Italy in Photos

Porto Vecchio, 25015 Desenzano del Garda, Province of Brescia, Italy (June 2025)

The Old Inner Harbour (Porto Vecchio)

The Old Inner Harbour (Porto Vecchio) of Desenzano del Garda is one of the town’s most charming and historically rich locations. Nestled in the heart of this vibrant lakeside community on the southern shore of Lake Garda, the Porto Vecchio serves as a picturesque reminder of Desenzano’s past as a bustling centre of commerce and fishing. Originally built in the 13th century and expanded during the Venetian Republic’s rule in the 15th and 16th centuries, the harbour once played a vital role in the transport of goods, especially grains—across the lake and to nearby inland cities.

Today, the Old Harbour retains much of its historic character, with arched stone bridges, Venetian-style buildings, and quiet waters reflecting the pastel facades of its surrounding structures. While no longer used for heavy trade, the harbour is now a lively and scenic centrepiece of Desenzano’s social and cultural life. The calm waters shelter small pleasure boats, and the area comes alive with the sound of people dining, strolling, and enjoying the relaxed elegance that defines the town.

Surrounding the Porto Vecchio is a delightful mix of restaurants, cafés, and boutique hotels, many of which occupy restored historic buildings that overlook the water. These establishments blend old-world charm with modern comfort, offering visitors a unique experience where history and hospitality meet. Restaurants like Trattoria Al Porto or Ristorante Colomba serve traditional Italian and Lombard cuisine, often featuring freshly caught fish from Lake Garda, paired with local wines and olive oil. Whether you’re looking for a romantic candlelit dinner or a relaxed aperitivo with a lake view, the harbour provides an unbeatable setting.

For accommodations, several elegant boutique hotels and guesthouses are within walking distance of the harbour. Hotels such as Hotel Piroscafo or Alessi Hotel offer cozy, well-appointed rooms and personal service, making them ideal bases for exploring both Desenzano and the greater Lake Garda region.

The Old Inner Harbour is not just a place to pass through, it invites visitors to linger. Whether enjoying a morning coffee at a waterside café, taking a leisurely evening stroll beneath the old lamplights, or dining under the stars with views of gently bobbing boats, Porto Vecchio captures the essence of lakeside Italian charm. It is both a living piece of history and a hub of modern leisure.