About Bergamo
Sprawling in the shadows of the majestic Italian Alps, Bergamo is one of the largest cities in Italy’s Lombardy region. Established in the 6th century, the city has a rich and multifaceted past, with roots in industry, artistry, and commerce.
Modern transport methods weave between primitive castles, historic churches, and dramatic theaters. The Milan Bergamo Airport is just south of the city center and is one of Italy’s largest airports, welcoming over 12 million passengers annually.
Ground transportation in Bergamo is diverse; the funicular (cable car) system runs throughout the city, and Northern Italy’s well-traveled Autostrada A4 connects Bergamo to other popular Italian cities like Milan and Venice. Train travel is also an option via regional routes running through the Bergamo railway station.
Some of Bergamo’s top attractions are nature-based. The nearby Italian Alps are within easy reach by bus or car, and Lake Iseo is just an hour’s drive east of the city, offering opportunities for adventure, water recreation, and relaxation.
Fun Fact: Bergamo is divided into two distinct sections; the Citta Alta (upper city) and the Citta Bassa (lower city). The upper district is where most of the city’s oldest structures can be found, while the lower district houses the majority of Bergamo’s residential neighborhoods.
Things to do in Bergamo
Some of Lombardy’s best attractions and cuisines can be appreciated in Bergamo. In this well-connected city, travelers can easily access shops and restaurants between stops at cultural hotspots.
Bergamo lodging options are varied, and staying a while is a must. From farmhouses and hostels to boutique hotels and houses in the mountains, there’s no limit to the experiences you can enjoy when you visit Bergamo.
Whether you’re in Bergamo for business or on a tour of Northern Italy’s best cities, you’ll enjoy modern city amenities, mountain views, and excellent Italian cuisine.
- Launch your daily explorations with an authentic Italian breakfast at Pasticceria Cavour. If your visit falls on a Sunday, don’t miss the cafe’s brunch.
- Delve into Bergamo’s history with stops by the Basilica of St. Mary Major and the neighboring Colleoni Chapel.
- Catch expansive views of the cityscape from the top of the Torre del Gombito tower; it’s worth the 260-step climb to the top.
- Treat yourself to traditional Italian pizza at Da Mimmo. Chefs with a passion for prep and processes create flavorful dishes with fresh ingredients and homemade dough.
- Escape the city by taking a scenic, one-hour bus ride to Lake Endine, where you can appreciate waterfront views and the park setting of La Casa del Pescatore.
- Get a bird’s-eye view of Bergamo and its surrounding terrain by embarking on an Italian Alps paragliding adventure. Flights span about 15 minutes; don’t forget your GoPro.
- Wind down with a delicious dinner at the mountainside Casa Clelia, an hour’s transit ride west of Bergamo. Most ingredients are sourced on-site, and menu offerings change often.
Transit Options in Bergamo
- Airplane (Milan Bergamo Airport)
- Funicular (cable car system)
- Light rail (Bergamo-Albino)
- Regional rail (Trenord and Trenitalia)
- Taxi
- Bus
- Car
Luggage Storage in Bergamo
Beyond the bustle of Bergamo is the lavish Lombardy region. The world-class, culture-packed city of Milan sparkles along the region’s west-central border, and top European destinations like Lake Como and the Italian Alps are within Lombardy’s bounds.
Regional rail and bus routes connect much of Lombardy, so it’s simple to reach all of the must-see sights. Touring the region without bags is best; before you go, take advantage of Bounce luggage storage in Bergamo. Then you won’t have to worry about anything but the mountain views.
Attractions and Activities near Bergamo
- Museo di Scienze Naturali e Archeologico: This family-friendly Bergamo museum features diverse exhibits highlighting thousands of years of natural history. Admission fees are reasonable, and access is easy; bus and funicular routes run nearby. During a visit, you can see how you measure up to the life-size wooly mammoth replica, spy on spider specimens sourced from all over the globe, and browse through thousands of rock samples.
- The Venitian Walls of Bergamo: A classic case of “if these walls could talk,” this 16th-century fortification was constructed to provide protection and tactical advantage. The elaborate wall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It spans three miles, with a “Covered Walk” for guard patrols, openings designed to accommodate cannons, and four towering entrances. Guided tours are offered, and provide a little insight into the structure’s past.
- Donizetti Museum: Delve into the story and scores of opera composer (and Bergamo native) Gaetano Donizetti at this music-themed museum. Exhibits feature artifacts, autographed musical scores, and objects owned by Donizetti. Here, you’ll learn about how Donizetti’s life and music were transformed over various Italian eras and have the opportunity to listen to some of the composer’s works.
- Orto Botanico di Bergamo: One of Bergamo’s top outdoor attractions, this botanical garden is the perfect place to enjoy an afternoon. Plan to spend much of your visit on foot; a rustic walkway weaves through the lush gardens. Before you visit, find luggage storage in Bergamo and drop off your gear; the last thing you need here is extra baggage. Once you’ve navigated your way to the top of the trail, you can take in sweeping views of Citta Alta.
- Lake Iseo: The shimmery waters of this mountain lake provide a tranquil escape from Bergamo’s urban vibes. It’s a fantastic day-trip destination, though its amenities and attractions could warrant a multi-day excursion. Hotels and restaurants line the lakeshore, and mountain-bike trails wind up the nearby mountains. Watersports are also popular pastimes here, so if you’re up for a little adventure, bring your best water apparel. To immerse yourself in the lake’s lush surrounds, slip on the hiking gear and head out on one of the dozens of trails.
Bergamo is just a train ride away from Verona, Milan, and Venice. If you plan on enjoying any of these cities for a few hours or few days, make sure to make use of all of the convenient Bounce luggage storage facilities in Italy.