13 Best Things to Do in Bergamo, Italy: Hidden Gems & Old Town Views

Looking for the best things to do in Bergamo, Italy? You’re in the right place.
Although many travellers know Bergamo simply as the city with one of Italy’s busiest low-cost airports, I had a feeling there was much more to it.

After doing my research and seeing photos of its medieval streets, beautiful churches, and panoramic viewpoints, I genuinely couldn’t wait to explore it for myself.

And somehow, it still managed to exceed my expectations.
Bergamo quickly became one of my favourite discoveries in Lombardy and one of the most memorable stops on my trip to Northern Italy. From the fairy-tale streets of Bergamo’s Old Town, also known as the Upper City (Città Alta) and stunning churches to hidden corners and spectacular views over the city, it offers so much more than most people expect.

What stood out most was the atmosphere. Bergamo feels authentically Italian, with lively piazzas, excellent food, and far fewer crowds than many of Italy’s better-known cities.
In this Bergamo travel guide, I’ll share the best things to do in Bergamo, where to eat, where to stay, and practical tips to help you plan your visit.

13 Best Things to Do in Bergamo, Italy

From wandering through the medieval streets of Bergamo Old Town and visiting beautiful churches to enjoying sunset views from the Venetian Walls, there are plenty of things to do in Bergamo for a day or a long weekend.

Here are my favourite attractions and experiences from spending 2 days exploring one of Northern Italy’s most underrated cities.

1. Explore Bergamo Old Town (Città Alta)

If you’re short on time and can only do one thing in Bergamo, make it this.
Bergamo Old Town, also known as Città Alta, is the historic heart of the city and the main reason many travellers fall in love with Bergamo. Surrounded by Venetian Walls and perched on a hill above the modern city, it feels like stepping into a different era.

This was easily my favourite part of Bergamo.
I spent hours simply wandering through the narrow cobbled streets, admiring the historic buildings, peeking into small courtyards, and stopping whenever something caught my eye. Around every corner seemed to be another beautiful square, church, café, or viewpoint.

My recommendation? Don’t rush.
Some of my favourite moments in Bergamo weren’t specific attractions at all, but simply getting lost among the streets of Città Alta and soaking up the atmosphere.
If you’re visiting Bergamo for the first time, this is the perfect place to start exploring.

Travel tip: If you’re staying overnight in Bergamo, set your alarm and head to Citta Alta early in the morning. Before the cafés fill up and day trippers arrive, you’ll have a chance to enjoy the quiet streets, empty piazzas, and a completely different side of the city.

2. Visit Piazza Vecchia

Located in the heart of Bergamo Old Town, Piazza Vecchia is one of the most beautiful and lively squares in the city.
Surrounded by historic buildings, cafés, and some of Bergamo’s most important attractions, it’s the perfect place to slow down and soak up the atmosphere. Whether you’re visiting for a quick photo or stopping for a coffee, chances are you’ll find yourself returning here more than once.

While you’re here, don’t miss the Palazzo della Ragione, one of the oldest civic buildings in Italy. Surrounded by elegant Renaissance architecture, it adds even more character and history to the square.

During my visit, I was lucky enough to witness one of those unexpected travel moments that you simply can’t plan. A group of newlyweds arrived in the square just as a live opera singer was performing. Before long, people were gathering around, music filled the piazza, and the couple started dancing in the middle of the square.
It was one of those moments that perfectly captured the atmosphere of Bergamo.

From here, you can easily continue to the Campanone Bell Tower, Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, the Colleoni Chapel, and Bergamo Cathedral, all located just a short walk away.

3. Climb the Campanone Bell Tower

Located right above Piazza Vecchia, the Campanone (also known as the Civic Tower) is one of Bergamo’s most recognisable landmarks.

You can take the lift or climb the stairs to the top, where you’ll be rewarded with fantastic views over the rooftops of Città Alta, the surrounding hills, and parts of the modern lower city below.

There is an entrance fee to visit the tower. Tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the ticket office on the day, and card payments are accepted.

One of the most interesting traditions connected to the tower takes place every evening at 10 pm, when the bell rings one hundred times. Centuries ago, these one hundred chimes signalled the closing of the city gates and warned residents that anyone outside the walls needed to return before nightfall.

Even if you don’t stay until the evening chimes, climbing the Campanone is one of the best things to do in Bergamo and a great way to appreciate the layout of the city from above.

4. Step Inside Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore

If there is one place in Bergamo that completely blew me away, it was this.
From the outside, the basilica already looks impressive, but stepping inside is a completely different experience. Gold details, frescoes, paintings, sculptures, and incredible ceilings cover almost every corner.

I genuinely wasn’t expecting this.
Out of all the churches I have visited across Europe, this may actually be my favourite.

And one warning: prepare your neck muscles.
Seriously. You’ll spend most of your visit looking up at the ceilings, walls, details, and artwork surrounding you.
Even if churches are not usually your thing, don’t skip this one. In my opinion, visiting Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore is easily one of the best things to do in Bergamo (and it only costs a few euros!).

5. Visit the Colleoni Chapel

Right next to the basilica, you’ll find one of Bergamo’s most beautiful buildings: the Colleoni Chapel.
Before you step inside, stop for a moment and admire the exterior. The pink and white marble, decorative details, and architecture make it one of the most photogenic spots in Bergamo Old Town. 

The chapel was built in the 15th century as a mausoleum for Bartolomeo Colleoni, a military leader who clearly wanted something a little more impressive than your average tomb.

Since it sits directly next to Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, visiting both together makes perfect sense. It’s free to enter, but you cannot take any photos or videos inside.

6. Visit Bergamo Cathedral (Duomo di Bergamo)

While many visitors head straight to the basilica, don’t forget to step inside Bergamo Cathedral too.
The cathedral is much calmer and simpler inside, which actually creates a nice contrast after the incredibly detailed interiors nearby.

During my visit, there was a ceremony taking place, music was playing, and people quietly gathered inside. It created one of those unexpected travel moments that made the experience feel even more special. 

Since Bergamo Cathedral sits only a few steps away from the basilica and chapel, it’s an easy addition to your Bergamo itinerary.

7. Ride the Funicular to Città Alta

One of the best things about Bergamo is that getting to the historic centre is part of the experience itself.
The funicular connecting Città Bassa with Bergamo Alta has been running for well over 100 years and is probably the easiest and most fun way to reach the old town.

While you can walk up, I highly recommend taking it at least once. The journey only takes a few minutes, but watching the city slowly open up below you makes it feel much more special.
If you’re using public transport in Bergamo, the funicular is included within the regular transport tickets.

8. Continue Up to San Vigilio For The Best Views

After exploring Bergamo Old Town, don’t stop there.

Take the second funicular and continue up to San Vigilio, one of my favourite viewpoints in Bergamo.
From here, you can admire both Città Alta and Città Bassa below, as well as the surrounding hills and countryside. I visited later in the afternoon and honestly wished I had even more time up here. Compared to the busy streets below, San Vigilio feels quieter and much more relaxed.

9. Walk Along Bergamo’s UNESCO-Listed Venetian Walls at Sunset

If I could recommend only one moment to experience in Bergamo, this would probably be it.
These historic old city walls form part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offer some of the best views of the city and beyond.

As evening approaches, grab an Aperol Spritz, find a nice viewpoint, and simply slow down for a while.
This was probably my favourite moment in Bergamo.
Watching the city lights slowly appear below, while locals gathered for drinks and evening walks, felt like pure dolce far niente.

For me, this is what Bergamo is really about. Not rushing between attractions, but enjoying the atmosphere and taking time to appreciate where you are.

10. Visit Palazzo Moroni

Palazzo Moroni turned out to be one of my favourite surprises in Bergamo.
Compared to the busy streets outside, the palace and gardens feel much quieter and receive far fewer visitors.

Inside, you’ll find beautifully decorated rooms, artwork, frescoes, and elegant interiors, while outside you can explore peaceful gardens and enjoy views back towards the city.

There is an entrance fee, but for me, this was easily worth it and one of the best hidden gems in Bergamo. You can buy the ticket online or on arrival at the entrance.

11. Join A Bergamo Walking Tour

If you enjoy learning about history while exploring, consider joining a Bergamo walking tour.
You’ll find both private guided tours and free (tip-based) tours available, usually focusing on Bergamo Old Town and Piazza Vecchia.

Even if you prefer exploring independently like I usually do, walking tours can be a great way to understand more about the history behind the buildings, churches, and city walls surrounding you

12. Explore Città Bassa (Lower Town)

While Bergamo Old Town gets most of the attention, don’t completely ignore Citta Bassa.
If you have extra time, I definitely recommend exploring the lower town, too.

Compared to medieval Città Alta, the lower town feels more local, modern, and residential, but you’ll still find beautiful architecture, wide boulevards, impressive churches, cafés, shopping streets, and lively squares.

Some places worth checking out include:

• Porta Nuova – One of the main gateways connecting the lower and upper town
• Sentierone – A large pedestrian boulevard perfect for a stroll or coffee stop
• Piazza Dante – A beautiful square surrounded by historic buildings
• Torre dei Caduti – Historic tower and museum dedicated to Bergamo’s history
• Donizetti Theatre – One of Bergamo’s most important cultural landmarks
• Church of Saints Bartholomew and Stephen – Home to impressive artwork and often overlooked by visitors
• Centro Piacentiniano – Beautiful arcades filled with cafés, shops, and elegant buildings that make wandering around feel surprisingly charming

13. Take A Day Trip From Bergamo

One of the reasons Bergamo works so well as a base is its location.
You can easily visit places like Lake Como (*easiest by car from Bergamo, or by train from Milan) or Milan as day trips using public transport.

I personally visited Lake Como, exploring Varenna and Bellagio, which made for an incredible day out, although I would recommend leaving early in the morning to beat the crowds.

Milan is even easier thanks to frequent trains connecting the two cities throughout the day.
If you have extra time, adding a day trip is one of the easiest ways to extend your Bergamo itinerary.

Where To Eat in Bergamo

Italy setting high expectations for food is hardly groundbreaking, and Bergamo absolutely delivers.
From cosy cafés and historic pastry shops to traditional restaurants serving local specialities and aperitivo spots with beautiful views, eating quickly became one of my favourite parts of visiting the city.

Must-Try Food & Drinks in Bergamo

Before diving into recommendations, here are a few local things you should try while visiting Bergamo:

• Casoncelli alla Bergamasca – Bergamo’s famous stuffed pasta with sweet and savoury flavours
• Stracciatella gelato – Invented right here in Bergamo
• Polenta – A staple dish throughout the region
• Aperol Spritz – Best enjoyed at sunset overlooking the city
• Italian pastries & cornetti – Preferably with a cappuccino in the morning

Best Cafés, Cake & Breakfast Spots in Bergamo

• Al 15 – great spot to start your day with a nice coffee, pastry and sandwich
• KEFAKOFFEE – Great speciality coffee option
• Cavour 1880 – Historic café located in Bergamo Old Town
• Bugan Coffee Lab – Perfect for a coffee break while exploring Città Alta
• Gelateria Gemma dal 1970 – One of Bergamo’s oldest and most popular gelaterias
• La Marianna – Famous as the birthplace of Stracciatella gelato

Best Restaurants in Bergamo

• Circolino Città Alta – Traditional food, large portions, and great value
• Polentone – A good place to try regional specialities
• Il Fornaio – Great selection of pizza/focaccia
• Trattoria Parietti – Great stop after exploring San Vigilio
• Da Mimmo Bergamo Alta – One of the most famous restaurants in Città Alta
• Casoncelli Nonna Alda – Great place to try casoncelli, even if you just want a small taster

Best Bars & Aperitivo Spots

• Venetian Walls area – Grab an Aperol from a pop-up bar and sit down to watch the sunset from above
• Bar Flora 
• Birreria di Città Alta
• Città Alta – Full of small bars and aperitivo spots perfect for people watching

Where To Stay in Bergamo

One thing I quickly realised is that where you stay in Bergamo can completely change your experience.
Personally, I chose to stay in the lower town (Città Bassa) and found it worked perfectly. Accommodation was more affordable, transport connections were excellent, and I could still reach Bergamo Old Town within a max. of 30 minutes.

Here are my top picks:

• Budget: Joys B&B
• Mid-range: Hotel Piazza Vecchia
• Luxury: Gombit Hotel

My Recommendation: Città Alta Or Città Bassa?

If I visited Bergamo again, I would probably still choose Città Bassa.
You get better transport connections, easier access to the train station, lower accommodation prices, and you can still reach Bergamo Alta within minutes using public transport or the funicular.

That said, if waking up inside the medieval streets of Bergamo Old Town sounds like your dream trip, staying inside Città Alta would definitely be a memorable experience.

How Many Days In Bergamo?

I spent around 1.5 days exploring Bergamo itself and stayed for 3 nights in total, using the city as a base while also taking a day trip to Lake Como.

If you’re only interested in the main attractions in Bergamo, one full day is enough to explore Bergamo Old Town, visit the churches, ride the funiculars, and enjoy the sunset from the Venetian Walls.
That said, I personally think 2–3 nights works better.

Staying longer allows you to experience Bergamo at a slower pace, enjoy the atmosphere once day trippers leave, and use the city as a base for day trips to places like Lake Como or Milan.

How to Get to Bergamo

Getting to Bergamo is incredibly easy, which is probably one of the reasons so many people accidentally discover the city in the first place.

Many low-cost airlines fly directly into Milan Bergamo Airport, located only around 15–20 minutes from the city centre. I personally flew with Ryanair from London Stansted.

From the airport, simply take the airport bus to Bergamo city centre (1A or 1E – express). Tickets are inexpensive and can be purchased from ticket machines, apps, or directly at the station.

If you’re travelling from Milan, you’ll be pleased to know that Bergamo from Milan is also extremely easy. Direct trains between Bergamo and Milan run frequently throughout the day, making the city a simple day trip or weekend destination.

How to Get around Bergamo

The good news?
Getting around Bergamo is very straightforward.

I stayed in Città Bassa and bought a 24-hour public transport pass on the ATB Bergamo app, which worked perfectly for buses, funiculars, and getting between different parts of the city.

However, once you arrive in Bergamo Old Town, most attractions are within walking distance and exploring on foot is easily the best way to experience the city.

If you’re staying inside Città Alta, you may hardly need public transport at all apart from taking the funicular up or down.

My advice? Wear comfortable shoes.
Those beautiful cobbled streets can be surprisingly unforgiving after a full day of exploring.

Practical Tips For Visiting Bergamo

Before you go, here are a few tips that will make your Bergamo trip smoother:

Final Thoughts on Visiting Bergamo

I had done my research before visiting Bergamo and had no doubts that this city would be something special.
Still, somehow it managed to exceed my expectations.

From wandering through the historic streets of Bergamo Old Town and admiring incredible churches to enjoying sunset views above the city with an Aperol Spritz in hand, Bergamo quickly became one of my favourite places in Italy.
What makes this city special isn’t only the attractions themselves, but the atmosphere.

It feels authentic, relaxed, beautiful, and still somehow flies under the radar compared to many other Italian cities.
I genuinely couldn’t wait to explore Bergamo when I arrived, and by the time I left, I only wished I had even more time.
If you’re wondering if Bergamo is worth visiting, my answer is simple: Absolutely!

Bergamo Tourist Map