15 Best Things to Do in Bergamo, Italy 🇮🇹: A Hidden Gem Perfect for a Day Trip

🏡 Where to Stay in Bergamo

• 💎 Luxury Hotel: Hotel Excelsior San Marco
• 🏨 4-Star: Mercure Bergamo Palazzo Dolci
• 🛏️ 3-Star: Hotel Cappello D'Oro
• 💸 Cheap: Scotti's House Bergamo
• 🏢 Apartment: Domitys Quarto Verde
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: B&B L'Olimpo
• 🏩 For Couples: Hotel Il Sole

🗺️ Best Guided Tours in Bergamo

• Bergamo Traditional Food Tour from €85 (⭐ 4.8/5)
• Bergamo Digital Audio Guide from €10 (⭐ 4.0/5)
• From Bergamo: Full-Day Verona & Sirmione Tour from €120 (⭐ 4.7/5)
• E-Bike Tour of Bergamo from €55 (⭐ 4.9/5)
• Eat Like a Local, Not Like a Tourist from €65 (⭐ 4.6/5)

Exploring Città Alta (Upper City)

1. Piazza Vecchia

First Impressions. Standing in Piazza Vecchia, I’m immediately struck by the harmonious Renaissance architecture surrounding me. The square truly lives up to its reputation as the beating heart of Bergamo’s Città Alta. The elegant Contarini Fountain, added in 1780, creates a mesmerizing centerpiece where locals and visitors gather throughout the day.

Architectural Treasures. The imposing Palazzo della Ragione, dating back to the 12th century, dominates one side of the square with its magnificent arches. I love watching how the sunlight plays across its ancient stones. Next to it, the Torre del Campanone (Civic Tower) reaches skyward, still tolling its historic 10 PM curfew bell, just as it has for centuries.

Local Life. What makes this piazza special isn’t just its stunning architecture – it’s the vibrant atmosphere. Traditional cafes spill onto the square, offering perfect spots for people-watching. I recommend visiting early morning when locals grab their espresso, or during aperitivo hour when the square comes alive with the clinking of spritz glasses.

Practical Tips: Visit the Angelo Mai Library inside Palazzo Nuovo to see precious manuscripts dating back to the 1500s. For the best photos, come early morning before the crowds arrive. The most atmospheric time to experience the square is during sunset when the medieval buildings take on a golden hue.

2. Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore

First Impressions. Stepping into the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, I’m immediately struck by the dramatic contrast between its austere Romanesque exterior and the breathtaking Baroque interior. Located in the heart of Città Alta’s Piazza Duomo, this 12th-century masterpiece stands as a testament to Bergamo’s artistic heritage.

Artistic Treasures. The basilica’s interior leaves me speechless every time I visit. The walls showcase magnificent tapestries from Florence and Belgium, while Lorenzo Lotto’s wooden inlays around the choir tell intricate biblical stories. The rich confessional by Andrea Fantoni and Gaetano Donizetti’s funerary monument add to the church’s cultural significance.

Local Connection. What makes this basilica special is its deep connection to Bergamo’s people. Built as a vow to protect the city from plague in the 1130s, it remains the most beloved church in town. I often spot locals stopping for a moment of quiet reflection among the centuries-old columns.

3. Cappella Colleoni

Architectural Marvel. The Cappella Colleoni takes my breath away every time I visit. This Renaissance masterpiece, attached to the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, showcases some of the most intricate marble work I’ve ever seen. The pink and white marble façade creates a mesmerizing pattern that changes with the shifting sunlight throughout the day.

Interior Splendor. Inside, I’m always drawn to the stunning frescoes by Giambattista Tiepolo. The tomb of Bartolomeo Colleoni, the famous condottiere who commissioned this chapel, stands as the centerpiece, surrounded by elaborate decorations that tell stories of strength and faith.

Must-See Elements:

• The rose window depicting the Creation
• Medea Colleoni’s delicate tomb with its sleeping beauty theme
• The three magnificent statues of virtues above the main entrance
• The intricate geometric patterns on the marble floor

Visitor Experience. I recommend spending at least 30 minutes here to fully appreciate the details. The chapel might be small, but every inch tells a story of Renaissance craftsmanship and artistic brilliance. Remember to look up at the ceiling – the restored frescoes are particularly impressive in the morning light.

4. Venetian Walls (Mura Veneziane)

UNESCO Heritage. Walking along Bergamo’s Venetian Walls is my favorite way to experience the city’s grandeur. These 16th-century fortifications stretch over 6 kilometers, encircling Città Alta with their impressive height reaching up to 50 meters in some sections. Since becoming a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2017, they’ve become even more special to explore.

Architectural Highlights. The defensive system includes:

• 14 mighty bastions with panoramic viewpoints
• 4 monumental gates, with San Giacomo being the most picturesque
• 100 gun ports telling tales of military history
• 2 powder magazines
• Underground tunnels and passages open for exploration

Hidden Treasures. Don’t miss the San Giovanni Embrasure – I discovered this fascinating piece of military architecture by taking the metal staircase near the unique sundial. The San Michele Bastion, with its underground cavern decorated with stalactites, offers a cool retreat on warm days.

Local Experience. Join the locals for their evening passeggiata (stroll) along the walls. I’ve discovered that the best gelato shops and wine bars are tucked just inside the gates. My top tip: grab a cone from La Marianna near Porta Sant’Alessandro and find a quiet bench to watch the sun set over the lower city.

⭐ Best Activities

• E-Bike Tour of Bergamo – Explore Bergamo effortlessly with this eco-friendly e-bike tour. Ideal for active travelers who want to see the city’s highlights while enjoying a fun and sustainable ride.

Exploring Città Bassa (Lower City)

1. Porta Nuova and Centro Piacentiniano

Modern Heart. Porta Nuova marks the gateway to Bergamo’s stylish lower city, where I love watching the fascinating blend of historic architecture and contemporary life unfold. The impressive neoclassical gates frame the bustling thoroughfare that leads to Centro Piacentiniano, the city’s elegant early 20th-century district.

Shopping Paradise. Via XX Settembre, the main shopping street, pulses with energy. I’ve spent countless afternoons exploring its porticoed walkways, lined with both international brands and local boutiques. The street comes alive during the evening passeggiata, when locals dress in their finest for window shopping and aperitivo.

Cultural Hub. The Centro Piacentiniano showcases stunning art nouveau architecture. My favorite spot is the Teatro Donizetti, where I recently attended a classical concert. The acoustics were incredible, and the restored interior transported me back to the golden age of Italian opera.

Local Experience. The area between Porta Nuova and Piazza Matteotti becomes especially magical during December’s Christmas market. I recommend visiting on weekend mornings when the cafes fill with locals enjoying their breakfast brioche, and the streets aren’t too crowded with shoppers yet.

2. Accademia Carrara & GAMeC

Art Journey. Standing before the neoclassical façade of Accademia Carrara, I’m always struck by the contrast it creates with GAMeC’s contemporary building just across the street. These two museums create a perfect art timeline, from Renaissance masterpieces to cutting-edge installations.

Classical Treasures. Inside Accademia Carrara, I love spending time with masterpieces by Botticelli, Raphael, and Titian. The museum’s recent redesign makes it easy to follow the five-century journey through Italian art. My favorite room houses Lorenzo Lotto’s works, where the colors seem to glow with an inner light.

Modern Vibes. At GAMeC, the 1,500 square meters of exhibition space constantly surprises me with its rotating contemporary exhibitions. During summer evenings, the courtyard transforms into a vibrant social hub with art talks and aperitivo events called ‘Happening’ – a perfect way to end your art-filled day.

Insider Tips. Visit both museums on the same day to appreciate the full spectrum of Italian art. I recommend starting at Accademia Carrara in the morning when the natural light is perfect for viewing classical paintings, then heading to GAMeC after lunch. During summer, save GAMeC’s courtyard events for sunset.

3. Sentierone Promenade

Living Like a Local. The Sentierone is where I truly feel Bergamo’s pulse. This elegant tree-lined promenade serves as the city’s living room, where I love watching the daily rituals of local life unfold. The wide pedestrian boulevard, flanked by historic porticoes, offers shelter from both sun and rain while you explore.

Cultural Scene. The majestic Teatro Donizetti anchors one end of the promenade, hosting world-class performances throughout the year. During the Donizetti Opera Festival in November, I’ve witnessed the entire boulevard transform into an open-air celebration of music and culture.

Best Experiences Along Sentierone:

• Morning coffee and brioche at historic Caffè Balzer
• Sunday antique market browsing
• Evening aperitivo under the porticoes
• Seasonal festivals and art installations
• People-watching from traditional benches

Local Rhythm. The best time to experience Sentierone is during the evening passeggiata, when families and friends gather for their traditional walk. I’ve discovered that between 6 PM and 8 PM, the promenade comes alive with a uniquely Italian energy that makes even a simple stroll feel special.

Scenic Views and Nature in Bergamo

1. San Vigilio Castle

First Impressions. Perched 496 meters high on its namesake hill, San Vigilio Castle captivates me every time with its star-shaped design and four distinctive towers. The medieval fortress offers the most breathtaking panoramic views I’ve found in Bergamo – from the Pre-Alps to the ancient Breno Valley below.

Secret Passages. My favorite discovery here was the underground tunnel network, especially the passageway connecting to Fort San Marco. The local speleological group “Le Nottole” offers fascinating guided tours through these hidden passages, revealing the castle’s mysterious defensive system.

Best Viewpoints:

• Castagneta Tower for sunrise views over the Upper City
• Belvedere Tower for Pre-Alps panoramas
• Del Ponte Tower for valley vistas

Getting There. I always recommend taking the charming San Vigilio funicular from Sant’Alessandro Gate – it’s a scenic three-minute ride that’s been operating since 1912. Once you reach the top, follow the uphill path to the right for the best approach to the castle entrance.

Evening Magic. The castle grounds transform at sunset when the ancient stones glow golden and the surrounding Mediterranean vegetation fills the air with sweet aromas. This is when I love to explore the well-preserved battlements and watch the city lights slowly illuminate below.

2. Palazzo Moroni

Hidden Treasure. Tucked away in the centre of Bergamo’s Upper Town, I discovered the magnificent Palazzo Moroni, a 17th-century baroque gem that took my breath away. Walking through the narrow Via Porta Dipinta, you’d never guess what awaits behind the plain exterior of this aristocratic palace. Built between 1636 and 1666 by Francesco Moroni after his marriage to Lucrezia Roncalli, this urban palazzo offers a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of Bergamo’s nobility.

Artistic Wonders. The moment I stepped inside and climbed the monumental staircase, I was transported to a world of extraordinary beauty and artistic splendor. The rooms are adorned with elaborate baroque frescoes by Giangiacomo Barbelli, who decorated the walls and ceilings in the mid-1600s. In the main ballroom.

Famous Collection:

• The Portrait of Giovanni Gerolamo Grumelli (the famous “Knight in Pink”)
• The Portrait of Isotta Brembati, both masterpieces by Giovanni Battista Moroni
• Works by Bernardino Luini and Cesare Tallone
• Exquisite furniture and decorative arts spanning several centuries
• 19th-century trompe-l’oeil stuccoes with classical and exotic themes

Garden Escape. After exploring the palace interiors, I wandered into what is the largest private garden in Bergamo’s Upper Town, a true oasis of peace and natural beauty. The complex of Italian gardens is artfully arranged across a balcony and three terraces that develop near the Sant’Eufemia Hill. From the highest terrace, I discovered the Count’s Pensarium, a charming neo-medieval turret built on the remains of an older structure that was once part of the civic fortress.

Practical Tips. When you’re in Bergamo, I recommend visiting Palazzo Moroni in the morning when the light streams beautifully through the windows, illuminating the frescoes. The palace is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 AM to 6 PM (last entry at 5 PM), and since it’s located in a restricted traffic zone, my advice is to park in the Lower Town and take the funicular up to Città Alta. The funicular station is just a 200-meter walk from the palace, making it an easy addition to your exploration around the Città Alta.

⭐ Best Activities

• Palazzo Moroni Entry Ticket – Step into the enchanting world of Palazzo Moroni, a stunning palace in Bergamo. Admire its magnificent frescoes, intricate stucco work, and beautifully manicured gardens that feel straight out of a fairytale!

3. Venetian Walls

UNESCO Treasure. Walking along Bergamo’s Venetian Walls of Bergamo has become my favorite spring activity. These magnificent 16th-century fortifications stretch over 6 kilometers around Città Alta, offering breathtaking panoramic views that change with each season. Since becoming a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2017, the walls have been meticulously preserved, allowing visitors to experience the same stunning vistas that have captivated travelers for centuries.

Perfect Route. My preferred trail begins at Colle Aperto and follows the path to Porta San Giacomo – the most beautiful of the four gates with its striking Zandobbio marble façade. From there, I continue to the San Giovanni Embrasure where an unusual sundial marks both summer and solar time. On clear days like today, I could even spot Milan’s distant skyline from this vantage point!

Sunset Magic. For the most romantic experience, I time my walks to reach the Spalto di Santa Grata just before sunset. This section offers unparalleled views as the sun dips below the horizon, casting golden light across both the Upper and Lower towns. I bring a small picnic from the local market (€10-15) and find a bench to savor both the food and the view.

Practical Tips. The walls are accessible year-round and completely free to walk. My advice is to wear comfortable shoes as some sections have uneven cobblestones. Spring and fall offer the most pleasant temperatures, though winter walks on clear days provide exceptional visibility to the Alps. The walk is suitable for all fitness levels, with plenty of benches along the way for resting.

Food & Culinary Experiences in Bergamo

1. Traditional Dishes to Try

Pasta Perfection. My first encounter with casoncelli alla Bergamasca left me speechless. These candy wrapper-shaped pasta pockets filled with a savory mixture of ground meat, breadcrumbs, eggs, and Grana Padano cheese melted in my mouth. The butter, crispy pancetta, and sage sauce created a perfect balance of flavors.

Polenta Paradise. Bergamo’s cuisine revolves around polenta, and I’ve fallen in love with every variation. The classic soft polenta serves as a perfect base for rich meat stews, but polenta taragna stole my heart. This hearty dish combines cornmeal with buckwheat flour and local cheeses like Taleggio or Bitto. The creamy texture and robust flavor make it perfect for cold winter evenings.

Sweet Endings. No visit to Bergamo is complete without trying stracciatella gelato at La Marianna, where it was invented in 1961. The creamy vanilla base with delicate chocolate flakes creates the perfect balance of flavors. I visited during the afternoon passeggiata and joined locals enjoying this iconic treat while strolling along the city walls.

Meat Matters. The manzo all’olio con polenta Bergamasca at Baretto di San Vigilio changed my understanding of beef dishes. The meat, slow-braised in olive oil until fork-tender, practically dissolved on my tongue. Paired with creamy local polenta, it’s a hearty meal worth climbing to San Vigilio for.

⭐ Best Activities

• Bergamo Traditional Food Tour – This tour offers a full meal experience featuring local delights. Perfect for food enthusiasts eager to explore Bergamo’s culinary heritage while savoring authentic dishes.

2. Cooking Classes

Culinary Adventures. Last month, I discovered the perfect way to dive into Bergamo’s food culture – a hands-on cooking class with a local Cesarina. The experience of making fresh casoncelli (Bergamo’s signature stuffed pasta) under the watchful eye of Laura, my instructor, was truly unforgettable. Her kitchen in Città Alta provided the perfect setting to learn about the unique blend of ingredients that make Bergamasque cuisine special – from the amaretto cookies secretly added to pasta fillings to the rich alpine cheeses in polenta taragna.

Local Flavors. What surprised me most was discovering how Bergamo’s cuisine combines seemingly contrasting flavors. The traditional casoncelli combines savory meat with sweet amaretto cookies and raisins, all wrapped in delicate pasta and topped with sage butter sauce. I still remember the aroma filling the kitchen as we prepared these little packets of joy, and the satisfaction of seeing my slightly misshapen creations transform into a delicious meal.

Class Options:

• Pasta workshops focusing on casoncelli and scarpinocc (Bergamo’s “shoe-shaped” ravioli)
• Traditional three-course meals including polenta taragna
• Market visits plus cooking at a farmhouse outside the city center
• Specialized tiramisu and dessert classes featuring the local Donizetti cake

Hands-On Experience. The best part of my class was getting elbow-deep in flour while learning to make pasta dough from scratch. My instructor, Alessandro, patiently showed me how to achieve the perfect consistency – “not too wet, not too dry, just like velvet,” he kept saying. When I finally got it right, the satisfaction was immense. We moved on to preparing polenta taragna, stirring continuously for nearly 40 minutes until it reached that creamy, golden perfection that pairs so beautifully with local cheeses.

Practical Tips. Book your cooking class at least a week in advance, especially during summer months when spots fill quickly. I recommend choosing morning classes that start around 10 AM – you’ll finish with lunch and have the rest of the day to explore Bergamo. Wear comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting a bit messy, and bring a small notebook to jot down those special tips that aren’t in the recipe booklet.

⭐ Best Activities

• Eat Like a Local, Not Like a Tourist – Discover Bergamo’s hidden culinary gems with this tour designed for those seeking an authentic dining experience away from tourist hotspots. Perfect for food lovers eager to eat like a true local.

Day Trips from Bergamo

1. Lake Como

Perfect Day Trip. Lake Como stole my heart the moment I stepped off the train from Bergamo. The journey took just over 2 hours, but the breathtaking views of crystal-clear waters surrounded by lush green hills and majestic mountains made every minute worthwhile. I recommend leaving Bergamo early – around 8 AM – to maximize your time exploring this stunning destination that’s become a favorite celebrity hideaway.

Golden Triangle. My perfect Lake Como day trip focused on the famous “Golden Triangle” – Bellagio, Varenna, and Como city. Starting in Como, I wandered through Piazza Duomo with its impressive cathedral, then strolled along the lakefront promenade, watching the morning light dance across the water. The real magic began when I boarded the ferry to Bellagio, known as the “Pearl of Lake Como,” where cobblestone streets and vibrant flowers created a picture-perfect scene.

Must-Visit Spots:

• Passeggiata Degli Innamorati (Walk of Lovers) in Varenna at sunset
• Villa del Balbianello with its elegant architecture and terraced gardens
• Piazza Volta in Como, dedicated to the inventor of the electric battery
• Villa Melzi’s stunning English-style botanical gardens in Bellagio
• Greenway del Lago di Como for breathtaking hiking trails

Sensory Delights. The afternoon sun warmed my face as I explored Varenna, my favorite of the three towns. Unlike bustling Bellagio, Varenna offers a more peaceful vibe with its colorful buildings and charming piazzas. I found a small café overlooking the water and savored fresh lake fish paired with local wine, while watching boats glide across the lake’s surface. The scent of flowers mixed with the crisp alpine air created an intoxicating atmosphere I’ll never forget.

Practical Tips. My advice is to wear comfortable shoes for exploring the steep, uneven streets of Bellagio and Varenna. If you’re visiting between March and October, arrive early to avoid crowds, especially at Villa Melzi (open 10 AM-7 PM, €8). For the best photographs, head to Varenna’s waterfront during golden hour. The C10 bus route along the western shore offers spectacular views if you prefer land travel, but nothing beats experiencing Lake Como from the water on one of the frequent ferries connecting the towns.

2. Milan

Easy Access. Milan makes for a perfect day trip from Bergamo, with several convenient transportation options. I prefer taking the direct train from Bergamo station to Milano Centrale, which whisks you there in just 48-50 minutes for a mere €6 (about $6.50). The trains depart hourly, typically at five minutes past the hour, making it easy to plan your day. Last month, I caught the 8:05 AM train and was exploring Milan’s magnificent Duomo before 10 AM.

Must-See Landmarks. My perfect Milan day always starts at the breathtaking Duomo di Milano. The intricate Gothic architecture and the opportunity to climb to the terraces for panoramic city views never disappoints. From there, I stroll through the elegant Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II with its stunning glass roof and luxury boutiques. The contrast between these historic treasures and the modern skyscrapers of Porta Nuova district creates a fascinating architectural journey through time.

Milan Highlights:

• Duomo di Milano and rooftop terraces (don’t miss the stunning stained glass)
• Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper” at Santa Maria delle Grazie (pre-booking essential)
• Castello Sforzesco and the adjacent Parco Sempione
• Navigli district for evening aperitivo along the canals
• Pinacoteca di Brera for art enthusiasts

Cultural Experiences. What surprised me most about Milan was the incredible variety of museums and cultural sites. The Science and Technology Museum dedicated to Leonardo da Vinci houses fascinating models based on his sketches. If you’re an art lover like me, don’t miss the Pinacoteca Ambrosiana where you can see Da Vinci’s Codex Atlanticus – twelve leather-bound manuscripts with his original drawings and notes. I spent a mesmerizing hour examining his sketches of everything from flying machines to musical instruments.

Practical Tips. My advice is to book your Last Supper tickets at least a month in advance as they sell out quickly. For the best experience, arrive at the Duomo early (around 9 AM) to beat the crowds. If you’re short on time, consider taking the 6-hour guided walking tour that includes skip-the-line access to major attractions. End your day in the vibrant Navigli district, where I enjoyed a perfect Aperol Spritz (€8) while watching boats glide along the canals as the sun set over Milan’s historic waterways.

3. Verona

Perfect Day Trip. When you’re in Bergamo, taking a day trip to Verona is an absolute must. I recently hopped on a train from Bergamo train station and found myself transported to one of the most romantic cities in Italy. The journey takes just 1.5 hours, making it perfect for those looking to explore beyond Bergamo city. While Bergamo offers beautiful views from Città Alta, Verona captivates with its own unique charm and the legacy of Shakespeare’s star-crossed lovers.

Historic Highlights. Walking through Verona’s historic center reminded me how different Italian cities each have their own distinct personality. While Bergamo’s Città Alta feels intimate and medieval, Verona dazzles with its ancient Roman Arena and Renaissance piazzas. I spent hours in Verona wandering through Piazza delle Erbe and climbing the Torre dei Lamberti for panoramic views that rival those around Bergamo’s Porta San Giacomo.

Must-See Attractions:

• Juliet’s Balcony (Casa di Giulietta) – touristy but iconic
• Arena di Verona – the remarkably preserved Roman amphitheater
• Piazza delle Erbe – the vibrant heart of the city
• Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore – stunning Romanesque architecture
• Castelvecchio – medieval fortress with an impressive art collection

Culinary Delights. After exploring the city, I discovered that Verona’s food scene offers a delicious contrast to the polenta and casoncelli you’ll find in restaurants in Bergamo. I savored a plate of risotto all’Amarone at Caffé Dante Bistrot in Piazza dei Signori, where the local Amarone wine gives the creamy rice a rich, fruity depth. For dessert, I tried authentic pandoro, Verona’s golden Christmas cake that was invented here but now appears on holiday tables throughout Italy.

Practical Tips. My advice is to leave early from Bergamo to maximize your time in Verona. The FlixBus option offers the best value at just €7-10, though I preferred the comfort of the train. If you’re looking to combine multiple experiences, consider an organized tour that includes both Verona and Lake Garda’s Sirmione for €69. These tours typically depart from the centre of Bergamo around 8 AM and return by evening, allowing you to be back in time to enjoy Città Alta at night.

⭐ Best Activities

• From Bergamo: Full-Day Verona Tour – This full-day tour takes you from Bergamo to the romantic city of Verona and the charming lakeside town of Sirmione. Perfect for travelers looking to explore cultural landmarks and enjoy stunning views of Lake Garda.

FAQ About Things to Do in Bergamo

What is the best time to visit Bergamo?

Spring (April-June) and early fall (September-October) offer the most pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer can be hot and crowded, while winter provides a magical atmosphere with potential snow on the medieval architecture.

How to get from Bergamo airport to city?

The most convenient option is the Airport Bus (ATB Line 1) that runs every 20 minutes and costs €2.60 for a one-way ticket. Taxis are also available outside the terminal for approximately €20-25 to the city center, with the journey taking about 15-20 minutes.

Is Bergamo worth visiting for a day?

Bergamo is absolutely worth a day trip with its well-preserved medieval Città Alta and impressive architecture. You can easily explore the main highlights of both the Upper and Lower Town in one day, though staying overnight allows you to experience the magical atmosphere of Città Alta after the day-trippers leave.

How many days should I spend in Bergamo?

Two to three days is ideal to fully appreciate Bergamo’s charm and explore both the historic Upper Town and modern Lower Town. This timeframe also allows for a relaxed pace and the possibility of a half-day excursion to nearby attractions like Lake Iseo or the countryside.

What are Bergamo’s must-try local foods?

Casoncelli (meat-filled pasta with butter and sage) and polenta taragna (cornmeal with cheese) are absolute must-tries in Bergamo. Don’t miss stracciatella gelato, which was invented in Bergamo, and local wines like Valcalepio or Moscato di Scanzo.

Can I visit Lake Como from Bergamo?

Lake Como is easily accessible from Bergamo by train, with direct connections to Como taking about 1.5-2 hours. You can make it a day trip, but consider staying overnight to fully appreciate the lake’s beauty, especially if you want to visit several lakeside towns.

Is Bergamo expensive for tourists?

Bergamo is moderately priced and generally less expensive than major Italian cities like Milan or Venice. Restaurants in the tourist-centered Città Alta tend to be pricier, while the Lower Town offers more budget-friendly dining and accommodation options.

Do people speak English in Bergamo?

In tourist areas and major attractions, you’ll find staff who speak basic to good English. Younger locals often speak some English, but learning a few basic Italian phrases will be appreciated and helpful in less touristy spots.

How to travel between Città Alta and Bassa?

The funicular railway provides a scenic connection between the Upper and Lower towns for just €1.30 one-way. Alternatively, you can walk up via the ancient stone stairways or take bus lines 1 or 3 that connect the two parts of the city.

What souvenirs should I buy in Bergamo?

Local food products like Valcalepio wine, artisanal polenta flour, and Stracciatella gelato make excellent edible souvenirs. Handcrafted items from local artisans in Città Alta, particularly ceramics and textiles with patterns inspired by Bergamo’s history, are also wonderful keepsakes.