Pick-up location
Pick-up date
Drop-off Date
4.67/5
Based on 1,300+ reviews
Excellent
Trustpilot
Desenzano del Garda
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Desenzano del Garda
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Desenzano del Garda
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Desenzano del Garda
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car hire is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average hire duration of 6 days.
Desenzano del Garda, a charming town on the southwestern shore of Lake Garda, offers stunning views, historical sites, and delightful Italian culture. While local transport is available, a rental car provides the freedom to explore the region at your own pace.
Explore Lake Garda's Hidden Gems. A rental car grants easy access to picturesque towns like Sirmione, Peschiera del Garda, and Riva del Garda. Discover hidden beaches, vineyards, and hiking trails that are difficult to reach by public transport.
Visit Nearby Cities. Desenzano del Garda is conveniently located near Verona, Brescia, and Mantua. A day trip to these cultural hubs is easily manageable with a rental car, allowing you to experience the rich history and art of the region.
Enjoy Flexibility and Comfort. Avoid crowded buses and trains by travelling in the comfort of your own car. This is especially beneficial for families with children or travellers with a lot of luggage.
Before booking a rental car in Desenzano del Garda, it’s crucial to understand the local terms and conditions. This includes age restrictions, required documents, insurance policies, and potential extra fees.
Area
Approximately 29.7 square kilometres (11.5 square miles)
Population
Approximately 29,000 residents
Time Zone
Central European Time (CET), GMT+1
Ideal for
Exploring the Lake Garda region and nearby cities
Rush Hours
Expect heavier traffic during the summer months and around weekends.
Rating
4.8/5
1. Age RequirementsMost rental companies in Desenzano del Garda require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Drivers under 25 may incur a young driver surcharge.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driver’s license is required. EU citizens can use their national license, while non-EU citizens may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with their home country license.
3. Insurance & DepositsBasic insurance is typically included in the rental price, but additional coverage options like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) are available. A security deposit is usually required and held on the renter’s credit card.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyRental agreements may include unlimited mileage or a limited number of kilometres. Fuel policies vary, but a full-to-full policy is common, requiring you to return the car with a full tank.
5. Additional FeesExtra charges can apply for additional drivers, GPS navigation systems, child seats, and out-of-hours pick-up or drop-off.
Renting a car in Desenzano del Garda offers flexibility and convenience, but understanding the pricing structure is essential.
Business:
from £40 / $50 / €45 per day
Electric:
from £20 / $25 / €22 per day
Classic:
from £10 / $12 / €11 per day
Executive:
from £30 / $38 / €35 per day
7 Seater:
from £35 / $44 / €40 per day
Automatic:
from £20 / $25 / €22 per day
SUV:
from £12 / $15 / €14 per day
Peak season (June to August): Expect prices to increase by 20-30% due to high tourist demand. Booking well in advance is recommended.
Low season (November to February): Often come with discounts as demand decreases. This is a great time for budget-conscious travellers.
Car rental prices in Desenzano del Garda fluctuate depending on the season.
Booking a car in Desenzano del Garda is straightforward. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth rental experience.
1. Compare Prices - Use online comparison platforms like rentycars.com to find the best deals from various rental companies.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your needs, considering the number of passengers and luggage space.
3. Check Rental Terms - Carefully review the rental agreement, paying attention to mileage limits, insurance coverage, and fuel policies.
4. Book in Advance - Reserve your car well in advance, especially if you're travelling during peak season, to secure better rates and availability.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver's license, passport, and credit card to the rental counter when collecting your vehicle.
Desenzano del Garda is a beautiful town on Lake Garda known for its stunning views, historical sites, and vibrant atmosphere.
Desenzano del Garda offers a mix of historical charm and modern amenities. Exploring the town and surrounding areas by car provides flexibility and convenience. However, be aware of local traffic regulations and parking options to ensure a pleasant experience.
Top Attractions to Discover
Castello di Desenzano
A medieval castle offering panoramic views of Lake Garda.
Villa Romana
The remains of a Roman villa with well-preserved mosaics.
Porto Vecchio
The old harbour, a picturesque area with restaurants and cafes.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Several parking garages are available in the town centre, providing secure parking options.
On-Street Parking
Limited on-street parking is available, often requiring payment at parking meters.
Park & Ride
Consider using park-and-ride facilities on the outskirts of the town and taking public transport into the centre.
Gas Stations in Desenzano del Garda
Convenient Locations
Gas stations are readily available on the main roads leading into and out of Desenzano del Garda.
Major Brands
You'll find major fuel brands like Eni, IP, and Q8 in the area.
Navigation Apps
Use navigation apps to locate the nearest gas stations in real-time.
Useful Tips for Visiting Desenzano del Garda
Check Traffic Conditions
Be aware of traffic congestion, especially during peak season and weekends.
Plan for Parking
Parking can be challenging in the town centre, so plan accordingly.
Respect Local Regulations
Adhere to local traffic laws and speed limits.
Enjoy the Scenery
Take your time and enjoy the stunning views of Lake Garda while driving.
Railway Stations
Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione Railway Station
The main railway station, providing connections to major cities like Verona, Brescia, and Milan.
Bus Stations
Desenzano del Garda Bus Station
Located near the railway station, offering local and regional bus services.
Airports
Verona Villafranca Airport (VRN)
The nearest airport, located approximately 30 kilometres (19 miles) from Desenzano del Garda.
Brescia Airport (VBS)
Located approximately 40 kilometres (25 miles) from Desenzano del Garda.
Renting a car in Desenzano del Garda requires a few essential documents and meeting certain criteria. Here's what you need to know.
Ensure your driver's license is valid in Italy. EU citizens can use their national license, while non-EU citizens may need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, and some may have additional restrictions or fees for drivers under 25.
A valid credit or debit card in the main driver's name is required for the security deposit. Credit cards are often preferred.
A passport or other government-issued photo ID is required for identification purposes.
This content was written, fact-checked, and/or translated by our expert team of content creators.
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This page was edited, fact-checked, and/or translated by our experts who are passionate about helping travellers experience the world by car. Our team of seasoned travel writers and editors has driven across more than 50 countries, hired cars on six continents, and explored countless scenic routes — from Icelandic fjords to Moroccan deserts.
Our clients rate such place as Desenzano del Garda as
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Relaxing, good vibes
Chloe Miller
Reviewed: 31.07.2025
Lake Garda was stunning! Driving around was so convenient, exploring charming towns.
Emily Carter
Reviewed: 23.01.2025
Summer on Lake Garda was amazing! Having a car made exploring Desenzano and the surrounding areas so easy. The views were breathtaking.
Ava Garcia
Reviewed: 08.07.2025
Pretty chill, really
Mike Smith
Reviewed: 08.01.2025
Pretty laid-back, really
Liam O'Connell
Reviewed: 05.04.2025
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Desenzano was perfect for my quick business trip. Exploring the lake with my rental car was easy and delightful!
Sarah Jones
Reviewed: 11.08.2025