. Not a long stop, but worth a look if you’re exploring Sirmione."
Quing_刘妈妈
"A exquisite small church just through the south gate & adjacent to the Rocca Scaligera. A lovely altar & fine stained glass windows the perfect place for quiet moment."
paul appleby
"Super small church you can easily missed. There are approximately 36 seats in the church. Just next to the castle."
Pauline Yoong
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sirmione is accessible by car, with highways leading from Verona and Milan.
If driving, be aware of the ZTL in the historic center and use designated parking lots. Public transport options include buses and ferries from other Lake Garda towns.Yes, Sirmione is a picturesque town situated on a narrow peninsula that juts into the southern part of Lake Garda in Northern Italy.
The historic center is best explored on foot due to its narrow streets and ZTL. For reaching Sirmione from other towns, ferries offer scenic routes across Lake Garda.
Sirmione is approximately a 40-minute drive from Verona via the A4 motorway.
No, you cannot drive into the historic center of Sirmione as it is a ZTL (Limited Traffic Zone). You must park in the public parking areas outside the old town.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the town of Sirmione itself is free. However, tickets are required for specific attractions like Scaliger Castle and the Grotte di Catullo.
Opening hours for Scaliger Castle can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Yes, there is an entrance fee to visit the archaeological site of the Grotte di Catullo. Prices can be found on their official website.
Chiesa di Sant'Anna della Rocca is a small church and is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's located right next to Scaliger Castle.
Wandering through the charming streets of the old town, enjoying the lake views, and visiting the exterior of Scaliger Castle are free activities.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Explore Scaliger Castle, wander through the medieval streets, visit the Grotte di Catullo, relax by Lake Garda, and enjoy the local cuisine. The Chiesa di Sant'Anna della Rocca offers a quiet moment.
Sirmione can be very crowded, especially during peak tourist season (summer) and on weekends. Visiting during shoulder seasons or off-peak hours is recommended to avoid large crowds.
The Grotte di Catullo are the ruins of a large Roman villa located at the northern tip of the Sirmione peninsula, offering insights into ancient Roman life and beautiful lake vistas.
Scaliger Castle is a well-preserved medieval fortress dating back to the 13th century, built by the Scaliger family of Verona. It served as a defensive stronghold on the lake.
This is a small, historic church near Scaliger Castle, dating back to the 14th century. It features frescoes and votive offerings and provides a peaceful retreat.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Sirmione offers delicious Italian cuisine, with a focus on fresh lake fish, pasta dishes, and local wines. Gelato is also a must-try!
Yes, Sirmione has a variety of restaurants, from casual trattorias to more upscale dining options, many offering beautiful lake views.
Try local specialties like Risotto al Pesce (fish risotto), fresh lake fish preparations, and regional pasta dishes. Don't forget to sample some local olive oil and wine.
While Sirmione can be a bit pricey, looking for smaller trattorias away from the main tourist paths or opting for pizza and gelato can offer more budget-friendly choices.
Most restaurants will offer vegetarian options, such as pasta with vegetable sauces, salads, and pizzas. It's always a good idea to ask your server.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of Scaliger Castle from various angles, the panoramic views from the Grotte di Catullo, the charming narrow streets, and the picturesque lakefront. The Chiesa di Sant'Anna della Rocca also offers a quaint photo opportunity.
Golden hour (early morning and late afternoon) offers beautiful light for photography. Early mornings also provide fewer crowds for unobstructed shots.
A versatile camera, whether a smartphone or a dedicated camera, is ideal. Consider a wide-angle lens for capturing the castle and expansive lake views.
Drone usage is typically restricted in historic areas and near attractions. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
Explore the smaller alleyways, capture reflections in the lake, and photograph details like ancient doorways and flower-filled balconies for unique perspectives.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
❤️ Couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Sirmione's Medieval Heart
The Chiesa di Sant'Anna della Rocca is a small but significant historical site located adjacent to the castle. This 14th-century church, though simple, contains frescoes and votive offerings that speak to its long history as a chapel for soldiers and guards. It provides a quiet sanctuary amidst the bustling town, offering a moment of reflection and a chance to appreciate the subtle beauty of religious art. The church's proximity to the castle makes it an easy and worthwhile stop for anyone exploring the area.
The Roman Legacy: Grotte di Catullo
Beyond the historical significance, the Grotte di Catullo boasts breathtaking natural beauty. The ruins are set amidst fragrant olive groves, and the location provides unparalleled panoramic views of Lake Garda. Visitors can stroll through the archaeological park, imagining life in Roman times while enjoying the serene atmosphere and the sparkling blue waters. It's a perfect spot for both history buffs and those seeking scenic beauty.
Caravaggio's Masterpiece: Pio Monte della Misericordia
The Pio Monte della Misericordia itself is a Baroque church and charitable institution founded in the early 17th century. It was established to provide aid to the poor and sick, embodying the very principles of mercy that Caravaggio so vividly portrayed in his art. Visiting this site offers a profound connection to the artistic and charitable spirit of Naples, highlighting how art can serve as a powerful expression of faith and compassion.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit