Tucked away in the picturesque Lombardy region of Italy, Bergamo is a city brimming with history, culture, and natural beauty. From its charming medieval old town to its stunning panoramic views, Bergamo offers visitors a wealth of experiences just waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re exploring ancient landmarks, sampling local delicacies, or soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of the city, here are the top five things to do in Bergamo.
1. Wander Through the Città Alta (Upper Town)
Begin your journey in Bergamo’s historic Città Alta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a true gem of medieval architecture and charm. Enter through the ancient city gates and wander through narrow cobblestone streets lined with centuries-old buildings, hidden courtyards, and quaint cafes.
Explore iconic landmarks such as the Piazza Vecchia, the heart of the old town, where you’ll find the Palazzo della Ragione, the Torre del Comune, and the stunning Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, with its intricate marble facade and stunning frescoes. Don’t miss the chance to stroll along the Venetian walls, which offer panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside.
Bergamo, Italy
2. Visit the Accademia Carrara
Immerse yourself in the world of art at the Accademia Carrara, one of Italy’s most important art galleries, located in the heart of Bergamo. Home to a rich collection of Italian Renaissance and Baroque masterpieces, the museum showcases works by artists such as Botticelli, Raphael, and Bellini.
Explore the museum’s galleries and admire iconic paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from the 15th to the 19th centuries. Don’t miss the chance to see Giovanni Bellini’s iconic Madonna and Child, as well as the stunning frescoes by Lorenzo Lotto and Pisanello.
3. Ride the Funicular to San Vigilio
For panoramic views of Bergamo and the surrounding Lombardy countryside, hop aboard the funicular railway that connects the Città Alta with the hilltop district of San Vigilio. As you ascend the steep slopes, marvel at breathtaking vistas of the city’s red rooftops, ancient towers, and lush green hillsides.
Once you reach the top, take a leisurely stroll through the charming village of San Vigilio, where you’ll find historic churches, scenic viewpoints, and rustic trattorias serving up traditional Lombard cuisine. Be sure to visit the ruins of the medieval castle, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Bergamo and the Alps beyond.
4. Sample Bergamo’s Culinary Delights
No visit to Bergamo would be complete without sampling the city’s renowned culinary delights. Start your culinary adventure with a visit to the Mercato delle Scarpe, Bergamo’s historic covered market, where you can browse stalls selling fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and local delicacies.
Indulge in traditional Bergamasque dishes such as casoncelli alla bergamasca, a type of ravioli stuffed with a rich meat filling and served with butter and sage, or polenta e osei, a hearty dish of creamy polenta topped with roasted quails. Wash it all down with a glass of Valcalepio wine, produced in the vineyards surrounding Bergamo, for the perfect gastronomic experience.
5. Explore the Modern City (Città Bassa)
Venture beyond the medieval walls of the Città Alta and explore Bergamo’s modern city, known as the Città Bassa. Stroll along the elegant avenues of Via XX Settembre and Via Sant’Alessandro, where you’ll find stylish boutiques, cafes, and gelaterias.
Discover architectural gems such as the Teatro Donizetti, an elegant opera house dating back to the 18th century, and the striking Torre dei Caduti, a monument to the fallen soldiers of World War I. Be sure to visit the charming Piazza Pontida, a bustling square lined with cafes and shops, where locals gather to enjoy an espresso or an aperitivo.
