10 Best Things To Do in Bergamo, Italy

When Kris first suggested we travel to Bergamo, it was without hesitation that I enthusiastically said, Yes!

I had never heard of the northern Italian city, but the country’s lesser-known locales had consistently exceeded our expectations. (Then, I went online to find out where it was.)

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I quickly learned that Bergamo is nestled in Lombardy, just a stone’s throw from Milan and the Orobie Mountains. (Then, I had to look up the Orobies and found out they’re in the Italian Alps.)

After I flicked through a few photos of the ancient city and the cobblestoned lanes lined with gorgeous architecture, I knew we wouldn’t be at loss for things to do in Bergamo!

We ended up spending a full month navigating our way around, up and over this dazzling gem of a destination.

We stepped inside breathtaking churches, wandered through picturesque valleys, crept into quiet corners and happily consumed the region’s signature dishes.

Top Things To Do in Bergamo

Based on our personal experiences, we created this list of must-do activities to showcase the best of Bergamo.

Later, we share a map of Bergamo marked with our recommended attractions – plus, helpful trip-planning tips!

#1 Explore Citta Alta

Discovering Citta Alta – or Upper City – is a Bergamo must-do. The enchanting Old Town balances on seven hilltops and is completely encircled by protective stone walls.

Its history stretches back to Roman times. Over hundreds of years, the magnificent medieval settlement sprouted soaring towers, elegant squares, ornamental palaces and striking churches.

Two cobbled lanes (Via Corsarola and Via Gomito) lead to the heart of Citta Alta, the atmospheric Piazza Vecchia.

The main square is home to incredible Bergamo attractions, like the Campanone Clock Tower, Contarini Fountain and Palazzo della Ragione.

In the adjacent Piazza Duomo, don’t miss the ornate Colleoni Chapel, the richly decorated Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore and the lavish Duomo di Sant’Alessandro Martire (aka the Bergamo Cathedral).

We’ll take you to these top things see in Bergamo Citta Alta – and more – on our Self-Guided Walking Tour!

#2 Walk the Bergamo Walls

Mighty defensive ramparts lasso Old Town Bergamo, just as they have since the 16th century. The sophisticated fortifications never came under siege, leaving them almost completely intact.

In 2017, they were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for their exemplary Renaissance military engineering.

Called the Mura Veneziane (or Venetian Walls) they loop around Citta Alta, creating a 3.75-mile circumference path.

Walking along the majestic barriers is one of the top Bergamo things to do and we promenaded along them countless times.

Dotting the route are four preserved gates, more than a dozen bastions and two powder magazines. Hidden beneath the massive complex is a web of tunnels, which are only accessible by tour.

That said, what we loved best about walking the walls were the views. We could see the soaring peaks of the Bergamasque Alps and, on clear days, the skyscrapers of Milan.

#3 Enjoy the View from San Vigilio Hill

Marking the highest point in the city, San Vigilio is capped by the ruins of a monumental castle – and it’s a place that we believe is a must-see in Bergamo.

Steeped in history, the strategic spot has hosted a fortress since the 6th century. From the 12th to 15th centuries, San Vigilio Castle was strengthened to include towers, a wall and a moat.

Today, the remnants are open for guests to discover at will. In fact, visiting them is one of the best free things to do in Bergamo!

Climb the stairs or go through the bastion for an epic vista. The summit is over 1600 feet and overlooks Citta Alta to the east, mountains to the north and west and flatland to the south.

We huffed and puffed our way up the hillside, but a funicular connects the western Porta Sant’Alessandro gate to (almost) the top, too.

#4 Stroll through Astino Valley

While we were completely enamored by the narrow, time-worn streets in Bergamo Old Town, we were equally enthralled by the wide-open spaces just steps away.

The attractive Astino Valley is an utterly sublime place for an invigorating walk amongst lovely scenery.

Colorful estates dot the sloping hillside with the Bergamo Botanical Garden at its foot – but the centerpiece is the astounding 11th century Astino Monastery.

Traversing the steep stone steps and meandering paths became one of our favorite activities in Bergamo.

The Green Walk is a fabulous (and well-marked) route through the valley – and there are plenty of places to make detours, too!

#5 Wander the Lower City of Bergamo

Citta Bassa is Bergamo’s often-overlooked Lower City, but we relished wandering the avenues lined with leafy trees and Art Nouveau architecture.

While the tight quarters in Citta Alta burst with medieval charm, Citta Bassa boasts the thriving energy of local life.

Quintessentially Italian, the urban area is characterized by its spacious squares, broad promenades, shopping lanes, hidden parks and copious number of churches.

Top sights in the district are the Neoclassical Porta Nuova Gate, the expansive Sentierone pedestrian lane and Via XX Settembre shopping street.

We outline heaps more about exactly what to see and do here on our Citta Bassa Walking Tour!

#6 Step inside Beautiful Bergamo Churches

The city has a profound religious background that stretches back to the 4th century. It has been home to a bishop for the past 1,000 years and there are more than 500 churches in the diocese.

Layered in history and decorated in art, these extravagantly adorned houses of worship are some of the best places to see in Bergamo.

We rarely passed a church with open doors without stepping inside to see the interior. In the Upper City, the trio of churches in Piazza Duomo Bergamo Alta are a must.

Other Citta Alta churches worth visiting are the frescoed 8th century San Michele al Pozzo Bianco, Chiesa Sant’Andrea and the Baroque Church of Sant’Agata nel Carmine.

In the Lower City, be sure to pop into the Church of the Holy Spirit, the Church of Saints Bartolomeo and Stefano and the Basilica of St. Alexander in Column.

#7 Spend Time in Green Spaces

Aside from the Astino Valley, Bergamo has a number of pint-sized parks and surprising pockets of nature to discover.

Whether escaping the hustle and bustle, eating a picnic lunch or just taking in the view, we loved spending time in the lush grounds that dot the cityscape.

Parco della Rocca is superb for views. Perched on Sant’Eufemia Hill, it encircles a 14th century fortress. The phenomenal lookout encompasses distant mountain peaks and the many towers of the Upper City.

Lorenzo Rota Botanic Gardens crawls up the hillside behind an ancient Powder Magazine. Small paths wind through more than 900 plant species, past ponds and to exceptional viewpoints.

In the Lower City, Caprotti Park is a bit of a secret place to visit in Bergamo! The oasis is shaded by Gingko Biloba and Sequoia trees and home to swans and ducks.

The Green Way is nestled along the Morla Stream. The shared cycle-and-walking path weaves through foliage as it follows the waterway. It feels like you’re passing through a bucolic village!

Visiting a cemetery might sound like one of the unusual things to do in Bergamo, but Cimitero Monumentale is an undiscovered treasure.

With grandiose architecture, elaborate tombstones and ample trees, it’s akin to a forested, open-air museum.

#8 Visit the Best Museums in Bergamo

There are numerous Bergamo museums and they cover a multitude of subjects – from art to history to music.

For lovers of the arts, there is no better place than the Accademia Carrara Museum; it is a top Bergamo tourist attraction. Housing Renaissance masterpieces by Italian artists, it’s incredibly popular (so book your tickets in advance).

Directly across the street is Bergamo’s renowned modern art museum: GAMeC – Galleria d’Arte Moderna e Contemporanea.

For history enthusiasts, there are a number of cultural institutions that tell the story of Bergamo.

From Roman ruins in the Palazzo del Podesta Museum to 16th century fortifications at the Walls of Bergamo Museum to the life of composer Gaetano Donizetti, these archives trace the area’s fascinating past.

The All-in-One Museo delle Storie di Bergamo Ticket includes entry to multiple venues for a single price.

Two spaces that don’t get a lot of fanfare are the Biblioteca Civica Angelo Mai and Palazzo della Ragione Cultural Center. They are located on the prominent Piazza Vecchia – and are free to visit!

Biblioteca Civica Angelo Mai is housed in the distinguished Palazzo Nuovo di Bergamo. While it’s still a working library, guests are permitted to enter the Reading Room lined with ancient volumes.

The real gem is the Tassiana Room, where there are two giant, old-world globes on display, along with rare books and impressive ceiling designs.

The Cultural Center at Palazzo della Ragione is located in the Upper Hall above the arched loggia. Inside, ancient frescoes are displayed on the walls and rotating exhibits fill the room.

#9 Taste Local Lombardy Flavors

There is no doubt that feasting on regional specialties is one of the best things to do in Bergamo. Honestly, we couldn’t get enough of the delectable Northern Italian cuisine!

Our autumn visit was perfect for indulging in hearty dishes – like casoncelli (a heavenly meat-filled pasta) and Polenta Taragna (a savory meal topped with a satisfying sauce).

When we learned that Bergamo is also the European Capital of Cheese, we happily taste-tested our way through the Protected Designation of Origin (DOP) cheeses – not regretting a single calorie!

Naturally, we made sure to save room for gelato, too! Stracciatella – a much-loved combination of milk, cream and chocolate bits – was actually created here in 1961.

A trip to Bergamo would not be complete without trying the original from La Marianna. For more about what to eat – and our favorite restaurants – read our dedicated post on Bergamo Food!

#10 Take Day Trips from Bergamo

While there are plenty of things to see in Bergamo, it’s location is prime for visiting more of the region. We eagerly set off on excursions to both Milan and Lecco.

Planning a day trip to Milan from Bergamo is as simple as hopping on a train and using our outlined Milan Walking Tour!

Lecco is located along the pristine shoreline of Lake Como. On a Bergamo day trip to Lecco you can walk the waterfront, hike in the hills and sample the local cuisine.

Use our guide on How To Spend One Day in Lecco for more sightseeing advice and foodie tips!

Map of Things To Do: Bergamo, Italy

Use this Google Map for an online version of our Bergamo map below.

Bergamo Travel Tips

Now that you know what to do in Bergamo, we’re sharing a few hints and hacks for visitors.

Opening Hours

Like most of Italy, Bergamo adheres to the old tradition of Riposo – a midday pause when many restaurants and shops close (typically anytime between 12:30 and 5pm).

It is also the time of day that we most enjoyed being outdoors exploring. It’s an excellent opportunity for snapping photos, soaking up the serenity and admiring architecture.

Public Bathrooms

Bergamo is well-equipped with a number of public toilets – but most require a fee. The WC on the main square of the Upper City cost €1, but there are others nearby for 50 cents.

You can also find a few free restrooms close by. Both Biblioteca Civica Angelo Mai and Lorenzo Rota Botanic Gardens are free to enter and have free facilities.

Our go-to spot when nature calls is to simply stop at a cafe – but we were surprised by the number of gelato shops and even restaurants in Bergamo that did not have facilities for customers.

Informational Plaques

The signage in Bergamo is exceptional! From pointing tourists in the right direction to historical details, we rarely had to pull out our phones for information.

Better yet, nearly all are in both Italian and English. We loved the little bits of history we picked-up along the way!

Friendly Locals

We found the Bergamaschi people to be extremely kind and friendly – and the locals we encountered spoke excellent English.

Still, we always made the effort to start any conversation with a formal greeting in Italian.

“Buongiorno” is used from morning until the afternoon, while “Buonasera” is used from late afternoon into the evening.

Trip Planning Tips

We also have a few logistical insights to share. Hopefully they make it easier to plan your getaway to Italy!

How Many Days in Bergamo

Determining how many days to spend in Bergamo depends on what you want to see and do!

With one day in Bergamo, you can easily cover the must-see attractions in Citta Alta – and still have time to navigate Citta Bassa or the Astino Valley.

On a two-day weekend trip to Bergamo, you can tour some more museums, parks and churches. With additional time, add a fun day trip to your itinerary!

How To Get There

One of the best things about Bergamo is how well-connected it is to Italy and other cities in Europe by car, bus, train or plane.

The Milan Bergamo Airport (BGY) is only 3 miles south of the Lower City and is served primarily by low-cost carriers.

We searched on Skyscanner to find cheap flights to Bergamo. You can read more money-saving tips in our Guide to Booking Low Airfare.

Getting Around Bergamo

With a good network of inexpensive buses and funiculars, it’s fairly easy to get around. Bus 1 transports travelers from the airport to the Train Station, Lower City and ends in the Upper City.

There are two cable cars that help with the hills. The Funicolare Citta Alta goes from the Lower City to the eastside of the Upper City. Funicolare di San Vigilio runs from the west end of the Upper City to San Vigilio Hill.

That said, we generally found it easy to get around on foot, but some of the inclines are truly no joke!

Where To Stay

For our extended stop, we rented an Airbnb – but we believe booking a hotel for a quick Bergamo trip would likely be a better choice.

Of all the hotels in Bergamo, we feel Hotel Excelsior San Marco in the Lower City is an excellent choice. With an ideal location, a rooftop restaurant, comfortable rooms and fair rates, it ticks all the boxes!

Packing for Italy

We just have a few final tips about what to pack in your suitcase (or backpack). You can grab our Free Checklist, too!

Durable Shoes: Between the cobbled lanes and hills, you will want your best pair of travel shoes!

Real Camera: We use a Canon Rebel with an 18-135mm lens. It’s a great DSLR for budget travelers!

Day Bag: Bring a zippered pack to stow everything you need and to deter pickpockets.

European Trip Organization

Keep track of all the important particulars of your vacation to Italy with our Travel Planner!

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!

10 Best Things To Do in Bergamo, Italy