Located in the beautiful Valley of the Sarca, Arco is a town of timeless charm, framed by olive groves, rock walls and an atmosphere that combines nature, sport and culture. Famous for its tradition associated withsport climbing, it is known internationally as the capital of climbing, hosting major events such as the Rock Master every year. The Mediterranean climate, aided by its proximity to Lake Garda, makes this location ideal for outdoor activities in all seasons. To stroll through the historic center is to immerse oneself in a mix of history and tradition, with stately palaces, botanical gardens, and the majestic Arco Castle watching over the city from the top of its medieval walls.
Arco ‘s origins go back to ancient times, with traces of prehistoric settlements testifying to the strategic importance of the valley since the Bronze Age. In medieval times, the town became a fief of the powerful Conti d’Arco family, which consolidated its development and built the imposing castle that still dominates the landscape today. During Habsburg rule, Arco was transformed into a renowned health resort, frequented by the Central European aristocracy for its health benefits. Walking along the Avenue of Palms or visiting the gardens of the Austro-Hungarian era, one can still feel the influence of the imperial period, which left a valuable architectural and cultural legacy.
Thanks to its location between mountains and lake, Arco is a true paradise for sports and adventure enthusiasts. Climbing is the activity par excellence, with equipped crags attracting athletes from all over the world. For cycling enthusiasts, the Sarca Valley ‘s trails offer scenic routes suitable for all levels, from road cyclists to mountain bikers. Hikers can explore trails such as the one leading to Croce del Colodri, from which there are spectacular views of Arco and Lake Garda. The Sarca River, on the other hand, offers opportunities for canyoning and sport fishing. In addition to sports, Arco is also an ideal place for relaxation, with its natural hot springs and lush Mediterranean gardens.
Arco hosts numerous events throughout the year, ranging from sports to culture. The most famous is the Rock Master Festival, one of the most important international climbing competitions, which attracts the world’s best athletes every year. In winter, the city comes alive with the Christmas Markets, which transform the old town into an enchanted village of lights, flavors and local crafts. Botany enthusiasts can participate in the Spring Days, while the Garda Jazz Festival brings music and performances to the city’s squares and historic buildings. Arco is a lively city that always offers something special to discover.
Find out about upcoming events in Arco.
Arco offers a historical and natural heritage of rare beauty, making it an ideal destination for those who want to immerse themselves in the history, culture and nature of Garda Trentino. The town, famous for its association withsport climbing, holds monuments, botanical gardens, and scenic routes that offer breathtaking views of the Sarca Valley and Lake Garda. Walking through the historic center means traversing a labyrinth of cobblestone alleys, historic palaces, and charming courtyards, where time seems to stand still. Discover Arco’s main attractions not to be missed during your visit.
The undisputed symbol of the town, Arco Castle stands on a rocky outcrop 273 meters above sea level, dominating the entire valley. Built in medieval times by the Counts of Arco, the castle was an important defensive fortress and political center. Although only a few remnants of the original walls and towers remain today, a visit to the castle offers an immersive experience in the town’s history. The uphill route passes through centuries-old olive groves and ancient walkways, leading to vantage points from which there are extraordinary views over the Sarca Valley to the turquoise waters of Lake Garda.
Located in the heart of the historic center, Palazzo Marchetti is one of Arco’s most elegant residences, with its refined Renaissance facade decorated with frescoes and noble coats of arms. This historic building, once home to one of the city’s most influential families, is now a venue for cultural events and art exhibitions. The palace’s architecture, with its Venetian-style details and magnificent wrought-iron balconies, testifies to Arco’s aristocratic past and its connection to Central European culture.
The Collegiate Church of Santa Maria Assunta is Arco’s main church and one of the masterpieces of Trentino Baroque architecture. Built in the 17th century on the foundations of a pre-existing Romanesque church, it features an imposing stone facade with Corinthian columns and an interior richly decorated with frescoes and marble altars. The collegiate church’s solemn atmosphere and its historic organ make it a charming place, ideal for a meditative break between visits to the city’s attractions.
Commissioned by Emperor Franz Joseph of Austria in the 19th century, the Arco Arboretum Gardens are a botanical paradise that is home to more than 200 species of plants from around the world. Thanks to the area’s mild climate, the park is home to palms, Lebanon cedars, magnolias and other exotic varieties that coexist with typical Mediterranean vegetation. Walking through the garden paths, you can discover picturesque corners and immerse yourself in a relaxing atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
For hiking and climbing enthusiasts, Mount Colodri represents one of the most iconic destinations in Garda Trentino. This rock face is one of the first equipped crags in Italy and continues to be a landmark for climbing enthusiasts. The path to the summit is also suitable for hikers, with a scenic route offering spectacular views of Arco and Lake Garda. For the more adventurous, the Via Ferrata del Colodri offers an equipped route that allows you to climb the wall in total safety, with aerial passages and exciting sections suspended over the valley.
Another not-to-be-missed experience in Arco is a walk along the Sarca River, which runs through the town, creating an oasis of tranquility between nature and history. The riverfront is the perfect place for a relaxing walk or bike ride, thanks to the Sarca Valley Bicycle Path, a route that connects Arco to other towns in Garda Trentino through vineyards, olive groves, and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The bike path is perfect for families and bicycle tourists, offering the chance to explore the area in a sustainable and immersive way.
Arco is an easily accessible location thanks to its privileged position in Garda Trentino, nestled between Lake Garda and the Brenta Dolomites. Its proximity to major road and rail arteries makes it an ideal destination for those traveling by car, train, bus, or plane. During the tourist season, it can also be reached by lake, thanks to boat connections with neighboring resorts. Here are all the options available for getting to Arco.
By car
The most convenient way to reach Arco is by car, thanks to direct connections to theA22 Brenner Highway. Those coming from the north or south can exit at the Rovereto Sud – Lago di Garda Nord tollbooth and continue for about 15 km along the SS240, crossing the Sarca Valley among vineyards and olive groves to Arco. For those arriving from Milan or Venice, you can take theA4 highway to Desenzano or Peschiera del Garda and then follow the state road that runs along the lake. The center of Arco has several parking lots, both free and paid, located within walking distance of the historic center.
The nearest train station to Arco is Rovereto, located along the Verona-Brenner railway line. Rovereto is well connected to major Italian cities, including Verona, Trento, Milan, and Bologna, by high-speed and regional trains. From the station, it is possible to reach Arco in about 30 minutes using the scheduled bus services of the Trentino Trasporti company, with frequent runs throughout the day. Alternatively, cabs and car rental services are available directly from the train station.
For those who prefer to travel by bus, Arco is served by regional and national lines that connect the city with major destinations in northern Italy. The FlixBus company offers direct connections from cities such as Milan, Verona, and Venice to Riva del Garda, from which one can continue to Arco by local buses. In addition, Trentino Trasporti buses provide frequent connections between Arco and nearby places such as Riva del Garda, Torbole, Rovereto, and Trento. The main bus stop is located in the city center, a short distance from the main attractions.
The nearest airports to Arco are:
From all these airports, it is possible to reach Arco by a mix of trains, buses, and direct shuttle services to Lake Garda and Trentino.
During the tourist season, Arco can also be reached by lake thanks to the Lake Garda boat services. Boats regularly connect the main lake resorts such as Riva del Garda, Limone sul Garda, and Malcesine, providing a scenic option for those who wish to reach the city without using a car. From the Riva del Garda landing, located just 5 km from Arco, one can continue comfortably by bus or bicycle along the Sarca Valley bicycle path.
A young team with lots of drive
Ventus is a 3-minute walk from downtown and Lake
The facility is set in a park of more than 4,000 sq. m.
A beautiful swimming pool surrounded by greenery awaits you
A young team with lots of drive
Ventus is a 3-minute walk from downtown and Lake
The facility is set in a park of more than 4,000 sq. m.
A beautiful swimming pool surrounded by greenery awaits you
A GREAT CALENDAR
Festivals, music, sports and traditions enliven Garda Trentino every season. Discover all the upcoming events and get inspired.
UNFORGETTABLE MOMENTS
Excursions, guided tours, tastings and unique activities that can be booked online. Each experience is a way to truly experience the area.
We reopen in March. Online bookings remain available.
