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

Rocca di Bergamo is a historic fortress located in Città Alta, the upper town of Bergamo. /n The fortress, which dates back to the 14th century, offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscape. Inside the fortress, you'll find a museum dedicated to the history of the city and the region. Whether you're a history buff or simply looking for the best view in town, Rocca di Bergamo is a must-visit.

Rocca di Bergamo is a historic fortress offering panoramic views of the city.

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 district located on a hill, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside.

San Vigilio is a historic district located in Bergamo, Italy. This district offers a unique cultural experience, with its historic sites, panoramic views, and charming atmosphere. /n The district is home to a variety of historic sites, including the San Vigilio Castle and the San Vigilio Church. The district also offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside, making it a popular destination for photography enthusiasts. Whether you're interested in history, culture, or simply looking to enjoy the stunning views, San Vigilio is a must-visit destination in Bergamo.

A historic district in Bergamo, offering panoramic views, historic sites, and a unique cultural experience.

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

Teatro Donizetti is a historic theatre located in Bergamo, Italy. Named after the famous composer Gaetano Donizetti, the theatre is a significant cultural landmark in the city. It hosts a variety of performances throughout the year, ranging from operas and ballets to concerts and plays. /n The theatre's architecture is a sight to behold, with its grand facade and ornate interior. Whether you're a fan of the performing arts or simply appreciate beautiful architecture, Teatro Donizetti is a must-visit when in Bergamo.

Historic theatre in Bergamo named after composer Gaetano Donizetti.

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 valley located in the hills of Bergamo, offering stunning views and a serene environment for hiking and picnicking.

Astino Valley is a picturesque valley located in Bergamo, Italy. Known for its natural beauty and tranquility, it's a perfect place for nature lovers. The valley is home to a variety of flora and fauna, making it a great spot for bird watching and nature photography. /n The valley also features several walking trails, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the area and enjoy the stunning views. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an outdoor adventure, Astino Valley is a must-visit.

A picturesque valley in Bergamo known for its natural beauty and tranquility.

A large urban park in Bergamo, perfect for leisurely walks, picnics, and outdoor activities.

Suardi Park is a popular park located in Bergamo, Italy. Known for its beautiful gardens and peaceful atmosphere, it's a perfect place for a leisurely stroll or picnic. The park is well-maintained and offers a variety of amenities, including picnic areas, playgrounds, and walking trails. /n The park also features a variety of plants and trees, making it a great spot for nature lovers. Whether you're looking for a place to unwind after a day of sightseeing or a spot to enjoy a leisurely picnic, Suardi Park is a must-visit.

A popular park in Bergamo known for its beautiful gardens and peaceful atmosphere.

A museum dedicated to natural sciences, featuring exhibits on geology, paleontology, zoology, and botany.

Museo di Scienze Naturali is a museum located in Bergamo, Italy, dedicated to natural sciences. It features a variety of exhibits on various topics, including geology, botany, and zoology. The museum's collection includes a wide range of specimens, from fossils and minerals to plants and animals. /n The museum also offers educational programs and workshops, making it a great place for both kids and adults. Whether you're a science enthusiast or just looking for a fun and educational experience, Museo di Scienze Naturali is a must-visit.

A museum in Bergamo dedicated to natural sciences.

A stunning lake offering a variety of water activities and picturesque views.

Lake Iseo is a beautiful lake located in Bergamo, Italy. Known for its stunning views and outdoor activities, it's a perfect place for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The lake offers a variety of activities, including boating, fishing, and swimming. /n The area around the lake is also home to a variety of flora and fauna, making it a great spot for bird watching and nature photography. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an outdoor adventure, Lake Iseo is a must-visit.

A beautiful lake in Bergamo known for its stunning views and outdoor activities.

Although not located directly in Bergamo, Monte Isola is a large lake island in Lake Iseo, easily accessible from Bergamo. It's known for its beautiful landscapes, charming villages, and hiking trails.

Monte Isola is the largest lake island in Europe, located in Lake Iseo, Bergamo. It's a popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty and tranquility. The island offers a variety of activities, including hiking, biking, and boating. /n The island is also home to several small villages, where visitors can experience the local culture and cuisine. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an outdoor adventure, Monte Isola is a must-visit.

The largest lake island in Europe located in Lake Iseo.

The main square in the old town of Bergamo, surrounded by historic buildings and offering a vibrant atmosphere.

Piazza Vecchia is the heart of Città Alta, the historic upper town of Bergamo. /n This beautiful square is surrounded by historic buildings, including the Palazzo della Ragione, the city's oldest town hall, and the Campanone, a bell tower that offers stunning views over the city. The square is also home to several cafes and restaurants, making it a perfect place to relax and soak up the atmosphere of this charming medieval town.

Piazza Vecchia is a historic square in the heart of Città Alta, 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

Rocca di Bergamo

Parco delle Rimembranze

Start your day with a visit to the Città Alta (Upper City), a hilltop medieval town surrounded by 17th-century cyclopean walls. It's a great place for families to explore, with its narrow winding streets, beautiful squares, and stunning views over the city.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch in one of the many family-friendly restaurants in the Città Alta. Try some local specialties like polenta, casoncelli (a type of pasta), or stracciatella (a gelato flavor originated from Bergamo).

After lunch, visit the Rocca di Bergamo, a fortress offering panoramic views of the city. Then, take a leisurely stroll in the nearby Parco delle Rimembranze, a beautiful park with plenty of space for children to run around.

Have dinner in the lower city (Città Bassa), where you can find a variety of restaurants offering both local and international cuisine.

End your day with a leisurely stroll along the Sentierone, a wide pedestrian street in the heart of the lower city. It's a great place to enjoy a gelato and watch the world go by.

Exploring the Città Alta

Accademia Carrara

San Vigilio

Teatro Donizetti

Start your day with a visit to the Accademia Carrara, an art gallery housing a vast collection of Renaissance art. It's a great way to introduce children to art in a fun and engaging way.

Enjoy lunch in one of the many cafes in the lower city. Try some local specialties like polenta or casoncelli.

After lunch, take a funicular ride to San Vigilio, a hilltop area offering stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside. There's also a castle to explore and a park where children can run around.

Have dinner back in the lower city, where you can find a variety of restaurants offering both local and international cuisine.

End your day with a visit to the Teatro Donizetti, a beautiful 18th-century theatre. Check out the schedule in advance to see if there's a family-friendly performance you can catch.

Art, Views, and Theatre in the Città Bassa

Parco dei Colli di Bergamo

Astino Valley

Suardi Park

Start your day with a visit to the Parco dei Colli di Bergamo, a large natural park perfect for hiking, biking, or simply enjoying the great outdoors. There are several trails suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the park. There are several picnic areas with tables and benches, or you can simply spread a blanket on the grass.

After lunch, continue exploring the park. You can visit the Astino Valley, a beautiful area with a medieval monastery, or the Suardi Park, a botanical garden with a variety of plants and flowers.

Have dinner back in the city. Try some local specialties like polenta, casoncelli, or stracciatella.

End your day with a leisurely stroll in the lower city. Enjoy a gelato or a coffee in one of the many cafes lining the streets.

Nature Day at Parco dei Colli di Bergamo

Museo di Scienze Naturali

Lake Iseo

Monte Isola

Piazza Vecchia

Start your day with a visit to the Museo di Scienze Naturali, a natural history museum with a variety of exhibits suitable for children. It's a great way to learn about the local flora and fauna.

Enjoy lunch in one of the many family-friendly restaurants in the city. Try some local specialties like polenta or casoncelli.

After lunch, take a boat tour on the nearby Lake Iseo. It's a great way to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery. You can also visit the island of Monte Isola, which has several hiking trails and a small village to explore.

Have your last dinner in Bergamo in one of the many restaurants in the city. Try some local specialties like polenta, casoncelli, or stracciatella.

End your trip with a visit to the Piazza Vecchia, the heart of the Città Alta. It's a beautiful square surrounded by historic buildings, and it's a great place to enjoy a gelato and watch the world go by.

Natural History and Lake Iseo

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

Porta San Giacomo gate, Sant Andrea platform of Venetian Walls

Archway of historical building in Lower City

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

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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4-Day Adventurous Family Retreat in Hidden Bergamo, Italy

About Bergamo, Italy