Bergamo

Europe

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Italy

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Bergamo

Nestled in the Italian Alps's foothills, Bergamo is a city of two parts - the ancient Città Alta (Upper City) and the modern Città Bassa (Lower City). This enticing Lombardy destination boasts a temperate Mediterranean climate, with warm summers and cool winters. Therefore, it offers an enjoyable visit throughout the year.

The regional culture embodies traditional Lombard ideals, where a laid-back lifestyle revolves around familial ties, culinary delights, and time-honored traditions. Locals, or Bergamaschi, exhibit massive pride in their heritage, reflected in the impeccably-maintained medieval architecture and vibrant food culture.

A unique charm of Bergamo is its splendid architectural heritage, with the Upper City's cobblestoned alleys, Venetian walls (a UNESCO World Heritage site), and breathtaking squares remaining virtually unaltered since the 16th century. The city's popular dish, casoncelli - pasta filled with meat, amaretti cookies, and raisins - epitomizes Bergamo cuisine's unique combination of sweet and savory flavors.

Not to miss is the Piazza Vecchia, the Upper City's heart, where the majestic Palazzo della Ragione and Campanone tower stand as a tribute to Bergamo's golden era. The Colleoni Chapel, a Renaissance architecture gem, and a funicular ride connecting the two cities offer memorable experiences encapsulating Bergamo's spirit.

Travel Tips for Bergamo

What you need to know before traveling here

Getting Around Bergamo

A guide to Bergamo's local transportation

Funicular

Bus Network

Taxis & Rideshare

Walking

The age-old funicular railway links Città Bassa with Città Alta, running every 15 minutes from early morning until midnight. Buy tickets at the station or use the ATB mobile app. A single ride costs €1.30, whereas a 24-hour pass provides excellent value at €3.50.

Practical Tips for Bergamo

Things to prepare and best way to visit

How do I travel from Bergamo Airport to the city center?

You can take bus lines 1 or 1A from the airport to the city center, which takes about 30 minutes and costs €2.40. Alternatively, a taxi ride can cost between €20-25 and takes 15-20 minutes.

Is Bergamo more expensive than other cities in Italy?

Bergamo is generally cheaper than Milan or Venice. A meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around €20-30, and hotel rooms average between €80-150 per night.

How much time should I spend in Bergamo?

You should ideally spend two full days to fully explore both the Upper and Lower cities, although you can cover the main landmarks in one action-packed day.

Do I need to know Italian to get around?

Although English is commonly spoken in tourist hotspots and hotels, knowing a few Italian phrases can be helpful in local restaurants and stores and appreciated.

What's the best time to visit Bergamo?

Bergamo offers pleasant weather during spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) with fewer tourists. Summer can be hot and crowded, while winter may be cold but retains a unique charm.