A Guide to the Best Things to do in Bergamo, Italy

Last Updated on 3rd March 2023 by Sophie Nadeau

Bergamo is the hidden gem of Lombardy, an Italian destination often missed or forgotten in favour of its more famous neighbour, the design capital and fashion city of Milan. But if you do choose to head to Bergamo, then make sure to wander its cobbled lanes and soak up its historic atmosphere. After all, you certainly won’t be disappointed! Here’s a quick travel guide to this beautiful Italian city and the best things to do in Bergamo.

How to visit Bergamo

Thanks to its position just a fifteen-minute bus ride away from an international airport, it couldn’t be easier to visit Bergamo on your next European adventure.

After all, one of the biggest travel mistakes that travellers make when heading to Northern Italy is missing out on this underrated gem of a city. And once in Bergamo, the city couldn’t be easier to explore by either funicular or on your own two feet.

Set over several levels as a result of its position in the foothills of the Italian mountains, the romantic and mysterious city is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway.

Though we loved our stay in the chic and historic Angolo del Poeta, those looking for a luxurious experience will soon fall in love with the Relais San Lorenzo.

Is Bergamo worth visiting?

If you’re wondering whether or not to add Bergamo to your Italy travel itinerary, then the answer should be a resounding ‘yes’. Medieval architecture, local cuisine, and an authentic Italian town a little off the beaten path, Bergamo is a stunning destination in Northern Italy.

Characterised by its Venetian Walls, cobbled lanes, and welcoming ambience, there are plenty of reasons to visit Bergamo. Of all the reasons to visit Bergamo, make it the fact that you’ll be visiting a place which many miss.

With regular budget flights touching down in Bergamo’s airport on a daily basis, many assume that Bergamo is the kind of place you fly into, and then leave directly.

However, this is most certainly not the case and avoiding this Italian town would be your first mistake! Instead, ensure to dedicate at least a night or two to discover the best attractions Bergamo has to offer.

After all, it’s not every day of your Northern Italian trip that you’ll discover a city that’s relatively underrated in comparison with its nearby neighbours, such as Milan and Lake Como, yet remains a destination which retains all the charm of a unique holiday experience.

How long do you need in Bergamo?

While you could simply stop off in Bergamo, we advise a longer stay to really allow yourself to get a feel for the place. Looking for one of the best-kept secrets of Italy?

The stunning city is perfect for a weekend break- or perhaps a longer stint- for those looking to go a little off the tourist track and discover something new.

After all, the city has plenty of accommodation options to suit every budget, including this luxurious place to stay and this historic B&B we stayed at for an absolute steal!

Otherwise, you should know that visiting Bergamo couldn’t be easier thanks to a wealth of affordable train links to the rest of Italy and beyond.

Bergamo is even served by its own international airport offering flights to the UK, France, the Netherlands, and plenty of other European destinations.

The time to get from the airport to the city centre is just under half an hour by bus and costs just a few euros each way, making the city easily accessible even on the shortest of vacations.

20+ Best Things to do in Bergamo

#1 Visit the Tempietto di Santa Croce

Lying in the shadows of the Basilica di Santa Maria, this stunning and incredibly ancient 11th-century chapel is hidden in plain sight, to the extent that most simply pass it by, never even realising that it exists (even the locals who live in Bergamo!).

Easily one of the best-kept secrets and hidden gems of Bergamo, the stone structure leans to one side and is truly a glimpse of Bergamo history. The octagonally shaped Tempietto di Santa Croce is small and filled with murals dating all the way back to the middle ages.

Though the interior of the ecclesiastical building is often closed to the public and only open at select times throughout the year, it can still be enjoyed from the outside!

#2 Admire the Old Bishop’s Palace

The ‘broletto’ is located next to the Basilica di Santa Maria and was built on the site of the old Roman forum. Open to the public and free to visit, the Old Bishop’s Palace is covered in ancient murals and old paintings and is often empty.

This means that you’ll most likely be able to admire this masterpiece free from the distraction of others. Wander around its dark depths and emerge on the other side to enjoy the delights of the Piazza Vecchia.

#3 Dine in Il Circolino

Tell me: have you ever dined in a former prison? Well, neither had I until I headed to Bergamo. Stroll down a small pedestrianised path away from the old town centre and you’ll end up in front of a vintage wooden door.

This is the beginning of your ultimate dining experience at Il Circolino. Outside, the sound of music drifts into the alleyway and the smell of fresh pizza lingers in the air.

Head inside for some authentic Italian cuisine and plenty of local wine! We particularly loved the fragrant risotto, well-priced wine list, and mouthwatering desserts.

#4 Visit the Duomo di Bergamo (Bergamo’s Cathedral)

Bergamo was once home to two cathedrals, though only one survives to this day. You’ll find the sole surviving cathedral in the very centre of the old city (elevated town), just next to Piazza Vecchia.

Part of the Roman Catholic church, this ecclesiastical building is often overlooked by its more sumptuous counterpart, that of the basilica Santa Maria. The cathedral is free to visit and is open on a daily basis between 7 AM and 7 PM.

Dedicated to Saint Alexander of Bergamo (whose remains are now housed in an urn on the cathedral’s grand altar), it’s the seat of the city’s current bishop and was constructed in the 15th-century.

Wander inside, and you’ll see intricate decor, beautiful frescoes, and the tiara of Pope John XXIII, who is now known as Saint John XXIII.

#5 Admire the Cappella Colleoni (Colleoni Chapel)

Ornately designed and even more intricate to its interior, the chapel of Colleoni is a breathtaking mausoleum dedicated to Mark, Bartholomew, and John the Baptist.

Built in the 15th-century, this church is one of the best examples of Renaissance architecture you could hope to find anywhere in Northern Italy, let alone in Bergamo! Please note that as much of the collection is in private hands, photography is not allowed inside the chapel.

However, this should definitely not put you off visiting as the Cappella is a true feast for the eyes… After all, this number of beautiful carvings and oeuvres d’art are best experienced without the distraction of modern technology.

#6 Visit the Museo Donizettiano

Housed in the 12th century former Palace (what cultural space isn’t when it comes to Italy?), a museum was established in 1906 to celebrate the life, works and collections of Donizetti, the iconic Italian composer.

Enter inside to explore the exhibitions, admire the interior of an old palace and be amazed by the sheer volume of frescoes, paintings and courtyards located within the museum’s walls.

#7 Enjoy Coffee in the Piazza Vecchia

Like many smaller Italian towns and cities, the prices of Bergamo are much less than those of major cities such as Rome and Milan. As a result, it’s often possible to enjoy coffees and other beverages at reasonable prices, even in the centre of town, right on the main square.

Granted, the prices are obviously more expensive than in other parts of town. But then again, there’s nothing quite like admiring the old town square while enjoying your first espresso of the day.

Birds, the buzz of tourist chatter, and all! For more information about coffee in Italy, here’s how to order coffee in Italy just like an Italian!

#8 Take the funicular up to the Citta Alta

Bergamo is a city divided into two parts; largely owing to its status as a hillside town- in all senses of the word. The newer part of the city is the Città Bassa (lower city), which as its name would suggest, sits in a lower position on a fairly flat plateau. This area is a financial hub and is complete with plenty of open piazzas and wide boulevards.

There is not one but two funiculars to take when you head to Bergamo. This is as the city is roughly divided into two main parts, with a further sub-division once you reach High Bergamo (known in Italian as the Città Alta).

Built in the Alpine foothills, hills are obviously abundant! Known as Bergorum during the Roman era, the Città Alta dates back thousands of years.

The oldest part of the city is divided into two further parts; the touristic centre (where you’ll find the Duomo and all the restaurants), as well as the Rocca di Bergamo area, site of an ancient fortress and now home to some breathtaking terraces and restaurants.

While in the Città Alta, make sure to enjoy a traditional Italian coffee while people-watching in the main town square, Piazza Vecchia.

Below, the newer part of the city (though also dating back at least five centuries) is known as Città Bassa (lower city). In other words, Bergamo is full of steep climbs and if you want to save time (and a fair bit of energy), you’ll want to utilise the funiculars to travel around!

#9 Take the funicular up to the Rocca di San Vigilio

For the very best view in Bergamo, you simply must take the higher funicular up the side of the mountain and straight to the very top of the city where Bergamo’s stunning position in the Alpine foothills really comes into its own. Wander around the ancient walls of the Castello di San Vigilio and take in the panoramic views.

With breathtaking views of the city and beyond at the top, the funicular (or ‘mini sky train’) up to the very edge of the city is well worth the nominal fee. This view is such that it’s well worth bringing some photography equipment along to capture the moment; so don’t forget your camera!

For the very best photos of Bergamo, take the funicolare San Vigilio just before sunset to capture the Citta Alta and Citta Bassa in golden light. Some of the other best views of the lower city can be found along the Venetian walls (where you may even spot a vineyard or two if you’re lucky).

Sit and stay a while, or enjoy a bite to eat in one of the many restaurants and cafés located on the edge of the rocks. The view is best seen in the morning or at sunset when golden hour lights up the scene and an orange glow pours over the stunning city.

#10 Enter the Basilica of/di Santa Maria Maggiore

Bergamo is a city of churches, and the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore is sandwiched between the Cappella Colleoni and Bergamo’s cathedral. Constructed from the 12th-century onwards, the church is said to have been built by men who prayed to the Virgin Mary when a plague broke out in 1100.

The men prayed that they would be kept safe from sickness, and if this were the case, then they would build a church in Mary’s honour. The men ended up surviving and true to their word, they built an enormous church in thanks for their health.

Filled with frescoes, stuccos, tapestries and wooden marquetry, this is one of the most intricately designed churches in the region and is well worth a visit, if only to stand in awe at all of the beautiful artwork on display.

#11 Explore the Museo di Scienze Naturali

Opened to the public in 1918, the Natural History Museum of Bergamo is filled with all things science related and is the perfect Bergamo activity for if you have kids in tow (or simply if it’s a rainy day). Filled with fossils, old animals and vintage scientific equipment, head here if you’re not so keen on traditional musuems, but want to still experience a little culture.

#12 Torre Civica (Climb to the top of the bell tower)

Overlooking the entire Piazza Vecchia and in the heart of the city’s old town, one of the best things to do in Bergamo is to climb to the very top of the bell tower.

Stroll up the historical steps and be rewarded by a breathtaking view over the city and beyond. Towering at 52 metres high, the Torre Civica is the Citta Alta’s tallest tower and was built during the 12th-century.

#13 Venetian Walls

Bergamo was once (and technically still is) heavily fortified, and a testament to this are the Venetian walls which are now designated as a UNESCO world heritage site.

The complete loop stretches over 6 km in length and walking along the high walls by foot is one of the very best introductions to the city you could hope to find.

Construction of the Venetian Walls first commenced in the 16th century under the Republic of Venice, for whom the walls are named. Today, the Renaissance era walls are some of the best preserved of their time still standing in the world today.

#14 Castello di San Vigilio (Castle of Saint Vigilio)

At the very top of Bergamo, where the mountain touches the clouds and you can see for miles upon miles, there are the remnants of an ancient castle dating back centuries.

The Castle of Saint Vigilio dates back to a time when Bergamo was constantly at war with other city-states. Dating all the way back to the 6th century AD, the Castello is filled with fortified walls, casemates, stunning vistas, and views onto the villages beyond Bergamo.

#15 Walk through the Bergamo City Gate

The Venetian walls which characterise Bergamo are punctured with ornate gates every once in a while, in order that foot and road traffic may pass between the Città Alta and the Città Bassa.

Head between the two districts of Bergamo by foot, and no doubt you’ll wander through at least one or two of these ancient structures. Pictured below is the San Giacomo Gate, the old entrance to the city for those travelling to Bergamo from Milan.

#16 Soak up some history wandering the cobbled lanes

Of all the best things to do in Bergamo, wandering through the cobbled lanes, and soaking up the history tops the list. This Lombardy city is a place to be savoured, its atmosphere to be absorbed, and you should go where your feet take you.

After all, the best way to reveal Bergamo’s hidden gems is simply to allow the city to reveal itself to you. For a closer look at the city’s rich history, consider booking a private upper town walking tour with a guide like this one.

#17 Take a day trip to Milan

Bergamo has all the charm and none of the big-city prices of Milan, making it a great place to base yourself while exploring this Northern Italian region. However, if you do want to visit the Lombardy capital for yourself, then Milan is only a short train ride away, making it one of the best day trips from Bergamo.

In order to visit Milan from Bergamo, you can take the train or bus. While the bus is slightly cheaper, the train will take you right into the city centre!

Once there, you can see the Duomo di Milano, an ossuary chapel, plenty of museums and the design hub of Northern Italy for yourself. Wondering what to do in Milan? Here’s how to spend one day in Milan.

#18 Be amazed by the Accademia Carrara

Of all the reasons to visit Lombardy, the artwork held in many of its towns and cities is definitely near the top of the list. And one of the oldest collections of all is that held in the Academia Carrara.

The collection exists thanks to the generosity of 18th-century count, Giacomo Carrara, who donated his extensive collections to the city following his death in 1796. From then on, his properties were managed by various parties before the 1950s when the Commune of Bergamo took over.

Today, the collections can be visited for a small fee and comprise of over 1800 paintings dating from the 15th to 19th centuries. Artists represented within the works include Botticelli, Bellini, and Raphael.

#19 Enjoy the city with a guided tour or cooking class

For those looking to enjoy the city on a more local level, there is perhaps no better way to experience the culture of a place than by taking a class or exploring the destination on foot.

This private guided tour will show you all of the important Bergamo attractions such as the cathedral, the little cobbled lanes and more. Otherwise, for a taste of the best Italian food that Bergamo has to offer, book this Cooking Class with a Local Chef in Bergamo.

#20 Sample local food

Pasta, pizza, and all the gelato: steps away from the touristic area of the city there’s plenty of local produce to be found in the form of patisseries and local wines.

Local Lombardy cuisine mirrors much of the rest of Northern Italy, lacking in tomatoes and focusing more on butter and meat-based dishes. The most famous local dish is the risotto alla milanese, a rice dish flavoured with saffron.

#21 Take one of the best day trips from Bergamo

If you’re looking to enjoy the best of Northern Italy a little off the beaten path, then there are plenty of day trips from Bergamo that are well worth the time.

Other than Milan (which is the easiest of day trips from the Medieval city), you can rent a car and head out into the vineyards, or visit one of Northern Italy’s other major cities or towns via train;

Venice day trip from Bergamo: Long touted as one of the most beautiful cities in Italy, Venice is a must-see when travelling through the boot-shaped country.

This full day tour from Bergamo includes highlights such as a boat ride on the Venice Lagoon, a guided walking tour of the city, and the chance to stroll through real life history.

Verona and Sirmione day trip from Bergamo: Ah, Verona, the Italian City of Love, not to mention the place where Shakespeare’s fated lovers, Romeo and Juliet, hail from.

This Bergamo excursion includes a visit to a summer retreat from the days of the Roman Empire at Sirmione, and the chance to explore Verona in depth.

Where to stay in Bergamo

If you’re looking to make the most of this Lombardy gem of a city, then I highly recommend dedicating a couple of days to explore Bergamo, rather than just staying for a single day. Unlike nearby Milan, staying in Bergamo can be quite affordable and there are plenty of options on offer:

Luxury accommodation in Bergamo

Relais San Lorenzo, Piazza Lorenzo Mascheroni, 9, 24129 Bergamo BG, Italy

If you’re looking for a place that’s a little more luxurious during your stay in Bergamo then the Relais San Lorenzo (which is only open during the shoulder and peak seasons of the year) is incredibly well rated. Set against the backdrop of the beautiful Lombardy hills, this 5-star hotel offers all of the facilities you could wish for from a luxury hotel.

Check prices and accommodation here.

Mid-range accommodation in Bergamo

UpTown Bed and Breakfast, Piazzetta Luigi Angelini, 15, 24129 Bergamo BG, Italy

If you want to truly experience the best of Bergamo, then I recommend staying in the heart of the Citta Alta. For our second night in the city, we opted to stay in the UpTown B&B where the room was clean and comfortable.

The room also came with a complimentary breakfast, of which there were several options to choose from. Deliciously cooked, we ended up having an amazing chat with the owner of the B&B! 

Check accommodation prices here.

Angolo del Poeta, Via Borgo Palazzo, 39, 24125 Bergamo BG, Italy

If you love your accommodation with a slice of history, then I highly recommend staying in the Angolo del Poeta. Situated in the lower part of Bergamo and easy to reach from the train station, the ancient walls of this place were first built over 500 years ago. Today, the B&B offers a wonderful place to stay for a reasonable cost.

Check accommodation prices here.

How to visit Bergamo as a day trip from Milan

Nearby Milano is just under an hour away from the train and transportation between the two cities runs on an incredibly regular basis. As such, even if you don’t have much time in Northern Italy, set aside just half a day for this easy day trip from Milan and you certainly won’t regret your choice!

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) about Bergamo, Italy

What is Bergamo known for?

Due to its wealth of historical buildings, numerous museums, and ancient architecture, Bergamo is most famous for its medieval atmosphere and culturally rich Italian experiences. The city is also well-known for being situated on a mountain, with a distinct upper and lower city.

Is Bergamo worth visiting?

If you’re looking for an off the beaten path hidden gem of an Italian destination, then you should totally consider a visit to Bergamo. Authentic food experiences, little-known architectural buildings, and plenty of museums await you should you choose to spend some time in Bergamo.

If you’re looking for even more inspiration about the boot-shaped country, then be sure to check out our best travel quotes about Italy. And if you need to know more information before heading to the South of Europe, check out our top Italy travel tips.

How many days do you need in Bergamo?

Bergamo is not a huge city, but you would be well served by staying overnight so as to enjoy the beauty of the Italian city without as many tourists around. You should consider staying an entire weekend in Bergamo, with extra days added if you wish to do day trips to the surrounding area.

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Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, travel, pizza, and history. A fan of all things France related, she runs solosophie.com when she’s not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming something sweet. She currently splits her time between Paris and London. Subscribe to Sophie’s YouTube Channel.

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