Last Updated February 2026
Disclosure - this is a collaborative post
For many UK families, Disneyland Paris is the ultimate theme park holiday. You all know we are huge fans of Disney in general but the theme parks are our go to, especially Disneyland Paris. It's a quick and easy flight, the iconic castle, and the familiar magic of the characters. However, if you're looking further afield this year and considering a trip to Northern Italy, you'll likely have Gardaland on your radar.
Located on the stunning southeastern banks of Lake Garda, Gardaland is Italy’s biggest theme park. But if your family is like us and is used to world of Disney, you might wonder how it compares. Is it worth stepping away from the lake for a day? Here's everything you need to know about what Gardaland offers and how it stacks up for a family day out.
The Atmosphere - Fantasy vs. Film
The biggest difference to note is that Gardaland isn't built around movie franchises. so instead of Disney characters and Marvel themed areas, the park focuses on its own imaginative themes. The Fantasy Kingdom is the heart of the park for younger children. It's a whimsical, brightly coloured world centred around a giant treehouse.
Although it doesn't have the same magic and sparkle of Disney, it makes up for it with a distinct Mediterranean charm. It feels slightly more relaxed, and because it sits right on the edge of the lake, the setting is arguably much more scenic than the outskirts of Paris.
Peppa Pig Land - A Dream for Little Travellers
One of the most impressive features for those travelling with toddlers is the dedicated Peppa Pig Land. This isn't just a single ride tucked away in a corner; it's a fully immersive area where the world of Peppa comes to life.
Immersive fun
Little ones can actually explore Peppa’s famous yellow house or hop on Grandpa Pig’s Train.
Accessibility
The rides here are specifically designed for the under-fives, meaning there’s plenty to do even for the smallest members of the family who might usually feel left out of the bigger theme park thrills.
Beating the Heat - The LEGOLAND Water Park
If you're visiting Italy during the summer months, the heat can be intense. This is where Gardaland offers something Disneyland Paris doesn't: a world-class water park within the resort.
The LEGOLAND Water Park is a brilliant addition for 2026. It features a Miniland where you can see Italian landmarks built from millions of LEGO bricks, and a Build-a-Boat section in the lazy river.
Access to the Water Park usually requires a combo ticket, so it's worth checking your ticket type before you arrive at the gates to avoid disappointment.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Visit
To make the most of a day at Gardaland, a little bit of Disney-style planning goes a long way.
The Gardaland Express
Much like Disney’s Premier Access, this is a paid-for service to skip the queues. On a hot August day, it's a lifesaver for families wanting to squeeze in as many rides as possible.
Food and Drink
You’ll find the dining options here lean heavily into local flavours. Expect high-quality pizza and proper Italian gelat often at a slightly more reasonable price than the Parisian parks.
Stay Hydrated
There are water fountains scattered around the park, which is essential when the Italian sun's out.
Travelling To Gardaland From Different Areas
One of the best things about Lake Garda is how easy it's to navigate, but when you're planning a day at a major resort like Gardaland, you'll want to have your route sorted before you leave. Whether you're staying in a quiet northern village or at a popular holiday park like Eurocamp's Lake Garda campsites, there's a way to get there that fits your family's pace.
From the South - Peschiera del Garda & Sirmione
The Free Shuttle
If you can get to Peschiera del Garda railway station, there’s a free shuttle bus that runs every 30 minutes. It starts 30 minutes before the park opens and the last one leaves 30 minutes after closing. It's only a 5-minute hop!
By Car From Sirmione
A quick 15–20 minute drive. Just follow the signs for Peschiera/Verona.
From the East - Lazise, Bardolino & Garda
The 164 Bus
This bus runs directly from the Garda bus station, through Bardolino and Lazise, and drops you right outside the Gardaland gates. It's cheap, reliable, and means you don't have to worry about parking.
From the North - Riva del Garda & Malcesine
The Scenic Route
You can take the Navigarda ferry down to Peschiera or Lazise. It’s a stunning way to see the lake, but it can take over two hours, so it's really only for those who want to make the journey part of the adventure.
By road: Driving from Riva will take you about an hour and 15 minutes. It’s a gorgeous drive, but be prepared for a bit of traffic during the school holidays.
A Quick Note on Parking
If you're driving, there's a huge on-site car park. It usually costs around €10 per day for cars. Arrive about 30 minutes before the park opens to get a spot closer to the entrance—your legs will thank you at the end of the day!
The Verdict - Is it Worth the Detour?
If your family loves the structure and thrills of a theme park but wants to enjoy the beauty of Italy, Gardaland is a fantastic compromise. It provides that burst of high-energy fun for the kids, while keeping you perfectly positioned to explore the beautiful lakeside towns.
While it may not have Mickey Mouse the combination of world-class coasters, a dedicated Peppa Pig Land, and the cooling relief of the LEGOLAND Water Park makes it a brilliant addition to any Italian itinerary. It’s a great way to add a bit of Runway excitement to your Italian Playdays.
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Michelle
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