Although the region is a very productive Agricultural zone (wine, olive oil,etc.) the tourist industry has rapidly developed. Arco was a well-known holiday spot even in the second half of the 19th century, when it became the summer residence of the Hapsburg dynasty and their compatriots from Vienna's elite under the watchful eye of Arco Castle on the cliffs above the town.

Today Arco is home to modern hotels and spas. Known as the "The Nice of Trentino", due to its mild climate it is famous for its huge range of activities: Mountain climbing, free climbing, parasailing and hang gliding, mountain biking, archery, sailing, surfing, swimming, fishing, soccer, jogging, squash, tennis and horse riding.

You will see mountaineers wandering through the small streets, with their equipment after a long day on the cliffs or on their way up. The mountains are made of limestone with more than 2000 routes in all with all levels of difficulty for sport climbing including steep canyons gentle hikes and more challenging treks and traverse.

Without a doubt one of the most famous crags in Italy is Massone which offers something for everyone. With over 150 routes of all difficulties and the entire crag recently being re bolted, its is a climbers dream. Also with easy access from the picnic area below this popular crag is well known for people watching as well as climbing. The only problems are its own popularity which may make it over busy at times.

The crag can be divided up into three sections. The first, "Massone Basso", is ideal for those who climb between 5a-7a, and the routes are on vertical or slabbed gray limestone. The second, "la Valletta", requires stamina and finger strength for its 35m, slightly overhanging routes, ranging from 7a to 8a. The third, "il Pueblo" has become a reference point for the ultra-overhanging, where strength and stamina are never quite enough... fro mm 7c upwards.

Mountain Bikers will find tough trails and lonely smooth asphalt roads for the traditional Italian road racing. Other activities include Paragliding and Water Sports.

Arco has many historical buildings many of which can be found in the oldest part of the town which is still surrounded by medieval walls. The town is a maze of narrow alleys and small squares. Overlooking the Piazza Tre Novembre are the Collegiate Church, the Baroque Town Hall and Giuliani Palace with eighteenth century porticoes, Altamar Palace (1566), Calzà House (formerly of the counts of Arco) and the 18th century Panni Palace.

The Madonna delle Grazie Sanctuary in Ceole, on the border near Riva del Garda, is and has been the destination of numerous pilgrims over the years. This Franciscan convent dates back to 1492.
Arco : The arboretum

There is an Arboretum in the last section of the park, which Archduke Albert of the Hapsburg dynasty had built around his villa in 1872 and contains many different tree species from all over the world: Monterey cypress, cedars, a monumental sequoia, Lawson cypress, palms, orange trees, lemon trees, yews and holm oaks.