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7/3/2015
Riva Info pack
Riva
Info pack
Find out everything you might want to know about Riva. Your info
pack, written by your Holiday Advisor team includes:
Contact details for your Holiday Advisor - get some advice
on what to do in Riva or let them know if you have any
problems. They're here to help.
Loads of recommendations for days out and things to do.
Details of all the shops and facilities you might need while
you're away.
Top tips for your journey to Riva and getting settled in to
your accommodation.
View your full info pack online, on tablet and on mobile. Available
now at www.thomsonlakes.co.uk/your-account
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YOUR ARRIVAL
Your arrival at Verona airport
Once you've collected your luggage you’ll find your Thomson Team waiting for you. Please let us
know if you’re having any baggage problems, or if you need any special assistance so we can help.
Our team will tell you where to find your coach or taxi for your transfer to Riva. There may be
customers arriving from other flights on your transfer, so we'll do our best to keep you informed
of any waiting time before your vehicle leaves for the resort.
Transfer to your resort
When your transfer is ready to leave for Riva, we'll let you know an estimated journey time and
explain the route, including any stops or drop-offs along the way.
Generally, the transfer from Verona airport to Riva takes around 2 hours. To reduce transfer
times, sometimes you may wait for a short while at the airport for additional flights to land. In
these circumstances, your travelling time to your resort will usually be less, as the coach will stop
at fewer resorts along the way.
Just so you know, sometimes our transfer vehicles can’t make it right to the door of your
accommodation so there might be a short walk, possibly carrying your luggage, to get to the
entrance of your accommodation.
If you've booked car hire prior to your departure please contact a Thomson Holiday Advisor at
the airport - they'll be able to direct you to the car hire office.
If you’re travelling to your resort by car or train, you’ll find some information waiting for you at
your accommodation reception so you can arrange to meet your Holiday Advisor.
Check in and settle in
When you arrive at your accommodation, it’s usual for reception to request your passport.
If you have any dietary requirements this is an ideal time to inform reception. Alternatively you
can contact us on [email protected] and we’ll let your accommodation know before you
arrive on holiday.
Please report any issues or requests you have to your accommodation reception. If anything
remains unresolved, please contact your Thomson Holiday Advisor who will be happy to help.
Safety standards with regards to balconies differ in Italy. You may be staying in a room with a
balcony that is lower than we would expect in the UK. Please take care when on the balcony and
do not lean on or over the railings. Children aged 12 and under must be supervised and not left
unattended on the balcony at any time.
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Welcome meeting
Your Holiday Advisor will hold a short welcome meeting at the beginning of your holiday to tell
you about what there is to see and do during your stay.
We'll give you details of exactly where and when this will be when you arrive on holiday.
Welcome walkabout
Your Holiday Advisor will meet you in a central point in Riva for a short walking tour around the
town. We'll show you how to get out and about, where the best spots for coffee and ice creams
are, and explain more about some of the fantastic places to explore while you're here.
We'll give you details of exactly where and when this will be when you arrive on holiday.
The information on this page was last modified on 1 May 2015.
If there are any important updates, your Thomson Holiday Advisor will let you know
when you arrive on holiday.
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YOUR HOLIDAY ADVISOR
Join us for the welcome to Riva, to find out more about what there is to do in resort.
Of course you want to have a great trip, so we want to hear about your holiday while you’re there.
If anything’s not right, tell us there and then and we’ll get on with fixing it so you can get on with
enjoying your time awa
24/7 availability
Here are the 24/7 contact details for your Thomson Lakes & Mountains team in Riva.
Dheraen - (0039) 348 292 8057 - Hotel Astoria Park, Hotel Luise, Parc Hotel Flora
Kat - (0039) 349 786 2088 - Hotel Du Lac et Du Parc, Hotel Garda, Hotel Kristal Palace, Hotel
Prince
Tommy - (0039) 349 786 0944 - Hotel Mirage, Hotel Riviera, Hotel Savoy Palace
Oliviia - (0039) 349 786 1947 - Hotel Antico Borgo, Hotel Centrale, Hotel Riva, Hotel Sole
Or follow us on Twitter @Riva_Summer
We’ve gone digital - with our new iPads we can provide an even better service to you. We’ve got
loads of info at our fingertips and we’ll be answering your emails and tweets on the move.
Just so you know, our response times may be slower when we’re at the airport on Wednesday and
Saturday.
Or you can email us at [email protected]
We’re really looking forward to meeting you and sharing our local knowledge of Riva
Your welcome to Riva
You’ll find all the details of your welcome in the envelope handed to you on arrival. Make sure
you come along to get some useful info on the resort and the local area.
Our in-resort service
Being in the right place for you is what our holiday service is all about. Give us a call, send a text
or email, or come to see us wherever is handiest for you - whether you’ve got specific questions
or just want to say hi.
And you’ll get a speedier response too – we’ve gone digital with our new iPads so we’ve got loads
of useful info at our fingertips and can email or tweet you on the move.
We’re available throughout the week for you to stop by for a chat, or to ask any specific questions.
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And if these times don't fit with your plans, let us know and we can arrange to come to your
accommodation.
Visits to your accommodation
We'll be visiting your accommodations - come and see us throughout the week, we'll be happy to
help. You will receive information on our visit times in your Welcome Pack when you arrive.
If you would prefer to see us at a different time then please do let us know and we can arrange a
time more suitable to you.
Emergency numbers
To call the emergency services dial 112. Ask to be connected to an English-speaking operator.
For our out of hours UK team in the customer operations centre, dial +44 (0)1582 640 045.
Homeward bound
Your departure details will normally be delivered to you two days before you head home. If you
miss our visit, the details will be left at reception.
The information on this page was last modified on 30 June 2015.
If there are any important updates, your Thomson Holiday Advisor will let you know
when you arrive on holiday.
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YOUR RESORT
Banks and cash points
Banca Gruppo MPS is located on Via Florida in the centre of the OldTown. Is it open Monday to
Friday from 8.20am - 1.20pm and 2.15pm - 5.45pm.
Banca Uni Credit is located next to Reptile Land and is open Monday to Friday from 8.20am 1.20pm and 2.35pm - 4.05pm. They also have a 24 hour cash point machine
Banca Popolare de Trentino is located by the Orvea Supermarket and is open Monday to Saturday
from 8.20am -1.20pm and 2.35 - 4.05pm
Bus station
The main bus stop is situated on Viale Trento, opposite the Hotel Astoria. It is a good 15 minute
walk from town. The main bus stops along Via Rovereto are the closest for the hotels along that
road (there is one by the Hotel Du Lac et Du Parc, and another one by the Hotel Brione), whereas
the stop outside the Hotel Liberty (opposite the post office) is the closest one for the central
hotels.
See ‘Getting around’ for information on timetables.
Church
The main church in town is the Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta in Piazza Cavour. It was built during
the baroque period (1728) and replaces a far older Romanesque church. Behind the main alter
there is an altarpiece depicting the assumption by the Riva artist Guiseppe Craffonara.
There are services daily at 8.30am and 6pm. On days of religious significance there are services at
8.30am, 10am, 11.30am and 6pm.
A second church of note is the Chiesa dell’ Inviolata at the top of Viale Roma. It is without doubt
one of the prettiest churches in the Trentino area. It was built between 1603 and 1682 and
beautifully blends the Renaissance style exterior with the rich baroque decorations of the
interior.
Doctor
The Doctors surgery is located opposite the Riviera Hotel on the main road out of town, towards
Torbole. They operate on an appointment only basis and the telephone number is: (0039) 340
3996963. The opening times are from 9am - 12pm and 5pm - 7pm. Please contact your Holiday
Advisor if you do need a doctor.
Internet
The Luna Network is a free internet service available in central Torbole and Riva. To log on turn
on your computer's WiFi, then connect to the @Free Luna Riva del Garda network, open a
browser and you will be redirected to the Luna website. From here you can log in following the
instructions - Happy surfing.
Free Wi-Fi is also available in most of the Cafes and Bars in Riva, and in most hotels.
Newsagent
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There is a newsagent located at then end of the Via Dante Alighieri, open 8.30am – 1pm, then
3.30pm – 7pm, it does not stock English newspapers, however most hotels do have daily English
newspapers.
Or if you fancy reading the newpaper in the sun, then head down to Cristallos bar near the ferry
port.
Pharmacy
There is a pharmacy on Via Florida (the main high street) which is open from 9am-12.30pm and
3.30pm - 7.30pm. The main pharmacy in Riva is in Piazza Erbe, open 9am-12:30pm, 3pm-7pm,
and they speak English.
Post office
The post office located on Viale Dante Alighieri (the main roundabout in Riva) and is open from
8.25am-7pm Monday to Friday and 8.25am - 12.35pm on Saturday.
Supermarket
There is a Co-op supermarket located on Viale San Francesco which is open Monday to Saturday
from 8.30am - 7.30pm.
Behind the Grand Hotel Riva is the Orvea supermarket. Open Monday to Saturday 8am – 7.30 pm
Monday to Saturday.
The only supermarket open 7 days a week is Poli located on the Viale Madruzzo near the centre of
town. Open 8am – 8pm.
Tourist information
Is located by the old bus station (Vecchio Auto Stazione). It is open daily from 9am - 6pm.
Local promotions cards are available at the Tourist Information and often in the receptions of the
hotels. Promotions last for 3 days from the first time you use it. Ask your Holiday Advisor for
more details.
Discount Card
Use your Thomson Lakes and Mountains Discount Card to get extra value for your money when
you eat and drink at some of our favourite bars and restaurants, 10% off:
Ristorante Bella Vista, Piazza Cesare Battisti, 7, Riva del Garda Trento, Italy
New ownership, with a fantastic chef and welcoming staff and the best view of the lake.
10% off total bill
Cristallo’s Piazza Catena, 17, 38066 Riva del Garda Trento, Italy
Top family run café, bar and gelateria. Open early until late and a great venue for live sports.
10% off food
The Bar, Piazza Erbe, Riva Del Garda
a quirky bar in the centre of the old town, not far from Piazza Erbe, run by couple Luca &
Helen
10% off food
Bicycle Solutions Viale Rovereto, 134, Riva del Garda Trento
Wide range of mountain bikes to suit all needs and best day hire price, opposite Hotel Riviera
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10% off food
Caffé del Centro
Tastes from Perugia, great for lunch or a Spritz in the sun
10% off
La Borsa, Via Diaz Street, Riva Del Garda
Leather goods shop, wide range of Italian made bags, purses, belts and jackets
10% off
Laura & Luca's
Great range of typical products from the North of the lake: pasta, olive oil and local wines
10% off
Trieste Pizzeria
Special homemade dumplings/gnocchi and a menu of pizza and pasta
10% off
Al Vaticana, Via S.Maria, 8 Riva del Garda.
Situated in the old town, mix of traditional food and a fusion of international tastes
10% off
Priscilla, Via Fiume, Riva del Garda
A fun little home/kitchenware shop, quality olive tree wooden products
10% off
La Grazie Pelleteria, Via Fiume, Rival del Garda
Great selection of Italian made leather products
10% off
Gioielli Etnici
Stylish store, selling a range of fashionable jewellery with an ethnic twist
10% off
Claudia's Hair Studio, Viale Dante Alighieri, 39, 38066
Stylish salon in the top end of the old town, unisex
10% off
The information on this page was last modified on 21 May 2015.
If there are any important updates, your Thomson Holiday Advisor will let you know
when you arrive on holiday.
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GETTING AROUND
Here are some basics to help you get around Riva and the surrounding
area.
Buses
When using the local buses it is advisable to buy your ticket before you get on the bus. They can
be bought from most bus stations and are valid until you use them, as they are not dated. Bus
tickets can also be purchased from the driver on the bus.
When you board the bus validate the ticket by inserting it in the box next to the driver.
The main bus station is situated on Viale Trento, opposite the Hotel Astoria. It is a good 15
minute walk from town. There are bus stops all along the main road through Riva (Via Rovereto),
in particular, one by the Hotel Du Lac et Du Parc and the other by the Hotel Brione. The nearest
stop for central hotels is outside the Hotel Liberty.
Ferries
The local ferry is the most relaxing way to experience the lake and enjoy its beauty. There are
two different types of transport on the lake – steamers and hydrofoil.
A timetable will be available at the Welcome Meeting together with an explanation of how to use
it.
The ferry port is to the right of the main square (Piazza 3 Novembre) by the disused hydroelectric power station. In Riva the ferry ticket office only opens 20 minutes before the ferry is
due to depart.
For value for money you can purchase a ‘North Lake Hopper Pass’ (Alto Lago ticket). This allows
you to visit Limone, Malcesine and Torbole as many times as you want in one day.
For more information on the local ferries click here.
Taxis
The main taxi rank can be found by the Hotel Riva and the minimum fare within the town is
€7.25. Please make sure you agree the price with the driver before entering the taxi. Your hotel
reception will be more than happy to arrange a taxi for you
You can book a taxi on (0039) 0464 552200 or (0039) 0464 557044
Approximate prices are as follows:
Porto San Nicolo to Riva €7-€8
Riva to Torbole €10-€12
Riva to Arco €13-€15
Trains
There are 2 options for using the train.
The first is the train station in Rovereto, where the main lines go to Verona and Venice.
The second option is the train from Peschiera where the train lines also go to the major cities of
Verona, Venice and Milan.
Train tickets can be bought locally in some travel agents, or in the train station at the cash desk or
ticket machines.
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Don’t forget to validate your ticket at one of the small yellow machines located on the platform
before you get on the train. If your train ticket is not validated you may be fined on the spot by
inspectors on the trains.
The information on this page was last modified on 21 May 2015.
If there are any important updates, your Thomson Holiday Advisor will let you know
when you arrive on holiday.
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DAYS OUT
Here are suggestions of places to visit during your holiday. They’re excursions run with local
suppliers which you can book through your Holiday Advisor.
Venice
A great combination history and romance in the unique city of Venice.
Includes a private motor boat to St Marks Square.
Optional extras: Gondola ride (€21per person), lagoon mini-cruise (€14 per person).
To enter St Mark's Basilica shoulders and knees will have to be covered.
Free time to do your own thing, Bellinis in Harry's bar, or climb St Mark's Campanile for
amazing views across St Mark's Square.
Venice by night
Combine the best of both worlds by seeing Italy's most unique City by day and night.
Includes a private motor boat to St Marks Square.
Optional extras: Gondola ride, lagoon mini-cruise
To enter St Mark's Basilica shoulders and knees will have to be covered.
Free time to do your own thing, Bellinis in Harry's bar, or climb St Mark's Campanile for
amazing views across St Mark's Square.
Florence
The jewel of Tuscany, the birth place of renaissance. Art Architecture and more a truly
spectacular City.
Milan
Spend a day in the City of history, music, fashion and shopping.
Visit the mighty Duomo and imposing Sforzesco castle.
Verona
Romantic ancient City which was the setting for Shakespeare's 'Romeo and Juliet'.
Visit Juliet's balcony and the world renowned Roman amphitheatre.
Lake Tour
Discover all the highlights Lake Garda has to offer in one day.
This excursion is mainly a guided coach tour with part of it done by boat.
Local guide will ensure you understand the history of the lake.
Mantova and Sigurta
A charming medieval town.
Visit Mantova Palace.
See the crypt of San Andrea.
Enjoy the most beautiful gardens in the world.
125 acres of bursting colour.
A cultural city and Italy’s secret garden.
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Wine Tour
A walk through the 'cantina' with the chance to learn how the wines are made.
Sample some wines and learn about the different flavours in the tasting.
Savour the finest local wines.
Dolomites
Europe’s most distinctive Mountains.
Enjoy panoramic views at 3000m.
The most breathtaking day out.
Optional extra to take the Pordoi Pass cablecar approximately €20.
Bolzano and Renon
Visit the South Tyrol's capital Bolzano and the stunning plateau of Renon.
Explore the town with its architecture of both medieval and Tyrolean styles.
Optional visit to the archaeological museum for a view of Ötzi the iceman (€7).
In the afternoon enjoy the splendid plateau of Renon, with dramatic views of the Dolomites.
To find out more, or to book, please come along to the welcome meeting / info point / welcome
walkabout or contact us at any time.
Just so you know, some entrance fees, road tolls, boat crossings and optional extras are not
included in the excursion prices.
Places are limited, so we’d recommend you book early to guarantee you get your spot.
Alternatively you can use our excursions as ideas for away days to do under your own steam with
a bit of planning and some careful organisation.
The information on this page was last modified on 1 May 2015.
If there are any important updates, your Thomson Holiday Advisor will let you know
when you arrive on holiday.
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THINGS TO DO
Sightseeing, museums and culture
These are all within Riva or a short ferry or bus ride away
Monte Brione (Riva)
The smallest mountain in the Dolomite mountain range, Monte Brione slices between the towns
of Riva and Torbole like a slab of brie cheese. A walk to the top comes highly recommend. Follow
the ‘path of peace’ from the Porto San Nicolo and you’ll find yourself snaking alongside the cliff
side with some fantastic views to keep you company. The path takes you up to an altitude of 376
m and along the way you can explore the remains of some Austrian fortifications built between
1860 and the First World War.
Varone Waterfalls (Varone)
The waterfall at Varone is a must see while you’re staying with us in Riva and Torbole. The
waterfall is fed by underground springs from Lake Tenno which feed the Magnone stream. Over
the past 20,000 years the stream has eroded a deep gorge through the rocks. The 100 m high
falls and the gorge can be explored using a series of steps and platforms. On your way up to the
waterfalls you stroll through a small botanical garden showing some of the tropical plants that
grow so well in Riva’s unique climate. The village of Varone and the waterfall lie 3 kilometres
north of Riva town, about a 40 minute walk from the centre. Alternatively the local buses 1 and 2
will take you from Riva to the falls.
Arco Castle (Arco)
Head north of Riva to the beautiful town of Arco and explore the castle. The existence of Arco
Castle is recorded as far back as the 12th century when it was ruled by the Lords of Arco. The
settlement grew over time to become a fortified village. In 1703 it was damaged by cannonades
of Vendome and eventually abandoned. Recent restoration work has uncovered some beautiful
frescos dating back to the 14th century. It is open daily from 10am to 7pm. Entry for an adult is
€3.50 and for children and over 65’s it is €2.
The town of Arco lies 5 kilometres north of Riva and can be reached by foot or bike via a
walking/cycle path running alongside the river sacra. Alternatively the local buses 1 and 2 will take
you from Riva to Arco.
Marmitte dei Giganti – The Giants Caves (Torbole)
These mysterious caves are actually rare examples of glacial potholes dating back to the last ice
age. The enormous cavities (4 to 5 n in diameter and 10 to 12 m deep) remain remarkably intact.
Above the caves there is a panoramic view point with a small bar.
La Limonaia Del Castel (Limone)
Approaching Limone from the water you can’t fail to notice the ruins of the old “Limonaia” the
ruins of the lemon grove farms. La Limonaia del Castel is a renovated lemon farm, located just
below the Hotel Castello.Here you can learn about the history of the Limonaia and the cultivation
of lemons which was first introduced in the 13th century by the monks living in the convent of St.
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Francis in Gargnano. In the 17th century it was decided that a protective structure of some sort
needed to be built to protect the lemons against the frost and vilant storms that can strike in the
humid summer months, and the result was the Limonaia. Have a stroll around and buy yourself a
bottle of Limoncello to take home with you as a memento of your visit. La Limonaia del Castel
are open daily from 10am – 6pm and entrance is €2
Monte Baldo Cable car (Malcesine)
Our top-tip for things to do while visiting the beautiful resort of Malcesine is to take a trip on the
cable car (also known as the funivia). This series of two cable cars will take you up to the top of
Monte Baldo. The first cable car takes you up to the mid-station of San Michele (an altitude of 560
metres) and from there you can continue all the way up to the top of Monte Baldo (1800 metres).
At the top of Monte Baldo there are various viewing points, some lovely restaurants and also
some fantastic walks so it is definitely worth the trip up to the top. The cable car runs daily from
8am - 4.45pm every half an hour and discounts are available with a Lake Garda Promotion Card
and for those over 65
Local markets
Great for photos, taking in the atmosphere and finding some delicious local produce for picnics.
Monday
Peschiera 8am - 2pm
Torri del Benaco 8am - 1.30pm
Tuesday
Desenzano 8am - 12.30pm
Limone 8am - 1pm
Wednesday
2nd & 4th of every month Riva 8am - 1pm
1st & 3rd of every month Arco 8am - 1pm
Lazise 8am - 1pm
Thursday
Bardolino & Maderno 8am - 1pm
Friday
Garda 8am - 1pm
Saturday
Malcesine 8am - 1pm
Events and concerts
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July 5. Pam, Bondola e Vim. Piazza 3 Novembre, Riva. 9am - 6:30pm. Traditional festival with
free distribution of mortadella and wine. Free entrance
July 9. Funk music for happy people. Piazza 3 Novembre, Riva. 9pm - 10:30pm. Concert.
July 18 - August 2. Riva music festival. A festival where musicians from all over the world come
to perform. From classic opera to pop.
July 18, firework display in Riva. Watch from the shoreline in the main town centre.
July 26, free entrance into La Rocca, Riva Civic Museum. 10am - 6pm. See the local exhibits
including some wonderful old photos of the lake.
August 27 - 30. Notte di Fiaba (meaning night of fairy tales). All around the town there are
stages of a fairy tale - this years theme is Red Ridding Hood.
August 28 and 30. Firework display in Riva. Watch from the shoreline in the main town centre.
Every Thursday - concert in Malcesine castle. See your holiday advisor for latest show
information. Cost: €29 including tickets and return transport to Malcesine.
Walking
As with every holiday destination, we have our share of local midges etc and would suggest that
you cover your legs are when walking in woodland, or at least ensure you apply a strong insect
repellent to bare skin..
Cycling
Bikes can be hired from many hotels free of charge. And if you’re looking for something special
bicycle solutions situated just opposite the hotel Rivieria has fantastic mountain and road bikes
for hire. We’d also suggest hiring a cycling helmet.
Activities
Being home to Europe’s largest windsurfing school, Surf Segnana in Torbole, and also being two
of the best places in the world to windsurf, Riva and Torbole are the perfect places for getting
out onto the water and trying your hand at a new sport. Sailing du Lac and Surf Segnana can get
you kitted out and onto the water in record time.
Don’t let a little thing like not knowing how to sail stop you enjoying the water. Sailing du Lac
and Surf Segnana both offer a “joy ride” experience. Head out onto the water with a fully
qualified sailing instructor who will whisk you off into the Ora without you having to do a thing.
For the thrill seekers amongst you, head to the Canyoning Centre just off the main road
through Torbole for an amazing afternoon of throwing yourself down mountain rapids and off
waterfalls. Certainly not for the faint hearted.
The Busatte Adventure in Torbole is an Italian style “go ape”. High in the trees, secure in a
harness, you have to navigate different courses of high wires and obstacles.
There is fantastic hiking and biking right on your doorstep in Riva and Torbole. Ask your
Holiday Advisor for a walking guide and head out to explore the surrounding mountains and
ruined battlements from the Great War.
If you fancy all the thrill of tearing down a mountain without the effort of cycling up in the first
place then you’re in luck as Riva and Torbole offer various “bike shuttles” which will drive you
are you bike to the start of some of the best mountain biking tracks that Europe has to offer.
Garda on Bike offers guided bike tours as well as equipment hire.
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Eating out
Leon d’Oro, Via Fiume - Perhaps the best known restaurant in Riva and beloved by locals and
holiday makes alike. Luca and his family have run this restaurant for generations and the food
and service here are impeccable. The menu is extensive and there is something for everyone.
Whether to enjoy lunch in the shade or an evening meal with exceptional wine, a trip to Leon
d’Oro should be top of your list while here in Riva.
Spiaggia Olivi, next to the Fraglia della Vela - The newest addition to Riva’s restaurant scene,
Spiaggia Olivi is fast making its mark on the town. Here you can luxuriate in high end dinning
with unrivaled views over the lake. The building itself holds cultural significance as it was
designed by the noted Italian architect Giancarlo Maroni. Now diners on a Friday and Saturday
can enjoy post-dinner entertainment making an evening here an event to remember.
Trieste, Via Fiume - Pizza is the quintessential Italian dish and you can’t get much better than
here. The pizza oven is on all day long and with a dedicated pizza chef you’re guaranteed fresh
pizza every time.
La Colombera, Via Longa - Tucked away between vine yards and olive trees, La Colombera is a
16th century castle where the family still produce their own wine and olive oil. The restaurant
serves traditional Trentino specialties cooked in front of you on the outdoor grill. As well as
trout from the lake and beef from the grazing pastures of Tremosine, for the adventurous
amongst you, horse steaks are also on the menu.
Sailing Bar, Porto san Nicolo - Built to resemble the helm of a boat, this bar come lunch spot,
is the perfect place to reward yourself with a cool beer after a walk along the lake front. You
can lounge on the bean bags or head up to the roof terrace for stunning views over the marina
out to the lake. The Maxi-toast makes a great lunch as do any of the salads. During high season
they have weekly live music nights where they serve free pasta between 6pm and 7pm.
Cristallo, Piazza Cantena - With its ideal location opposite the ferry port, Cristallo’s is a home
from home for many holidaying here. As well as great lunch and fantastic aperitivo they also
do amazing breakfasts. We recommend the Fitness Breakfast to kick start your day. And with
sport in mind it also shows all major sports fixtures.
La Paz Bar, Viale Rovereto - This bar has an eye-catching glass extension and a perfect position
for people watching, making La Paz is an ideal spot for an aperitivo. Between 6pm and 8pm
you can help your self to the buffet on the bar while savouring an Aperol Spritz or a Hugo.
Above the bar you may spot the door of an Aston Martin DBS. This is the door from the stunt
car that crashed into Lake Garda during the filming of the chase scenes in the opening
sequence of Quantum of Solace.
Café Italia, Piazza Cavour -The sunniest bar in Riva. This is another great spot for an aperitivo.
With ample seating outside and snacks brought with every drink purchased, this is the perfect
place to make like an Italian and while away the hours in conversation or contemplation.
Antico Caffé Maffi, Piazza Nov III - If it’s cocktails you’re looking for then this is the place. Paolo
behind the bar can whip up whatever takes your fancy. Grab a seat on the sofa outside and with
its ideal location in the heart of Riva’s main square.
No one does ice cream like the Italians and in Riva we have tirelessly trawled our way through
almost every gelateria in town to bring you our top recommendations.
Etta Betta, Via Disciplini - Fantastical, weird and wonderful ice creams are produced on the
premises. Often besieged by locals wanting their daily fix this is our favourite post-dinner ice
cream stop.
Parc Flora, Viale Rovereto - Famous throughout the north of Lake Garda, Parc Flora serves up
the creamiest gelato. Made fresh on the premises you often have to wait in line to be served
so popular is a scoop from here. The helpings are generous and unfortunately, once you have
one you’ll find yourself wanting more.
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Riva Info pack
Here are a few tips to help ease you in to Italian culture
Italians love their coffee, and it is delicious. So here are some types of coffee you can order:
If you ask for a coffee, you might end up with an espresso, so ask for an Americano instead. It
will come black unless you say con latte (with milk)
An espresso with milk is called a caffe macchiato (ma-kee-arto)
A milky coffee is a latte macchiato
If you ask for a latte, you will get a glass or warm milk....not really helping you with that
caffeine kick.
A few handy phrases to get you off to a good start:
Hi/Bye = Ciao
Good day = Buon giorno (use all day until you switch to good evening around 5pm)
Good evening = Buonasera (use after 5pm as a greeting)
Good night = Buonanotte
Good bye = Arrivederci
Can i have........? = Posso avere.......? (pronounced av-eer-ray)
Please = Per favore
Thank you = Grazie
Where is the bathroom? = Dov'e il bagno (pronounced ban-yo)
You speak english? = Parla inglese
The information on this page was last modified on 3 July 2015.
If there are any important updates, your Thomson Holiday Advisor will let you know
when you arrive on holiday.
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