Things To Do
in Bergamo

Bergamo is a picturesque city in northern Italy, known for its stunning medieval architecture and vibrant cultural scene. Divided into two distinct parts, the Città Alta (Upper Town) and Città Bassa (Lower Town), it offers a unique blend of history and modern living. Visitors can explore charming cobblestone streets, historic landmarks, and beautiful parks.

The city is also famous for its delicious cuisine and local wines, making it an appealing destination for food enthusiasts.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Città Alta
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the stunning Piazza Vecchia, where you can admire the beautiful Palazzo della Ragione and the iconic Campanone bell tower.

afternoon
:

After lunch, take a stroll through the Accademia Carrara, an art gallery with a remarkable collection of Renaissance and Baroque art.

evening
:

End your day with dinner at a local trattoria in Città Alta, followed by a walk along the Venetian walls for breathtaking views of the city at sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Exploring Città Bassa
morning
:

Begin your day in Città Bassa with a visit to the vibrant Mercato delle Erbe, where you can sample local produce and delicacies.

afternoon
:

Explore the beautiful Parco della Rocca e Fauna, a green oasis perfect for relaxing and enjoying nature.

evening
:

For dinner, head to a popular pizzeria in the area and then enjoy a nightcap at a local bar while soaking in the lively atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍝Meal at a restaurant$15
Coffee$2
🍷Glass of wine$5
🚌Public transport ticket$1.50
🏨Hotel room per night$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich history and stunning architecture.
  • Delicious local cuisine and wine.
  • Pleasant climate, especially in spring and autumn.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Some attractions may be crowded in peak tourist season.
  • Public transport options might be limited in more remote areas.
  • "Buongiorno" - Good Morning
  • "Grazie" - Thank you
  • "Per favore" - Please
  • "Dove si trova...?" - Where is...?
  • "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Bergamo

Visit one of these nice places.

Piazza Vecchia

A stunning central square framed by historical buildings, perfect for capturing the essence of Bergamo.

The Venetian Walls

These impressive fortifications offer panoramic views of the city and are a great backdrop for photos.

Accademia Carrara

The exterior and interior of this renowned art gallery provide beautiful artistic settings for photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Bergamo

Bergamo offers a delightful culinary experience with its rich flavors and traditions, making it a must-visit for food lovers.

Bergamo Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Casoncelli

A type of stuffed pasta filled with meat and served with a sage and butter sauce.

Must-Try!

Polenta e Osei

A traditional dish of polenta served with small birds, typically made for special occasions.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercato delle Erbe

A lively food market in Città Bassa featuring fresh produce, local cheeses, and cured meats.

Climate Guide

Weather

Bergamo experiences a temperate climate with warm summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while winters can drop to around 0°C (32°F). Rain is common in spring and autumn, while summer is generally dry. Snowfall can occur in winter, adding a magical touch to the city's landscapes.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

Always greet with 'Buongiorno' (Good Morning) or 'Buonasera' (Good Evening) when entering shops or restaurants.

Dress Code

Dress modestly when visiting churches and religious sites; casual attire is acceptable in most other places.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to begin the meal before starting to eat, and avoid discussing business during meals.

Safety Guide

Safety

Bergamo is considered a safe city for travelers, but standard precautions should be taken. Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas and avoid poorly lit streets at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and hospitals are well-equipped to handle most medical situations.

Tipping in Bergamo

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to leave a small tip (5-10%) in restaurants, but service is often included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for markets and smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make spring an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring gardens.

Summer

Warm weather attracts tourists; enjoy outdoor dining and festivals, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

The fall foliage adds charm to the city; the weather is still pleasant for sightseeing.

Winter

Cold temperatures and occasional snowfall create a picturesque winter wonderland, perfect for cozying up in local cafes.

Nightlife Guide

Bergamo at Night

Bergamo's nightlife is vibrant, primarily concentrated in the Città Bassa area, where bars and clubs come alive after dark. From cozy wine bars to lively dance clubs, there is something for everyone. Live music events often feature local bands, and many venues offer outdoor seating in the warmer months, creating a relaxed atmosphere for enjoying drinks with friends.

Hiking in Bergamo

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Monte Poieto

A popular hiking destination near Bergamo, offering trails with stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the city.

Sentiero dei Fiori

This scenic trail takes hikers through beautiful flower-filled meadows and offers breathtaking views of the valleys.

Airports

How to reach Bergamo by plane.

Orio al Serio International Airport (BGY)

Located just 6 km from the city center, this airport offers both domestic and international flights, making it convenient for travelers visiting Bergamo.

Getting Around

Walkability

Bergamo is highly walkable, especially in the Città Alta area, where cobblestone streets and pedestrian zones dominate. Most major attractions are within walking distance of each other, making it easy to explore on foot. The city also has a funicular that connects Città Alta and Città Bassa, providing a unique and scenic way to navigate the elevation.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

Bergamo is home to several universities and attracts a significant number of students from various backgrounds.

Tourists

The city welcomes many tourists, especially during the summer months, drawn by its history, culture, and cuisine.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is extremely popular in Bergamo, with Atalanta BC being the local team that competes in Serie A.

Cycling

Cycling is a favored sport in the region, with many scenic routes and trails suitable for both casual cyclists and enthusiasts.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Bergamo can be heavy during peak hours, especially in Città Bassa. Public transportation options include buses and the funicular, which are reliable and affordable. Walking is encouraged in the city center, as many streets are narrow and not suitable for cars.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Bergamo.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, especially pasta and vegetable-based options.

Gluten-Free

Options are available but may require advance notice; ask your server for recommendations.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Bergamo is generally excellent, with several hospitals and clinics available for residents and visitors. The main hospital, Ospedale Papa Giovanni XXIII, offers comprehensive medical services. EU citizens should bring their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for coverage, while others are advised to have travel insurance.

Discover Italy

Read more in our Italy 2025 Travel Guide.

Italy Travel Guide