Last updated on July 24th, 2025
Bergamo sits just 30 miles from Milan, yet many travelers zoom past this charming Italian city without a second thought.
While Milan has the closest major international airport, Bergamo has a very busy airport for passengers flying within Europe. Most visitors head straight to Venice or Milan from Bergamo’s airport, missing out on the city’s incredible mix of architecture, food, and views. Those who land in Milan often choose to visit Lake Como or move on to other more famous cities.
Don’t make that same mistake, because when you finally spend a day exploring Bergamo’s medieval streets, you’ll know that you’ve stumbled onto something special. You can easily see the highlights of both the Upper and Lower Town in one day by starting early in Città Alta (Upper Town) and working your way down through the centuries-old streets and piazzas.
The Upper Town sits perched on a hilltop, surrounded by massive 16th-century walls that you can walk along for amazing views of the Alps. The Lower Town buzzes with local life, trendy shops, and way fewer tourists than you’d expect for a place this beautiful.
Start your Bergamo day trip by taking the funicular up to the Upper Town around 8:30 AM – before the crowds arrive. You’ll have those narrow cobblestone streets almost to yourself, and the morning light makes the medieval buildings glow. Pack comfortable shoes – you’ll be doing lots of walking on uneven surfaces, but trust me, every step is worth it.
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Getting to Bergamo
Bergamo sits just 45 km northeast of Milan, making it super easy to reach. Most travelers fly into Bergamo’s own airport, Orio al Serio International Airport, which serves as a major hub for budget airlines like Ryanair.
From the airport, you can hop on a bus to the city center. The Bergamo station is a stop before this. The ride to the city takes about 18 minutes and costs €3, but you can continue on all the way up to Citta Alta. Buses run every 20 minutes from 6 AM to midnight.
If you’re coming from Milan, trains depart regularly from Milano Centrale station. The journey takes about 50 minutes and tickets cost €5.50. Bergamo is within the same region (Lombardy) as Milan, so the price is fixed.
Get a window seat on the train’s right side for nice views of the countryside.
By car, the A4 motorway connects Bergamo to Milan and Venice. Keep in mind that parking in the historic center can be tricky and expensive. The drive to Bergamo takes 45-60 minutes. Public buses are available throughout the city and you can buy single tickets, a pack of 10 tickets, or a tourist day pass. The pass also gives you unlimited access to the 2 funiculars, so it’s great value.
Don’t worry about getting lost – Bergamo is compact and well-connected by public transport. The main attractions are within walking distance once you’re in the city center.
Even if you only have one day to explore Milan, don’t skip. Here’s our guide to help you fit the most important sites of Milan in a day.
Cities are not the only interesting places in Lombardy! There are several beautiful villages that line the shores of Lake Como that can keep you occupied for at least 3 days.
Understanding Bergamo’s Layout
Bergamo sits in two distinct parts – an ancient hilltop town and a modern lower city. The two sections connect by funicular railways and winding roads. The walk between Upper and Lower Town takes about 20 minutes downhill, 30 minutes uphill.
Città Alta (Upper Town)
The historic Upper Town perches on a hill behind medieval walls. Stone pathways wind between buildings from the 15th and 16th centuries. You’ll spot ornate churches, palaces, and towers at every turn.
The main square, Piazza Vecchia, acts as the heart of Città Alta. Streets branch out from here like spokes on a wheel.
Take the bus up directly from the train station or airport to save your legs.
If staying for at least a night in Bergamo, stay in Città Alta for the atmosphere:
Città Bassa (Lower Town)
The Lower Town spreads across the plain below. This bustling area mixes modern shops with elegant art nouveau architecture from the early 1900s.
Via XX Settembre serves as the main shopping street. The tree-lined Sentierone promenade makes a great spot for people-watching.
Stay in Città Bassa if you prefer convenience:
Navigating the City
Getting around Bergamo is simple with its well-connected public transport system. The city’s two distinct parts – the Upper Town and Lower Town – are linked by both buses and a funicular railway.
The ATB bus network covers both parts of Bergamo. Both towns connect directly to the train station, making it a handy base for day trips to other nearby towns.
The funicular railway is the most fun way to reach the Upper Town. Two lines operate: one connects the Lower Town to Upper Town, while another runs from Upper Town to San Vigilio hill. A one-way ticket is €1.30. The funicular station in Lower Town sits near Via Gombito – just look for the signs saying “Città Alta.”
Bus #1 runs between the city center and the Upper Town every 15 minutes if you want to save time. It arrives right at Largo di Colle Aperto, near San Alessandro Gate. For this itinerary, I suggest that you use this bus to start your day in the Upper Town. You’ll have an opportunity to use the funiculars later.
I recommend that you buy the tourist day pass for €8.50. It lets you hop on and off all buses and both funiculars as much as you want. If you don’t, then buy a ticket for a single ride. It costs €1.30 and lasts 75 minutes. You can also buy a 10-ticket pack if you’re traveling with family or friends.
There are many ways to pay for your tickets or passes. Automatic vendor machines and authorized points of sale can be found everywhere on the network. Single tickets can be bought from the machines on board. The easiest way now is to use a contactless bank card with the system validator that will deduct the right amount when you tap out after tapping in. You can also buy the pass and tickets using the ATB Mobile app, which accepts credit cards. Keep in mind that you can only store bought tickets on the phone that you used to buy them. You can’t send tickets to anyone else.
Walking is your best bet once you’re in the Upper Town. The narrow streets are mostly car-free, and you can cross the whole area in about 20 minutes.
If you like taking guided tours, there are 2 fun ways to do it, like a small group tuk-tuk tour, or an e-bike guided tour. Or a guided walking tour is always a good way:
Itinerary for the Day
Your morning in Bergamo’s Upper Town will take you through stunning medieval architecture, religious art, and amazing views. The narrow cobblestone streets lead to some of Italy’s most beautiful churches and historic buildings.
Morning:
1. Breakfast at Piazza Vecchia
Start your day at the heart of Città Alta in Piazza Vecchia. Grab a coffee and fresh pastries at Caffè del Tasso, a historic café that’s been serving locals since 1476.
The morning sun hits the square just right and it’s a great spot for people-watching. Try the local specialty cornetti with your cappuccino.
Get here by 8:30 AM to beat the crowds and enjoy the peaceful morning atmosphere. Plan for about 45 minutes here.
2. Visit to the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore
The Basilica’s ornate interior will leave you speechless. Every inch is decorated with frescoes, tapestries, and gold details.
Look up at the ceiling – the painted wooden panels tell biblical stories. Don’t miss the Baroque wooden confessionals carved by famous artist Andrea Fantoni and Gaetano Donizetti’s tomb.
You’ll need about an hour here and entry costs €5 for adults.
3. Visit Cappella Colleoni
Right next to the Basilica stands this stunning Renaissance chapel, which is free to visit. The pink and white marble facade catches your eye right away. Visit between 9:30-11:30 AM for the best light through the windows.
Inside, check out the tomb of Bartolomeo Colleoni, the famous military commander who built this chapel.
The ceiling frescoes are incredible – bring binoculars if you can!
4. Cathedral of Bergamo
Although not as impressive as the Basilica, Bergamo’s cathedral, the Duomo di Bergamo or Cattedrale di Sant’Alessandro Martire, is a stunning Romanesque masterpiece from the 12th century dedicated to St. Alexander. Inside, you’ll find intricate frescoes, paintings, sculptures, and ornate marble floors that showcase the skill of the craftsmen who created this architectural treasure.
This church is free for everyone to visit, so don’t skip it, even if it’s just for a few minutes.
5. See Palazzo della Ragione
This 12th-century palace sits between two main squares. Walk through the ground-floor arcade to see the old measuring stones merchants used for trading.
The first floor holds a beautiful hall with original frescoes. It is only open until 1 pm, so don’t leave a visit for later. Plus, the morning light makes great shots of the arches
6. Views From the Campanone (Civic Tower)
Climb the 230 steps of this bell tower for amazing views of Bergamo and the Alps.
Take the elevator if you’re not up for stairs. The bells still ring 100 times at 10 PM, just like in medieval times when it reminded residents that the venetian walls were closing.
Go mid-morning to avoid both early fog and midday heat. Tickets cost €5.
7. Stroll Along the Venetian Walls
Walk the 16th-century walls that circle the Upper Town. The morning light makes the stone glow warmly.
Stop at the San Giacomo Gate for great views of the Lower Town.
These walls are a UNESCO World Heritage site. The path is flat, easy to walk, and will take 30-45 minutes. I recommend walking clockwise for the best views.
Afternoon:
8. Lunch at a restaurant in Citta Alta to Try Local Dishes
Stop at Antica Osteria del Vino Buono for authentic Bergamascan food. It’s just before the funicular station that takes you down to the Lower Town.
This spot serves excellent casoncelli – the local pasta filled with meat, pear, and raisins. Don’t skip the polenta – it’s a regional specialty here. Try it with meat stews or mushrooms.
Make a reservation if you’re visiting Friday through Sunday. Lunch typically runs from 12:30-2:30 PM.
Budget around €20-30 per person for a full meal with wine.
9. Take the funicular down to Città Bassa
After your morning adventures in the Upper Town, it’s time to head down to explore the vibrant Lower City with its mix of shopping, art, and green spaces. The funicular ride from Upper to Lower Bergamo takes just a few minutes but gives you amazing views of the city below. Sit on the right side of the car for the best views during your descent.
The Lower Town station puts you right where you need to be to start exploring the more modern part of Bergamo.
10. Stroll along the elegant Via XX Settembre for shopping and people-watching
This bustling street is the main shopping area of Lower Bergamo. You’ll find Italian fashion brands mixed with local boutiques and historic shops.
Take your time browsing the arcaded walkways. The street comes alive in the afternoon when locals do their shopping and meet for coffee.
Stop at Caffetteria Balzer, a historic café from 1850, for an espresso break.
11. Option 1: Accademia Carrara Art Gallery
Now it’s time to choose whether you want to visit a museum or spend some more time outdoors in a garden or park. Both options are reachable by bus.
The Accademia Carrara Art Gallery is a stunning art museum that houses works from the 15th-19th centuries. You’ll see paintings by Botticelli, Raphael, and local masters. The gallery is open from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
Plan for about 90 minutes here. Entry costs €10 for adults. Get the audio guide (€5) – it’s worth it for the detailed explanations.
12. Option2: Botanical Garden “Lorenzo Rota”
For those who prefer to spend some time in a garden, this terraced garden sits on the slopes between Upper and Lower Bergamo. Bus no. 1 will take you quite close and after that it’s a 10 minute walk.
The garden is home to over 900 plant species and offers peaceful city views. Spring and summer bring colorful blooms, but the garden is beautiful year-round. Visit in late afternoon when the light is perfect for photos. You’ll need about 45 minutes to see everything.
Entry is free, and it’s rarely crowded.
Evening:
As the sun begins to set, Bergamo transforms into a magical destination with twinkling lights and incredible views. The evening brings cooler temperatures and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for dining and exploring.
13. Enjoy an Aperitivo at a Cozy Wine Bar
For something intimate, try Rotta Vino Enoteca, a charming wine bar tucked away on V.le V. Emanuele II and very close to the Lower Town funicular station. The owner really knows his wines and can recommend local varieties. Definitely try a glass of Valcalepio Rosso and grab an outside table if the weather is good.
If you prefer a place in Citta Alta, stop by Bar Flora on Via Colleoni for the local aperitivo tradition. Order a Spritz or local wine and enjoy the complimentary snacks that come with your drink.
You’ll need 45-60 minutes for a proper aperitivo experience.
14. Return to Città Alta for Sunset and Dinner With a View
Take the funicular back up to Città Alta around 6 PM. The ancient stone walls glow with warm golden light at this hour. Bring a light jacket, even in summer. The hilltop location can get breezy in the evening.
Antica Trattoria La Colombina serves excellent local cuisine with panoramic views of the city lights in a lively atmosphere. Try their casoncelli – Bergamo’s signature pasta filled with meat and herbs, and the carpaccio. They stock local cheeses from nearby valleys. Bergamo’s signature cheese is Taleggio, a soft and creamy delight with a subtle tang. You’ll spot locals buying Stracchino too – it’s perfect spread on fresh bread.
15. Sunset or night lights from San Vigilio Hill
Take the second funicular from Città Alta up to San Vigilio for the highest viewpoint in Bergamo. The castle grounds stay open until 10 PM in summer.
The 10-minute ride up is worth it for the twinkling city lights below. Grab a gelato from the small shop near the funicular station before leaving the city.
Cultural Insights
Bergamo’s culture sits at a fascinating crossroads between Venetian and Lombard influences. You’ll spot this blend in the architecture, food, and local traditions as you walk through the city.
The locals take their food very seriously. Pop into any café around 4 PM, and you’ll see the beloved ritual of merenda – the afternoon snack break. Try the city’s signature dessert, polenta e osei, a sweet cake made to look like polenta with chocolate birds on top. Look for these tasty Lombard dishes on menus. Maybe take this highly-rated food tour in the Upper Town with a local.
Save time for aperitivo between 6-8 PM. The bars in Città Alta serve complimentary snacks with drinks, and it’s a great way to mingle with locals.
The city splits into two distinct personalities. The upper town (Città Alta) holds onto its medieval character, while the lower town (Città Bassa) buzzes with modern energy.
Many locals still speak the Bergamasco dialect alongside Italian. Keep your ears open – you might catch some words that sound more similar to French than Italian!
Local customs to know:
- Shops close for lunch (usually 12:30-3:30 PM)
- Dinner starts late, around 8 PM
- Greeting shopkeepers with “Buongiorno” or “Buonasera” is expected
- Churches require covered shoulders and knees
Want to fit in like a local? Take a slow morning walk (passeggiata) along the Venetian Walls, stopping for a cappuccino at one of the small cafés.
