Bergamo: Art, History & Culinary Delights

Experience the charm and beauty of historic Bergamo, Italy.

22 April 2023

A visit to Bergamo, Italy as a tourist offers an unforgettable experience with its breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The ancient city boasts a stunning medieval quarter, Citta Alta, characterized by impressive hilltop structures and ancient cobblestone streets. Visitors can also explore the numerous museums, galleries, and churches that showcase the city's fascinating history and art.

Day trip plan

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Day

Art, History, and Delicious Food!

  • Start by visiting the Old City of Bergamo, surrounded by medieval walls.
  • Head to the Accademia Carrara Art Gallery, which showcases a vast collection of Italian art from the medieval period to the 19th century.
  • Next, take a walk to Piazza Vecchia, a beautiful square surrounded by historic buildings, including the Palazzo della Ragione and the Tower of Campanone.
  • Have lunch at Trattoria da Ornella, a cozy restaurant known for its traditional Bergamasque cuisine, including polenta, salami, and casoncelli (local pasta).
  • After lunch, explore the Cittadella, a 16th-century fortress overlooking the city, and enjoy the panoramic view of the city from the ramparts.
  • In the evening, head to La Marianna, a trendy cocktail bar located in the heart of the city, to enjoy an aperitif and some live music.
  • Bergamo is a city full of history, art, and culinary delights. With only one day in town, you can experience the best of it all—the beautiful ancient walls, the stunning artwork, the picturesque squares, the authentic local cuisine, and the vibrant nightlife. So come and enjoy this hidden gem of Italy!

How to get there

Plane

The best way to reach Bergamo by plane is to fly into Orio al Serio International Airport, which is the closest airport to Bergamo's city center. You can take a bus from the airport to the city center.

Car

Driving to Bergamo is a good option if you prefer to travel by car. The A4 motorway connects Bergamo to Milan, Venice, and other major Italian cities. You can also rent a car from the airport upon arrival.

Train

You can reach Bergamo by train, with Bergamo Train Station being the primary station in the city center. The station is well-connected to many Italian cities, including Milan, Venice, and Brescia.

Boat

There are no direct boat routes to Bergamo as it is not a coastal city. However, if you're coming from another Italian city, you may be able to take a ferry to a nearby coastal city and then continue your journey to Bergamo by other means of transportation.

Bus

Getting to Bergamo by bus is convenient, with the city being well-connected to other major cities in Italy. The Bergamo Bus Station is located close to the city center and offers connections to destinations such as Milan and Brescia.

More travel plans

Old World Charm: One Day in Bergamo

Experience authentic Italian culture, history, and cuisine in the charming city of Bergamo, while staying within budget. Take a stroll through the picturesque streets of Città Alta, enjoy panoramic views from San Vigilio Castle, and indulge in local delicacies such as polenta and casoncelli pasta. Opt for affordable accommodations in the city center, and save money by taking advantage of public transportation and free attractions such as the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore.

Bergamo on a Budget: 4 Days of Fun!

Bergamo, Italy is a picturesque medieval town located in the Lombardy region. Despite being a popular tourist destination, it's possible to enjoy a trip to Bergamo on a limited budget. Opt for budget accommodations, such as hostels or Airbnbs, and explore the city on foot to save money on transportation. Don't miss out on the beautiful streets, historic landmarks and delicious Italian cuisine while sticking to your budget.

Bergamo on a Budget: 3 Days of Charm & Culture

Explore the charming old town of Bergamo without breaking the bank. Start your day with a hike up to the ancient Venetian walls and enjoy breathtaking views of the city. Discover the local markets and indulge in delicious Italian cuisine at affordable prices.

Explore Bergamo, Italy in 5 days!

As a tourist in Bergamo, you can explore its picturesque cobblestone streets and admire its stunning Renaissance, Gothic, and Baroque architecture. You can also visit the UNESCO-listed Città Alta, the city's historic center, which is surrounded by ancient Venetian walls and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Alps. Additionally, you can indulge in Bergamo's rich culinary scene, famous for its traditional dishes, such as casoncelli pasta and polenta e osei dessert.