3-Day Bergamo Hidden Gems and Culinary Delights for Couples

Bergamo, Italy

3 days

Food and wine

Relaxation

Couples

Off the beaten path

Porta San Giacomo gate, Sant Andrea platform of Venetian Walls

View from Campanone with Duomo to left and Cappella Colleoni/Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore to right

About Bergamo, Italy

Experience the charm of Bergamo, Italy, a captivating city that beautifully blends the old and new. Explore the ancient Citta Alta, a hilltop medieval town offering stunning views, historic architecture, and quaint cobblestone streets. Visit the majestic Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore and the Cappella Colleoni, showcasing exquisite Italian Renaissance art. Descend to the modern Citta Bassa, with its vibrant cafes, shops, and the renowned Accademia Carrara art gallery. Enjoy a funicular ride between the upper and lower towns, offering breathtaking panoramas. Indulge in local cuisine, featuring polenta and stracciatella gelato. Just a short distance from Milan, Bergamo is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Historic Citta Alta

Morning

Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the cobblestone streets of Bergamo's Citta Alta (Upper Town), soaking in the medieval charm of this historic city center. Visit the 14th-century Palazzo della Ragione, a former town hall turned museum, and marvel at its unique architecture.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Italian lunch at a local trattoria in Citta Alta. Savor the flavors of Bergamo's regional cuisine, including polenta dishes and casoncelli, a type of stuffed pasta.

Afternoon

After lunch, explore the Rocca di Bergamo, a fortress offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape. Then, unwind in the adjacent Rocca Park, a peaceful green space with beautiful gardens.

Dinner

For dinner, head to the modern Lower Town (Citta Bassa) and dine at a local osteria, where you can sample Bergamo's renowned Valcalepio wine.

Evening

End your day with a romantic walk along the Venetian Walls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as the sun sets over Bergamo.

Day 2

Art, Shopping, and Opera in Citta Bassa

Morning

Begin your second day with a visit to the Accademia Carrara, an art gallery housing a vast collection of Renaissance paintings. Take your time to appreciate the works of masters like Botticelli and Raphael.

Lunch

Have lunch at a local enoteca in Citta Bassa, where you can pair your meal with a selection from their extensive list of Italian wines.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the Sentierone, a bustling pedestrian area lined with shops and cafes. Take a break at a gelateria and enjoy some of the best gelato in town.

Dinner

Return to Citta Alta for dinner and enjoy a meal at a rustic ristorante, offering a variety of dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.

Evening

After dinner, enjoy a performance at the Teatro Donizetti, a historic opera house named after the famous composer Gaetano Donizetti, a native of Bergamo.

Day 3

Churches, Parks, and Countryside Dining

Morning

On your final day, visit the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, a stunning 12th-century church known for its lavish interior. Don't miss the adjacent Cappella Colleoni, a Renaissance masterpiece.

Lunch

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a charming cafe in Piazza Vecchia, the heart of Citta Alta. Try the local stracciatella gelato, a specialty of Bergamo.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon at the Parco dei Colli di Bergamo, a large natural park offering hiking trails, picnic spots, and breathtaking views of the city.

Dinner

For your final meal in Bergamo, dine at a local agriturismo in the surrounding countryside. Enjoy a farm-to-table experience, with dishes prepared using fresh, local produce.

Evening

End your trip with a relaxing evening at a local wine bar in Citta Bassa, where you can toast to your unforgettable journey in Bergamo.

Attractions in Itinerary (9)

1
Palazzo della Ragione

A beautiful medieval palace that served as the administrative center of the city in the past. It is known for its stunning architecture and historical significance.

Attractions

Monuments

Architecture

2
Rocca di Bergamo

A fortress offering panoramic views of the city and housing a museum dedicated to the history of Bergamo.

Attractions

Monuments

3
Venetian Walls

The Venetian Walls are a series of defensive walls that surround the upper town of Bergamo. They were built by the Venetians in the 16th century and are a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Attractions

Landmarks

4
Accademia Carrara

An art gallery housing a vast collection of Renaissance art.

Attractions

Museums

5
Sentierone

A wide pedestrian boulevard in the lower town, lined with cafes, shops and historic buildings.

Attractions

Landmarks

6
Teatro Donizetti

Named after the famous composer Gaetano Donizetti, this theatre hosts a variety of performances including operas, ballets, and concerts.

Entertainment

Cultural Experiences

7
Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore

A beautiful basilica that showcases the fusion of Renaissance and Baroque architectural styles. It is one of the most important places of worship in the city, and it's known for its stunning frescoes and intricate carvings.

Attractions

Monuments

Religious Sites

Architecture

8
Cappella Colleoni

A beautiful chapel and mausoleum located in the heart of Bergamo's Città Alta (Upper Town). It's known for its richly decorated façade and interiors, featuring works by the Renaissance artist Giovanni Antonio Amadeo.

Attractions

Monuments

Religious Sites

Architecture

9
Parco dei Colli di Bergamo

A large natural park offering hiking trails, picnic areas and stunning views of the city.

Attractions

Parks

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Casoncelli alla Bergamasca

A traditional pasta dish from Bergamo, filled with a mixture of bread crumbs, eggs, parmesan cheese, and ground beef or sausage.

Polenta e Osei

A popular dish in Bergamo, made of polenta (cornmeal) and small birds (osei). It's a rich and hearty dish that reflects the region's agricultural heritage.

Scarpinocc

A type of pasta from Bergamo, similar to ravioli, typically filled with cheese, breadcrumbs, and spices. It's a traditional dish often served during holidays and special occasions.

Pizzoccheri

A flat, ribbon-shaped pasta made from buckwheat flour. It's a staple in Bergamo and is typically served with potatoes, cabbage, and cheese.

Risotto alla Bergamasca

A creamy risotto dish from Bergamo, typically made with sausage, wine, and parmesan cheese. It's a comforting and hearty dish that's popular in the region.

Formai de Mut

A traditional cheese from Bergamo, made from cow's milk. It has a strong, distinctive flavor and is often served with polenta or bread.

Amaretti di Saronno

A type of macaroon biscuit from the town of Saronno, near Bergamo. They are made with sugar, almond flour, and egg whites, and have a sweet, almond flavor.

Moscato di Scanzo

A sweet, red wine from the Scanzo region near Bergamo. It's one of the smallest DOCG zones in Italy and the wine is known for its rich, fruity flavor.

Valcalepio

A wine region near Bergamo, producing both red and white wines. The reds are typically full-bodied and robust, while the whites are light and crisp.

Stracciatella Gelato

A popular gelato flavor in Bergamo, made with milk-based ice cream and streaks of chocolate. The name comes from the Italian word 'stracciato', which means 'torn apart', referring to the chunks of chocolate in the ice cream.

Salame Bergamasco

A traditional salami from Bergamo, made from pork and seasoned with spices and wine. It's a popular part of antipasti platters in the region.

Brutti ma Buoni

A type of cookie from Bergamo, whose name means 'ugly but good'. They are made with hazelnuts, sugar, and egg whites, and have a crunchy, meringue-like texture.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Bergamo, Italy is typically between April and June or September and October. During these periods, the weather is most pleasant and suitable for sightseeing. The summer months of July and August can also be a good time if you don't mind the heat, but they are usually crowded with tourists. The city is beautiful in winter as well, especially if you enjoy skiing in the nearby Alps, but the weather can be quite cold.

How to get around

Foot

Bergamo is a compact city, and many of its attractions are within walking distance from each other. This is especially true in the Città Alta (Upper City), which is a pedestrian-only zone.

Bus

The local bus service, operated by ATB, is a convenient way to get around Bergamo. There are several lines that connect the Città Bassa (Lower City) with the Città Alta, as well as the surrounding suburbs and the Orio al Serio Airport.

Funicular

Bergamo has two funicular railways. The Funicolare di Bergamo Città Alta connects the Città Bassa with the Città Alta, while the Funicolare di San Vigilio goes from the Città Alta up to the hill of San Vigilio.

Bicycle

Bergamo is a bike-friendly city, with several bike paths and bike-sharing stations. The service, called 'Bici in città', is operated by ATB and allows you to rent a bike for a few hours or a whole day.

Taxi

Taxis are available in Bergamo, although they are not as common as in larger cities. They can be hailed on the street, booked by phone, or picked up from taxi ranks located in key areas such as the train station or the Città Alta.

Car

If you're planning to explore the surrounding region, renting a car can be a good option. However, keep in mind that driving in the Città Alta is restricted, and parking can be difficult in the city center.

Ridesharing

Ridesharing services like Uber are available in Bergamo. This can be a convenient option for getting around, especially if you're traveling in a group or have a lot of luggage.

Train

Bergamo's train station, located in the Città Bassa, offers connections to other Italian cities like Milan, Brescia, and Verona. It's a good option if you're planning to do some day trips during your stay.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency€ EUR

Time zoneUTC+1

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 112, 118; Fire: 112, 115; Police: 112, 113;

Drinking waterYes, but some opt for bottled water

Power sockets

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Bergamo, Italy as a first time visitor

1

Bergamo is divided into two parts: the Città Alta (Upper City) and the Città Bassa (Lower City). The Città Alta is the historic part of the city, while the Città Bassa is the more modern part.

2

The local language is Italian, but English is also widely spoken in tourist areas.

3

The currency used in Bergamo is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments or street vendors.

4

Bergamo has a Mediterranean climate. Summers (June to August) can be hot with temperatures ranging from 75°F to 90°F (24°C to 32°C). Winters (December to February) are cold and damp with temperatures ranging from 32°F to 45°F (0°C to 7°C).

5

Tipping is not mandatory in Italy, but it is appreciated. If you're happy with the service, a tip of around 10% is customary.

6

Public transportation in Bergamo is efficient and reliable. The city has a network of buses, trams, and a funicular railway that connects the Città Alta with the Città Bassa.

7

Bergamo is in the Central European Time Zone (CET), which is 1 hour ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+1).

8

Bergamo is known for its local cuisine. Don't miss out on trying polenta, casoncelli (a type of pasta), and stracciatella gelato.

9

The city is very walkable, especially the Città Alta. However, the streets can be steep and cobblestoned, so wear comfortable shoes.

10

Italy uses Type L plug outlets, so you may need a power adapter if your devices use a different type of plug.

11

Bergamo has a safe reputation, but like any tourist destination, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.

12

The city has a number of festivals throughout the year, the most famous being the Bergamo Film Meeting in March and the Gaetano Donizetti Music Festival in November.

13

Bergamo is located in the Lombardy region, which is known for its wines. Try a glass of Valcalepio or Moscato di Scanzo.

14

Tap water is safe to drink in Bergamo, and you'll find numerous public fountains throughout the city where you can refill your water bottle.

15

Shops in Bergamo typically open around 9:00 AM and close around 7:30 PM, with a break in the afternoon between 1:00 PM and 3:30 PM.

16

Pharmacies in Italy are marked with a green cross. They usually operate from 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM and from 3:30 PM to 7:30 PM.

17

The emergency number in Italy is 112. This number can be dialed for any type of emergency.

18

Bergamo is not far from other major Italian cities. Milan is just 40 km away, and Venice is about 240 km away.

19

If you're planning to visit churches, remember to dress respectfully. This usually means covering your shoulders and knees.

20

The local specialty is polenta e osei, a sweet cake made with polenta and decorated with marzipan birds. It's a must-try for dessert lovers.

Basic Italian to know as a first time visitor

English phrase	Native phrase	Pronunciation	When to use it
Hello	Ciao	chow	Greeting someone
Goodbye	Arrivederci	ah-ree-veh-der-chee	Leaving or saying goodbye
Please	Per favore	pehr fah-voh-reh	Making a request
Thank you	Grazie	grah-tsee-eh	Expressing gratitude
Yes	Sì	see	Agreeing or affirming
No	No	no	Disagreeing or negating
Excuse me	Scusa	skoo-sah	Getting attention or apologizing
I'm sorry	Mi dispiace	mee dee-spya-che	Apologizing
Do you speak English?	Parli inglese?	par-lee in-gle-se	Asking if someone speaks English
I don't understand	Non capisco	non ka-pee-sko	Expressing difficulty in understanding
Where is...?	Dove si trova...?	doh-veh see troh-vah	Asking for directions
Bathroom	Bagno	bah-nyo	Looking for the restroom
Help	Aiuto	ah-yoo-toh	In case of an emergency
Food	Cibo	chee-bo	Talking about food
Water	Acqua	ah-kwah	Asking for water
Beer	Birra	beer-rah	Ordering a beer
Wine	Vino	vee-no	Ordering wine
How much does it cost?	Quanto costa?	kwanto kosta	Asking for the price
I would like...	Vorrei...	vor-ray	Making a request
Good night	Buonanotte	bwon-ah-not-te	Saying goodnight

Packing List

Clothing
Underwear
Socks
T-shirts
Pants/Jeans
Comfortable walking shoes
Sweater or jacket
Pajamas
Swimwear (if planning to swim)
Hat/Cap for sun protection
Sunglasses
Scarf (for visiting religious sites)

Toiletries
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Floss
Deodorant
Shampoo/Conditioner
Body wash/Soap
Razor
Shaving cream
Sunscreen
Lip balm
Hand sanitizer
Travel-sized first aid kit
Prescription medications
Contact lenses and solution (if needed)

Travel documents and essentials
Passport/ID
Flight tickets
Hotel booking confirmation
Travel insurance documents
Emergency contacts and addresses
Credit/Debit cards
Cash (Euros)
Guidebook/map of Bergamo

Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Headphones
Power bank
Camera (if not using phone camera)
Charger for camera
Universal travel adapter
E-reader (if you like to read)

Miscellaneous items
Travel pillow
Earplugs
Eye mask
Snacks
Water bottle
Travel-sized laundry detergent
Ziplock bags
Umbrella
Notebook and pen
Books or magazines for the flight

Weather Conditions

Bergamo, Italy, experiences a humid subtropical climate, which means you can expect warm, humid summers and cool, damp winters. If you're planning to visit in the summer, which is from June to August, expect temperatures to range from 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 29°C). It's the perfect time for outdoor activities like exploring the old town, Città Alta, or enjoying a picnic in one of the city's beautiful parks. However, summer is also the wettest season in Bergamo, so it's advisable to carry an umbrella or raincoat. For those who prefer cooler temperatures, consider visiting in the fall (September to November) or spring (March to May). During these seasons, temperatures typically range from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C). These periods are ideal for sightseeing and exploring the city's rich history without the summer crowds. Winter, from December to February, can be quite chilly with temperatures ranging from 28°F to 45°F (-2°C to 7°C). Snowfall is not uncommon during this season, making the city look even more magical. If you're visiting in winter, be sure to pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, scarves, gloves, and hats. Regardless of when you visit, remember that the weather can change quickly in Bergamo, so it's always a good idea to check the forecast regularly and pack layers to accommodate fluctuating temperatures. Enjoy your trip to this charming Italian city!

Month	Hi / Lo (°C)	Weather Overview
January	8° / -1°	January is the coldest month in Bergamo, with occasional snowfall. Pack warm clothing and be prepared for potential disruptions due to weather.
February	9° / 0°	February is still quite cold, with a chance of snow or rain. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy winter sports or quieter tourist periods.
March	15° / 3°	March sees the start of spring, with temperatures gradually rising. The weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers.
April	19° / 6°	April is a pleasant month to visit Bergamo, with mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine. It's a great time for outdoor activities.
May	24° / 10°	May offers warm temperatures and longer daylight hours. It's an excellent time for sightseeing and exploring the city's parks and gardens.
June	28° / 14°	June is the start of summer, with hot temperatures and plenty of sunshine. It's a popular time for tourists, so expect larger crowds.
July	31° / 16°	July is the hottest month in Bergamo, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C. Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.
August	31° / 16°	August is equally hot, with high temperatures and sunny days. It's a great time to visit Lake Iseo or enjoy the city's summer festivals.
September	26° / 12°	September sees the start of autumn, with milder temperatures and beautiful fall foliage. It's a great time for hiking and wine tasting.
October	20° / 8°	October offers cool temperatures and vibrant autumn colors. It's a quieter time for tourists, making it ideal for a peaceful getaway.
November	13° / 3°	November is a chilly month, with shorter days and a chance of rain. It's a good time to visit museums and indoor attractions.
December	8° / 0°	December is a festive month in Bergamo, with Christmas markets and holiday decorations. It's cold, so pack warm clothing and enjoy the festive atmosphere.