Gardone Riviera is most easily reached by ferry. The Navigazione Lago di Garda operates regular services connecting Desenzano, Salò, Gardone, Maderno, Limone, and Riva del Garda. The ferry is a more pleasant option than driving in summer, when the lakeside roads become congested. The crossing from Desenzano takes about an hour and a half.
By car, Gardone is about 30 km from Brescia, reached via the SS45bis road along the western shore. The nearest motorway exit is Desenzano on the A4. Parking in Gardone itself is limited in summer; arrive early or use the car parks on the outskirts and walk.
There is no train station in Gardone. The nearest stations are at Desenzano (on the Milan–Venice line) and at Brescia. Buses run from both to Gardone, though services are infrequent. The ferry from Desenzano is the more civilised option.