Map Of Bergamo Italy: Your Ultimate Travel Guide
If you’re planning a trip to Italy, make sure to include Bergamo in your itinerary. Located in the Lombardy region, this charming city boasts of beautiful architecture, rich history, and delicious food. To make the most out of your visit, here is a comprehensive travel guide that covers everything you need to know about Bergamo.
Top Attractions
Bergamo is divided into two parts: the Città Alta (Upper Town) and the Città Bassa (Lower Town). The Città Alta is the historic center of Bergamo and is surrounded by Venetian walls. Here are the top attractions you should visit:
Piazza Vecchia
This picturesque square is the heart of the Città Alta. It is surrounded by historic buildings, including the Palazzo della Ragione, the Torre del Comune, and the Biblioteca Civica. You can relax and people-watch in one of the outdoor cafes or stroll around the square and take in the beautiful architecture.
Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore
This impressive church is one of the most important landmarks in Bergamo. It was built in the 12th century and features stunning frescoes and artwork. Don’t miss the beautiful rose window and the crypt.
Castello di San Vigilio
Located on top of a hill overlooking Bergamo, the Castello di San Vigilio offers breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding mountains. You can hike up to the castle or take the funicular from the Città Bassa.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences, Bergamo has plenty of hidden gems to discover. Here are some suggestions:
Colleoni Chapel
This small chapel is located next to the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore and is often overlooked by tourists. However, it features stunning frescoes and beautiful marble work. Don’t miss the intricate details of the ceiling.
Santuario di San Giovanni Battista
This beautiful church is located in the Città Bassa and is dedicated to St. John the Baptist. It features a stunning baroque interior and beautiful artwork. Don’t miss the crypt and the rooftop terrace.
Food Scene
Bergamo is known for its delicious food, especially its pasta dishes and polenta. Here are some restaurants you should try:
Da Mimmo
This cozy restaurant is located in the Città Bassa and serves homemade pasta dishes and local specialties. Don’t miss the casoncelli alla bergamasca, a type of ravioli filled with meat and served with butter and sage.
Trattoria Parietti
This traditional restaurant is located in the Città Alta and serves delicious polenta dishes. Don’t miss the polenta taragna, a type of polenta made with buckwheat flour and served with cheese and sausage.
Budget-Friendly Tips
If you’re traveling on a budget, here are some tips to save money in Bergamo:
Take the bus
The bus is a cheap and convenient way to get around Bergamo. You can buy a ticket at the station or on board.
Visit the free attractions
There are plenty of free attractions in Bergamo, such as the Piazza Vecchia and the Colleoni Chapel. Don’t miss the opportunity to see these beautiful landmarks without spending a penny.
Outdoor Adventures
Bergamo is surrounded by beautiful mountains and is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some outdoor activities you can do:
Hiking
Bergamo has plenty of hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding mountains. Don’t miss the hike to the Castello di San Vigilio or the Valle Brembana.
Biking
Bergamo is a bike-friendly city, and there are plenty of bike paths to explore. You can rent a bike at one of the many rental shops in the Città Bassa.
Family-Friendly Activities
If you’re traveling with kids, Bergamo has plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy. Here are some suggestions:
Città Alta Playground
This playground is located in the Città Alta and features swings, slides, and climbing structures. It is the perfect place for kids to burn off some energy.
Bergamo Adventure Park
This adventure park is located in the Parco dei Colli and features zip lines, rope courses, and other outdoor activities. It is the perfect place for older kids and teenagers.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for unique experiences in Bergamo, here are some suggestions:
Cimitero Monumentale
This impressive cemetery is located in the Città Bassa and features beautiful sculptures and monuments. It is the final resting place of many famous Bergamaschi.
Teatro Donizetti
This beautiful theater is named after the famous Italian composer Gaetano Donizetti and hosts concerts and performances throughout the year. Don’t miss the opportunity to see a show in this stunning venue.
Natural Wonders
Bergamo is surrounded by beautiful natural wonders, such as lakes and mountains. Here are some places you should visit:
Lago d’Iseo
This beautiful lake is located about an hour away from Bergamo and is the perfect place for a day trip. You can swim, kayak, or hike around the lake.
Parco delle Orobie Bergamasche
This beautiful park is located in the Bergamo Alps and offers breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys. You can hike, bike, or ski in the park, depending on the season.
Vibrant Nightlife
Bergamo has a vibrant nightlife scene, especially in the Città Alta. Here are some places you should check out:
La Marianna
This cozy bar is located in the Città Alta and serves delicious cocktails and wine. Don’t miss the opportunity to try the local wine, such as the Valcalepio.
Bar Mario
This historic bar is located in the Città Bassa and serves delicious aperitifs and beer. Don’t miss the opportunity to try the local beer, such as the Baladin.
Local Markets
If you’re looking for local products and souvenirs, Bergamo has plenty of markets to explore. Here are some suggestions:
Mercato delle Scarpe
This market is located in the Città Bassa and sells shoes and bags made by local artisans. Don’t miss the opportunity to buy a unique and handmade souvenir.
Mercato Civico
This food market is located in the Città Alta and sells local products and specialties. Don’t miss the opportunity to try the local cheese, such as the Taleggio.
Beaches and Mountains
Bergamo is located in the middle of beautiful mountains and lakes, and it is the perfect destination for those who want to combine beach and mountain activities. Here are some suggestions:
Lake Como
This beautiful lake is located about an hour away from Bergamo and is the perfect place for a day trip. You can swim, kayak, or hike around the lake.
Brembana Valley
This beautiful valley is located in the Bergamo Alps and offers breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys. You can hike, bike, or ski in the valley, depending on the season.
Cultural Immersion
Bergamo has a rich cultural heritage, and there are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture. Here are some suggestions:
Accademia Carrara
This museum is located in the Città Alta and features a collection of Italian art from the 15th to the 19th century. Don’t miss the opportunity to see works by Botticelli, Bellini, and Raphael.
Donizetti Museum
This museum is located in the Città Bassa and is dedicated to the life and work of the famous Italian composer Gaetano Donizetti. Don’t miss the opportunity to see his original scores and manuscripts.
Art and Music Scene
Bergamo has a vibrant art and music scene, and there are plenty of events and performances throughout the year. Here are some suggestions:
Bergamo Jazz Festival
This annual festival takes place in March and features world-renowned jazz musicians. Don’t miss the opportunity to see live performances in beautiful venues, such as the Teatro Donizetti.
Arte Fiera