Bergamo

Urban

Population: 121k

Best Season to Visit: Spring

Best Off-Peak Month to Visit: November

Famous For: Città Alta, Venetian walls, Donizetti Opera

Train Access: Yes (Trenitalia)

Bus Access: Yes (ATB, SAB Autoservizi, Flixbus)

Nestled in the Lombardy region of Italy, Bergamo is a captivating city that offers a blend of rich history, stunning architecture, and Italian charm. The city is divided into two distinct parts: the Città Alta (Upper Town), a hilltop medieval haven, and the Città Bassa (Lower Town), a vibrant modern center. Visitors can explore the Venetian walls of the Città Alta, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and wander through the Piazza Vecchia, the heart of the old city. The Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore and the Cappella Colleoni are architectural marvels, showcasing intricate frescoes and ornate facades. Bergamo's cuisine is a delight for foodies, with local specialties like casoncelli (stuffed pasta) and polenta, best enjoyed in the city's cozy osterias and trattorias. Outdoor enthusiasts can take the funicular to San Vigilio for panoramic views or hike in the nearby Parco dei Colli. Bergamo hosts several cultural events throughout the year, including the Donizetti Opera Festival, celebrating the city's famous composer. The city's art scene is vibrant, with galleries and museums such as the Accademia Carrara displaying impressive collections.

VRBO Vacation Rentals
Learn More

With over 2 million bookable vacation rentals, Vrbo connects homeowners with families and vacationers looking for something more than a hotel for their trip. The Vrbo community offers families an array of rental property types such as condos, cabins, lake rentals, beach houses, and more. Discover properties in destinations that everyone dreams of visiting.

VRBO Vacation Rentals

Planning Your Trip to Bergamo

Weather: Bergamo experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot summers, cold winters, and moderate rainfall throughout the year.

Festivals: The Donizetti Opera Festival and the Bergamo Jazz Festival are among the city's most celebrated events, drawing music lovers from around the world.

Best Things for Kids to Do: Children can enjoy the funicular rides to the Città Alta, explore the interactive exhibits at the Bergamo Science Museum, and play in the lush gardens of the Parco della Trucca.

Hidden Gem: The Rocca di Bergamo offers a less crowded historical experience with sweeping views of the city and surrounding landscape.

Accessibility: Bergamo's Città Bassa is relatively easy for older people to navigate with its more modern layout and amenities, while the Città Alta's historic cobblestone streets may pose some challenges.

For the Runner: The Venetian walls provide a picturesque route for running and walking with views of both the Città Alta and Città Bassa, while the Parco dei Colli offers natural trails for a more serene experience.

Restaurants in Bergamo

Bergamo offers a diverse culinary scene that caters to various tastes and budgets. Ristorante Lalimentari is a popular choice for those seeking high-end dining with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients. Trattoria Sant'Ambroeus offers a more moderately priced menu with traditional Italian dishes in a cozy setting. For casual dining, Da Mimmo serves authentic wood-fired pizzas at affordable prices, while Bruschetteria Nose offers a variety of bruschettas and a selection of craft beers. Lastly, Caffè della Funicolare provides a unique experience with its location by the funicular, offering simple fare and stunning views of the city.

Where to Stay

Bergamo hosts a range of hotels to accommodate visitors, from luxury to budget-friendly options. The Relais San Lorenzo is a high-end hotel offering elegant rooms and a fine dining restaurant, set within the historic upper city. For a mid-range option, the Hotel Excelsior San Marco provides comfortable accommodations with panoramic views of the lower city. Budget travelers can consider the Central Hostel BG, which offers basic but modern amenities in a convenient location close to the train station.

Best Hotels: Relais San Lorenzo, GombitHotel, Hotel Piazza Vecchia

Dog-Friendly Hotels: Petronilla Hotel, Mercure Bergamo Palazzo Dolci, Arli Hotel Business and Wellness

Bergamo

Planning Your Trip to Bergamo

Restaurants in Bergamo

Where to Stay

Recommended Reading