Italy’s Number One Theme Park: Gardaland

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Gardaland has been Italy’s number one theme park for more than forty years now. It’s popular with adults and children and for those who haven’t heard of it, here is your chance to find out more!

Gardaland

Gardaland is located in Castelnuovo del Garda in the province of Verona and takes its name from nearby Lake Garda.

Over the years the park has grown tremendously and is constantly in the spotlight for its innovative shows and rides. In fact, the brand new Legoland Water Park will be inaugurated in June 2020!

It’s impossible to get bored here! Themed areas such as the Old West, magical medieval villages, and pirate vessels will keep it interesting.  For each of the thematic areas scattered throughout the park, themed restaurants, bars, and shops are available. Throughout the park, you’ll run into Gardaland’s famous mascot, Prezzemolo (Italian for “parsley”).

He’ll be roaming around the park snapping souvenir photos of the guests and he and his friends will be at the park entrance to greet you with their lively singing and dancing.

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Attractions

The park’s rides are divided into three groups: Adrenaline, Adventure, and Fantasy.

Adrenaline

As the name suggests, these rides are for adults and/or adrenaline lovers. These are the rides that have made the park famous: the exciting Blue Tornado, the Raptor and the Oblivion. All three will launch visitors at full speed with thrilling descents and twists that will take your breath away.

Adventure

Suitable for children and those who are slightly less courageous, the adventure attractions are for everyone, but still have a touch of panache. Have you ever thought of traveling upside down in a sawmill? Thanks to the Sequoia Magic Loop you can! Also known as the Sequoia Adventure, this type of roller coaster (called the “screaming squirrel”) is the only one in Italy and one of three existing in the world. But the adventure does not end here! You can dive into the ancient world of Atlantis, ride the roller coaster of death, shoot the ancient Egyptians and much more.

Fantasy

Fantasy park is geared for younger guests, but their parents won’t mind the marvelous attractions here such as the panoramic train and the beloved double-decker carousel.

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Sea Life Aquarium

Built in 2008, the Gardaland aquarium hosts 5,000 aquatic creatures in 13 different environments distributed in 40 tanks. Among the species are starfish, sea horses, sharks, sea lions, and many others. On sunny days you can enjoy the outdoor playground as well. There are lots of educational activities and events within the aquarium as well.

Rainy Days

In the case of rain, the park and its attractions don’t close. Some of the adrenaline rides may be stopped for safety reasons in the event of severe weather. Indoor attractions such as the Sea Life Aquarium are good options.

Annual Events at Gardaland

The park is always coming up with new and exciting ways for its visitors to spend their holidays and special occasions. Every weekend in October, the park transforms into a haunted setting with its Magic Halloween event. Soon followed by Magic Winter from December to January 6, and then there are other events such as White Night, Oktoberfest, and the end of summer party.

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Helpful Info

  • The park has many hotels with themed rooms located just 800m from the park and well-connected with shuttle services. Alternatively, you can opt for hotels near Gardaland.
  • Paid parking lot (cost € 6)
  • Year-round season tickets are available, as well as junior season tickets for the little ones.
  • To reduce waiting time for attractions, special passes called Gardaland Express are available.
  • See the official website for the current calendar and opening hours.
  • Check the website prior to your visit to verify height requirements on specific rides.
  • Gardaland is accessible to visitors with disabilities.