Arco, tucked just behind Riva del Garda beneath dramatic cliffs, is a dream spot for climbers, nature lovers, and anyone after a peaceful Lake Garda base. Its hillside setting means sweeping views and a more relaxed vibe than the lakefront. Hotels here cater to every taste—cosy family villas, sleek boutique suites, even specialist stays for climbers. For luxury with views, head up the slopes; for budget-friendly comfort, the town centre delivers. Wherever you stay, Arco feels effortlessly authentic.

If you’re into the outdoors, you’ll find endless trails for hiking and biking, while those who prefer a slower pace can simply sit back, soak up the mountain views, and enjoy outstanding food and wine—luxury included if you want it. The town is famous for its crystal-clear air, thermal waters, and mild climate, which give it a distinctly Mediterranean feel. Wandering through Arco, you’ll stumble across lush gardens, charming squares, narrow lanes, and even a medieval castle looming over the historic centre. Elegant palazzos and striking churches add to the town’s beauty, while the Arboretum showcases the area’s incredible biodiversity.

The Best Places to Stay in Arco

For an Intimate Escape

• Vivere Suites offers six spacious contemporary bungalows, each with private kitchen, living space, and outdoor area. Crisp, elegant design meets luxurious details. Guests enjoy both seclusion and community perks — a shared pool, spa, and yoga facilities — perfect for couples or families.

For Foodies

• Casa Alla Lega surprises with sleek, contemporary interiors despite being one of Arco’s oldest properties. Minimalist chic contrasts with terracotta floors and exposed beams. Its historic restaurant, among the town’s oldest, serves authentic local delicacies on a vine-shaded terrace.

For an Active Break

• Garni on the Rock is a climber’s dream, with a sheer rock face out back and an indoor bouldering room. Crisp rooms boast mountain views, while a spa with hammam and sauna, plus free bikes, round out the adventure-meets-comfort vibe.

For Total Relaxation

• Monastero Arx Vivendi is a centuries-old monastery turned modern hideaway near Lake Garda. Think soaring arches, sleek suites with saunas, and views over mountains and gardens. Unwind in the spa, swim outdoors, or simply soak up timeless tranquillity.

For Great Value

• Da Gianni is a 13-room B&B set in an historic villa above Riva del Garda. Individually styled with Italian antiques, it offers lush gardens, a pool, shaded terraces, and gourmet breakfasts. Family-friendly rooms and quiet reading corners make it a refined retreat. An affordable base.

Prefer a Self-catering Apartment or villa?

• Sometimes a villa or apartment is the best option if you're travelling in a larger group, so if you decide that you'd prefer a self catering option, check out our online booking partner, booking.com for some inspiration.

Travel Information

• Arco is at the northerly tip of Lake Garda, so positioned between several international airports: Verona-Villafranca, Brescia-Montichiari and Milan’s Linate and Malpensa. Verona-Villafranca is closest by car, around an hour away, but it’s three hours by public transport. Brescia-Montichiari is closest by public transport, at just over two hours, but it’s around an hour and a quarter by car. Milan is about two hours' drive, or four and a half by public transport.
• If you want to hire a car — which we strongly advise if you’re staying on Lake Garda and plan to get out and about — we recommend you visit our online partner, Rentalcars.
• Arco is incredibly popular in the summer, so if you want to visit at this time of year you should book your hotel/s and restaurants early. However it is a great destination well into autumn and winter too, and spring is also very beautiful. May and June are a good compromise if you’re still hoping for warmth and sunshine (temperatures can reach about 25°C), and September is similar.

Still not sure?

• Expand your search to include all the best places to stay on Lake Garda or Riva del Garda,
• Refine your search by accommodation type and explore the best hotels with a view on Lake Garda, the best family hotels on Lake Garda or the best hotels on Lake Garda for foodies,
• Alternatively, contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.