Lombardy wine tours and centuries of history come together perfectly in Bergamo, a city that feels like it’s been waiting to surprise you. Tucked between Milan and Lake Como, this northern Italian gem doesn’t always make it onto first-time itineraries, but once you arrive, you’ll wonder why it isn’t on everyone’s list. You can sip Franciacorta in a sunlit piazza, stroll cobbled streets lined with Renaissance palaces, and indulge in creamy stracciatella gelato from the city where it was invented. You’re on a romantic weekend, a cultural escape, or just a day trip from Milan, visiting Bergamo means diving into a place that knows how to balance elegance with a warm, local welcome.
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Visit Bergamo and the best things to do
Walk through Piazza Vecchia
You can’t really visit Bergamo without starting in Piazza Vecchia, it’s the beating heart of the Città Alta. This open square is framed by graceful Renaissance buildings and anchored by a fountain that doubles as the locals’ favorite meeting point. Grab an espresso from a nearby café, snag a seat on the steps, and just watch life in Bergamo go by.
Explore the magnificent Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore
Step inside the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore and you’ll see why it’s one of Bergamo’s showstoppers. From the outside, it’s a solid 12th-century Romanesque beauty, but once you cross the door, you’re met with an explosion of Baroque detail, gilded ceilings, and intricate tapestries. Every corner seems to have something that pulls you in, whether it’s the craftsmanship or just the sheer scale of it all.
Visit the Colleoni Chapel
Right beside the basilica, the Colleoni Chapel grabs your attention instantly during your visit to Bergamo. Built as the grand resting place of Bartolomeo Colleoni, one of Bergamo’s most famous military leaders, it’s a feast for the eyes with its colorful marble façade and Renaissance details. Step inside and you’ll find masterful works, including pieces by Giovanni Bellini, that make it as much an art stop as a historical one.
Take the funicular to the Upper Town
Hop on the iconic funicular and glide your way up to Bergamo’s Città Alta, it’s more than just a ride, it’s your first taste of the city’s charm. The short climb packs in postcard views over rooftops and rolling hills, and in just minutes, you’re stepping into the heart of the medieval old town. If you’re up for even more scenery, switch to the second funicular and head to San Vigilio for sweeping views that stretch well beyond the city.
Admire Art at Accademia Carrara
Just beyond the walls of Città Alta, the Accademia Carrara is a dream stop for art lovers. Inside, you’ll wander past works by Botticelli, Raphael, and Bergamo’s own Moroni, all in an intimate setting that makes the experience feel personal. It’s the kind of place where you can slow down, skip the crowds, and let centuries of Italian art unfold in front of you.
Experience Torre Civica
Every night at 10 PM, the Campanone, Bergamo’s Great Bell Tower, rings out, keeping alive a tradition that’s been going on for centuries. Head up (by stairs or elevator) and you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views over Piazza Vecchia, the Venetian walls, and the rolling Lombardy hills beyond.
Walk along the Venetian Walls
Dating back to the 16th century, the imposing Venetian Walls earned Bergamo its UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Stretching for about 3.7 miles, these historic fortifications make for a peaceful stroll with sweeping views over Bergamo and the Lombard plains.
Stroll down Città Bassa
While the Upper Town gets most of the love, the Lower Town (Città Bassa) has its own charm. Think chic boutiques, modern cafés, and lively spots like Piazza Vittorio Veneto. It’s where you can shop for unique finds, linger over an aperitivo, and get a taste of Bergamo’s stylish, everyday life.
See the Duomo di Bergamo
Blending Baroque flair with Renaissance elegance, the Duomo di Bergamo, dedicated to Saint Alexander, is a feast for the eyes. Step inside and you’ll find ornate chapels, vivid frescoes, and a soaring dome that draws your gaze upward. It’s the kind of place that makes you pause, take a slow walk, and let the details sink in.
Explore Piazza della Libertà and its architecture
A complete change of scene from Bergamo’s medieval lanes, this piazza in Città Bassa brings you straight into the clean lines and bold shapes of 20th-century Italy. It’s a great spot to slow down, look around, and see how the city’s story kept evolving long after the Renaissance.
Visit Bergamo and the best things to do around
Take the funicular to San Pellegrino Terme
A short hop—less than 45 minutes—from Bergamo’s train station takes you to San Pellegrino Terme, a spa town famous worldwide for its mineral water. This alpine retreat is wrapped in dramatic mountains and filled with Art Nouveau charm. Enjoy natural thermal baths, and admire architectural jewels like the Casino and Grand Hotel. It’s an excellent addition to your trip to Bergamo, extending your exploration beyond the cappella colleoni and the cobbled piazza vecchia with a refreshing wellness break.
Wander around Lake Iseo
Less touristy than Lake Como, Lake Iseo sits just about 40 miles from Bergamo and feels like a true local escape. Picture colorful towns like Lovere and Sarnico, rolling vineyards, and quiet medieval streets leading to the water. Don’t miss Monte Isola, Europe’s largest lake island, where you can hike, cycle, or simply enjoy the slow pace before heading back to Bergamo’s Città Alta.
Take a day trip to Milan
36 miles by car from Bergamo, Milan is the ultimate day-trip upgrade, after your visit Bergamo Italy, where style, art, and flavor collide. Stroll through the grand Piazza del Duomo, wander under the glass dome of the Galleria, and squeeze in a wine tasting Milan experience before hopping back on the train. It’s a city that keeps your camera and your taste buds equally busy.
For the full tips on iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and foodie finds, check out my ultimate guide to the best things to do in Milan before you go.
Visit Brescia
Only an hour southeast of Bergamo, Brescia delivers a rich mix of Roman ruins, UNESCO-listed heritage, and standout art museums. If you’ve marveled at Botticelli in Bergamo’s Accademia Carrara, keep the cultural streak alive here among Romanesque gems, baroque churches, and elegant piazzas. Between visits, explore Brescia Wineries for a glass of local Franciacorta, Italy’s answer to Champagne. It’s the perfect follow-up to Bergamo’s old-town charm, blending history, architecture, and world-class wine.
After discovering Bergamo, why not keep the magic going and discover the best things to do in Brescia for another side of Lombardy’s beauty?
Good to know before visiting Bergamo
Why visit Bergamo?
Bergamo offers a unique blend of medieval charm, Renaissance art, and vibrant local culture. Set against the backdrop of the Italian Alps, the city is divided into two distinct areas: Città Alta (Upper Town), a walled medieval hilltop town full of cobbled streets and stunning architecture, and Città Bassa (Lower Town), a more modern, lively area with shops, restaurants, and galleries. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or nature lover, there’s something in Bergamo for everyone.
What is special about Bergamo?
Bergamo is renowned for its well-preserved Venetian walls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its rich musical heritage (home to composer Gaetano Donizetti), and its traditional Lombard cuisine. The city’s architecture includes Romanesque churches, Renaissance palaces, and Baroque chapels that make every street a visual treat. Its scenic funiculars and panoramic viewpoints offer sweeping vistas of the surrounding valleys and Alps.
Is Bergamo in Northern Italy?
Yes, Bergamo is located in the Lombardy region of Northern Italy, approximately 50 kilometers northeast of Milan. It serves as an excellent gateway to the Italian Alps and the lakes region, including nearby Lake Como and Lake Iseo.
Is Bergamo a walkable city?
Absolutely! Bergamo is highly walkable, especially Città Alta, where restricted vehicle access ensures a pedestrian-friendly experience. You can explore historic sites, quaint alleys, churches, and local markets all by foot. A funicular conveniently connects the Upper and Lower towns for those who prefer not to walk up the hill.
What not to miss in Bergamo?
Must-see attractions include the Piazza Vecchia, Bergamo Cathedral, Cappella Colleoni, and the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore. Don’t miss a ride on the centuries-old funicular and a stroll along the Venetian Walls for panoramic views. For culture lovers, the Accademia Carrara features masterpieces by Botticelli and Raphael.
What airlines fly to Bergamo?
Orio al Serio International Airport (BGY), also known as Milan Bergamo Airport, is a major European low-cost airline hub. Ryanair is the primary carrier, offering extensive flights across Europe. Other airlines like Wizz Air, Pegasus Airlines, and easyJet also operate routes to Bergamo.
When is the best time to visit Bergamo?
The best time to visit Bergamo is during the spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild and pleasant. These months also offer fewer crowds compared to the summer peak. The fall brings beautiful colors to the surrounding countryside, and local festivals add to the cultural experience.
What are the best hotels in Bergamo?
For a charming stay in the historic center, consider:
- GombitHotel – A boutique design hotel integrated into a medieval tower, steps from Piazza Vecchia.
- Hotel Excelsior San Marco – Located in Città Bassa with views of Città Alta and a renowned rooftop restaurant.
- Petronilla Hotel – A stylish option in Lower Bergamo, known for its excellent service and central location.
What are the best restaurants in Bergamo?
To experience authentic Bergamasque cuisine, try:
- Trattoria La Colombina – Known for traditional dishes and stunning views in Città Alta.
- Il Circolino – Located in an old monastery, offering rustic dishes and local wines.
- Da Mimmo – A beloved family-run trattoria serving local favorites like casoncelli and polenta taragna.
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