Bergamo, Italy Travel Guide

Discover Bergamo, a captivating blend of medieval charm and modern vitality, nestled in the picturesque Lombardy region of northern Italy.

Bergamo, a charming city located in the Lombardy region of northern Italy, is a place where medieval history and modern life beautifully intertwine. Divided into two distinct parts, the Città Alta (Upper Town) and the Città Bassa (Lower Town), Bergamo offers a rich tapestry of experiences for every traveler. The Upper Town, perched atop a hill, is a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, ancient buildings, and stunning views. The Lower Town, on the other hand, is a bustling hub of contemporary Italian culture, with chic shops, gourmet restaurants, and lively piazzas. One of the most captivating features of Bergamo is its well-preserved Venetian walls, which encircle the Upper Town. These 16th-century fortifications offer a sense of stepping back in time as you walk along them, enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the city below. Within the walls, you'll find a plethora of historic landmarks, including the Piazza Vecchia, a beautiful square surrounded by medieval and Renaissance architecture, and the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, an exquisite church known for its ornate interiors and stunning frescoes. Beyond its historical allure, Bergamo is also a gateway to the natural beauty of the Italian Alps. Just a short drive away, you can explore scenic hiking trails, picturesque lakes, and charming mountain villages. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or simply seeking an authentic Italian experience, Bergamo offers a delightful escape from the more crowded tourist destinations in Italy.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Bergamo.

Take the funicular to the Upper Town for stunning views and easier access to historical sites.
Visit the Città Alta early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
Try the local specialty, casoncelli, a type of stuffed pasta, at one of the city's traditional trattorias.
Wear comfortable shoes as Bergamo's cobblestone streets can be uneven and hilly.
Check out the local markets in the Lower Town for fresh produce and unique souvenirs.

Neighbourhoods in Bergamo

Città Alta

Città Bassa

Explore All Neighbourhoods in Bergamo

Explore Bergamo: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Bergamo

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore

Discover the stunning Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture in the heart of Bergamo, Italy.

4.8

Trucca Park

Discover the tranquility of Trucca Park in Bergamo, where nature meets serenity in a picturesque urban setting.

4.3

Accademia Carrara Museum

Explore the rich heritage of Italian art at Bergamo's Accademia Carrara Museum, featuring masterpieces from renowned artists across centuries.

4.7

Civic Museum of Natural Sciences in Bergamo

Discover the incredible natural history at Bergamo's Civic Museum of Natural Sciences, where education meets fascination in a stunning collection.

4.6

Best landmarks in Bergamo

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Porta San Giacomo

Discover the historical grandeur of Porta San Giacomo, a majestic gateway in Bergamo that connects the past with stunning views and architectural beauty.

4.7

Piazza Vecchia Bergamo Alta

Experience the enchanting beauty and rich history of Piazza Vecchia, the heart of Bergamo Alta, Italy's captivating historical gem.

4.8

Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore

Discover the stunning Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore in Bergamo, a masterpiece of art and history that enchants every visitor with its sacred beauty.

4.8

Civic Museum of Natural Sciences in Bergamo

Explore the beauty of nature and delve into the world's biodiversity at the Civic Museum of Natural Sciences in Bergamo, a must-visit for all nature enthusiasts.

4.6

Best restaurants in Bergamo

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

Da Mimmo Bergamo Alta

Experience authentic Italian dining at Da Mimmo in Bergamo Alta, where exquisite pizzas and traditional dishes await in a charming atmosphere.

4.4

Da Giuliana

Experience the essence of Italy at Da Giuliana in Bergamo - where every dish tells a story and every bite is a delight.

4.5

Baretto

Discover Baretto in Bergamo: A delightful restaurant offering authentic Italian cuisine and stunning views.

4.4

Trattoria Parietti

Experience the essence of Italy at Trattoria Parietti in Bergamo—where authentic flavors meet warm hospitality.

4.6

Best bars in Bergamo

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

The Ritual Pub

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of The Ritual Pub in Bergamo, where Irish hospitality meets Italian flavors for an unforgettable experience.

4.1

Bobino Bar & Restaurant

Experience the vibrant fusion of Italian cuisine and fine wines at Bobino Bar & Restaurant in the heart of Bergamo.

3.9

Pub Sant'Orsola

Experience the best of Bergamo's nightlife at Pub Sant'Orsola, where local brews and warm hospitality await.

4.2

Beach Bar

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Bergamo at Beach Bar, where American flavors meet Italian hospitality in a lively coastal-themed setting.

4.4

Best nightclubs in Bergamo

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

Contest Lounge Bar

Discover the best cocktails and vibrant nightlife at Contest Lounge Bar in Bergamo, Italy – a perfect blend of style and fun.

4.3

Setai

Discover the electrifying nightlife at Setai, Orio al Serio's premier disco club, where unforgettable nights and vibrant music await.

3.6

Bar H

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Bar H in Bergamo, where exquisite cocktails meet delicious small plates in a stylish lounge.

3.8

VIBE Music Zone

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Treviolo at VIBE Music Zone, a premier disco club with electrifying music and an unforgettable atmosphere.

3.8

Best shops in Bergamo

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Le Due Torri

Discover the ultimate shopping experience at Le Due Torri in Stezzano, featuring top brands, delicious dining, and exciting events for all ages.

4.2

COIN

Discover the essence of Italian fashion at COIN in Bergamo, your ultimate destination for clothing, cosmetics, and accessories.

4.1

Flying Tiger Copenhagen

Explore Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Bergamo for an unforgettable shopping experience filled with unique gifts and affordable treasures.

4.2

Legami Concept Store

Discover the Legami Concept Store in Bergamo - a charming gift shop for unique books, stationery, and quirky Italian gifts.

4.4

Explore Bergamo on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Bergamo, mapped for you.

Bergamo Essentials

Bergamo is well-connected by air, road, and rail. The Orio al Serio International Airport (BGY) is only 5 km from the city center and offers numerous international and domestic flights. From the airport, you can take a bus, taxi, or rent a car to reach the city center. If you prefer traveling by train, Bergamo's main railway station is well-connected to Milan, Brescia, and other major cities in Italy. Additionally, the city is accessible via major highways such as the A4, making it convenient for those traveling by car.
Bergamo is divided into two main areas: Città Alta (Upper Town) and Città Bassa (Lower Town). Public transportation is efficient and includes buses and funiculars that connect these two areas. The ATB (Azienda Trasporti Bergamo) operates the local bus and funicular services. Taxis are readily available, and ride-sharing services such as Uber are also an option. For those who prefer exploring on foot, many attractions in Città Alta are within walking distance. Renting a bike is another great way to explore the city.
The official currency in Bergamo, as in the rest of Italy, is the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are plentiful throughout the city, making it easy to withdraw money as needed.
Bergamo is generally a safe city for tourists. However, like any popular destination, it’s important to be cautious of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas and on public transport. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and be mindful of your belongings. While Bergamo doesn't have specific high-crime neighborhoods targeting tourists, staying vigilant is always a good practice.
In case of emergency, dial 112, the European emergency number, for immediate assistance. This number can be used to reach police, medical, and fire services. Bergamo has several hospitals and clinics, including the Ospedale Papa Giovanni XXIII, which is well-equipped to handle medical emergencies. Pharmacies are also available throughout the city for minor health issues. It’s recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress stylishly but comfortably. Italians take fashion seriously, so avoid overly casual attire like flip-flops and beachwear when in the city. Religion: Do respect religious customs, especially when visiting churches. Cover your shoulders and knees, and remove hats when entering. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding buses and funiculars. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Buongiorno' (Good morning) or 'Buonasera' (Good evening). A handshake is common in formal settings. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like polenta and casoncelli. Don’t rush through meals; dining is a leisurely activity in Italy. Also, avoid asking for modifications to traditional dishes.
To experience Bergamo like a local, take a stroll through the bustling Piazza Vecchia in Città Alta and enjoy a coffee or aperitivo at one of the many cafes. Visit the local markets, such as the Mercato del Carmine, to purchase fresh produce and artisanal goods. Engage with locals, who are often happy to share insights about the city’s history and culture. Don’t miss a visit to the Rocca di Bergamo for panoramic views of the city. For a unique experience, attend a local festival or event, such as the Donizetti Opera Festival, which celebrates the city's rich musical heritage.

When is the best time to visit Bergamo?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Bergamo

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Bergamo. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- 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/SorryScusa/Mi dispiace
  [skoo-sah/mee dees-pyah-cheh]
- How are you?Come stai?
  [koh-meh stai]
- 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
  [non kah-pee-skoh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseVorrei vedere il menu, per favore
  [vor-ray veh-deh-reh eel meh-noo, pehr fah-voh-reh]
- I don't eat meatNon mangio carne
  [non mahn-joh kahr-neh]
- Cheers!Salute!
  [sah-loo-teh]
- I would like to pay, pleaseVorrei pagare, per favore
  [vor-ray pah-gah-reh, pehr fah-voh-reh]
- Help!Aiuto!
  [ah-yoo-toh]
- Go away!Vai via!
  [vai vee-ah]
- Call the Police!Chiama la Polizia!
  [kee-ah-mah lah poh-lee-tsya]
- Call a doctor!Chiama un dottore!
  [kee-ah-mah oon doht-toh-reh]
- I'm lostMi sono perso
  [mee soh-no pehr-soh]
- I'm illSto male
  [stoh mah-leh]
- I'd like to buy...Vorrei comprare...
  [vor-ray kohm-prah-reh]
- I'm just lookingSto solo guardando
  [stoh soh-loh gwahr-dahn-doh]
- How much is it?Quanto costa?
  [kwahn-toh koh-stah]
- 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 dee-eh-chee eh meh-tzah]
- MorningMattina
  [maht-tee-nah]
- AfternoonPomeriggio
  [poh-meh-ree-joh]
- EveningSera
  [seh-rah]
- YesterdayIeri
  [yeh-ree]
- TodayOggi
  [oh-jee]
- TomorrowDomani
  [doh-mah-nee]
- 1Uno
  [oo-no]
- 2Due
  [dweh]
- 3Tre
  [treh]
- 4Quattro
  [kwah-troh]
- 5Cinque
  [cheen-kweh]
- 6Sei
  [say]
- 7Sette
  [seht-teh]
- 8Otto
  [oht-toh]
- 9Nove
  [noh-veh]
- 10Dieci
  [dee-eh-chee]
- Where's a/the...?Dov'è un/il...?
  [doh-veh oon/eel]
- What's the address?Qual è l'indirizzo?
  [kwahl eh leen-dee-reet-soh]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Puoi mostrarmi (sulla mappa)?
  [pwah-ee mohs-trahr-mee (sool-lah mahp-pah)]
- When's the next (bus)?Quando passa il prossimo (autobus)?
  [kwahn-doh pahs-sah eel prohs-see-moh (ow-toh-boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un biglietto (per ....)
  [oon beel-lyet-toh (pehr)]

History of Bergamo

Bergamo's origins date back to ancient times when it was founded by the Celtic tribe of the Cenomani. By the 2nd century BC, it became a Roman municipality known as Bergomum. The city was strategically located along important trade routes, which facilitated its growth and prominence in the region.
During the Middle Ages, Bergamo became a fortified city with impressive defensive walls. In the 12th century, it fell under the control of the Lombard League and later the Visconti of Milan. The medieval architecture of the Upper Town (Città Alta) remains a testament to this era, with its narrow cobblestone streets and defensive structures.
In 1428, Bergamo came under the rule of the Republic of Venice. This period marked a time of prosperity and architectural development. The Venetians constructed the famous Venetian Walls, which still encircle the Città Alta. These walls are a UNESCO World Heritage site and an enduring symbol of Venetian influence.
The late 18th century brought significant change to Bergamo as it became part of the Cisalpine Republic under Napoleon Bonaparte. This era saw the dismantling of some of the city's fortifications and the beginning of modern urban planning. Bergamo's integration into the Napoleonic Kingdom of Italy introduced new administrative and social reforms.
Bergamo played a pivotal role in the Italian Risorgimento, the movement for Italian unification. In 1859, the city joined the Kingdom of Sardinia, which later became the Kingdom of Italy. Bergamo's citizens actively participated in the struggle for unification, and the city earned the nickname 'Città dei Mille' (City of the Thousand) in honor of the volunteers who joined Giuseppe Garibaldi's expedition.
The 20th century saw Bergamo evolve into a thriving industrial and cultural center. The city expanded beyond its historic core, with new neighborhoods and infrastructure. Despite modernization, Bergamo has preserved its rich heritage, blending the old and new seamlessly. Today, it is renowned for its vibrant arts scene, culinary traditions, and historical landmarks.