Sirmione

Sirmione is a comune in the Lombardy region of northern Italy, in the province of Brescia, situated on the southern shore of Lake Garda. It occupies a narrow peninsula that extends into the lake, about four kilometers long, and is connected to the mainland by a causeway. The town has a resident population of around 8,000–9,000 and is a popular destination for its scenery, thermal springs, and historic sites.

History and notable sites are among Sirmione’s main attractions. Human activity on the site dates back to ancient times, and in Roman times the settlement was known as Sirmio. The Grotte di Catullo, at the tip of the peninsula, are the ruins of a large Roman villa. In the 13th century the Scaliger family built the Castello Scaligero on the promontory, a fortress later modified under successive rulers, including the Venetians. The historic center preserves medieval streets and architecture.

Thermal baths and wellness facilities have long been associated with Sirmione. The Terme di Sirmione operates spa complexes that offer thermal pools and various wellness treatments, reflecting the area’s longstanding association with hot springs. The local economy is largely driven by tourism, with hotels, restaurants, and retail, complemented by wine production in the broader Lake Garda area, notably the Lugana designation.

Access and culture. Sirmione is reachable by road and by ferry services across Lake Garda, providing connections to Desenzano del Garda and other lake towns. The town hosts cultural events and remains a seasonal hub for lake tourism, drawing visitors with its lakeside promenades, historic fortress, and archaeological remains.