In Garda Trentino, there are plenty of sunny days and good weather - the Mediterranean microclimate gives us favourable weather, with mild summers and winters. Of course, it can't always be sunny, you also need a bit of rain!

So, what is there to do in Riva del Garda when the sun disappears behind the clouds, and maybe it even starts raining? There is no shortage of things to see and do in Garda Trentino - this outdoor paradise also offers many interesting indoor activities for people of all ages. Here are some suggestions!

What to do in Riva del Garda when it rains:

A rainy day...at the spa

When there are spas nearby, a rainy day is just what you need! You should know that in our area and its immediate surroundings you’ll find plenty of spas and wellness centers. Let's start with Garda Thermae, a modern wellness center just a few steps from the lake, with a salt pool, saunas, hammam, whirlpool, and so on.

Moving a little further away there are the Terme di Comano, fed by the water that flows from the Brenta Dolomites. And again, on the Veronese shore of the lake, you can spend an unforgettable day in the Villa dei Cedri thermal park, in Colà di Lazise.

When it rains in Riva del Garda: the museums!

Rainy days during the holidays can be precious opportunities to visit local museums, with exhibitions for adults and children alike. In Riva del Garda, you can discover the MAG – Museo Alto Garda, housed in the Rocca, with sections dedicated to archaeology, an art gallery and interesting temporary exhibitions.

In Riva, Reptiland also awaits you, a natural science museum and herpetological center, where you can admire snakes, but also insects and butterflies. In Rovereto you can opt for the Mart, with collections ranging from the 19th century to contemporary art, while in Trento you can visit the Muse, another great destination for the whole family. This Science Museum designed by Renzo Piano never disappoints, with its stunning architecture and interesting exhibitions.

South of Riva del Garda, you should also consider heading to the Vittoriale degli Italiani, designed by Maroni on commission from poet Gabriele d'Annunzio. This is best visited on days of light rain, as the exterior of the villa and the park are also very interesting.

Tasting wines and grappas while waiting for the sun

How can we forget about the superb wines produced thanks to the mild climate of Garda Trentino? From Cabernet to Merlot, from Marzemino to Nosiola, all the way to Trentodoc and Vino Santo - all you have to do is book a tasting in one of the many wineries in the area. If you head to the Valle dei Laghi, make sure you also taste the grappas produced from the same vines!

Shopping in the center and in Arco

The streets of the Riva del Garda historic center are perfect to go shopping, strolling among the stores and boutiques of Piazza Erbe, Via Dante and Via Fiume. Are you perhaps thinking of activewear or sports equipment, for activities like hiking or climbing? Then the perfect place for you is Arco: its historic center is home to all the main brands in the world of Alpine sports!

Discovering the Riva hydroelectric power plant

On rainy days, the monumental power plant built a century ago by Giancarlo Maroni – the same architect as the Vittoriale – is the number 1 attraction in Riva del Garda. A visit to the power plant is a great idea for the whole family, thanks to the many places to visit and the “games” offered to visitors.

Admire the bold architecture, learn about the curious mechanisms that allow water to be transformed into clean electricity, read the information panels with the history of the power plant, have fun with the games and videos - you can certainly spend some peaceful, fun and… educational hours!

Photo credits: Garda Trentino