During our trip to Bergamo, Italy, we were absolutely mesmerized by the maze of medieval lanes in Citta Alta.
Like entering a time warp, we roved along the timeworn cobbled streets that crawl through the Upper City and lead to ancient architecture and cozy corners.
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We spent days getting lost in the historic web. Honestly, it’s one of the Best Things To Do in Bergamo!
That said, we didn’t want to miss a single sight – and don’t want you to, either. So, we created this Self-Guided Bergamo Walking Tour to highlight the must-see attractions in this dazzling district!
About Our Walking Tour of Bergamo
Our outlined Bergamo free tour is approximately 1.5 miles in length and will take about 2 hours to complete.
It highlights the top spots and hidden gems nestled deep in the confines of the Upper City. For walking directions, we provide a map link for each attraction.
Our Bergamo walk begins at the eastern Sant’Agostino Gate, which you can reach on foot or via Bus #1. The tour ends at Citta Alta Porta Sant’Alessandro, the western entrance to town.
Note that our Bergamo Lower City Walk ends just steps from the beginning of this Citta Alta walk, so it’s easy to pair the two together. That’s ideal if you’re spending just one day in Bergamo!
Want this tour without the advertisements? Buy it here for less than a scoop of stracciatella gelato!
What You’ll Need for this Bergamo, Italy Walking Tour
Before setting off on walking tours in Bergamo, you want to make sure you’re prepared with the essentials.
Durable Shoes: For the cobblestone lanes and inclines on this walk in Bergamo, proper travel shoes are imperative. I wear versatile trainers, like these.
Travel Camera: We use a DSLR Canon Rebel; it’s a great value for budget traveling photographers!
Water Bottle: The tap water in Bergamo is clean – and there are places to top your refillable bottle along the route.
Wireless Connection: For navigation, you will need connectivity. If traveling from abroad, use an international data plan, get an eSim or buy a Pocket Wi-Fi Device (we like GlocalMe).
Citta Alta Bergamo Walking Tour: Self-Guided
Ready to uncover hundreds of years of history? Great! Lace up your shoes and let’s get right to it.
#1 Porta Sant’Agostino
MAP. We start our Bergamo self-guided walking tour at the east Gate of Saint Augustine. It was built in the 16th century, along with the fortifications that encircle the entirety of the Upper City.
The three-arched entryway connected Bergamo to Venice and features a carving of the Lion of St. Mark.
It’s one of four portals in the monumental walls, which have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Walls of Bergamo Museum is housed in the upper hall (ticket required).
Walking Tour Tip: The 13th century Monastero di Sant’Agostno (MAP) stands just inside the gate. Although now part of the university, it’s worth walking over for the mountain views to the north.
#2 Chiesa di San Michele al Pozzo Bianco
MAP. Tucked inconspicuously into a corner, the Church of Saint Michael and the White Well is a treasure trove of ancient frescoes.
It was founded in the 8th century, but was rebuilt and embellished over time. The most astounding artwork is in the chapel to the left of the main altar.
The paintings, titled “Scenes from the Life of Mary,” were completed by famous Italian artist Lorenzo Lotto in 1525.
The crypt (which ranks as the oldest in Bergamo) is awash with frescoes, as well; some date to the 13th century.
The church is free to enter, but it costs to illuminate the interior. If you want to turn the lights on, use the vending-machine-style paybox at the entrance.
#3 Chiesa Sant’Andrea
MAP. With an unadorned (and unfinished) façade, we nearly walked right past the Church of St. Andrew the Apostle – but that would have been a mistake!
The Neoclassical church was built in the 1830s but hosts an impressive collection of centuries-old paintings (which hung in a previous church on the same site). The 16th century pieces by Salmeggia, Bassano and Padovanino are the most prized.
Inside, you will also find the Historical and Sacred Art Museum, a study library for the university and (quite unusually) a theater in the crypt.
Sightseeing Tip: Across the street is the Palazzo Moroni (MAP). The extraordinary 17th century palace is now a museum with well-preserved rooms and a lush garden. It costs to enter, but you can get a peek through the main gate if it’s open.
#4 Fontana di Porta Dipinta
MAP. Since Roman times, aqueduct systems have carried fresh water to Bergamo. In fact, it’s said that there were more than 15 fountains in the Upper City during the Middle Ages.
The fountain on Via Porta Dipinta likely dates to the 13th century and was built alongside a medieval city gate.
Named the Painted Gate for its 15th century frescoes, it has since been demolished. The fountain, however, still stands and was decorated in white marble during the 20th century.
#5 Piazza Mercato delle Scarpe & Funicular Station
MAP. Standing at the meeting of two roads – one leading to Venice, the other to Milan – Piazza Mercado delle Scarpe is one of the oldest squares in Bergamo.
Surrounded by buildings from the 13th and 14th centuries, the piazza’s name denotes its use as a shoe market.
On the south side of the square, the building with five stone arches is the Rota-Suardi Palace. It was built in the 1340s and the Suardi family coat of arms is still painted above the central arch.
In 1887 the building was converted into the Upper Station of the Bergamo Alta Funicular. Today, two cars transport passengers up and down the steep hillside.
Top Tip: Inside the station there is a rather drab café, but the balcony provides a fine look over the Lower City.
BONUS: Nessi Bergamo Alta
MAP. Before moving on to the next stop on our Bergamo Citta Alta walking tour, treat yourself to something sweet at Pasticceria Nessi.
The bakery was established in the 1940s and is known for making the famous Polenta ed Osei cake. We highlight it – and more of our favorite dishes – in our Bergamo Foodie post!
#6 Rocca di Bergamo
MAP. Next up on our walking tour of Bergamo Old Town is Rocca Fort. Although steeped in history, the hilltop is often overlooked when touring the Upper City.
Sitting on the summit of Sant’Eufemia Hill, the fortress was constructed in the year 1331 by the ruling Visconti family. It was meant to both protect from invasion and keep citizens under control.
The stronghold was used by the military into the 1800s – but the keep and lodgings were transformed into a museum in 2004.
A ticket is required to enter, but the green space surrounding it – called Remembrance Park – is open to the public for free.
From here, there are wonderful views of the surrounding landscapes. The most notable vista is to the west, over the rooftops, church steeples and towers of Citta Alta.
#7 Via Gombito and Tower
MAP. Retrace your steps to Piazza Mercato delle Scarpe and embark on a walk along Via Gombito, one of the city’s most beguiling lanes.
Layered in history, Gombito has been part of the street plan since Roman times – and walking the length of it is a must-do in Bergamo!
Shops, restaurants and art galleries line the thoroughfare that was long inhabited by wealthy merchants.
Pause at Fontana Del Gombito, which is also referred to as the Fountain of San Pancrazio. Exuding heaps of old-world charm, it was installed here in 1549.
Next to the fountain is the entrance to the easy-to-miss Church of San Pancrazio. Its history stretches back to 888, but has been enlarged and renovated since. Pop inside if you have the time.
Continue along Via Gombito to the astounding Torre del Gombito (MAP). Situated at the ancient Roman crossroads of Cardo and Decumanus, it was built in the 12th century for defensive purposes.
Standing at a height of 170 feet (which is lower than the original 210 feet; the top was removed for safety reasons), it was once the tallest tower in the city.
Touring Tip: At one time, you could climb more than 250 steps to the top for panoramic views, but it was closed during our visit.
#8 Antico Lavatoio Pubblico
MAP. Less than a block from Via Gambito, the Ancient Public Washhouse is a nod to the town’s water system, innovation and style – and it’s now a symbol of Bergamo.
After an epidemic swept through the area in 1884, a new washhouse was designed with a better system to more efficiently drain dirty water when washing clothes.
Built in 1891, the marble basin boasts sectioned washing areas, an overflow drain and an elegant Art Nouveau cast iron canopy.
The washhouse is set among lush trees, exuding a charm not often connected to doing laundry!
#9 Piazza Vecchia
MAP. Marking the very heart of Citta Alta, Piazza Vecchia is an absolute Bergamo must-see.
Built on the same site as the former Roman forum, the Old Square served as the city’s political and administrative hub from the Middle Ages until the 19th century.
Incredibly atmospheric – especially at night – it’s a divine place to dine al fresco or enjoy a beverage. There’s a lot to see here, but first make your way to the Contarini Fountain in the middle.
Made of marble, it features mythical creatures and lions and was given to the city in 1780 by Venetian governor Alvise Contarini.
#10 Campanone
MAP. Standing over the piazza is the soaring Civic Tower. Dating to the 11th century and ranking as the tallest in the Bergamo, it was built as a Tower House for the prominent Suardi family.
At the time, rising structures were a symbol of power, prestige and wealth (just like the famous towers in Tuscany’s San Gimignano).
Later, the tower served as the residence of rectors, then a city jail. It was renovated into a bell tower in the 14th century – and the largest bell in Lombardy hangs inside, along with two others.
Each night at 10pm, the bell rings 100 times – a centuries-long tradition that used to signal the closing of the four city gates.
Tip for Sightseeing: For a fee, you can go to the top for fantastic views.
#11 Palazzo della Ragione
MAP. Highly regarded as one of the most important buildings in Bergamo, the Palace of Reason is an architectural masterpiece.
The edifice features a lower Loggia with pointed arches and an Upper Hall with arched windows and a balcony. It stands between Piazza Vecchia (the seat of government) and Piazza Duomo (the center of religion).
Built in the late 1100s as the Town Hall, it became the courthouse – thus the name – during Venetian Rule in the 15th century.
The stairs to the right allow access to the Upper Hall, where ancient frescoes decorate the walls. Art exhibitions are often held here – but it’s worth climbing up just for the view.
In the open space of the ground floor Loggia, look down to see The Gnomon, an 18th century sundial.
#12 Piazza Duomo and Baptistry
MAP. Now step into the stunning Cathedral Square. Within this small, constricted space, there are four sensational religious sites.
We’ll start at the Battistero (the smallest building on your right) – and then work our way counterclockwise to the Cathedral.
The octagonal Baptistry was built in 1340 – and was housed within the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore until 1661. It found its current home across from the Cathedral in 1898.
The exterior is decorated with carvings depicting the life of Jesus and eight statues that represent the Virtues: Faith, Hope, Charity, Justice, Prudence, Fortitude, Temperance and Patience.
#13 Cappella Colleoni
MAP. An Italian Renaissance masterpiece, the Colleoni Chapel is sublime – both inside and out – so take your time lingering over it.
It was built by Bartolomeo Colleoni – a Bergamo native and hero – as his own funerary monument to celebrate his life, wealth and military accomplishments.
The dazzling exterior is bedecked with exquisitely carved red and white marble, resembling the cathedral in Florence. The beautiful cacophony of spindles, arches and statues whets your appetite for what awaits.
Inside, the chapel hosts an equestrian statue of Colleoni, his sarcophagi and the tomb of his daughter.
Vibrant and colorful, with decoration from floor to ceiling, each detail competes for your attention. (No photos are allowed).
An interesting – and quite odd – detail not to miss is on the black gate in front of the chapel. It was designed with the Colleoni coat of arms: A shield with three testicles.
Not only does ‘Colleoni’ sound like ‘coglioni’ (the Italian word for gonads), but legend has it that Bartolomeo had three of them. Folklore says that a rub on the trio will bring good luck!
#14 Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore
MAP. Built in the 12th century, this Romanesque basilica appears to be rather plain – with the exception of its elaborate portico, called the Red Lions Gate. The interior, however, is a brilliant Baroque masterpiece.
Constructed on the site of an 8th century church (which was on the site of a former pagan temple), Santa Maria Maggiore was built to honor Mary in appreciation for sparing the town from the plague.
With vivid frescoes, superb tapestries and an extravaganza of ornamentation, it literally outshines all other Bergamo churches. A ticket is required to enter, but it’s free to attend a mass.
#15 The Bergamo Cathedral
MAP. Elegant and glittering, the Cathedral of St. Alexander the Martyr shimmers majestically. Of all the churches in Bergamo, it’s our favorite for its delicate beauty.
It also bears a slightly unusual 8th century tale from when there were two competing cathedrals in Bergamo.
The one you are looking at now was dedicated to San Vincenzo of Saragozza, while the other was named in honor of St. Alexander, the patron saint of Bergamo.
With the construction of the city walls in 1561, the original St. Alexander Cathedral was demolished. Over 100 years later, in 1697, the two churches were unified into a single place of worship.
They shed the San Vincenzo name in favor of St. Alexander – and then moved the saint’s relics to the altar (where they are still displayed today).
The Duomo was then redecorated in the opulent Baroque style and hosts a number of Renaissance treasures by some of Bergamo’s most renowned artists.
#16 Palazzo Nuovo and Biblioteca Civica Angelo Mai
MAP. Enclosing Piazza Vecchia on the northeast, the gleaming white Palazzo Nuovo is the square’s newest and shiniest structure.
Built over three hundred years beginning in the early 17th century, it served as an administrative center (which actually moved prior to the final completion).
Today, it houses the Civica Angelo Mai Library. In the Reading Room, there is a trove of documents, manuscripts and ancient books.
Even more enthralling is the adjoining Tassiana Hall, where rare volumes line the shelves and two large globes are on display.
Top Tip: It’s free to go inside, so pause your Bergamo tour if you’d like. Visitors need to check in at the reception desk and stow bags in the lockers. (There is also a free bathroom.)
#17 Via Bartolomeo Colleoni
MAP. Colleoni Street is an inviting – but nearly always bustling – pedestrian lane that drips with medieval charm.
Better known as Corsarola by locals, it is a continuation of Via Gombito and awash with additional shops, bars and restaurants.
Peer into the windows at Il Fornaio, a popular pizza-by-the-slice spot, where slabs of focaccia topped with heaping mounds of burrata and meat are on tantalizing display (MAP).
Further along, Chiesa di Sant’Agata nel Carmine is worth a quick glimpse (MAP). Dating to the 14th century, the single nave church features five chapels on each side that are decorated with paintings and Baroque detailing.
The cloisters of the Carmine Monastery are situated next door – but they typically only open the doors for art exhibits.
#18 Piazza Mascheroni
MAP. Continue your tour of Bergamo to the end of Corsarola where it leads into Piazza Mascheroni.
The Citta Alta market was held here during medieval times, but today it’s an open space with benches under leafy trees.
At the center is a Venetian well, which sits above a vast underground cistern that collected rain and spring water.
Excavations in the basements of nearby buildings have revealed previous structures that date as far back as the 3rd century BC.
Now, turn your attention to the Torre della Campanella, the clock tower with an open arch.
Built in 1355, it’s part of the Visconti Citadel, but bears evidence of the multitude of powers that have reigned over the city – from the Venetians to Austrians. Pass through the arch to…
#19 Piazza della Cittadella
MAP. Citadel Square was built in 1379 by the Visconti family. It was the courtyard for the military garrison and soldiers lived in the surrounding building.
Today, it houses the Civic Archaeological Museum and the Natural Science Museum. (Both require tickets.)
The Visconti Cittadella, itself, sat atop the Hill of St. John, just to the south. The defensive fortification was designed in conjunction with the Rocca Tower on the east end of Citta Alta.
Just like that tower, the Cittadella complex was meant to both protect and intimidate residents.
Standing outside the square, in the opposite corner from where you entered, is Torre di Adalberto (MAP). Nicknamed the Tower of Hunger, it was a prison for the worst criminals and could only be accessed by ladder.
Next to the tower is the hidden Giardino La Crotta (MAP). This small, lush garden offers a slice of nature as a respite from the congested Old Town.
#20 Porta Sant’Alessandro
MAP. The last official stop on our City of Bergamo Walking Tour, Saint Alexander Gate marks the western entry to the walled town.
It was designed to connect Bergamo to Lake Como and Lecco – and was likely built on the site of a previous Roman gate.
Named for the city’s patron saint, it was here the first St. Alexander Cathedral stood. If you walk through the gate and up the street, you can see the last standing column – Colonna di Sant’Alessandro (MAP).
After Your Self Guided Walking Tour Bergamo
We are offering a few suggestions for what to do next – and if you have time for them all, we highly recommend it!
La Marianna Gelato
MAP. Reward yourself for completing our walking tour in Bergamo with a local specialty: Stracciatella gelato from La Marianna. As the creator of this famous flavor, it’s the place to get a scoop (or two!).
Enjoy it on their patio – or wander over to the benches across the street that overlook La Valletta Colle Aperto (MAP). Goats graze here near the fence, entertaining visitors (please don’t feed them).
Bergamo Botanical Garden Lorenzo Rota
MAP. A compact, hillside plot with expansive vistas, the Lorenzo Rota Garden is just a short walk from Sant’Alessandro Gate.
Situated behind a historic Powder Tower (which sometimes hosts free art exhibitions), the garden is an oasis of flora. It’s free to visit (as are their restrooms).
Castello San Vigilio
MAP. Sitting outside and above the walls, San Vigilio Castle enjoys a privileged perch above town.
The remains are free to explore – and the view from the very top is phenomenal. To get here, you can walk up the steep street or hop on the San Vigilio Funicular.
Circular Green Walk
A 3.5-mile route through the Astino Valley, the Green Walk is a spectacular jaunt through picturesque landscapes.
Highlights include the Astino Monastery, ancient roads and lush gardens, with some challenging staircases along the route.
We suggest starting this moderate walk at Porta Sant’Alessandro, climb up to Castello di San Vigilio, then wind through the valley counterclockwise back to the gate.
Le Mura Veneziane
Our outlined walk of Bergamo navigates the Old Town within the fortifications, but you can stroll along the actual walls, too!
The Bergamo Venetian City Walls completely encircle the Upper Town. You can choose to walk all or part of the 3.75-mile route.
We recommend walking south from Sant’Alessandro to Parco di San Giovanni (MAP). From here, the panorama encompasses Lower Bergamo, the Po Valley and the Milan skyscrapers on clear days.
Follow the bench-lined walkway to the east and you will reach Porta San Giacomo – the most beautiful of the four Citta Alta gates (MAP).
From here, continue to the Saint Augustine Gate, where we started our Bergamo Upper City Walking Tour (or complete the loop via Porta San Lorenzo if you have the energy).
Alternatively, from the San Giacomo Gate, follow the narrow, winding Vicolo San Carlo (MAP) down into the Lower City – or take Via San Giacomo back to the Upper City to explore more on your own!
Self-Guided Walking Tour Bergamo, Italy Map
Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our walking tour route from below.
More Bergamo Tours
We created this Self-Guided Citta Alta Walking Tour to help you discover the best of the Bergamo Upper City at your own pace.
However, touring with a guide and fellow travelers has benefits, too! Here’s a few top-rated options for you to consider.
Private Guided Bergamo City Tour
Forget about following directions and let a local lead the way to the sights that most interest you. On this 2.5-Hour, Customizable Walk, the guide shares history, personal insight and tips.
Bergamo Food Tour
Combine two of the best things about Bergamo – sightseeing and eating – in one fun-filled tour! On this adventure, you will get a taste of the local cuisine while learning about the sights.
Tuk Tuk Tour Bergamo
Don’t sweat the hills…tour around by Tuk Tuk instead! Drivers provide a smooth ride to all the best sights and photo ops – allowing you to see and enjoy the city without the added exertion.
Start planning your trip to Italy! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want additional advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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