A beautiful medieval town with narrow winding streets, stunning views and a wealth of history.

Città Alta, the 'Upper City' of Bergamo, is a place where time seems to have stood still. Its narrow winding streets, beautiful squares, and stunning views over the lower city make it a must-visit for any traveler. /n The city is surrounded by Venetian walls, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and is home to numerous historic buildings, churches, and museums. Whether you're exploring the Piazza Vecchia, visiting the Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica, or simply enjoying a gelato while taking in the view, Città Alta is sure to charm you.

Città Alta is the historic center of Bergamo, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture.

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.

The Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, located in Bergamo, Italy, is a historic church that dates back to the 12th century. The church is a testament to the city's rich religious history and is a must-visit for those interested in architecture and history. /n The church's architecture is a blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles, making it a unique monument in the city. The church also houses a museum that showcases the city's religious history and culture. The Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore is not just a monument; it is a symbol of Bergamo's past and a beacon of its religious heritage.

Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore is a historic church in Bergamo, known for its stunning architecture.

A magnificent chapel and mausoleum, known for its beautiful Renaissance architecture and intricate decorations. It is a significant religious site in Bergamo.

The Colleoni Chapel, located in Bergamo, Italy, is a historic chapel that dates back to the 15th century. The chapel is a testament to the city's rich religious history and is a must-visit for those interested in architecture and history. /n The chapel's architecture is a blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles, making it a unique monument in the city. The chapel also houses a museum that showcases the city's religious history and culture. The Colleoni Chapel is not just a monument; it is a symbol of Bergamo's past and a beacon of its religious heritage.

Colleoni Chapel is a historic chapel in Bergamo, known for its Renaissance architecture.

A peaceful park dedicated to the memory of those who lost their lives in World War II. It offers a tranquil space for reflection and relaxation.

Parco delle Rimembranze is a beautiful park located in the heart of Bergamo, Italy. It's a perfect place for a peaceful stroll, picnic, or just to relax and enjoy the beautiful views. The park is well-maintained and offers a serene atmosphere, making it a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike. /n The park also features a monument dedicated to the fallen soldiers of World War I, adding a historical touch to the scenic beauty. Whether you're looking for a place to unwind after a day of sightseeing or a spot to enjoy a leisurely picnic, Parco delle Rimembranze is a must-visit.

A serene park in Bergamo offering beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere.

An art gallery housing a vast collection of Renaissance art.

Accademia Carrara is a prestigious art gallery located in Bergamo. /n The gallery houses an impressive collection of Italian Renaissance art, including works by Botticelli, Bellini, and Raphael. The museum is housed in a beautiful neoclassical building, and its collection includes not only paintings, but also sculptures, drawings, and prints. Whether you're an art lover or simply interested in Italian culture and history, Accademia Carrara is a must-visit.

Accademia Carrara is a prestigious art gallery in Bergamo, housing an impressive collection of Italian Renaissance art.

A historic theatre named after the composer Gaetano Donizetti, offering a variety of performances.

Donizetti Theatre is a historic opera house located in Bergamo. /n Named after the famous composer Gaetano Donizetti, who was born in the city, the theatre hosts a variety of performances, including opera, ballet, and concerts. The theatre is known for its beautiful interior, which features red velvet seats, golden decorations, and a stunning chandelier. Whether you're a music lover or simply interested in architecture and history, Donizetti Theatre is a must-visit.

Donizetti Theatre is a historic opera house in Bergamo, named after the famous composer Gaetano Donizetti.

A vibrant square located in the heart of Bergamo, surrounded by cafes, shops, and historic buildings. It is a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists alike.

Piazza Matteotti is a popular square located in the lower city of Bergamo. /n Known for its lively atmosphere, the square is surrounded by a variety of shops and restaurants, making it a perfect place to relax and soak up the local culture. Whether you're enjoying a meal at one of the many outdoor cafes, shopping for local products, or simply enjoying the atmosphere, Piazza Matteotti is a must-visit.

Piazza Matteotti is a popular square in the lower city of Bergamo, known for its lively atmosphere.

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

Parco dei Colli di Bergamo is a large natural park located in the city of Bergamo. /n The park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, and bird watching. With its diverse landscape of woods, meadows, and streams, the park is a haven for nature lovers. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll, a challenging hike, or simply a place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature, Parco dei Colli di Bergamo is a must-visit.

Parco dei Colli di Bergamo is a large natural park offering a variety of outdoor activities.

A beautiful and serene monastery located in the Astino Valley, offering a glimpse into the religious and architectural history of the region.

Astino Monastery is a historic monastery located in the Astino Valley, Bergamo. /n The monastery, which dates back to the 11th century, is known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful surroundings. The monastery is surrounded by the Parco dei Colli di Bergamo, making it a perfect place for a peaceful walk or a picnic. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or simply looking for a place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature, Astino Monastery is a must-visit.

Astino Monastery is a historic monastery located in the Astino Valley, Bergamo.

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.

Città Alta

Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore

Colleoni Chapel

Parco delle Rimembranze

Start your day with a visit to the Città Alta (Upper Town), a medieval hilltop town surrounded by 17th-century cyclopean walls. Explore the charming cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and stunning views of the city below.

Enjoy a traditional Italian lunch in one of the many local trattorias in the Città Alta. Try some local specialties such as polenta, casoncelli, or risotto alla bergamasca.

After lunch, visit the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore and the Colleoni Chapel, two of Bergamo's most important religious sites. Then, take a leisurely stroll in the nearby Parco delle Rimembranze.

For dinner, head back to the lower city and find a cozy osteria serving traditional Bergamo cuisine. Don't miss the chance to try some local wines.

End your day with a relaxing walk along the Sentierone, the main promenade of the lower city, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Bergamo.

Exploring the Historic Città Alta

Accademia Carrara

Donizetti Theatre

Piazza Matteotti

Start your second day with a visit to the Accademia Carrara, one of Italy's finest art galleries, located in the lower city. The gallery houses an impressive collection of Renaissance art.

Have lunch in a local café in the lower city. Try some local pastries or a panini with Bergamo salami.

Spend your afternoon exploring the modern part of Bergamo. Visit the Donizetti Theatre, dedicated to the famous composer Gaetano Donizetti, and the Piazza Matteotti, a bustling square filled with shops and cafés.

Enjoy a dinner in a local pizzeria. Bergamo offers a variety of pizzas, from the traditional Margherita to more unique local variations.

Spend your evening at a local wine bar, tasting some of the region's best wines. Bergamo is known for its excellent Valcalepio and Moscato di Scanzo wines.

Art and Modern Life in the Città Bassa

Parco dei Colli di Bergamo

Astino Monastery

On your last day, take a trip to the Parco dei Colli di Bergamo, a large natural park that offers numerous trails for hiking and biking. Enjoy the beautiful landscapes and panoramic views of the city.

Have a picnic lunch in the park. Pack some local cheeses, cold cuts, and a bottle of Valcalepio wine.

Continue exploring the park in the afternoon. Visit the Astino Monastery, located in the heart of the park, and the nearby botanical garden.

For your last dinner in Bergamo, choose a restaurant offering a panoramic view of the city. Enjoy the traditional Bergamo cuisine one last time.

End your trip with a nightcap at a local bar in the Città Alta. Enjoy the stunning view of the city lights from the hilltop.

Nature and Relaxation in the Parco dei Colli di Bergamo

Daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March, ends last Sunday in October

UTC+1

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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

Casoncelli alla Bergamasca

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.

Polenta e Osei

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.

Scarpinocc

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

Pizzoccheri

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.

Risotto alla Bergamasca

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

Formai de Mut

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.

Amaretti di Saronno

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.

Moscato di Scanzo

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.

Valcalepio

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.

Stracciatella Gelato

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.

Salame Bergamasco

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.

Brutti ma Buoni

New Year's Day

Epiphany

Easter Sunday

Easter Monday

Liberation Day

Labor Day / May Day

Republic Day

Assumption of Mary

All Saints' Day

Feast of the Immaculate Conception

Christmas Day

St. Stephen's Day

Famous for its stunning landscapes and water activities.

Lake Como

Known for its high-end fashion and grand architecture.

Milan

Famous for being the setting of Shakespeare's 'Romeo and Juliet'.

Verona

Known for its beautiful canals and historic architecture.

Venice

Home to many Roman and medieval monuments.

Brescia

Known for its architecture and prosciutto.

Parma

A luxury alpine resort town in Switzerland.

St. Moritz

A city in southern Switzerland known for its Swiss-Mediterranean mix of cultures.

Lugano

Known for its refined architecture and cuisine.

Turin

Famous for its central role in maritime trade over many centuries.

Genoa

Amalfi Coast

Bolzano

Cinque Terre

Florence

Pompeii

Rome

Sicily

Tuscany

Grassy hill with an isolated cabin, the Piani dell'Avaro, Val Brembana

Beautiful Old Medieval European narrow empty street

Bergamo Cathedral and church of Santa Maria Maggiore at the Upper City

Archway of historical building in Lower City

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

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.

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

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.

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).

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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.

January is the coldest month in Bergamo, with occasional snowfall. Pack warm clothing and be prepared for potential disruptions due to weather.

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 sees the start of spring, with temperatures gradually rising. The weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers.

April is a pleasant month to visit Bergamo, with mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine. It's a great time for outdoor activities.

May offers warm temperatures and longer daylight hours. It's an excellent time for sightseeing and exploring the city's parks and gardens.

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 is the hottest month in Bergamo, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C. Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.

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 sees the start of autumn, with milder temperatures and beautiful fall foliage. It's a great time for hiking and wine tasting.

October offers cool temperatures and vibrant autumn colors. It's a quieter time for tourists, making it ideal for a peaceful getaway.

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 is a festive month in Bergamo, with Christmas markets and holiday decorations. It's cold, so pack warm clothing and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

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!

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Solo 3-Day Bergamo Itinerary: A Local's Guide to Food, Wine, and Outdoors

About Bergamo, Italy