3-Day Local Outdoor and Shopping Experience in Bergamo, Italy
Bergamo, Italy
3 days
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 2
Art, Culture and Shopping in the Modern City
Morning
Start your second day with a visit to the Accademia Carrara, an art gallery housing a vast collection of Renaissance art. Then, take a walk in the nearby Parco Sant'Agostino.
Lunch
Enjoy lunch in one of the local restaurants in the lower city. Try some risotto or osso buco, traditional dishes of the Lombardy region.
Afternoon
Spend your afternoon exploring the modern part of Bergamo. Visit the Donizetti Theatre, named after the famous composer Gaetano Donizetti, and then enjoy some shopping in the city centre.
Dinner
Have dinner in one of the trendy restaurants in the city centre, where you can find a variety of options from traditional Italian to fusion cuisine.
Evening
End your day with a visit to the Gamec, the Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Art, which stays open late. Then, take a leisurely stroll along the city walls.
Day 3
Nature and History in the Surroundings of Bergamo
Morning
On your last day, visit the Parco dei Colli di Bergamo, a large natural park perfect for hiking or cycling. Don't miss the Astino Valley, a beautiful spot within the park.
Lunch
Have a picnic lunch in the park, enjoying the beautiful natural surroundings and the stunning views of the city.
Afternoon
Spend your afternoon visiting the charming village of San Vigilio, located on a hill above the old town. Take the funicular up to the village and enjoy the stunning views.
Dinner
Enjoy your last dinner in Bergamo in one of the restaurants in San Vigilio, where you can enjoy traditional Italian cuisine with a view.
Evening
End your trip with a visit to the Castello di San Vigilio, a castle offering panoramic views of the city. Then, take a leisurely stroll around the village before heading back to the city.
Attractions in Itinerary (12)
1Città Alta
A beautiful medieval town with narrow winding streets, stunning views and a wealth of history.
2Piazza Vecchia
The main square in the old town of Bergamo, surrounded by historic buildings and offering a vibrant atmosphere.
3Rocca di Bergamo
A fortress offering panoramic views of the city and housing a museum dedicated to the history of Bergamo.
4Orto Botanico di Bergamo Lorenzo Rota
A botanical garden with a wide variety of plant species, offering a peaceful retreat in the city.
5Sentierone
A wide pedestrian boulevard in the lower town, lined with cafes, shops and historic buildings.
6Accademia Carrara
An art gallery housing a vast collection of Renaissance art.
7Parco Sant'Agostino
A large urban park offering walking paths, play areas and a peaceful escape from the city.
8Donizetti Theatre
A historic theatre named after the composer Gaetano Donizetti, offering a variety of performances.
9Gamec
The Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Art, showcasing a range of artworks from the 19th century to the present.
10Parco dei Colli di Bergamo
A large natural park offering hiking trails, picnic areas and stunning views of the city.
11San Vigilio
A historic district located on a hill, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside.
12Castello di San Vigilio
A historic castle located on the hill of San Vigilio, offering panoramic views of the city.
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.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
January 6 | Sat | Epiphany |
March 31 | Sun | Easter Sunday |
April 1 | Mon | Easter Monday |
April 25 | Thu | Liberation Day |
May 1 | Wed | Labor Day / May Day |
June 2 | Sun | Republic Day |
August 15 | Thu | Assumption of Mary |
November 1 | Fri | All Saints' Day |
December 8 | Sun | Feast of the Immaculate Conception |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
December 26 | Thu | St. Stephen's Day |
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.
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. |
Did you know?
Places near by Bergamo, Italy
Lake Como
Famous for its stunning landscapes and water activities.
Milan
Known for its high-end fashion and grand architecture.
Verona
Famous for being the setting of Shakespeare's 'Romeo and Juliet'.
Venice
Known for its beautiful canals and historic architecture.
Brescia
Home to many Roman and medieval monuments.
Parma
Known for its architecture and prosciutto.
St. Moritz
A luxury alpine resort town in Switzerland.
Lugano
A city in southern Switzerland known for its Swiss-Mediterranean mix of cultures.
Turin
Known for its refined architecture and cuisine.
Genoa
Famous for its central role in maritime trade over many centuries.
