A historic province with a proud tradition in music and architecture, Bergamo’s medieval sites, delicious local cuisine and stunning mountains make it a destination not to be missed.
With historic sites in the Città Alta (upper town), the Alps right next door (perfect for skiing), excellent shopping outlets along Via XX Settembre and its own opera theatre, you’ll never be stuck for something to do in Bergamo.
The perfect way to kick off any trip to Bergamo is by taking the funicular up to the Città Alta where you can enjoy the ancient architecture, pretty churches and cobblestoned pavements of the older district.
Take in a show at the newly restored Donizetti opera theatre, or if you’re a sports fan head over to the Stadio Atleti Azzurri d'Italia where Serie A football team Atalanta play against Italy’s top clubs.
Stroll along the Venetian Walls for the best view of the Città Bassa, which is the lower, newer district of Bergamo, built in the 18th century and make sure to head over to Via XX Settembre which has the best shopping outlets in the city.
The first thing you’ll notice flying into Bergamo Airport is the stunning Italian Alps which surround the province. You’ll find a range of different ski resorts dotted throughout Bergamo with alpine skiing, snowboarding and ice-skating all on the agenda.
Home to one of the country’s busiest airports, Bergamo is considered one of Italy’s main transport hub. With a variety of city buses and trains available, getting around this province is pretty easy.
Unlike Milan, Bergamo does not have a subway system, therefore its accessibility is a little bit more limited. The majority of public transport is served by bus and the major lines run every 10 minutes during the day.
Orio al Serio International Airport is Italy’s third busiest airport in terms of passenger traffic and it is an excellent and convenient gateway into the northern part of the country.
Buses in Bergamo run from the airport, down Città Bassa (Lower City) and up towards Città Alta (Upper City). There are also a range of coaches which will bring you from Orio al Serio airport directly to Milan Central Station, Bergamo Railway Station or to the funicular for €7.
The best way to travel from the Lower City (the newer district) towards the Upper City (older district) is by funicular. This is an ancient railway transportation system which will see you ascend high above the city.
The funicular is always fun for new visitors and it’s a brilliant way to enjoy an incredible view of Bergamo’s landscape. A good tip: the best way to truly appreciate the Old Town’s excellent sites and rich history is by walking around its cobblestoned streets on foot.
While bus is the most popular form of transportation, you can also travel through Bergamo by train (there are transport hubs throughout the province) and by tram via the Bergamo–Albino tramway. Taxis are also an option, but they are a lot more expensive.
Bergamo has a delicious local cuisine, with pasta and polenta dishes featuring heavily on menus. The following are some great places to sample traditional dishes.
Il Circolino: A truly unique lunch experience, this is a former prison which has been transformed into one of Bergamo’s most popular eating establishments. The food is wonderful, the atmosphere is warm and welcoming and the staff are helpful and friendly. P.S. Look up – the ceilings are covered in beautiful, ancient frescoes.
Al Vecchio Tagliere: A small, intimate restaurant located downtown which serves up delightful Italian, Mediterranean and vegetarian dishes perfect for dinner. It has a homely feel and you’re made feel welcome the minute you walk in the door. Al Vecchio Tagliere’s tortelli is a treat, plus it has a lovely, open courtyard which is perfect for dining outside during spring and summer.
Il Coccio: A busy, charming little spot perfect for a traditional Italian meal which won’t break the bank. Lunch will only set you back between €7 and €15, with fresh, tasty home cooked food on offer. Take-out is available and seating is limited due to Il Coccio’s small, cosy setting.
- For more information on places to see in Lombardy visit in-Lombardia.it
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