Città Alta: The Crown Jewel of Bergamo

Discover Città Alta in Bergamo: A captivating blend of medieval history, stunning views, and vibrant local life. Explore its ancient streets and rich cultural heritage.

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Città Alta

Città Alta, the upper town of Bergamo, is a mesmerizing blend of medieval charm and vibrant modern life. Perched atop a hill, this neighborhood offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler. The ancient Venetian walls encircle Città Alta, preserving its rich history and offering a sense of timelessness as you walk through its cobblestone streets. As you explore, you'll find an abundance of historical landmarks, including the majestic Piazza Vecchia, often considered one of the most beautiful squares in Italy. Here, you'll see the grand Palazzo della Ragione and the striking Torre del Campanone, which offers breathtaking views if you're willing to climb its many steps. Don't miss the awe-inspiring Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore and the Colleoni Chapel, both showcasing exquisite art and architecture. Beyond its historical treasures, Città Alta boasts a lively atmosphere with bustling cafes, artisan shops, and delightful trattorias. Savor the local cuisine, which features traditional Lombard dishes like polenta and casoncelli. The neighborhood also hosts various cultural events throughout the year, adding to its dynamic appeal. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking to soak in the local culture, Città Alta promises an unforgettable experience.

Local tips in Città Alta

Wear comfortable shoes; the cobblestone streets can be uneven and require good footwear.
Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Take the funicular from the lower town (Città Bassa) for a scenic and convenient way to reach Città Alta.
Don't miss the local specialty, polenta, at one of the many trattorias.
Check the schedule for cultural events and festivals, as they can enhance your visit with local music, art, and food.

File:Bergamo, Piazza Vecchia, 2016-06 CN-01.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Piazza della Cittadella, Bergamo Alta (31921052036).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Bergamo, Santa Maria Maggiore, 2016-06 CN-04.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Bergamo, Cappella Colleoni 2021.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Torre del Gombito, Città Alta, Bergamo (31117954034).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Cittaalta6bg.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Bergamo, Porta San Giacomo, 2016-06 CN-01.jpg - Wikipedia

File:Museoscienze.JPG - Wikimedia Commons

File:Campanone Bergamo.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Porta San Giacomo

Explore Porta San Giacomo, a stunning historical landmark in Bergamo, Italy, representing the city's rich heritage and architectural beauty.

Piazza Vecchia Bergamo Alta

Explore the enchanting Piazza Vecchia in Bergamo Alta, a historical landmark blending medieval architecture with vibrant local culture for an unforgettable experience.

Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore

Explore the breathtaking Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore in Bergamo, a masterpiece of architecture and a treasure of historical significance.

Rocca di Bergamo

Discover the historical wonders and breathtaking views at Rocca di Bergamo, a captivating museum and park in the heart of Italy.

Campanone

Explore the Campanone in Bergamo, Italy—a stunning bell tower and historical museum offering panoramic views and rich cultural insights.

Colleoni Chapel

Discover the breathtaking Colleoni Chapel in Bergamo, an architectural marvel rich in history and artistry, nestled in the enchanting Piazza Duomo.

Cinta Muraria di Bergamo

Discover the historic Cinta Muraria di Bergamo, a UNESCO World Heritage site offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into Italy's rich past.

Piazza Duomo Bergamo Alta

Discover the architectural beauty and vibrant atmosphere of Piazza Duomo, the stunning heart of Bergamo Alta filled with history and culture.

Piattaforma di Santa Grata

Experience the breathtaking views and rich history of Piattaforma di Santa Grata, a must-visit landmark in Bergamo, Italy.

Sur Place

Explore the enchanting Sur Place in Bergamo's Città Alta – a historical landmark that offers a glimpse into Italy's rich cultural heritage.

Unmissable attractions to see

Bergamo Cathedral

Discover the breathtaking Bergamo Cathedral, a stunning blend of architectural styles and artistic treasures in the heart of Bergamo's historic center.

Palazzo e Giardini Moroni

Discover the enchanting Palazzo e Giardini Moroni in Bergamo, where art meets nature in a serene escape for all travelers.

Rocca di Bergamo

Rocca di Bergamo: A historic fortress offering breathtaking views, a fascinating museum, and a tranquil park for an unforgettable Italian experience.

Saint Lorenzo Gate

Explore the historic Saint Lorenzo Gate in Bergamo, a gateway to the city's rich medieval heritage and breathtaking views of the Upper Town.

Palazzo della Ragione

Explore the historical elegance and architectural beauty of Palazzo della Ragione in Bergamo, Italy, a must-visit for culture and history lovers.

Essential places to dine

Da Mimmo Bergamo Alta

Discover authentic Italian flavors at Da Mimmo Bergamo Alta - where delicious pizzas meet tradition in a charming atmosphere.

Da Franco Restaurant

Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Da Franco Restaurant in Bergamo – where every dish tells a story.

Mimì • La Casa dei Sapori

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Mimì • La Casa dei Sapori in Bergamo - where every dish tells a story.

Ristorante la Tana

Experience authentic Italian flavors at Ristorante la Tana in Bergamo – where tradition meets taste in every dish.

Al Donizetti

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Al Donizetti in Bergamo—where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

Vineria Cozzi

Experience authentic Italian cuisine and exquisite wines at Vineria Cozzi - a hidden gem in Bergamo's vibrant culinary scene.

Lalimentari

Discover authentic Italian flavors at Lalimentari in Bergamo's historic Piazza Vecchia—where every dish tells a story.

Antica Osteria Del Vino Buono

Discover authentic Italian flavors at Antica Osteria Del Vino Buono in Bergamo – where culinary tradition meets exceptional hospitality.

Trattoria Sant' Ambroeus

Experience authentic Italian flavors at Trattoria Sant' Ambroeus in Bergamo's historic Piazza Vecchia for an unforgettable dining experience.

Ristorante Gambero Rosso

Discover authentic Italian flavors at Ristorante Gambero Rosso in Bergamo – where every dish tells a story.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Boutique Legami

Explore Boutique Legami in Bergamo for unique gifts and exquisite stationery that reflect Italian creativity and charm.

DonaDoni Souvenir Bergamo

Explore DonaDoni Souvenir in Bergamo for unique handmade crafts and authentic Italian souvenirs that capture the essence of Italian culture.

Dolfi Home Bergamo

Explore exquisite handcrafted souvenirs at Dolfi Home Bergamo, a charming store showcasing the artistry of local wooden crafts and more.

Decorazioni Artistiche

Explore Decorazioni Artistiche in Bergamo for unique souvenirs and handcrafted treasures that reflect the local culture and artistry.

Shop Mono Prezzo

Discover the stylish essence of Bergamo at Shop Mono Prezzo, where contemporary fashion meets local craftsmanship.

Prelibatessen Eccellenze Italiane

Explore the finest Italian delicacies at Prelibatessen Eccellenze Italiane, your destination for authentic gifts and gourmet treats in Bergamo.

Mypersianhouse

Explore Mypersianhouse in Bergamo for unique collectibles that embody the rich cultural heritage of Persia and beyond.

Belloli boutique

Explore Bergamo's fashion scene at Belloli Boutique, where style meets sophistication in every carefully curated piece.

Adelante Di Federica Licini&Paolo Carnazzi Snc

Explore the enchanting world of local crafts at Adelante Di Federica Licini & Paolo Carnazzi Snc, a must-visit gift shop in the heart of Bergamo, Italy.

Lo Stock House Di Madame D

Experience the charm of Italian fashion at Lo Stock House Di Madame D, a must-visit boutique in the heart of Bergamo.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

The Tucans Pub

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of The Tucans Pub, a cozy Irish gastropub in Bergamo offering hearty food and a wide selection of drinks.

Birreria di Città Alta

Discover Birreria di Città Alta, a vibrant gastropub in Bergamo offering local beers and delicious Italian cuisine amidst stunning city views.

Pozzo Bianco - Bergamo - Città Alta

Experience the vibrant culinary scene of Bergamo at Pozzo Bianco, where local flavors meet a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Città Alta.

Bar Flora

Experience the essence of Italian culture at Bar Flora, where exquisite coffee and delightful pastries await in Bergamo's historic Piazza Vecchia.

Fly

Discover the lively atmosphere at Fly Gastropub in Bergamo, where gourmet cuisine meets an energetic pub vibe.

Bar Dell Angelo

Experience the heart of Bergamo at Bar Dell Angelo, a cozy pub offering delicious local cuisine and a vibrant atmosphere.

Caffè Cittadella - Bergamo

Discover the rich flavors of Italy at Caffè Cittadella, a charming bar and ice cream shop in Bergamo offering coffee and gelato delights.

Botticelli

Discover the essence of Italian coffee culture and vibrant nightlife at Botticelli, Bergamo's charming bar and coffee shop.

Ol Baretì

Experience the essence of Bergamo at Ol Baretì, a charming bar offering authentic Italian beverages and a vibrant atmosphere for all visitors.

Botèp Bergamo

Discover the vibrant cocktail culture at Botèp Bergamo, where innovative drinks meet delicious gastropub cuisine in a lively atmosphere.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Città Alta

Discover Città Alta with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases

- HelloCiao
  [chow]
- GoodbyeArrivederci
  [ah-ree-veh-dehr-chee]
- YesSì
  [see]
- NoNo
  [noh]
- Please/You're welcomePer favore/Prego
  [pehr fah-voh-reh/preh-goh]
- Thank youGrazie
  [grah-tsyeh]
- Excuse me/SorryMi scusi/Scusa
  [mee skoo-zee/skoo-zah]
- How are you?Come stai?
  [koh-meh stah-ee]
- Fine. And you?Bene. E tu?
  [beh-neh. eh too]
- Do you speak English?Parli inglese?
  [pahr-lee een-gleh-zeh]
- I don't understandNon capisco
  [nohn kah-pee-skoh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseVorrei vedere il menu, per favore
  [vohr-ray veh-deh-reh eel meh-noo, pehr fah-voh-reh]
- I don't eat meatNon mangio carne
  [nohn mahn-joh kahr-neh]
- Cheers!Salute!
  [sah-loo-teh]
- I would like to pay, pleaseVorrei pagare, per favore
  [vohr-ray pah-gah-reh, pehr fah-voh-reh]
- Help!Aiuto!
  [ah-yoo-toh]
- Go away!Vai via!
  [vah-ee vyah]
- Call the Police!Chiama la polizia!
  [kyah-mah lah poh-lee-tsya]
- Call a doctor!Chiama un dottore!
  [kyah-mah oon doht-toh-reh]
- I'm lostMi sono perso/a
  [mee soh-no pehr-soh/ah]
- I'm illMi sento male
  [mee sehn-toh mah-leh]
- I'd like to buy...Vorrei comprare...
  [vohr-ray kohm-prah-reh]
- I'm just lookingSto solo guardando
  [stoh soh-loh gwar-dahn-doh]
- How much is it?Quanto costa?
  [kwahn-toh kohs-tah]
- That's too expensiveÈ troppo caro
  [eh troh-poh kah-roh]
- Can you lower the price?Puoi abbassare il prezzo?
  [pwah-ee ahb-bahs-sah-reh eel preh-tsoh]
- What time is it?Che ora è?
  [keh oh-rah eh]
- It's one o'clockÈ l'una
  [eh loo-nah]
- Half past (10)Sono le dieci e mezza
  [soh-no leh dyeh-chee eh meh-tzah]
- MorningMattina
  [maht-tee-nah]
- AfternoonPomeriggio
  [poh-meh-ree-djoh]
- EveningSera
  [seh-rah]
- YesterdayIeri
  [yeh-ree]
- TodayOggi
  [oh-jee]
- TomorrowDomani
  [doh-mah-nee]
- 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
- 2Due
  [doo-eh]
- 3Tre
  [treh]
- 4Quattro
  [kwah-troh]
- 5Cinque
  [cheen-kweh]
- 6Sei
  [seh-ee]
- 7Sette
  [seht-teh]
- 8Otto
  [oht-toh]
- 9Nove
  [noh-veh]
- 10Dieci
  [dyeh-chee]
- Where's a/the...?Dov'è...?
  [doh-veh]
- What's the address?Qual è l'indirizzo?
  [kwahl eh leen-dee-reet-soh]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Puoi farmi vedere (sulla mappa)?
  [pwah-ee fahr-mee veh-deh-reh (sool-lah mahp-pah)]
- When's the next (bus)?Quando passa il prossimo (bus)?
  [kwahn-doh pahs-sah eel prohs-see-moh (boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un biglietto (per ....)
  [oon beel-lyet-toh (pehr)]

History of Città Alta

Città Alta, the upper town of Bergamo, has its roots in the ancient Roman settlement of Bergomum, established around 196 BC. The strategic hilltop location allowed for defensive advantages and control over the surrounding plains, making it a vital military and administrative center in the region.
During the Middle Ages, Città Alta flourished as a free commune. The 12th and 13th centuries were marked by the construction of defensive walls, which still encircle the city today. The city became a hub for trade and commerce, with its wealth reflected in the grand architecture of the time, including the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore and the Colleoni Chapel.
In 1428, Bergamo came under the control of the Venetian Republic, which lasted for over 200 years. This period left a profound impact on Città Alta's architecture and urban planning. The Venetians fortified the city further, enhancing its defensive structures, and brought a cultural renaissance that enriched the arts and local governance.
The late 18th and early 19th centuries saw Città Alta transitioning through various political regimes, including the Napoleonic occupation. The fall of the Venetian Republic and the subsequent annexation to the Kingdom of Italy in the 19th century marked significant shifts in governance and culture, leading to a renewed focus on Italian nationalism.
Throughout the 20th century, Città Alta maintained its historical charm while adapting to modernity. The establishment of the funicular in 1887 allowed easier access from the lower city, fostering tourism. Città Alta has become a vibrant cultural hub, hosting events like the annual Bergamo Film Meeting and showcasing its rich artistic heritage.

Città Alta Essentials

Città Alta is easily accessible from other neighborhoods in Bergamo. Visitors can take the funicular railway from Città Bassa, which operates frequently and offers stunning views of the city during the ascent. Alternatively, buses such as Line 1 connect Città Bassa to Città Alta, with a travel time of about 15 minutes. For those arriving by train, Bergamo's train station is in Città Bassa, and the funicular is a direct route to the old town.
Città Alta is best explored on foot due to its cobbled streets and historical sites. While public transport options are limited, the funicular is a great way to travel to and from Città Bassa. Bicycles can be rented, but the steep terrain may be challenging. For those with mobility issues, consider using taxis or rideshare services, which can navigate the narrow streets.
Città Alta is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. While violent crime is rare, petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur, particularly in crowded areas like Piazza Vecchia and during festivals. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and keep valuables secure. It's advisable to stay alert in busy tourist spots.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for police, medical, or fire assistance. Emergency rooms are available at the nearby Ospedale Papa Giovanni XXIII. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies throughout Città Alta, where you can find over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do wear comfortable walking shoes as the streets are steep and uneven. Avoid overly casual attire when visiting churches. Religion: Do be respectful in religious settings; cover shoulders and knees when entering churches. Public Transport: Do be courteous to fellow passengers; don’t eat or drink in the funicular. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'Buongiorno' (Good morning) or 'Buona sera' (Good evening). Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes such as casoncelli and polenta. Don’t waste food; it’s respectful to finish what you order.
To experience Città Alta like a local, visit the small artisan shops along Via della Rocca and taste local wines at local enotecas. Participate in local festivals, if your visit coincides, for an authentic cultural experience. Enjoy a leisurely meal at a traditional trattoria and engage with locals who are often happy to share their stories and recommendations. Don't miss the sunset from the Venetian Walls for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Città Alta: The Crown Jewel of Bergamo

Local tips in Città Alta