Bergamo Printable Tourist Map

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Bergamo Map: The Attractions

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Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore

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Fortress of Bergamo

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Piazza Vecchia

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Torre del Gombito

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A view of Bergamo from the top of City Hall Tower.

A city guide to Bergamo, Italy

With its hilltop medieval citadel encircled by Ventian walls, views of the snow-capped Alps, a top-notch fine arts museum, and some of the region's best restaurants, Bergamo is more than just a gateway to its starry neighbour Milan.

Most Italian hilltop towns are hard-won, accessible only for those up to navigating long, winding mountain roads. Not so Bergamo. This vibrant city has all the charm of a remote Tuscan town, but is just 15 minutes’ drive from its own international airport. Despite Ryanair putting Bergamo on the radar when it landed at the then tiny airport in 2004, this is still an unsung destination. Often used as a jumping off point for skiers bound for Lombardy’s eight mountain resorts, or as gateway to the region’s lakes and vineyards, Bergamo also draws fashion-focused travellers who fly in, hit the Oriocenter mega mall (Italy’s largest, adjacent to the airport), or dash to one of Milan’s design emporiums, then fly straight out. All of which makes Bergamo’s beautiful medieval hilltops even more of an exclusive joy.

In the foothills of the Alps, this is a two-for-one city-break experience with the Città Alta (upper city) and Città Bassa (lower city) offering dramatic contrast. The former is all cobbled streets and narrow   vicoli   (alleys) overhung with leafy balconies, centred around the small but immaculately formed Piazza Vecchia. Bergamo Alta crackles with medieval atmosphere in winter, overlooked by the austere clock tower that once rang nightly curfew for Bergamaschi to return within the city walls. Then, fanning out beneath the fortifications, Bergamo’s other half is a handsome Italian conurbation of wide boulevards, opera houses and buzzing bars. Connecting Bassa and Alta is a 19th-century funicular whose two little red coaches make an almost vertical climb through elegantly stacked gardens and parkland, offering expansive views over the Po Valley’s plains: as unexpectedly charming as this two-tiered city itself.

Go to church: Hidden behind the lion-topped loggia overlooking Bergamo Alta’s central Piazza Vecchia — a feline symbol of Venetian rule over the city for more than three centuries — you’ll find hidden not one but three spectacular religious edifices: the Duomo, Colleoni Chapel and Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore. The latter’s plain sandstone exterior belies a boggling confection of marquetry mapping the vast vaulted ceiling — hundreds of limbs and wings of saints and angels intertwined. It’s also the burial place of Donizetti, Bergamo’s beloved 19th-century bel canto opera maestro. Next door, the pink and white marble Renaissance exterior of Colleoni Chapel signals the resting place of one of Italy’s most feared mercenaries, Bartolomeo Colleoni, whose coat of arms features three testicular attributes — he suffered from orchitis so had three testicles — which are often rubbed for good luck.

See the nativity: From November to January, the Duomo Museo displays La Luce Del Natale nei Tesori Miniati , nativity scenes set among archaeological treasures from the Cathedral’s collection amid foundations honeycombed with Roman ruins. Visit in early December during the Feast of the Immaculate Conception to hear carols broadcast around the cathedral and across Città Alta.  

Walk the walls: You can pay to climb Piazza Vecchia’s vociferous Campanone bell tower for panoramic views of snow-capped Alps and misty plains but, frankly, Città Alta itself is one big bella vista. Roads and ramparts encircling the hilltop citadel provide endless vertiginous vantages, while the hardworking two-carriage Città Alta Funicular allows easier ascent from new town to old, and equally panoramic views. San Vigilio Funicular climbs higher, for distant views of Milan across agricultural plains and acres of parkland to the northwest. It’s like stepping instantly into the quiet, leafy Lombardy countryside.

See priceless paintings: Accademia Carrara hosts some of the greatest hits of Italian art. Some 2,000 works dating from the 15th to the 18th centuries reside in this heavy-hitting provincial museum, with religious and Renaissance masterpieces by the likes of Mantegna, Lorenzo Lotto, Giovanni Bellini, Raphael, Titian and Botticelli.  

The city's funicular and a view of the city.

B & B La Torre House : For a cosy stay, B & B La Torre House sits just off Alta’s main shopping and dining street, offering rooms in a 19th-century townhouse, with part-exposed brick walls, contrasting terracotta tiles, and simple modern fixtures, fittings and bedding.  

Gombit Hotel: The closest thing Bergamo has to a design den, Gombit Hotel is a contemporary standout on a central-yet-quiet Città Alta cobbled side street. Ignore the somewhat whimsical frontage that looks like a Vespa shop circa 1980. All the shiny red and silver is banished upstairs in the generously sized guest rooms in exchange for cool browns and earthy tones.  

Relais San Lorenzo: This seems like a minimalist hotel by Bergamo Alta’s medieval design standards, but since the five-star Relais San Lorenzo is set around a spectacular sprawling Roman ruin, embellishment probably seemed redundant. The hotel’s highlight is its restaurant, sunk underground with tables set among ancient columns of masonry.  

Polentone:   Polenta defines Bergamo dining. Italy’s first kiosk dedicated to this ultimate winter warmer, Polentone, opposite the Funicular Alta top station, serves up the city’s cornmeal favourites done every which way — from creamy and cheesy to sauteed with porcini, and topped with hare, wild boar and pancetta.

Da Mimmo: This place serves local classics — exemplary winter comforts like saffron risotto, meaty pizzas, and casoncelli — pasta stuffed with rich pork and beef, sometimes sweetened with raisins or amaretti biscuits. Adjoining Mimi La Casa dei Sapori resembles a medieval Carluccio’s; deli-dine under vaulted ceilings, eyeballing shelves stocked with the legumes, grains, pastas, wine and rice produced in northern Italy.  

Da Vittorio : In a former private members country club on Bergamo’s outskirts, Da Vittorio is a fun fine-dining one-off. A phalanx of waiters attends diners, head chefs (brothers from the proprietorial Cerea family, see page 37) give patrons cheery guidance, and dishes include painted Sicilian prawns, the signature tomato pasta for which you’re provided a bib, and cannoli piped tableside. Bookending dinner: a trolley of locally made Franciacorta fizz, a treasure chest of truffles, a vast bureau of cheese, and a towering dresser of chocolates and candy made in-house, all wheeled to your table.  

View from a theatre box of the Teatro Donizetti, an 18th-century opera house in Città Bassa.

After hours

Theatre:   Bergamo produced one of Italy’s most beloved opera composers, Gaetano Donizetti , with twice annual festivals held in his name in November and June. Teatro Donizetti, an 18th-century opera house in Città Bassa, has a year-round season including his works.  

Cocktails:   Have a pre- or post-opera cocktail at T-Bakery or adjacent Bu Cheese Bar: sleek, late-opening, snack and drinks spots on Città Bassa’s Via Petrarca. On Alta’s central Via Gombito, Location 58 is the best address for cocktails, in a glam 1950s-style setting, while La Birreria offers a broad selection of craft brews; Il Dispensario does both in an intimate bar on lovely little Piazza Mascheroni, by the north-western wall.

Dine and dance: It’s more about wining and dining than dancing and cocktails in Bergamo, but Setai , near the Orio mega mall is the place to dress up, see and be seen against a backdrop of disco-techno served up by Italian DJs and a respectable number of international names.  

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16 Top Tourist Attractions in Bergamo

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Dec 22, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The first thing you'll notice as you arrive in Bergamo is its topography, a perfectly flat lower town that rises steeply and suddenly to the 16th-century bastions of the old town on the crest of its hill. The old upper city — Citta Alta — is where you'll find the most things to do in Bergamo.

Bergamo, Italy

The contrast between the two towns is even sharper because the straight lower streets are lined with Neoclassical and modern buildings, while the old town's narrow lanes wind haphazardly among Romanesque and Renaissance structures. You'll find museums and other more modern tourist attractions in this newer part of Bergamo.

The two parts of Bergamo are connected by a funicular, a much easier approach to the old citadel than the steep, winding roads at either end. But the monumental gates through which these roads enter the old city are worth a look. Two of them show the Lion of St. Mark, a reminder that Bergamo, like much of northern Italy, was once part of the Venetian Republic.

To be sure of finding the best places to visit, use this handy list of the top attractions and things to do in Bergamo.

See also: Where to Stay in Bergamo

1. Explore the Citta Alta

2. piazza vecchia, 3. santa maria maggiore (basilica of st. mary major), 4. cappella colleoni (colleoni chapel), 5. art gallery of the accademia carrara, 6. walk around the walls to see the city gates, 7. cathedral of sant'alessandro, 8. climb the campanone, 9. ride the funicular to san vigilio, 10. baptistery, 11. museo civico di scienze naturali (natural science museum), 12. piazza matteotti, 13. see the views from la rocca, 14. museo donizettiano (donizetti museum), 15. day trip to san pellegrino terme, 16. faunistic park le cornelle, where to stay in bergamo for sightseeing, bergamo, italy - climate chart.

View of Bergamo's Citta Alta

Most of the top things to do in Bergamo are in the Citta Alta, the old town, with its medieval and Renaissance buildings tightly clustered at the top of a rock outcrop. As you walk through the streets under buildings that have been here for centuries, it's easy to imagine what life was like here in the Middle Ages and Renaissance.

The best way to get here is on the funicular, which brings you to Piazza Mercato delle Scarpe . This small square leads into the narrow stone-paved Via Gombito , in which lies a patrician tower-house, the Torre di Gombito , built around 1100.

Below, on Via di Porta Dipinta, stand the beautiful churches of San Michele al Pozzo Bianco and Sant'Andrea (inside the latter is a Madonna Enthroned with Saints by Moretto). Lined by patrician buildings with small shops on their street level, Via Gombito leads on to the beautiful Piazza Vecchia.

Contarini Fountain on Piazza Vecchia

A remarkable and beautiful assembly of patrician houses and the Palazzo della Ragione (city hall) frame this square at the heart of the old town. The 12th-century Palazzo della Ragione's stone staircase and loggia of three Gothic arches (largely rebuilt in the mid-1500s) forms the piazza's upper side, adjoining the tall tower, Torre del Comune .

The lower side is bounded by the late-Renaissance Palazzo Nuovo , housing the municipal library. In the center stands the Contarini Fountain , decorated by lions, and another Lion of St. Mark looks down from above. A café in the upper corner makes a good spot for appreciating the scene.

Santa Maria Maggiore (Basilica of St. Mary Major)

Through the archway at the top of Piazza Vecchia is Piazza del Duomo (cathedral square), and together they contain some of Bergamo's most impressive architectural treasures. The church of Santa Maria Maggiore, begun in 1137 as a Romanesque basilica, has a stepped-back tower over the crossing and an ornate choir.

Doorways at either side of the church are guarded by lions under beautiful Gothic canopies (1353 and 1360). Inside are fine Renaissance choir stalls, Baroque stucco work, and 16th-century tapestries on the walls of the side-aisles and choir.

Local admirers still leave fresh flowers on the tomb of the composer Donizetti, a Bergamo native buried here.

Address: Piazza Duomo, Bergamo

Cappella Colleoni (Colleoni Chapel)

As you step into Piazza Duomo, you can't miss Bergamo's most striking façade adjoining Santa Maria Maggiore. The Cappella Colleoni is a masterpiece of early Lombard Renaissance style, with a lavishly decorated façade of multicolored inlaid marble.

Built 1470-76 as a family shrine to house the tomb of the condottiere Bartolomeo Colleoni and his daughter Medea, the chapel was designed by Giovanni Amadeo, who also designed the tombs inside. The ceiling paintings by Giambattista Tiepolo were added in 1732.

Art Gallery of the Accademia Carrara

Reached by a stepped lane leading down from Porta Sant'Agostino is a palace housing the Accademia Carrara, one of Italy's premier art museums. At any time you visit, about 500 paintings and about 60 sculptures are on display, selected from the museum's more than 1,500 paintings and 130 sculptures.

The collections include works by Italian artists Lorenzo Lotto, Palma il Vecchio, Giovanni Battista Moroni, Vittore Carpaccio, Jacopo and Giovanni Bellini, Andrea Mantegna, Girolamo Romani Romanino, Giovanni Battista Tiepolo, Titian, Paolo Veronese, Raffael Santi, Sandro Botticelli, Luca Signorelli, and Carlo Crivelli, as well as works by Albrecht Dürer and Anton van Dyck.

Address: Piazza dell'Accademia (Via San Tommaso), Bergamo

Cinta Muraria and the City Gates

More than four kilometers of walls, known as the Cinta Muraria, were built by the Venetians between 1561 and 1592 to protect the upper city. They still enclose the Citta Alta as they did in the 16th century, and today protect it from modern encroachments instead of invading armies.

Viale delle Mura follows them from Porta Sant'Alessandro , near the Donizetti Museum, past Porta San Giacomo , the most handsome of the town gates, and on past the church of Sant'Agostino to Porta Sant'Agostino . From this gate, Viale Vittorio Emanuele II descends past the lower station of the funicular and into the center of the lower town.

The impressive wall system, which includes 14 bastions, 100 cannon embrasures, four gates, two armories, and underground passages and tunnels, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Cathedral of Sant'Alessandro

At one end of Piazza del Duomo , at right angles to Santa Maria Maggiore , is the cathedral of Sant'Alessandro, built in 1459, and with a Neoclassical façade and dome added in 1889. Inside are paintings by Tiepolo, Previtali, and Moroni and beautiful Baroque choir stalls.

Along with several silver reliquaries, the church treasury displays the Tiara of the beatified Pope John XXIII, adorned with pearls, diamonds, rubies, and emeralds. The tiara, a chalice, and several other objects belonging to him are displayed in the Chapel of St. Vincent and St. John XXIII.

Campanone, Bergamo

Since the Venetians occupied Bergamo in the 1600s, the bell atop the Camanone, or Civic Tower, above Piazza Vecchia has rung 100 times at 10pm every night. This was the signal that the gates would close, and the Citta Alta would be sealed.

You can see the famous bell, the largest in Lombardy, at the top of the tower, which you can climb via 230 stone steps or ascend in an elevator.

The views down into Piazza Vecchia and across the tiled rooftops of the old town give you a new perspective on the tightly clustered old neighborhood.

Address: Piazza Vecchia, 8A, 24129 Bergamo

View from San Vigilio, Bergamo

To look down on the Cita Alta from above, ride the Funicolare from the Sant'Alessandro Gate to the hill of San Vigilio, where you'll find the ruins of a castle with ramparts and four massive round towers.

Beneath it are vaults and a maze of tunnels, including a once-secret passage to the fortress of San Marco. You can tour some of the underground tunnels.

It's easy to see how important this castle was strategically, with views across the plain to the south and the villages of the Bremba Valley to the north. The views to the pre-Alps and the fine-dining restaurant make San Vigilio Bergamo's most romantic place for dinner .

Baptistery

To the right of the Cappella Colleoni is the Baptistery, an unusual octagonal building dating from 1340. It was originally inside Santa Maria Maggiore , then taken down in 1661 and stored, reassembled in 1856, and again torn down and re-erected here in 1898.

The statues surrounding it, representing the Virtues of Faith, Hope, Charity, Fortitude, Justice, Prudence, Temperance, and Patience, date to the 14th century. In its center is a Gothic baptismal font, and an altar behind the Baptistery has a marble statue of St. John the Baptist.

Museo Civico de Scienze Naturali

From the Piazza Vecchia, the narrow Via Colleoni runs northwest to the Citadel, which houses an excellent museum with exhibits on natural science, ethnography, paleontology, and archeology.

As you enter, you'll see a large reconstructed mammoth , introducing exhibits relating to the early 20th-century discovery of a large cache of mammoth and other remains in the nearby Petosino plain.

At the Museo Civico di Scienze Naturali , the Hall of Mammals displays finds from this region, which is very rich in fossils. In addition to the natural sciences and archaeology, the museum has more than 1,000 ethnographic artifacts, most from collections of early travelers to Africa and the Americas, interpreted for artistic and cultural qualities, not just as curiosities.

Sensory features throughout the museum make it especially well adapted for visitors with impaired sight. Audio guides are available in English.

Address: Piazza Cittadella 10, Bergamo

Piazza Matteotti

The center of Bergamo's Lower Town (Città Bassa) is the Piazza Matteotti, with beautiful gardens, parks, and monuments, adjoining which is the imposing Piazza Vittorio Veneto , with the Torre dei Caduti , a war memorial. Opposite are the twin neoclassical gatehouses of the Porta Nuova , from which the wide Viale Papa Giovanni XXIII runs south to the train station.

This street and the Viale Vittoria Emanuele II, which leads from the Piazza Vittorio Veneto to the upper town, form Bergamo's principal traffic artery. East of Piazza Matteotti, in the busy avenue called the Sentierone , stands the Teatro Donizetti , and in the east side of the Piazza Cavour is a monument to Gaetano Donizetti .

Rocca Museum

From the Piazza Mercato delle Scarpe, Via alla Rocca, to the right, ascends to the Rocca, a 14th-century bastion that contains the Museo del Risorgimento e della Resistenza . This museum contains documents and exhibits about the struggle for independence in Italy, when the city of Bergamo was freed from Austrian rule by the army of Giuseppe Garibaldi.

The castle keep and the adjoining Parco della Rimembranza (Remembrance Park) are the best places to go for 360-degree views of the city and surrounding plains and the mountains to the north.

Address: Via alla Rocca, Bergamo

Museo Donizettiano (Donizetti Museum)

Music lovers may want to see memorabilia from the life of Bergamo-born Gaetano Donizetti (1797-1848), one of the world's five most performed composers. Along with Donizetti, the museum pays homage to other Italian composers and musicians, including Rossini, Bellini, and Verdi.

The palace that holds the Museo Donizettiano is itself worth seeing, ornately decorated with frescoes by Borromini. Concerts are held in its Liberty-style (art nouveau) Sala Piatti. It is occasionally possible to visit the house on Via Borgo Canale where the Donizetti family lived and raised their five children in two tiny basement rooms.

Address: Via Arena 9, Città Alta, Bergamo

San Pellegrino Terme

In the foothills of the Bergamo Alps , the spa town of San Pellegrino Terme is a half-hour drive from Bergamo, and widely known for the sparkling natural spring water that is bottled here.

The old spa town attracts visitors because of its beautiful surroundings in the wooded Brembo valley and its turn-of-the-20th-century architecture.

Its alkaline mineral water comes from three springs on the right bank of the Brembo, which flows through the middle of the town. From the spa, a funicular climbs to San Pellegrino Vetta , a once-fashionable cluster of Liberty-style (Art Nouveau) villas.

Rhino at the Faunistic Park Le Cornelle

Covering an area of 100,000 square meters just outside central Bergamo, Faunistic Park Le Cornelle is a zoo with some amusement park features. Its primary focus is on the animals, which are kept in naturalistic habitats.

The Cheetah Oasis is a large area with grass, trees, streams, and waterfalls where these big cats can run and move freely, and in the park's Savannah , visitors can safely watch zebra, rhino, giraffe, and other African wildlife in a natural setting.

Animals in the park also include elephants, rare leopards, giant turtles, and tropical birds. There is an aquarium and a large dolphin exhibit.

Address: Via Cornelle 16, Valbrembo

Bergamo's medieval and Renaissance upper town (Citta Alta) and 19th-century lower town (Citta Bassa) are at separate levels but close and connected by a funicular. Either makes a convenient base for sightseeing, as there are multiple tourist attractions and things to do in each. Here are some highly rated hotels in Bergamo:

Luxury Hotels:

  • Relais San Vigilio al Castello sits surrounded by gardens at the highest point in the city, reached from the old town by a funicular or by car (the hotel has an electric vehicle charging station). Modern rooms have fireplaces and views of either the city or the mountains; breakfast is included in the rate.
  • With free Wi-Fi and breakfast, the boutique Petronilla Hotel is in the lower city between the rail station and Citta Alta, a 20-minute walk from the funicular and a two-minute walk to restaurants. Some rooms have small balconies overlooking the hotel's beautiful courtyard.
  • Facing the beautiful park of Piazzale della Repubblica, near the funicular to the old town, the Excelsior San Marco Hotel is in a perfect location for attractions and restaurants. Breakfast is included, and there's a rooftop garden, as well as a fitness center with a workout room.

Mid-Range Hotels :

  • On the main street, a five-minute walk from the train station and 10 minutes from the funicular to the old town, BEST WESTERN PREMIER Cappello d'Oro has smart modern rooms, a fitness center, and green credentials. It's less than a five-minute walk to a choice of restaurants.
  • Wi-Fi and breakfast are both included at the green-certified NH Bergamo , five minutes from the train station and just off the main street between the station and old town. Rooms are soundproofed, and allergy-free rooms are available.
  • On Piazza Vecchia, in the heart of the atmospheric old city, the Albergo Il Sole has comfortable, old-fashioned rooms with free internet and a free breakfast buffet. The hotel has its own popular restaurant, and several others are nearby.

Budget Hotels:

  • On the main street of the lower town near the rail station, Mercure Bergamo Palazzo Dolci is an older hotel with modernized rooms equipped with free Wi-Fi, electric kettles, hair dryers, and safes.
  • Tastefully decorated rooms at La Castellana , a boutique hotel in the lower town between the rail station and funicular, also have electric tea kettles and safes. Family rooms and apartments with kitchenettes are available, but may be some distance from the hotel itself.
  • Near the train station, on the street from the autostrada and with free parking, Hotel Citta dei Mille is in a convenient location for arriving by car. The décor is dated, but the rooms are well kept, and breakfast is included.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

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Things to Do near Bergamo: Bergamo lies in the heart of one of the most popular areas of Northern Italy, between Lake Como and Lake Garda , both surrounded by villas to tour and easily explored by regular boat services. Lake Garda is known for its variety of water sports, especially sailing and windsurfing.

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Places to Visit from Bergamo: On the way to Lake Garda, stop to visit the exceptional Roman attractions of Brescia , and only a short distance from the lake is romantic Verona , fictional home of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. In Verona, you'll find another of northern Italy's top ancient sites, the well-preserved Roman Arena.

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Map of Bergamo — Best attractions, restaurants, and transportation info

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We’ve made the ultimate tourist map of Bergamo, Italy for travelers! Check out Bergamo’s top things to do, attractions, restaurants, and major transportation hubs all in one interactive map.

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Use this interactive map to plan your trip before and while in Bergamo. Learn about each place by clicking it on the map or read more in the article below. Here’s more ways to perfect your trip using our Bergamo map:

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Top 18 attractions in Bergamo

Accademia carrara museum.

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Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore

Piazza vecchia.

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Mura Veneziane-Patrimonio UNESCO

Bergamo cathedral, colleoni chapel, funicolare s. vigilio, civic museum of natural sciences in bergamo, chiesa di san michele al pozzo bianco, rocca di bergamo, palazzo della ragione, antico lavatoio.

tourist map of bergamo

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tourist map of bergamo

Parco Del Castello Di San Vigilio

Fontana contarini cosmetics ltd., former monastery of astino, top 10 restaurants in bergamo, al carroponte, da mimmo bergamo alta.

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Osteria Al Gigianca

Lio pellegrini, da franco restaurant, ristorante la tana, taverna valtellinese, transportation in bergamo, nearby airports, milan bergamo airport, milan linate airport, highways and major roads.

  • A4 Autostrada Serenissima
  • SS671 Tangenziale di Bergamo
  • SS42 del Tonale e della Mendola
  • SS470 della Valle Seriana
  • SP122 della Riviera dei Fiori
  • SP35 della Val Brembana
  • SP2 della Valle Imagna
  • SP6 della Val Seriana
  • SP591 della Val Cavallina
  • SP49 della Valle di Scalve

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Explore nearby places

  • Orio Al Serio
  • Torre Boldone
  • Azzano San Paolo
  • Ponteranica
  • Scanzorosciate
  • Villa di Serio
  • Alzano Lombardo
  • Ponte San Pietro
  • Torre de' Roveri
  • Albano Sant'Alessandro

All related maps of Bergamo

  • Map of Roncobello
  • Map of Bedulita
  • Map of Algua
  • Map of Pontida
  • Map of Orio Al Serio
  • Map of Gorle
  • Map of Torre Boldone
  • Map of Seriate
  • Map of Stezzano
  • Map of Azzano San Paolo
  • Map of Pedrengo
  • Map of Ponteranica
  • Map of Scanzorosciate
  • Map of Villa di Serio
  • Map of Lallio
  • Map of Sorisole
  • Map of Alzano Lombardo
  • Map of Grassobbio
  • Map of Mozzo
  • Map of Curno
  • Map of Valbrembo
  • Map of Treviolo
  • Map of Zanica
  • Map of Ponte San Pietro
  • Map of Paladina
  • Map of Torre de' Roveri
  • Map of Alme
  • Map of Dalmine
  • Map of Albano Sant'Alessandro
  • Map of Brusaporto

Bergamo throughout the year

  • Bergamo in January
  • Bergamo in February
  • Bergamo in March
  • Bergamo in April
  • Bergamo in May
  • Bergamo in June
  • Bergamo in July
  • Bergamo in August
  • Bergamo in September
  • Bergamo in October
  • Bergamo in November
  • Bergamo in December

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View of Piazza Vecchia in Bergamo.

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Of Lombardy’s four great historic cities, Bergamo might just be the finest, courtesy of its handsomely walled old town, antique but atmospheric main piazza and – lest we forget – overachieving Serie A football team (Atalanta).

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Accademia Carrara

Accademia Carrara

Just east of the old city walls is one of Italy's great art repositories. Founded in 1780, it contains an exceptional range of Italian masters. Raphael's…

Torre del Campanone

Torre del Campanone

Bergamo's colossal, square-based Torre del Campanone soars 52m above the city. It still tolls a bell at 10pm, the legacy of an old curfew. Taking the lift…

Palazzo del Podestà

Palazzo del Podestà

On the northwest side of Piazza Vecchia, the fresco-dappled Palazzo del Podestà was traditionally home to Venice's representative in Bergamo. Today, the…

View of Piazza Vecchia in Bergamo.

Piazza Vecchia

The Upper Town's beating heart is the cafe-clad Piazza Vecchia, lined by elegant architecture that is a testament in stone and brick to Bergamo's long and…

Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore

Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore

Bergamo's most striking church, begun in 1137, is quite a mishmash of styles. To its whirl of Romanesque apses (on which some external frescoes remain…

City Walls

One of several towns in Italy with an intact ring of defences, Bergamo’s impressive walls were built by the Venetians over 30 years starting in 1561…

Galleria d'Arte Moderna e Contemporanea

Galleria d'Arte Moderna e Contemporanea

GAMeC, as the gallery is known, sits opposite the more prestigious Accademia Carrara and displays modern works by Italian artists like Giacomo Balla,…

Cappella Colleoni

Cappella Colleoni

The Cappella Colleoni, attached to the north side of the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, was built between 1472 and 1476 as a magnificent mausoleum-cum…

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tourist map of bergamo

Latest stories from Bergamo

The walking route between Bergamo and Brescia

Apr 27, 2023 • 3 min read

A new hiking trail will connect the Italian cities of Bergamo and Brescia while passing Unesco World Heritage sites, Lake Iseo, three wine regions and more.

People dine in the Paolo VI square of Brescia, Italy.

Nov 9, 2022 • 4 min read

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Jul 4, 2018 • 1 min read

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  • 1 Understand
  • 2.1.1 From the airport to Bergamo
  • 2.1.2 Other bus connections
  • 2.2 By train
  • 3.2 By funicular
  • 3.3 By tram
  • 3.4 By bike
  • 3.5 By foot
  • 4.1.1 Venetian Walls
  • 4.2 Città Bassa
  • 7.2 Mid-range
  • 7.3 Splurge
  • 9.1 Città Alta (Old Town)
  • 9.2 Città Bassa (New Town)
  • 9.3 Stezzano

Bergamo is a city in Lombardy , a region of Italy , and the capital of the namesake province. One of the most scenic cities in Italy, it is located on and around a steep hill, green in the summer and white in the winter, complemented by pastel-coloured architecture, against the backdrop of nearby Alps. Its appeal to tourists is enhanced by the nearby Orio al Serio airport. Looking at its beauty, it is hard to believe Bergamo is also one of Italy's most industrialized cities, from which it derives its relative wealth.

Understand [ edit ]

Bergamo is a pretty town of some 122,000 people (2019) nestling in the foothills of the Alps. Widely acclaimed as a city of rare beauty, Bergamo is famous for its wealth of artistic treasures and enchanting medieval atmosphere. It is a real life tale of two cities: Città Bassa , the busy and modern lower city, and Città Alta , the upper city with its rich heritage of art and history.

Get in [ edit ]

Map

By plane [ edit ]

Bergamo airport is the 4th busiest airport in Italy, serving a wider area than just the province of Bergamo. It mostly hosts low-fare airlines, many of whom market it as an alternative to Milan's Malpensa and Linate airports, and therefore call it "Milan Bergamo".

  • 45.6689 9.6956 1 Bergamo Orio al Serio International Airport ( BGY  IATA ), ☏ +39 035326323 . There is a left luggage service at the airport (€4 per item, reportedly closed at night). ( updated Sep 2015 )

Airlines serving Milan are either point-to-point low-fare carries like Ryanair or Wizz Air , as well as holiday charters going either to Italy from other European countries, or from Bergamo to warmer holiday destinations in the Mediterranean. If you would rather travel on a major airline, your only choice are the two daily flights to Munich Airport , operated by Air Dolomiti , where the Lufthansa-owned carrier connects to the Star Alliance network of European and intercontinental flights. Note that Munich is denoted Monaco in Italian when searching for the flights.

Many passengers get on a coach to Milan right after arrival, skipping Bergamo entirely.

From the airport to Bergamo [ edit ]

  • Airport Bus ( line #1 ). This service runs between the airport and important points within the city, such as the train station or the lower station of the funicular. You can find schedules and route maps on the site of ATB (the city's public transit authority). single €2.60 (valid on all city transport for 90 min), €7 for 24h ticket and €12 for a 3 day (72 hr); tickets can be purchased at a ticket machine at the bus stop (€3) and some other locations (see web site) . ( updated Aug 2023 )

Buses can be both unreliable and not punctual. You may want to take this bus then make sure you have 30-45 minutes before the time you actually have to be at the airport. Taxies will take about 15 min but are quite expensive given the length of the journey - cost around €15 (€21 after 21:00 in the evening)

Other bus connections [ edit ]

If you are at the airport and your destination is Milan or Venice, just take one of regular coaches [dead link] . However be warned that the autostrada connecting Bergamo and Milan carries a lot of trucks and gets easily congested - do not therefore rely on the 'stated' journey time especially on weekdays. An alternative is to take the bus into Bergamo (see above) and take the train.

tourist map of bergamo

By train [ edit ]

There are regular trains to Milan (50 min), Lecco and Brescia , where you can change to trains towards Verona and Venice . Up to three high-speed trains in each direction directly link Bergamo to Rome daily, one of which also serves Naples .

  • 45.6904 9.6751 2 Stazione Ferroviaria ( Train station ), piazza Marconi 7 ( at the southern end of the lower city centre ), ☏ +39 035 247 950 , +39 035 244 812 . Regional train services are operated by Trenord , the long distance trains are operated by Trenitalia . There is no left luggage service at the station, but there is one at the building of the bus station behind McDonald's (see below). Alternatively, you can leave them in the airport, but it's rather slow and works just in the daytime. ( updated Sep 2015 )

The bus no. 1 from the airport to Bergamo city, taking around 20 minutes, leaves you just in front of the train station. You can check schedules and fares on the website of the Italian Railways .

By bus [ edit ]

Regular buses to Milan . You can check schedules and fares on the website of Autostradale . The trip takes approximately one hour, depending on traffic conditions. Alternatively, you can take advantage of the direct bus connections to the Orio Al Serio airport from Brescia , Milan, Milan Rho fairgrounds, Milano Malpensa Airport and Turin .

  • 45.691702 9.67498 3 Stazione autolinee ( Bus station ) ( 100m N from the train station ). There are 45.691683 9.674642 1 automatic left-luggage lockers located in the building (€3-€4 per locker per day). ( updated Sep 2015 )

Get around [ edit ]

The city's public transit authority is called ATB ( Azienda Trasporti Bergamo ) and provides a comprehensive website in English . ATB operates a number of bus lines, two funiculars and a tram line.

ATB's ticketing system is a complicated zone-based affair, with single-ride tickets starting at €1.30 (75 min) for zone 00 (24h card – €3.50). Basically, the whole city centre is included into this zone, but to travel to or from the airport you would need a 3 zone ticket for €2.30 (75 min). There are also "Whole Network" cards: 24 hr for €5.00 and 72 hr for €7.00. These tickets are also valid at the funiculars and tram lines and allow you to travel with luggage.

Tickets can be purchased from automated or manned points of sale throughout the town - most importantly, at the train station, the airport, Porta Nuova and the lower station of the Citta Alta funicular.

tourist map of bergamo

Bus line #1 is the most convinient for tourists, as it connects the airport with the railway station, the Citta Alta and several other points of interest. The important stops are:

  • Aeroporto for airport
  • Orio Center for the shopping centre opposite the airport
  • Stazione FS for the main railway station
  • Porta Nuova for the centre of Citta Bassa, some buses stop there and don't go to Citta Alta
  • Stazione Inf. Funicolare for the lower station of Citta Alta funicular
  • Stazione Sup. Funicolare for the upper station of Citta Alta funicular
  • Colle Aperto northwestern terminus for buses doing the full route, at the lower station of the funicular to San Vigilio

The journey from Aeroporto or Orio Center to Colle Aperto takes not more than 25 min (unless there is major traffic congestion), and within the city all of the stops are not more than 15 min from each other. Buses leave the airport three times an hour from 06:00 until 00:00, which is complemented by two hourly departures from Orio Center on the other side of the Autostrada . Within the city, the intervals are 10 min at daytime. On Saturdays ("Sabato") and holidays ("Festivo") the schedule is slightly less intensive, but still workable.

Do note that the route has a few variations which do not run to the airport, so check the schedule and look for buses stopping at "Aeroporto". If you end up on a bus heading to Grassobbio, get off at "Orio Center", the shopping centre opposite the airport, and head to the airport via an underground passage under the Autostrada . The stop called "Orio al Serio" is for the village and is on the other side of the airport, from where you cannot get to the terminal, so make sure you do not get off there (wait for "Orio Center"). Buses to "Scanzo" and "Torre de Roveri" do not go anywhere the airport at all.

Lines 2-11 can be useful for getting around between other localities. Lines with numbers over 20 only run during weekdays and are mostly structure to handle peak hour traffic. Do take a look at the pretty extensive and exhaustive information at the ATB website , where you can find maps and schedules for all lines.

By funicular [ edit ]

tourist map of bergamo

There are 2 funicular lines in Bergamo:

  • 45.701002 9.665147 2 Linea fun.c ( Funicolare Città Bassa - Città Alta ). Connects Città Bassa with Città Alta. It takes about 20–30 minutes to reach the lower funicular station on foot from the train station. ( updated Sep 2015 )
  • 45.706494 9.657476 3 Linea fsv ( Funicolare San Vigilio ). Connects Città Alta with locality of San Vigilio . It can be a pleasant walk down hill back to Città Alta along quaint narrow streets and houses along the way and some great views here and there. ( updated Sep 2015 )

By tram [ edit ]

  • 45.691387 9.676573 4 Linea T1 . It is the only tram line in the city. It runs from the railway station northeast along the river Serio all the way to the city of Albino , bringing you closer to the Alps. It can hardly be used by tourists to get around Bergamo, as it has no stops in the vicinity of the city's major attractions. ( updated Sep 2015 )

By bike [ edit ]

Bergamo has a public bike system called La BiGi . It is run by Bicincittà and features 22 stations. It appears to be usable only after paying the yearly fee of €20 and between the hours of 06:00 and 23:00, so it might not be the best option for short visits.

By foot [ edit ]

The town is not large, and most of the sights can be seen comfortably on foot. To get from the Città Bassa up to the Città Alta can be quite tiring on foot, though, due to the steep and winding streets, but there is a funicolare (or cable railway) linking the two parts of the town.

See [ edit ]

tourist map of bergamo

Città Alta [ edit ]

tourist map of bergamo

  • 45.70326 9.66294 2 Bergamo Cathedral ( Duomo di Bergamo, Cattedrale di Sant'Alessandro ). The surviving one of the two cathedrals once existing in the city, dedicated to Saint Alexander of Bergamo. Incidentally, this cathedral was originally devoted to Saint Vincent, but once the original Saint Alexander cathedral was torn down by the Venetians, the dioceses were merged under Saint Alexander's name. The cathedral has a classic Latin Cross layout, and has seen many renovations and refurbishments, the latest being the addition of the 19th-century neoclassical facade.  

tourist map of bergamo

  • 45.7032 9.66218 3 Santa Maria Maggiore . A 12th century church with later alterations.  
  • 45.7034 9.6621 4 Colleoni Chapel ( Cappella Colleoni ). It is a church and mausoleum built in the 15th century with richly decorated polychrome marble façade.  
  • 45.703696 9.663827 5 Torre di Gombito . A tower-house, built around 1100 ( updated Sep 2015 )
  • 45.7039 9.6665 6 Rocca . A walled stronghold which houses a museum.  
  • 45.703074 9.665193 7 Piazza Mercato delle Scarpe . ( updated Sep 2015 )
  • 45.703081 9.668409 8 Chiesa di Sant'Andrea . With Madonna Enthroned with Saints by Moretto da Brescia . ( updated Sep 2015 )
  • 45.704093 9.669927 9 Chiesa di San Michele al Pozzo Bianco . Founded in the 8th century, much of its interior belongs 1400s with frescoes in Byzantine style. There are also some frescos of 16th century by Lorenzo Lotto, Giovan Battista Guarinoni d'Averara and painting Madonna and child with Saints Peter and Paul by Giovanni Paolo Lolmo. ( updated Sep 2015 )
  • 45.70173 9.66326 10 Palazzo Medolago Albani . It was built between 1783 and 1791 in neoclassical style — a typical example of bourgeois palace of the late 18th century.  
  • 45.7061 9.6598 11 Archeological Museum ( Museo Archeologico ).  
  • 45.70574 9.65978 12 Science Museum ( Museo Civico di Scienze ).  
  • 45.7034 9.6608 13 Donizetti Museum ( Museo Donizettiano ), Via Arena 9 . Devoted to one of Bergamo's most famous sons, the composer Gaetano Donizetti.  
  • 45.70523 9.66514 14 Museo Storico della Citta ( San Francesco di Bergamo ). A former convent now housing the museum of the history of the city of Bergamo  
  • 45.7091 9.6505 15 San Vigilio . A small hilltop village that can be reached on foot or by a second funicolare from Città Alta . It offers walks with spectacular views, and a ruined castle. Entry into the castle is free, and is part of a public park. Climb all the way to the top of the castle for more views.  

Venetian Walls [ edit ]

The upper town is surrounded by world heritage listed stone walls, built in the 16th century by the Venetians, which survive to a large extent to this day. The four gates that led through the walls to the city do survive as well.

  • 45.70416 9.6721 16 Porta Sant'Agostino .  
  • 45.7065 9.65786 17 Porta Sant'Allessandro .  
  • 45.70124 9.66303 18 Porta San Giacomo .  
  • 45.70678 9.66295 19 Porta San Lorenzo .  

Città Bassa [ edit ]

  • 45.70442 9.67551 20 Accademia Carrara . One of Northern Italy's most important collections of medieval, Renaissance and Baroque paintings.  
  • 45.70342 9.67663 21 GAMeC . The city's gallery of modern and contemporary art, which usually hosts several interesting exhibitions.  
  • 45.69515 9.66928 22 Piazza Vittorio Veneto .  
  • 45.69377 9.67175 23 Santa Maria delle Grazie .  
  • 45.69625 9.67197 24 Santi Bartolomeo e Stefano ( San Bartolomeo ). Baroque church built in the 17th century adjacent to the convent of the same name. Its interior has had many lush decorations added in the 18th century, as well as the chorus of the former church of San Stefano, which itself was torn down in the same period and by way of that merged into one parish.  

Do [ edit ]

tourist map of bergamo

  • Ride a mountain bike in the beautiful Parco dei Colli [dead link] just behind the old town. You will feel as if you are riding in the mountains.
  • Football: Atalanta BC play soccer in Serie A, Italy's top tier. Their home ground is the Gewiss Stadium (capacity 21,700) two km north of the railway station.
  • Bergamo Lions are an American Football team that used to be among the best in Europe in the late 1990s and early 2000s. They are featured in the John Grisham book Playing for Pizza and do in reality also feature American players who get paid, while the bulk of the team literally or figuratively plays for pizza.

Buy [ edit ]

Eat [ edit ], budget [ edit ].

All these are in the city center:

  • 45.691078 9.66345 1 Casa Ernesto , Via S. Bernardino, 15 . Original Italian cuisine with specialties from Bergamo. Very welcoming environment, menu focused on a few dishes and of a high standard. The food is delicious and the staff is super nice. ( updated May 2022 )
  • 45.695188 9.664473 2 Il Coccio , Via Sant'Alessandro, 54 . This deli serves delicious daily fresh dishes that you can also eat on site. Friendly service and choice of meat, fish and vegetarian. Perfect for a healthy quick lunch. Great meal, just like home. The welcome is warm, the dishes are numerous and of high quality. ( updated May 2022 )
  • 45.693315 9.671883 3 Mi Snack , Viale Papa Giovanni XXIII, 15 . Fast food place on the main drag in Bergamo. Delicious, fast and inexpensive. ( updated May 2022 )
  • 45.697902 9.677098 4 Il kebabbaro , Via G. Camozzi, 152 . Great kebab, popular and fast prepared. ( updated May 2022 )
  • 45.699688 9.674095 5 Sin Jah , Via Giuseppe Verdi, 31F . High quality Chinese dishes, very helpful, kind, and also very nice staff. The service is very fast, once you get to the table a towel is delivered, the napkins are placed like origami, also at the time of the meal for certain dishes you will be advised how eat it. There is a great variety of dishes to choose from, even if you are vegetarian or vegan. ( updated May 2022 )
  • 45.690217 9.668029 6 Taj Mahal , Via Giacomo Quarenghi, 46 . Very good authentic Indian restaurant. Good service, friendly staff. Tasty food. Good ventilation. ( updated May 2022 )
  • 45.690924 9.663445 7 Chicken House , Via S. Bernardino, 17/A . Good both kebab and fried chicken. Good service and cleanliness. ​ . ( updated May 2022 )

Mid-range [ edit ]

  • 45.704541 9.662101 8 Da Franco Ristorante Pizzeria , Via Colleoni 8 , ☏ +39 035238565 . Closed Mondays . Try it for lunch or an evening meal. ( updated May 2022 )
  • 45.705096 9.660908 9 Da Mimmo , Via Colleoni 17 , ☏ +39 035 218535 . Closed Tuesdays . More than just a pizzeria. Worth a visit for the quality of food and service. ( updated May 2022 )
  • 45.7045 9.66284 10 Il Sole , Via Colleoni 1 ( on the corner of Piazza Vecchia and Via Colleoni. ). The restaurant of this hotel is amazing. Discreet and very stunning restaurant. Delicious food, really excellent pizza. Beautiful scenery and an amazing service. ( updated May 2022 )
  • 45.69267 9.6622 11 Antica Trattoria dei tre Gobbi , 20 Via Broseta . A very good place to eat. ( updated May 2022 )
  • 45.693262 9.671166 12 La Bruschetta , Via Guglielmo D'Alzano, 1 ( in the Citta Bassa, just off Porta Nuova ). A good value restaurant/pizzeria in the cellar of a building and worth a mention. ( updated May 2022 )
  • 45.692571 9.672357 13 La Ciotola , Viale Papa Giovanni XXlll, 86 ( in the Citta Bassa area ). A good restaurant/pizzeria near the Mercure hotel. ( updated May 2022 )
  • 45.697736 9.680631 14 Ol Giopì e la Margi , Via Borgo Palazzo 27 ( in a residential area a short walk from city centre ). Traditional restaurant serving lomabrdy cuisine is worth a visit if you fancy having an Italian meal not just pizza and pasta. Family run business is a well kept secret between locals. ( updated May 2022 )

Splurge [ edit ]

  • 45.6982 9.66749 15 Ristorante Roof Garden , Piazza della Repubblica, 6 . ( updated Aug 2022 )

Drink [ edit ]

  • 45.70517 9.6616 1 Il Circolino ( right around the back of the Biblioteca Angelo Maj ). Locals here play bocce and drink lanterna (a huge drink made of white wine and campari rosso).  
  • Bobino , piazza della Liberta . 07:00-02:00 daily, except Sundays . A cool bar/restaurant with a long wine & cocktail list (including Champagne).  

tourist map of bergamo

Sleep [ edit ]

As Bergamo is not as popular as some other destinations of Northern Italy, while being a major business hub and domestic tourism destination, it has a well-developed accommodation base at reasonable prices compared to Milan , for example. The latter, being around 1.5 hrs away, can be a target of a day trip - a convenient option if you arrive on a flight to Orio al Serio airport.

  • Bed & Breakfast MarcoLaura , Via XI Febbraio 25b , ☏ +39 340 2101738 , [email protected] . Not accepting guests as of Oct 2023. But seems like it will again. ( updated Oct 2023 )

Città Alta (Old Town) [ edit ]

  • 45.70573 9.66048 1 Relais San Lorenzo ( member of Small Luxury Hotels ), Piazza Lorenzo Mascheroni 9/A . Begamo's #1 luxury hotel is a blend of modern design and historic remnants. Its highlight is the terrace, but the large and airy rooms earn a mention as well. That said, it can fall short of the luxury experience you may expect when it comes to service.  
  • 45.70364 9.66382 2 GombitHotel , Via Mario Lupo 6 . This design hotel is squeezed into a tall stone building. The simplicity of the design may not be to everybody's liking, especially when the design surprisingly gets in the way of practicality, and it turns out that the owners' idea of simple design is IKEA. Still, it is perhaps the most centrally-located hotel in the Citta Alta.  

Città Bassa (New Town) [ edit ]

tourist map of bergamo

There are a number of good hotels in Citta Bassa - many on Viale Papa Giovanni XXIII (The main street from the station to the funicolare).

  • B&B Romeo and Juliet , Via Zambonate 47 ( in the centre of town ), ☏ +39 338 143 4052 . Check-in: noon , check-out: 11:00 . Bed & Breakfast and residence with comfortable double rooms or apartments for 2-4 people.  
  • B&B Fragolino , Via Bartolomeo Bono 25 ( near town center and main station ), ☏ +39 3349038874 . Check-in: flexible . B&B/Hostel with great atmosphere, modern and comfortable rooms, courtyard, WiFi, flat screen and Playstation.  
  • Best Western Capello d'Oro .  
  • 45.69219 9.67234 3 Mercure Palazzo Dolci . Occupying a beautiful palazzo , the Mercure is a few steps from the train station and is quite modern on the inside despite the historic facades. The rooms are simple and most are painted deep blue, while the bathrooms are large and modern. The hotel generally earns good reviews and provides a good standard for a reasonable price.  
  • Excelsior San Marco Hotel . Great location offering a beautiful view of the Citta Alta from the breakfast terrace. Not exactly new, yet tons of character. Comfortable rooms, very clean, Wifi, flatscreen and a wide range of services. Great for business travel.  
  • Hotel Donizetti , ldo Moro 28, Lallio . Donizetti Hotel is located near Bergamo, and access to the motorway linking Milan and surroundings  
  • 45.69188 9.67153 4 NH Bergamo , Via Paleocapa 1/G , ☏ +39 035 2271811 . The NH is hidden behind the Mercure, in a modern building slightly recessed from the street. The rooms are slightly worn and dated, and their windows are small, but this is compensated by the commendable NH breakfast buffet and the location a few steps from the train station. From €90 .  
  • 45.69234 9.6631 5 Petronilla Hotel . The boutique hotel earns great reviews thanks to the commitment of the family running it, even if one can find their taste in decor a bit too eclectic.  
  • 45.69347 9.66991 6 Arli Hotel , Largo Porta Nuova 12 . A three-style hotel at the Porta Nuova, created by owners having a peculiar sense of style, but if you are looking for a decent and dependable accommodation in the centre of Bergamo, you can reply on the Arli.  
  • 45.6641 9.6979 7 NH Orio Al Serio , Via Portico 75, Orio al Serio . The other NH in Bergamo is an airport hotel across the autostrada from the Il Caravaggio airport, which you can reach via an underground passage. The huge Oriocenter shopping centre is also adjacent. The hotel features simple rooms, large glazed lounge (if you want to pass time watching the cars on the autostrad). Breakfast is usually included in room rates and starts at 04:00, a shuttle to the airport is available for €5. To get to the city centre, take bus line 1 from the airport. It is a good option for those arriving on late or departing on early flights.  
  • 45.686738 9.668759 8 Hotel Città Dei Mille , Via Autostrada 3/c , ☏ +39 035317400 , [email protected] . Check-in: 15:30 , check-out: 12:00 . This hotel’s name is an homage to Bergamo, proclaimed the “City of the Thousand” because it provided the highest number of volunteers for Giuseppe Garibaldi’s campaign. The penthouse rooms have a terrace with nice views. The hotel hall has many authentic prints and a lock of Garibaldi’s hair. The hotel's motto is: “a Garibaldian rest before the daily battle”. ( updated Nov 2019 )

Stezzano [ edit ]

Stezzano is a commune 8 km south of Bergamo. It is very easily reached both by train and by bus. The train takes approximately five minutes and Milan is also easily reachable.

  • Art e Hotel , Via Santuario 43, Stezzano ( opposite the train station of Stezzano ), ☏ +39 0354379300 . Check-in: noon , check-out: 11:00 . Beautiful four-star hotel at a price much lower than in the city centre. Modern rooms, television, mini-bar, leisure centre, spacious bathrooms  
  • Grand Hotel del Parco , Via Galeno 8, Stezzano ( close to Piazza Liberta' in Stezzano ), ☏ +39 035591710 . Check-in: 12:00 , check-out: 11:00 . Another quality four-star hotel with prices lower than city accommodation. Good decor, well equipped rooms.  

Connect [ edit ]

As of June 2022, Bergamo has 5G from all Italian carriers.

Go next [ edit ]

tourist map of bergamo

  • The Bergamo area is in the foothills of the Alps , and has a handful of ski resorts within a one-hour drive, including Foppolo and Colere .
  • Lake Endine — Glorious natural scenery which ranges from lakes to woods, from high mountaintops to spectacular hills. The well-preserved environment offers a wide range of sporting activities: trekking, mountain climbing, canyoning, mountain biking, canoeing, sailing. The area has a temperate to warm climate without no summer aridity and is only slightly dry in winter. It isn't too hot in summer and the winters aren't too harsh, fog is practically unheard of and there are many cloudless days.
  • Lake Iseo , one of the smallest and less touristy among the Northern Italian lakes. Go by bus from the Bergamo bus station (opposite the train station) to Tavernola. Then take a ferry to Montisola .
  • Como (one of the main cities at the shores of beautiful Lake Como is also accessible by train, but requires almost travelling back to Milan (you change at Monza). It is worth visiting from Bergamo and vice versa. The journey takes 1½-2 hours.

tourist map of bergamo

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11 Best Things to do in Bergamo, Italy

11 Best Things to do in Bergamo, Italy

At the foothills of the snowcapped Italian Alps lies one of the most stunning medieval cities of the country, known as Bergamo. Often overlooked by its stylish neighbors Milan and Lake Como , it’s a truly underrated destination full of lovely sights and delicious food. The city spreads over several levels as it sits between the mountains and makes the perfect location for a weekend getaway. Travel off the beaten path, and roam Bergamo’s cobblestone streets as you try out different cafes and soak up the city’s historic atmosphere. Here are all the best things to do in Bergamo, Italy .

Things to do in Bergamo City

Bergamo is a beautiful city in the mountainous Lombardy region of northern Italy . Though it’s close to many Italian Alpine ski resorts and the renowned city of Milan, Bergamo is often used as a jumping-off point rather than a destination. However, there is a lot to discover in the versatile neighborhoods of this unsung city, from impressive historic stories to delicious cuisine.

things to do bergamo city

1. Piazza Vecchia

Located at the very center of the old historic district of Bergamo lies the city’s main square Piazza Vecchia. This grand area is surrounded by some of Bergamo’s best architectural highlights, each from a different time in history. Have your camera ready while you make your way through the little alleys that lead to the square.

piazza vecchia main square bergamo italy

Alongside the impressive buildings, you’ll also find a few little terraces where you can admire the medieval environment. Enjoy a nice specialty coffee as you soak up the sun and listen to music playing in the background.  

Here are all your hotel options in Bergamo.

bergamo cafe italy

2. Basilica of St. Mary Major

Known as a city of churches, Bergamo is dotted with many intricately built architectural treasures. Santa Maria Maggiore, sandwiched between the Cappella Colleoni and Bergamo’s cathedral, is the most impressive church in the city. Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, the beautifully detailed building was constructed in the 12th century as a thank-you for protection during Europe’s plague outbreak.

street bergamo old city italy

The story goes that the town promised to build a church in Mary’s honor if they were kept from sickness. Staying true to their word, Bergamo’s people constructed the grand building as a thank-you for their health.

11 Best Things to do in Bergamo, Italy

The exterior of the Basilica is incredible, though it’s really the inside that’s memorable, leaving you in awe of all the beautiful artwork on display. From rich frescoes and stuccos to beautiful tapestries and many wooden details, the Santa Maria church is one of the best things to do in Bergamo.

3. Colleoni Chapel

As if attached to the Santa Maria Maggiore stands the ornately designed chapel of Colleoni. This beautiful mausoleum was built a few centuries later than the church and is one of the best examples of Renaissance architecture in the city. 

things to do bergamo italy Colleoni Chapel

With red and white marble embellished on the front, the exterior makes for a stunning picture. Take a moment to admire the details of the building before looking at the artwork inside the chapel. Note that much of the collection is private here, so you can’t take any photos, though the chapel is free to enter. 

Colleoni Chapel bergamo italy

4. Campanone

The eye-catcher of Piazza Vecchia is most definitely the Civic Tower, also known as Campanone. This 56-meter-high tower stands proud at the center of Bergamo. From up top, it offers some of the most incredible panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.

the civic tower campanone bergamo

Scale the 230 steps, or opt for the more comfortable option of the elevator to reach the top. Here, you’ll find the largest bell in the whole Lombardy region. The bell tower, though centuries old, still rings every night at 10 PM to pay homage to its ancient function as a reminder to close the city gates along the Venetian walls.

Read: 11 Best things to do in Venice

bergamo italy chapel

5. Rocca Museum, Bergamo

Via the funicular of the Upper city, make your way up to the complex of Rocca, one of the locals’ favorite places on the Sant’Eufemia hill. This short walk is rewarded with an incredible 360-degree view of the old district, the surrounding countryside, and the Alps. You can even spot Milan’s skyline in the distance on a clear day! 

The ancient fortress construction takes you back in time as you walk along the patrol walkway and discover the rescue doors. Inside there’s a museum that introduces you to the city’s transformation over time. 

Opening times and Entrance fees: The Rocca museum is open Friday – Sunday from 10 AM till 6 PM, and entrance costs between 3 – 5 EUR (3,20 – 5,35 USD).

funicular Bergamo Italy

6. Tempietto di Santa Croce

Hidden in plain sight, tucked between the much larger buildings of the upper city, lies one of Bergamo’s hidden gems: a stunning Romanesque chapel. This small stone structure is often overlooked because of its grand neighbors but gives a beautiful glimpse into the city’s history.

Though it’s not always open, the inside of the tiny Tempietto di Santa Croce has some beautiful frescoes. Many of the paintings date back to the middle ages and depict scenes of Jesus’ life. Wander through the alleyways of Bergamo’s Città Alta as you search for this lovely little chapel. Once you find it, make sure to snap some pictures of the quirky building!

things to do in bergamo upper city

7. Streets of Bergamo Città Alta (Old Town)

As Bergamo lies nestled in the foothills of the Italian Alps, it’s no wonder that there are so many rolling hills across the area. Bergamo’s Città Alta sits perched on top of a hill and dates back thousands of years. This part of the city overlooks the rest and is easily accessible through a funicular railway. 

bergamo old town things to do

It’s divided into two parts, the first being the tourist center full of medieval buildings and delicious restaurants. The second is the Rocca di Bergamo area, where you’ll find the ancient fortress and many beautiful terraces.

cobblestone streets bergamo city

Many influences from the different rulers over time make wandering through the cobblestone streets of the Old Town one of the best things to do in Bergamo, Italy . Marvel at the stout Venetian walls or look over the city and its surroundings from the central medieval tower. 

retro scooter italy

Tip: As the city reveals itself to you while you walk around, make sure to stop at some of the cool little boutiques and local restaurants in the area. From quality clothing and accessories for reasonable prices to furniture, food, and wine – the city has many unique Italian shops.

If you’re looking to dive a bit deeper into the city’s rich history or into the culinary highlights of the town, you can also book a tour with a knowledgeable local guide. 

streets of bergamo italy

8. Walk Bergamo’s Venetian walls

Stretching roughly 5,5 kilometers around Bergamo, and heavily fortifying the ancient city, are the impressive Venetian walls. Labeled a UNESCO World Heritage Site , you can walk along the high walls, which makes the perfect introduction to some of Bergamo’s history.  

bergamo italy things to do

Constructed during the Renaissance era, the walls are some of the best preserved of this time period in the world. Originally built to protect the city from any advancing enemies, the walls never went under siege. Because of this, people of today can marvel at its beauty.

cobble streets bergamo italy

Walk along the historic defense walls, taking in the stunning views of Bergamo’s surroundings. Or, join in with the locals, who love to come here in the late afternoon to watch the sunset over the city.

tourist map of bergamo

Bergamo City Gate

The Venetian walls are accessed through a couple of gates meant for road and foot traffic to travel between the upper and lower part of the city. These gates are beautifully designed, highlighting the historic feeling of the city as you pass through the entrance. Travel between the two districts on foot, and you’ll surely come past one of these impressive ancient structures.

bergamo city gate italy

9. Visit Lake Como

If Bergamo is your base for traveling the Lombardy region of northern Italy, then a day trip to the stunning Lake Como is a must-do! This upscale resort area, set against some of the world’s most romantic and picturesque sceneries, makes for a popular location on any Italy itinerary . 

lake como day trip from bergamo

The lake, resembling an upside-down Y, is created by melting glaciers that joined the previous Adda river. This occurrence led to the two southern branches of the lake, which are home to the famous locations Como, Lecco, and Bellagio .

All about: Things to do at Lake Como, Italy .

best things to do lake como rent a boat

Spend your day hopping around the various enchanting towns, soaking up the sun on the small beaches, or joining a boat tour out on the water. 

Getting from Bergamo to Como: is about a 1-hour drive by car. Alternatively, you can travel by train to Milan and continue the journey to Como by bus. If you plan on seeing more along the lake but don’t have your own transportation, make sure to plan ahead. Or, join in on an organized day trip from Milan. 

day trip from bergamo italy

10. Bergamo City Cathedral

Just next to Piazza Vecchia and the other highlights of Bergamo’s old town stands the Bergamo Cathedral. The city originally had two, but only this one survived. The building is often overlooked by the more luxurious Santa Maria Basilica that stands next to it, though both are part of the Roman Catholic church.

Take a moment to discover the inside of the cathedral, full of incredible frescoes, intricate decor, and the tiara of Saint John XXIII (Pope). The building is free to visit and is open daily from 7 AM – 7 PM.

bergamo city cathedral

11. Watch the sunset from Belvedere S.Vigilio viewpoint

After a long day of sightseeing, take the higher funicular straight up to San Vigilio, the very top of the city, where Bergamo’s beautiful position in the Alpine foothills really shows. From here, you can look out over both districts and the many miles of nature surrounding the city. During sunset, all slowly covers in a bright orange glow – a truly magical experience. 

Roam around the ancient walls of the Castello di San Vigilio as you capture some of the views. Or, stay a while and enjoy a bite in one of the many restaurants on the edge of the rocks.

Also read: The best things to do in Pisa, Italy

san vigilio sunset bergamo

Best Cafes and Restaurants in Bergamo

No matter where you find yourself in Bergamo, there are plenty of amazing restaurants to choose from. In Città Alta, you’ll find more traditional restaurants serving fresh pasta and pizza. Local specialties include risotto alla Milanese , made with saffron, and casoncelli , a stuffed pasta dish with an incredible butter sauce. Top that off with some delicious local wine – yum!

best restaurants in bergamo

Though Northern Italian cuisine heavily focuses on butter and meat-based dishes, a few places also serve alternative options. Some of our favorite restaurants and cafes in Bergamo were:

  • Il Fornaio (delicious takeaway pizza!)
  • Pizzeria Assaje Bergamo (great pizza)
  • Mimi • La Casa dei Sapori (lovely dinner spot)
  • Al Donizetti (nice cakes & drinks on a beautiful location)
  • La Piadella (perfect takeaway lunch)
  • Da Mimmo Bistrot (good food in the middel of the old center)
  • Bugan Coffee Lab (great coffee)

restaurant bergamo city italy

Where to Stay

Though you could easily see Bergamo’s highlights in a day, we recommend spending two nights in town to get the best taste of the city. Bergamo gets a few waves of visitors throughout the day in the summer months, who typically leave again around noon. This allows you to really soak up the local atmosphere of the beautiful medieval region.

Hotels in Bergamo 😴

Gombit Hotel

There are plenty of accommodation options for every budget, from luxurious BnBs in the upper town to cheaper hostels in the newer part of the city.  Search all hostels in Bergamo here .

authentic fruit stall italy

How many days in Bergamo

We recommend spending 2-3 days in Bergamo. This will give you enough time to visit the historic Città Alta with its cobbled streets, the beautiful Piazza Vecchia, and the stunning Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore. You could also add in an extra day for a trip to Milan.

How to Visit Bergamo, Italy

The easiest way to get to Bergamo City is to fly into Milan Bergamo International Airport, which lies only 5 kilometers from the city and has connections with over 100 destinations in Europe . 

Rent a car from Milan Bergamo Airport and drive a short 12 minutes into the city. We recommend this option if you plan to explore other parts of Italy after your visit to Bergamo.

We recommend to rent a car in Italy through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

getting around bergamo italy

Once you arrive at the airport, it takes about 15 minutes by bus to get to the city center. Bus 1 and 1A take you to the upper part of town, and you can opt for a tourist transport ticket that allows unlimited travel during your stay.

Book your bus tickets here

Alternatively, if you’re starting your Italy itinerary somewhere else, you can travel to Bergamo by train. During the day, there are frequent train connections between Bergamo and Milan or Brescia.

Check the time schedules here and book your train tickets

Getting around

Once you get to Bergamo, you can easily explore the city on foot or by using the iconic funicular. This railway system is a fast and easy way to get from one sight to another as it moves between the different parts of Bergamo. From the Città Bassa, you can reach the upper town, and from there, travel up further to San Vigilio Hill. 

bergamo city main square piazza vecchia

Not only is the funicular in Bergamo a convenient way to explore the ancient city, but it’s also immensely entertaining! As you slowly move up the hill, you’ll see stunning panoramic views over both city areas. The 100-year-old ‘sky train’ journey only takes a few minutes, ascending about 85 meters. There’s a ticket machine right next to the entrance where you can buy your tickets in cash (not by card, unfortunately). A single ticket costs about 1,30 EUR (return 2,60 EUR).

Best Time to Visit Bergamo 

Bergamo is a great destination to visit all year round! The shoulder seasons (spring/fall) are great as the days remain sunny, and the temperatures are perfect for sightseeing.

Bergamo, however, remains a hidden gem in Italy , making the summers a great time to visit too. During the day, it’ll be slightly busier because of people visiting on day trips. However, it’ll quickly quiet down in the late afternoons, allowing you to have the streets to yourself together with the local Italians.

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tourist map of bergamo

A Guide to Visiting Bergamo, Italy

tourist map of bergamo

Thinking about visiting Bergamo in Italy?

Join us on a journey through cobbled streets, historic landmarks, and culinary delights as we unveil the essential tips and must-see attractions that will make your visit to Bergamo an unforgettable experience.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a food lover, or simply seeking the allure of Italian beauty, this guide is your key to unlocking the secrets of Bergamo. Get ready to immerse yourself in the magic of this Italian treasure.

  • Quick Facts

Location:  Lombard, Italy (40 km northeast of Milan) Language:  Italian Currency:  Euro

Short History: The Celts (people from central Europe) founded Bergamo 2000 years ago. It’s UNESCO listed on the World Heritage List as an important historical town of Italy. It’s full of historical buildings, the Citadel (fort), Saint Maria church and library being only a few of them.

Here is an overview:

  • City Guide – Visiting Bergamo, Italy

Food in Bergamo

Traditional food tour bergamo, explore bergamo with a local, piazza vecchia, getting around bergamo.

  • How to get to Bergamo
  • Where to stay in Bergamo

ReGo Apartments in Bergamo

B&b al vicolo, things to do in bergamo italy, visit the tempietto di santa croce.

  • Have dinner at Il Cicolino

Visit the Palazzo Moroni

Visit the museo donizettiano, visit the torre civica, take a locally guided tour through bergamo italy.

A guide to visiting Bergamo, Italy

City Guide: Visiting Bergamo, Italy

The city of Bergamo truly is a little hidden gem in  northern Italy , about an hour away from Milan. While it often gets overlooked given its close proximity to Milan, Bergamo Italy will enthral you with its gorgeous cobbled laned, euphoric weather and historic atmosphere!

Better yet, this beautiful Italian city is also fondly referred to as the city of art, and it certainly is beautiful in a rare and unique way.

Now in all transparency, the only reason we knew about the place and thought of visiting Bergamo was that it was the closest city from where our flight was leaving. So, it seemed like the convenient choice at the time!

We had actually first planned to  stay in Milan , but since none of us really wanted to go there – we googled visiting Bergamo instead. Some lad called ‘Irish Tony’ convinced us right away – and we are so happy we listened to his advice! We ended up embarking on one of our best travel experiences, but more on that later…

Bergamo is divided into two parts – an old part, Cítta Alta (upper town), and a new more modern part, Cittá Bassa lower town. The old part of town is really something extra and should be your main destination. So, make sure to give yourself adequate time to explore all that it has to offer.

When you step out of the little ‘funicular’ that takes you up the hill from the newer part of town, it straight-away feels like you’ve traveled back in time.

Bergamo has a long history that dates back about 2000 years. It used to belong to the Venetians, so the architecture is very similar to what you can find in Venice.

We were immediately enchanted by the medieval character of this city.

The best way to enjoy Bergamo is to simply walk along the street . The old town is pretty small, so you will probably see everything by just walking around.

It looks old but very well preserved. It’s a cosy feeling strolling around on the winding, narrow cobbled stoned streets, looking into little chocolate and cheese boutiques, wineries and cafés selling their own specialties.

All shops and restaurants blend in well with the houses. They really look like they have been there since forever, and many of them almost have. In restaurants they have old photos showing the same restaurant in the 40’s and older.

The city is set on a hill with a great view over the newer part of Bergamo (Citta Bassa), and (on a clear day, which we never had) a view of the alps.

Bergamo city guide

The food prices in Bergamo are pretty much the same in all restaurants. Margheritas are about 4 euro, and pizzas with more stuff on it about 8. But it is so worth it. I never thought I would ever think a pizza tasted fresh, let alone healthy..!

What wasn’t a huge success to me were the cakes… In every café window you see these yellow little Polenta cakes in all sizes. They look delicious, but as most cakes and chocolates in Italy it looks better than it tastes.

Tip : Here’s a great food tour of Bergamo that includes traditional dishes from rural Lombardy to contemporary Italian dishes from Bergamo.

Discover the culinary culture of Bergamo with a three-hour epicurean tour . Discover the delicacies of both areas of the city – Bergamo Alta and Bergamo Bassa – in the company of a local gastronomic guide. Let yourself be seduced by the rich flavors and delicate aromas of your secret menu as you dine within the walls of the Città Alta. On this culinary journey, you will discover not only the origins of traditional Lombard cuisine, but also the contemporary gastronomic scene.

The tasting varies according to availability, season and the chef’s choice: a traditional aperitif with a glass of Valcalepio red wine, different fillings for Casoncelli pasta or the Sunday pasta “foaide” from the Bergamo area, polenta with lard and cheese or grilled handmade bread with Taleggio cheese! Of course, you can’t miss the typical Italian stracciatella gelato – and an espresso will round off your taste experience…

Price: €89 Duration: 3.5 hours Free cancelation up to 24 hours

On this tour, you’ll have the opportunity to sample a variety of culinary delights. This includes a variety of food tastings, as well as fine wines and creamy gelato. Of course, water will be available to quench your thirst. And a strong espresso is also provided – all included!

Traditional Food Tour in Bergamo, Italy.

Talking about that, one thing here that does look better on the inside than outside are their cathedrals.

I’ve never seen so many incredible churches all squeezed into such a small place. Usually a city tends to have one nice church and a bunch of boring looking ones. In Bergamo, every church we went into was an overabundance and extravagance of gold, beautiful really old paintings and architecture that would make anyone become religious.

If you are to visit only one cathedral, let it be  Il Dumo  and colleoni’s chapel at the Old Square in the old town.

This is an urban church and inside you will find the architectural marks of the different periods that came one after the other since the time of the construction.

They started already in 600 BC building a small one, and from then they built more and more and the church grew larger and larger.

You can join a walking tour of Bergamo to discover the Upper Town of Bergamo and its hidden cultural and architectural heritage. Book here .

Discover Bergamo with a local and experience the city in a unique way! Let your personal guide take you to all the iconic places, learn all about the history and also discover hidden places to eat during this exclusive city tour .

Bergamo can sometimes be difficult for foreign visitors to explore. But with a local guide, your visit will be easy and personalized.

Your guide will contact you in advance to match your interests – so you only visit places that are really interesting. As you travel together, your guide will share insider knowledge about life in Bergamo – giving you a deeper insight into the culture and traditions.

Price: from €45 Duration: 2-8 hours Free cancelation up to 24 hours in advance.

The benefits are:

  • Exclusive tour just for you or your group
  • Customize the program according to your wishes
  • Learn more about real life in Bergamo than you could on your own
  • Discover the hidden treasures of the city thanks to the expertise of a local guide

You will receive an exclusive walking tour tailored to your needs. You will have the opportunity to customize your tour and enjoy an unforgettable experience. You will be picked up at your hotel (if it is in the city) and start your exploration with a combination of walking or public transportation – of course you can choose another option.

Throughout the tour, the guide will be at your side and will be happy to help you book tickets for any sights you wish to see.

Experience the perfect day of discovery!

This is the old square, in the heart of Citta Alta (the old town). Here you’ll find the 400 year old library Biblioteca Civica, the 12th-century Venetian Gothic Palazzo della Ragione (Court of Justice) and the 12th-century Torre Civica (Civic Tower).

If you walk up the 230 steps to the top of the 54m tower you’ll get a 360-degree view of Bergamo . The 15th-century bell rings 180 times at 10pm each night to commemorate the town’s medieval curfew.

It’s quite pleasant getting around by foot, walking from the train station to the funicular takes about 15-20 minutes.

Otherwise bus number 1 goes from the train station to the funicular that takes you up to Cítta Alta (the old town). The funicular connects Citta Bassa with Cítta Alta.

You can get a day pass where you can travel with all buses and the funicular as much as you like for a whole day (24h from the time you purchase it). The price isn’t much more than a one way ticket, so it’s most likely the best deal.

You can also buy a range of other tickets, such as 3-day passes or 1 day passes including airport bus.

You can buy these tickets at the Bergamo airport ticket office, the bus station and from ticket machines.

Bergamo bus station, Italy

How To Get To Bergamo

There is an airport like ten minutes away from the city called Milan Bergamo Airport .

Budget air lines such as  Ryan Air  and Wizzair fly into here, although they advertise it as Milan – just so you know!

From the airport you take a 15 minute bus ride (bus number 1C) to the train station in the center of the new town of Bergamo. The ticket is valid for 90 minutes so you can use the same ticket to catch another bus to the Cítta Alta funicular that takes you up to the old town.

You can also take a train or bus from Milan , it takes about an hour to get there.

Or, book a private transfer .

Where to Stay in Bergamo

Thanks to its convenient location in the center of Bergamo, you will have the opportunity to discover numerous attractions and interesting restaurants in the immediate vicinity. The ReGo Apartments are perfectly located between the “upper” and the “lower” town, from where you can easily reach both shopping streets.

The courtyard of the building is a pleasantly cool oasis of calm, ideal for relaxing after an eventful day. In addition, our host informed us very well about all the gastronomic and hotel options.

This great little apartment is ideal for a city trip for two!

The lovingly furnished apartment leaves nothing to be desired – everything has been thought of! Especially the bed was so comfortable that we slept wonderfully every night.

The location of the apartment was very convincing: we were always quickly at the desired location!

ReGo Apartments

visiting bergamo - A Guide to Visiting Bergamo, Italy

You will find this accommodation very central and yet wonderfully quiet at the end of a small maze of alleys. From the roof terrace, accessible via a steep spiral staircase, you have a fantastic view of the sea, the Teatro Greco and the beautiful park of the Grand Hotel Timea. The breakfast was extremely rich and our host spoiled us with excellent service!

I really recommend ‘B&B al vicolo’. We stayed there ourselves and it’s a great place. It’s like a big apartment with three bedrooms (one with a double bed and the other two with several beds).

Two very nice and clean bathrooms upstairs and a dining area and TV lounge downstairs. Plus you get a big good yummy breakfast!

  • Vicolo Sant’ Andrea, 2a – Bergamo – Italia
  • [email protected]
  • Mobile: +39 338 3848911
  • It costs about 40 Euro for a double room.

B&B al vicolo in Bergamo, Italy.

Al Vicolo is located in a fantastic position within the walls of Upper Bergamo, surrounded by historical beauty.

The staff is extremely attentive to the needs of their guests. Particularly noteworthy is the excellent breakfast and the small terrace in front of the house – a real treat when the sun shines!

Despite its central location, the B&B is quiet and you can reach sights such as the Rocca or Piaza Vecchio in just 10 minutes on foot. I am sure that if I travel to Bergamo again, I will definitely stay here!

This charming property impresses not only with its cleanliness and comfort, but also with its friendly owners. Perfectly furnished for two people, the room offers everything you need, including a fantastic breakfast in the morning – just great! You can also find parking right down the street from the Old Town House.

A definite recommendation from me to any traveler!

This is by far one of the best-kept secrets of this incredible city as you will instantly be amazed by all of the stone structures and the history of this place – we definitely were! It is an 11 th -century chapel that you could easily miss, so place close attention when walking through.

Once you head inside you will be welcomed by a vast selection of murals. All of which even date back all the way to the Middle Ages! Just note that it is only open at selected times throughout the year. That being said, just standing outside of it is magical enough.

Have Dinner at Il Cicolino

This one may come as surprise because this location is actually a former prison but that adds to all of its unique charm and thrill. If you meander through the pedestrian path you will notice a vintage wooden door – walk through it for the ultimate Italian dining experience.

You will be served authentic Italian cuisine whilst the music from the streets waltz in behind you. There are also plenty of decadent wines for you to enjoy and an impressive dessert emu too!

Experience the wonders of Palazzo Moroni, a charming castle in the center of Bergamo, a truly picturesque Italian city. You can visit Palazzo Moroni in Via Porta Dipinta (Upper Town), admiring exceptionally well-preserved interiors and a rich art collection. You can get your ticket directly here .

Marvel at the breathtaking interiors adorned with magnificent frescoes and intricate plasterwork. In the main rooms of the palazzo, the frescoed works of art by Barbelli are still beautifully preserved.

Enjoy a stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens. You’ll feel like you’re in a fairyland, with colorful flowers and soothing fountains. There is also a large vegetable garden surrounding the magnificent building.

Since its construction, the building overlooks an ensemble of Italian gardens, which consists of a balcony and three terraces.

The third and highest terrace even provides access to a neo-medieval tower, which was built in the 19th century over the remains of an older civic fortress building – so this is also an important part of the history of this place!

Palazzo Moroni in Bergamo, Italy.

You can’t come to this part of Italy and not have a cultural experience too, which is why this amazing museum is making its debut on this list! This specific museum dates back all the way to 1906 and it is a collection of works that celebrate the famous Italian composer Donizetti.

The interiors of this building are immaculate with the sheer amount of art that it houses. From paintings to frescoes and courtyards, you are in for the experience of a lifetime – even if you aren’t very into art, it’s definitely worth visiting!

This is actually the local bell tower, and it offers you the most gorgeous panoramic views of the city as well as the entire Piazza Vecchia (which is located in the middle of the Old Town). This is the area’s tallest tower, and it towers at about 52 meters.

If you are looking for a more holistic approach to your travel adventures through Bergamo Italy, then I highly suggest doing things on a more local level and taking one of the many guided tours that the city has to offer!

While with a guided tour you will have less freedom to do your own thing, this is your best way to see as much as possible in a shorter amount of time. You can also choose between doing the more food-based tours or historical site seeing – the choice is all yours!

We highly suggest this private walking tour which includes discovering the charming old streets on Bergamo and many of the top attractions including Piazza Vecchia, Palazzo del Podestà, Palazzo della Ragione, the Civic Library, and the Cathedral.

Now, all that’s left for you to do is begin your journey visiting Bergamo Italy – the city that will make you fall in love in a matter of seconds!

Travel Dudes

I'm sure you've had similar experiences I had whilst traveling. You're in a certain place and a fellow traveler, or a local, tip you off on a little-known beach, bar or accommodation. Great travel tips from other travelers or locals always add something special to our travels. That was the inspiration for Travel Dudes.

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Free Walking Tour of Bergamo (with Maps)

Bergamo,Italy

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Nestled in the Lombardy region of northern Italy, the enchanting city of Bergamo has long been a hidden gem in the realm of tourism, quietly awaiting its turn in the spotlight until it was bestowed with UNESCO World Heritage Status.

Resting gracefully on the hillside, fortified by majestic walls, the city extends a warm welcome through its four gates to the world beyond. Città Alta, the Upper Town, beckons visitors with its charming artisan workshops, concealed courtyards, graceful arcades, and the allure of long, meandering shadows.

This quintessential Italian city is a treasure trove of delights, a place where every corner promises to tantalize your senses and spirit. With a rich tapestry of experiences awaiting exploration, Bergamo is a destination where the flavours, culture, and history of Italy come together to create an unforgettable journey for the heart and soul.

Getting to Bergamo

By Car: Parking is generally free only within the white lines, while it is subject to payment within the blue lines. The yellow-striped car parks are reserved for residents. You can park by the train station at the Parcheggio Ex Gasometro off Via San Giovanni Bosco and head to the train station. It is not advisable to walk back here in the dark!

By Train: Bergamo railway station is directly connected to Milan, Lecco and Brescia (with connections for Lake Garda, Verona, and Venice). The journey times for Milan-Bergamo and Brescia-Bergamo are approximately one hour; the journey from Lecco to Bergamo takes about 40 minutes. Trains depart almost every hour.

Getting to Città Alta from the Train Station

As you come out of the train station the tourist office is on your right and the bus station is on your left. There is a 20 minute walk from here to the funicular, alternatively you can catch the bus from here. Head to the bus station ticket office where you can purchase your tourist pass at the bus station ticket office. A tourist ticket day pass ticket for about 4 Euro which will allow you to ride the bus up to the old town, as well as take 2 funiculars.

You will need to catch the T1 Line Stazione – Porta Nuova – (Roma) – (Vitt Emanuele) – Funicolare. Buses leave every 5-10 mint

Porta Nuova

Bergamo, Porta Nuova

From the train station walk down Viale Papa Giovanni XXIII (Pope John XXIII) to the Porta Nuova (8mins).

The first thing you will see of the Porta Nuova are a pair of colonnaded, neoclassical buildings dating from the 1830s. These were old customs houses by the city gate into the lower town of Bergamo.

Take a ride up Bergamo's funicular

Bergamo Funicular

Carry on straight down the via Roma to the Bergamo funicula (11 mins).

Take the most impressive means of transport into the old city. The Lower Funicular has been connecting the centre of Bergamo with the Upper Town (“Città Alta”) for more than 120 years, more precisely with Piazza Mercato delle Scarpe, where many business activities used to be carried out. The square (whose name means “shoes market square”) was used as a shoes market since 1430, while the building overlooking the square used to be the headquarter of the shoemakers’ guild and it currently hosts the funicular station.

Rocca Museum

Bergamo Rocca

From the Stazione superiore funicolare (Funicular upper station), you come out into the Piazza Mercato delle Scarpe. Go directly opposite and up the Via Alla Rocca, following it to the right.

The Rocca Museum is an imposing 14th-c. stronghold with a tower offering panoramic views & a museum of Bergamo’s history.

Torre di Gombito

Torre Del Gombito

Head back to Piazza Mercato delle Scarpe. Go directly opposite and walk up Via Gombito for about 1 minutes and you will reach the tourist office and Torre di Gombito.

You used to be able to climb the 263 steps to the top of the 12th-century Gombito Tower, this is not possible for the foreseeable future.

Piazza Vecchia

Bergamo, Piazza Vecchia

Carry on up the Via Gombito to reach Piazza Vecchia.

Piazza Vecchia the core of Città Alta. As you enter it on your left is the Palazzo Nuovo or New Palace, which served as Bergamo’s Town Hall until 1873. Today it is the seat of the Angelo Mai Library. Its incredible collection includes ancient and precious books: incunabula, books from the 1500s, engravings, manuscripts and other inestimable artefacts making it one of the most outstanding libraries in Italy. Directly opposite this is the Palazzo della Ragione , the oldest municipal seat in Lombardy. In the northwest side of Piazza Vecchia, the fresco-dappled Palazzo del Podestà was traditionally home to Venice’s representative in Bergamo. Today, the medieval building houses a small imaginative museum with audiovisual and interactive displays that tell the story of Bergamo’s Venetian age. Admission also includes access to the Torre del Campanone , with superb views over Bergamo.

Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore

Basilica Of Santa Maria Maggiore, 12th 14th Centuries, Bergamo

Walk directly behind the Palazzo della Ragione to reach the Piazza del Duomo (Cathedral Square).

Cappella Colleoni

Cappella Colleoni, Bergamo

The Cappella Colleoni, situated on the north side of the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, stands as a splendid mausoleum and chapel that was constructed between 1472 and 1476. Its purpose was to honor the memory of Bartolomeo Colleoni (c. 1400–1475), a renowned Bergamese mercenary commander who led the armies of Venice in campaigns across northern Italy. Bartolomeo Colleoni now rests within this magnificent tomb.

Beneath the central dome of the chapel, Venetian rococo master Giambattista Tiepolo (1696–1770) adorned the interior with exquisite frescoes. The exterior of the chapel is adorned with a stunning display of red and white marble, showcasing an authentic Italian Renaissance masterpiece. Inside, you will encounter a captivating array of artworks, including the equestrian statue of Bartolomeo Colleoni, the marble sarcophagi, the exquisite tomb of his daughter Medea, and the intricately designed wooden desks.

Battistero di Bergamo

Baptistery Of Bergamo

The Baptistery of the Cathedral is not just a physical structure but a profound embodiment of history, art, and faith.

It is a place steeped in history, spanning centuries. Its origins trace back to 1340 when it was built by Giovanni da Campione. However, it carries the legacy of an ancient baptistery that had stood near the Cathedral since the early days of Christianity, dating back to the 5th century. The Baptistery’s connection to the Cathedral is longstanding. Initially situated within the confines of S. Maria Maggiore, which, until the 15th century, was part of the same cathedral complex as the ancient church of S. Vincenzo. When S. Maria became independent from the Cathedral, the Baptistery was dismantled in 1660 and relocated first to the cloister of the Rectory and later, in 1898, to its present location in front of the Cathedral.

As a place of art, the Baptistery holds significant artistic treasures. It houses two remarkable sculptural cycles crafted by Giovanni da Campione: eight panels depicting key events from the life of Jesus Christ (such as the Annunciation, Nativity, Adoration of the Magi, Presentation in the Temple, Baptism, Capture and Condemnation, Crucifixion, Deposition, and Resurrection) within its walls. On the external corners, statues representing the theological Virtues (Faith, Hope, Charity) and the Cardinal Virtues (Justice, Prudence, Fortitude, Temperance) are displayed, with the virtue of Patience completing the ensemble. These original Gothic architectural elements were complemented during the relocation process.

Above all, the Baptistery is a place of faith where Christians receive the sacrament of baptism and embark on their journey of bearing witness to their commitment to Christ. It is where they are baptized and symbolically participate in the death and resurrection of Christ, supported by the grace received in baptism and nurtured through the other sacraments. The Baptistery’s octagonal shape symbolizes the fullness of God’s gift, the resurrection of Christ, and the new creation that baptism signifies.

This sacred space serves as a powerful reminder of the Christian heritage of our city and civilization, connecting us to our deep spiritual roots.

Torre del Campanone, Bergmao

Torre Del Campanone, Bergmao

In the center of Piazza Vecchia stands the Civic Tower, fondly referred to as the Campanone. This impressive structure soars to a height of 52.76 meters and grants visitors a truly awe-inspiring panoramic view of the historic old town.

At its summit, which can be reached either by ascending 230 steps on foot or more comfortably via an elevator, resides the largest bell in Lombardy. To this day, at the stroke of 10 pm each night, the Campanone tolls one hundred times, serving as an enduring reminder of a bygone era when the city gates along the walls were sealed during the rule of the Venetians.

Palazzo del Podestà

Bergamo, Palazzo Del Podesta

Adjacent to the Palazzo della Ragione, symbolizing civil authority, and the Bishopric, representing religious authority, the Palazzo del Podestà stands as a commanding presence overseeing the two main squares that served as the epicenters of medieval Bergamo: Piazza Duomo and Piazza Vecchia.

Constructed towards the conclusion of the 12th century, this magnificent palace was commissioned by the influential Suardi-Colleoni family, who generously offered it to the city. Over time, it evolved into the official residence of the Podestà, a foreign governor appointed for a six-month term to govern the municipality. In times of necessity, the Podestà had access to the prisons situated beneath the Civic Tower.

During the extensive period of Venetian rule, which commenced in 1428, the building underwent significant expansion and structural modifications, transforming it into the central hub for the administration of justice within the city.

Museo di Scienze Naturali e Archeologico, Bergamo

Museo Di Scienze Naturali

Head back to the Piazza Vecchia and leave by the north west alley into Via Bartolomeo Colleoni. As you come out into the open in front of you is the impressive Cittadella

Torre Castello San Vigilio

Il Castello Di Berganmo In San Vigilio

Head diagonally across the Piazza della Cittadella and through the arch. With the views on your left walk 50 meters and you will see some brown signs pointing to the left towards the Funicular San Vigilio and the Castello San Vigilio. You need to pass through Porta Sant’Alessandro to be back within the city walls. Catch the Funicolare S. Vigilio to the top of the hill.

Parco Del Castello Di San Vigilio is clearly visible symbol of power, the Castle of San Vigilio has for centuries been the residence Bergamo rulers for centuries. It is located 496 meters above the sea level, on top of the hill that gives it its name, overlooking the Città Alta: that’s why it used to have a strategic role in case of attacks.

Venetian Walls, Bergamo

Venetian Walls, Bergamo

Head back down the funicular and through the Porta Sant’Alessandro. bear left and walk down the Viale delle Mura. The Cittadella is the first lage building bloack on your right, the second being the Episcopal Seminary Giovanni XXIII. As the road turns sharply to the left you come to the Parco di San Giovanni or Park of St John.

Bergamo’s magnificent Venetian Walls encircle a circuit spanning over six kilometers, making it the ideal locale for a romantic stroll and the perfect vantage point to savor breathtaking sunsets. These walls have safeguarded the splendors of the Upper Town for more than four centuries and are honored as a UNESCO World Heritage site, a testament to their invaluable artistic and cultural significance.

Their construction commenced in 1561 under the jurisdiction of the Republic of Venice, initiated as a defense against potential enemy incursions. Remarkably, history, perhaps entranced by their sheer beauty, spared these fortifications from ever experiencing a siege. Consequently, they have endured virtually unchanged to the present day.

Comprising 14 bastions, 2 platforms, 100 embrasures for cannons, 2 armories, and four gates, not to mention an intricate network of underground structures featuring sallies, passages, and tunnels, the Venetian Walls offer a wealth of exploration opportunities. Don’t miss the chance to venture within the walls and explore the casemates of San Michele and San Giovanni!

However, the construction of these walls necessitated the demolition of over 250 buildings, including 8 religious establishments like the Sant’Alessandro Cathedral and the Dominican convent of Santo Stefano. Consequently, eight excommunications were issued during the course of these works.

A multitude of workers, under the guidance of both Venetian and Bergamo architects, were engaged in raising these formidable defenses due to the sheer scale of the undertaking.

The UNESCO World Heritage designation integrates the Venetian Walls into a broader, transnational site titled “Venetian fortifications between XVI and XVII Century,” intended to highlight the collective defensive systems erected by the Republic of Venice during the 16th and 17th centuries.

It’s noteworthy that some sections of these walls can trace their origins back to the Roman era, with documentation dating as far back as the 8th century. Remnants of these ancient fortifications can still be observed in locations such as via Vagine, beneath the Santa Grata cloister, and on the left side of Viale delle Mura, to the west of the funicular layout (formerly via degli Anditi). Although these ruins were in dire disrepair by the early 16th century, they were nearly entirely replaced by the new Venetian Walls, resulting in a completely fresh defensive perimeter without any vestiges of the prior fortifications.

Porta San Giacomo

Porta San Giacomo Bergamo

Follow the wall of the city around until you come to the Porta San Giacomo.

Landmark white marble gate & stone viaduct overlooking the plain, preserved from a ruined city wall. 

from here either take the Via S. Giacomo to the funicular, which yo catch to get to the bottom, or walk down the ramp and head left to catch the bus back to the station.

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World Map » Italy » City » Bergamo » Upper Bergamo Sightseeing Map

Upper Bergamo sightseeing map

Upper Bergamo sightseeing map

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    Top 10 Best Hotels with Pools (2023). Coolest Luxury Hotels with Pools. Top 10 Best Hotels with Pools. 24/7 Support. 5 star Best Pool Hotels.

  2. THE 10 BEST Bergamo Sights & Landmarks

    Find the best tours, tickets, trips & more. Compare prices and book online on Tripadvisor. Full refund available up to 24 hours before your tour date. Quick & easy purchase process.

  3. Large detailed tourist map of Bergamo

    Large detailed tourist map of Bergamo Click to see large. Description: This map shows streets, roads, railways, railway station, churches, parks, hotels, hostels, funiculars, tourist information centers, parking, points of interest, tourist attractions and sightseeings in Bergamo.

  4. CITY MAP

    Bergamo Upper Town at the Teatro Sociale Via Colleoni from September 2017 Tel. +39 035 242226 - [email protected] Before, during and after your stay, always stay connected to Bergamo! Visit our website. www.visitbergamo.netand discover our best tourist tips. [email protected]. www.visitbergamo.net.

  5. Bergamo Attractions Map

    Interactive map of Bergamo with all popular attractions - Piazza Vecchia, Santa Maria Maggiore, Cappella Colleoni and more. Take a look at our detailed itineraries, guides and maps to help you plan your trip to Bergamo.

  6. Bergamo Printable Tourist Map

    See the best attraction in Bergamo Printable Tourist Map. United States Italia Bergamo Printable Tourist Map. Print the full size map. Download the full size map. Create your own map. Bergamo Map: The Attractions. 1. Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. See on map. 2. Fortress of Bergamo. See on map. 3. Piazza Vecchia.

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    Address: Piazza Vecchia, 8A, 24129 Bergamo. 9. Ride the Funicular to San Vigilio. View from San Vigilio, Bergamo. To look down on the Cita Alta from above, ride the Funicolare from the Sant'Alessandro Gate to the hill of San Vigilio, where you'll find the ruins of a castle with ramparts and four massive round towers.

  9. Bergamo • Visit Bergamo

    Bergamo is a real masterpiece of history, culture, music and landscape, with a medieval heart on top of a hill surrounded by the majestic Venetian Walls an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Come explore it by walking across its historic districts, its churches, its funiculars and its walkways climbing up through the lush vegetation of the Hills Park ...

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    The Campanone tower in Piazza Vecchia in Bergamo offers a breath-taking 360-degree panoramic view of the old town. It is a must-see tourist attraction for visitors to Bergamo. The tower is also home to a museum featuring artefacts from the Roman period and medieval times.

  12. Bergamo travel

    Hiking. Hike between Italy's capitals of culture on a new trail. Apr 27, 2023 • 3 min read. A new hiking trail will connect the Italian cities of Bergamo and Brescia while passing Unesco World Heritage sites, Lake Iseo, three wine regions and more. in partnership with getyourguide.

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    Bergamo Top Attractions in 2 Hours. see the best of Bergamo. Day 1. Andrj15. 10:00 Piazza Vecchia. . 1 min. Attilios. 10:47 Cappella Colleoni.

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    Bergamo. Bergamo is a city in Lombardy, a region of Italy, and the capital of the namesake province. One of the most scenic cities in Italy, it is located on and around a steep hill, green in the summer and white in the winter, complemented by pastel-coloured architecture, against the backdrop of nearby Alps. Its appeal to tourists is enhanced ...

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    See ways to experience (16) 2023. 4. Accademia Carrara. 705. Art Galleries. The Accademia Carrara Museum, founded in 1796 by Giacomo Carrara, is considered the museum of the Italian collectors and a collection at European level. The new exhibition, renewed in 2023, presents more than three hundred works, with masterpieces by Pisanello, Mantegna ...

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    2. Basilica of St. Mary Major. Known as a city of churches, Bergamo is dotted with many intricately built architectural treasures. Santa Maria Maggiore, sandwiched between the Cappella Colleoni and Bergamo's cathedral, is the most impressive church in the city.

  17. A Guide to Visiting Bergamo, Italy

    Quick Facts. Location: Lombard, Italy (40 km northeast of Milan) Language: Italian Currency: Euro Short History: The Celts (people from central Europe) founded Bergamo 2000 years ago. It's UNESCO listed on the World Heritage List as an important historical town of Italy. It's full of historical buildings, the Citadel (fort), Saint Maria church and library being only a few of them.

  18. Bergamo tourist map

    You may download, print or use the above map for educational, personal and non-commercial purposes. Attribution is required. For any website, blog, scientific ...

  19. Free Walking Tour of Bergamo (with Maps)

    The Rocca Museum is an imposing 14th-c. stronghold with a tower offering panoramic views & a museum of Bergamo's history. Location: Rocca di Bergamo, Piazzale Brigata Legnano, Bergamo, Province of Bergamo, Italy | Hours: 9.30am-1pm & 2.30-6pm Tue-Sun | Price: museum €3, grounds free. Read more about Rocca Museum.

  20. Bergamo Map

    Bergamo is a city in Lombardy, a region of Italy, and the capital of the namesake province. Bergamo has about 122,000 residents. Mapcarta, the open map. NW Italy. Lombardy. Lombardian Alps and Prealps ... map to travel: Bergamo. comune.bergamo.it +39 035 399111. Wikivoyage. Wikipedia.

  21. MICHELIN Bergamo map

    Map of Bergamo. Are you looking for the map of Bergamo? Find any address on the map of Bergamo or calculate your itinerary to and from Bergamo, find all the tourist attractions and Michelin Guide restaurants in Bergamo. The ViaMichelin map of Bergamo: get the famous Michelin maps, the result of more than a century of mapping experience.

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  24. Upper Bergamo sightseeing map

    You may download, print or use the above map for educational, personal and non-commercial purposes. Attribution is required. For any website, blog, scientific ...