Bergamo, Italy Travel Guide
The Most Underrated City Near Milan
If you’re looking for an authentic Italian destination without the crowds of Milan, then Bergamo should be at the top of your list.
Located in northern Italy, just one hour from Milan, Bergamo offers historic charm, stunning views, incredible food, and a much more local vibe.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know – from what to see and where to eat to the best time to visit.
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Why Visit Bergamo?
Bergamo is divided into two parts: the modern lower town (Città Bassa) and the historic old town (Città Alta), which sits on a hill surrounded by Venetian walls.
What made Bergamo so special for us is that is has so much life – and we do not mean tourist life, NO! Real authentic local life. People singing and shouting in italian, Football Fans wearing Atalanta Hats and Shirts and it’s not crowded at all.
- Fewer tourists than Milan or Lake Como
- Beautiful medieval architecture
- Amazing food at local prices
- Perfect for a day trip or weekend getaway
How to Get to Bergamo
✈️ By plane
Bergamo has its own airport: Milan Bergamo Airport (Orio al Serio).
It’s one of the main hubs for low-cost airlines in Italy.
🚆 By train
From Milan, you can reach Bergamo in about 1 hour by train.
🚗 By car
Easy drive from Milan, Lake Como, or Brescia. Driving in Bergamo itself is not even too bad. Rome and Milan are worse…
Best Things to Do in Bergamo
Explore Città Alta (Old Town)
The highlight of Bergamo is definitely the historic upper town.
Must-see spots:
- Piazza Vecchia – the heart of the old town
- Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore – stunning interior with rich details
- Cappella Colleoni – one of the most beautiful Renaissance buildings in Italy
Take your time to just wander through the small streets – that’s where Bergamo really shines.
Ride the Funicular
One of the best experiences is taking the historic funicular up to Città Alta.
It connects the lower and upper town and offers amazing views along the way.
Walk Along the Venetian Walls
The Venetian Walls of Bergamo are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and surround the entire old town.
Perfect for:
- Sunset walks
- Panoramic views
- Photos over the city and mountains
Discover Città Bassa
The lower town is more modern but still worth exploring.
Here you’ll find:
- Shopping streets
- Cafés and restaurants
- A more local, everyday Italian vibe
Where to Eat in Bergamo
Bergamo is known for hearty, traditional dishes from the Lombardy region.
Typical food to try:
- Casoncelli (stuffed pasta)
- Polenta
- Pizza per kilo
- Local wines
Recommended spots:
- Il Fornaio – pizza al taglio (by weight)
- PolentOne – tiny takeaway window with real Lombard Polenta
- Il Circolino – authentic & budget friendly
- La Marianna – birthplace of stracciatella ice cream
- Ristorante Lalimentari – bet pasta in town
- Wine bars for aperitivo in the evening
Best Time to Visit Bergamo
🌸 April – June
Perfect weather, fewer tourists, and everything is in bloom
☀️ July – August
Warm and lively, but can be hot
🍂 September – October
Ideal temperatures and beautiful autumn colors
❄️ Winter
Quiet and atmospheric, especially around Christmas
How Long to Stay
- 1 day → perfect for a day trip from Milan
- 2–3 days → ideal to explore at a relaxed pace
- Combine with Lake Como or other northern Italy destinations
Final Thoughts
Bergamo is one of those places that feels like a hidden gem – even though it’s so easy to reach.
If you’re planning a trip to northern Italy and want something more authentic, less crowded, and still incredibly beautiful, Bergamo is the perfect choice.
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