Experience the enchanting charm of Bergamo in a day! Discover the historic Città Alta and the lively Città Bassa, and immerse yourself in Italy's rich culture.
Italy is a country brimming with cities that leave you swooning, but Bergamo stands out as a hidden gem that’s equal parts historic and enchanting. It’s a city of two worlds: the lively Città Bassa (‘lower city’) and the captivating Città Alta (‘upper city’), perched high above; originally settled by Celtic tribes, it became a Roman municipality named Bergamum in 196 BCE, laying the foundation for its grid-like streets and ancient ruins.
During the Middle Ages, Bergamo was ruled by the Lombards before becoming an independent commune. However, its autonomy didn’t last long. In 1428, the Venetian Republic took control, ushering in a golden era. The Venetians fortified Città Alta with impressive defensive walls, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Today, Bergamo blends its Roman, medieval, and Venetian heritage with a vibrant modern identity, offering visitors a chance to walk through centuries of history in a single day. It’s a living testament to Italy’s layered past. If you’re wondering what to do in Bergamo, let me take you on a personal journey through its layered charm.
A Day in Bergamo, Starting in Città Bassa
Città Bassa, the city’s lower town, is the perfect place to start your adventure, especially if you’re walking into the city from the railway station in Bergamo (simply walk directly out, heading down the main street in front of the station’s entrance in the direction of the old city you’ll see perched up on the hill in the distance). This bustling area might be more ‘modern’ than its older counterpart above, but it still carries a charm that’s uniquely Italian. Wandering through its wide boulevards, you’ll notice the distinctive blend of Renaissance-era architecture mingling with contemporary flair.
The streets are alive with activity, from locals chatting over espresso at elegant cafés to boutique owners arranging displays that could double as works of art. Don’t miss the grand Piazza Matteotti, where fountains and manicured greenery invite you to pause and soak in the vibe, whether walking directly through or stopping to sit on a bench with a snack picked up from one of the small vendors that frequently set up along the pathways. From here, a short walk leads you to the stunning Sentierone, a pedestrian promenade where you can window-shop or grab a pastry at one of Bergamo’s historic pasticcerie (yes, I obviously encourage you to get as many delicious snacks as possible during your time here).
Foodies will adore Bergamo Bassa’s trattorias, where hearty polenta dishes and fresh pasta are menu staples. If you’re lucky enough to visit on a market day, you’ll find stalls brimming with everything from vibrant produce to handmade crafts. The energy here is infectious and the perfect precursor to the more tranquil atmosphere awaiting you in Città Alta.
Ascending to Città Alta, Bergamo’s Timeless Treasure
Getting to Città Alta is an adventure in itself (and can be a bit embarrassing if you’re out of shape, climbing up the steep side streets, and are wheezing your lungs out of your throat in front of your travel companions…ahem, oops). You can hike up the winding paths if you’re feeling energetic, but for a touch of nostalgia, hop on the funicular. Personally, I walked up to take in the beautiful views during sunlight hours and then took the funicular on the way down; in theory though, you can use either option in either—or both—directions. Either way, this charming little railway offers a slow, scenic ascent, giving you glimpses of the old city walls and lush greenery along the way. By the time you step out, you’ll feel as though you’ve entered another era.
The medieval charm of Città Alta is immediately apparent. Narrow cobblestone streets meander between ancient stone buildings adorned with ivy and flower boxes. Small boutiques line the pathways, offering artisanal goods, from handmade jewellery to locally sourced olive oils. Exploring at your own pace is the best way to experience this area; there’s something magical about getting slightly lost in its maze-like streets and popping into whatever stores catch your attention.
One of the highlights you must see though, are the Venetian Walls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that circles the upper city. Walking along these historic fortifications provides breathtaking views of the lower town, rolling hills, and distant mountains. The mix of history and scenery here is unparalleled, and if you opt to climb up from Città Bassa, you’ll enter directly through one of the gates that dot these ancient walls.
The Beating Heart of Città Alta in Piazza Vecchia
Every Italian town seems to have a square that serves as its communal living room of sorts, and for Bergamo’s Città Alta, it’s Piazza Vecchia. This picturesque square feels like a postcard brought to life, with its iconic Contarini Fountain at the centre and elegant buildings framing the space. It’s so dreamy, and an incredible spot to take lots of photos.
The piazza is a hive of activity. Locals sip coffee at outdoor tables, tourists snap selfies with the stunning Palazzo della Ragione, and street performers add a touch of whimsy as they sing anything from classic Italian folk songs to modern and popular English tunes. It’s the kind of place where you can sit for hours, nursing a cocktail and snacking on an aperitivo while people-watching to your heart’s content.
If it’s open, be sure to climb the Civic Tower, or Campanone, for an even more spectacular view of the piazza and beyond. The bells still ring every evening, a nod to the medieval curfew once enforced here for the civilian’s protection from potential invaders. Nearby, the Biblioteca Civica Angelo Mai offers a quiet retreat for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike; they also often have exhibits inside, typically free to enter during its opening hours.
Taking in Bergamo Cathedral and Santa Maria Maggiore
A short walk from Piazza Vecchia leads you to Bergamo’s two iconic churches—the Duomo and the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. Each offers its own unique splendour, but together, they create a spiritual and architectural experience you won’t forget. The Duomo, dedicated to Saint Alexander, is a relatively understated beauty compared to some Italian cathedrals, but its serene interior feels like a sanctuary. By contrast, Santa Maria Maggiore dazzles with its intricate frescoes, ornate carvings, and gilded details.
The Colleoni Chapel, attached to the basilica, is a masterpiece in its own right, with a façade that looks as though it was sculpted by angels. Inside, the chapel is a riot of Renaissance detail, from colourful mosaics to breathtaking frescoes. Whether you’re religious or not, it’s impossible not to feel a sense of awe in these sacred spaces. The art, the architecture…it’s all pure magic and makes you want to sit down on a church pew and take it all in for as long as possible.
Satisfy Your Appetite with Bergamo’s Food Scene
No day in Bergamo is complete without indulging in its culinary offerings, which reflect the city’s mix of traditions and creativity. Start with a slice of polenta e osei, a dessert that mimics the hearty savoury dish, but is made entirely of sweet ingredients.
Città Alta is dotted with trattorie and osterie where you can savour casoncelli, Bergamo’s signature pasta stuffed with meat, breadcrumbs, and herbs. Vegetarians will find plenty to love too, with dishes highlighting seasonal vegetables and robust cheeses like Taleggio.
For an afternoon pick-me-up, stop by one of the local cafés for gelato or a thick Italian hot chocolate—an indulgence so rich that it feels like dessert in a cup (in fact, you typically eat it with a spoon!). Many places offer outdoor seating, letting you enjoy your treats while soaking up the timeless atmosphere of Città Alta.
Wrapping Up Your Day with Sunset and Souvenirs
As the day winds down, head to one of the lookout points for a Bergamo sunset. The golden light washes over the terracotta rooftops and casts long shadows across the ancient walls, creating a scene so beautiful, you’ll want to capture it in your memory forever.
Before you descend back to Città Bassa, take a moment to browse the shops for souvenirs. Handcrafted ceramics, artisanal olive oils, and local wines make excellent keepsakes or gifts. Though beautiful, the journey down the funicular feels bittersweet as the city lights begin to twinkle, and you know your day in Bergamo is coming to an end.
All in All
Bergamo is more than just a day trip; it’s a city that captures your heart and sparks your curiosity. Its perfect blend of history, culture, and culinary offerings makes it a destination worth exploring when visiting northern Italy. Whether you’re strolling through Bergamo’s Città Bassa or losing yourself in the magic of Città Alta, every moment here feels like a treasure waiting to be uncovered.
If you’re planning your next Italian adventure, do not overlook this gem. Pack your walking shoes, your appetite, and your sense of adventure, and discover for yourself what to do in Bergamo.
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