Bergamo(Italy) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

For stunning views of Città Alta, stay at Hotel Cavour, a historic boutique hotel nestled within the medieval hilltop district. Its terraced balconies offer panoramic vistas of the entire city and surrounding Alps. Alternatively, choose Hotel Duomo Bergamo in the lower town, which features rooftop terraces overlooking the old walls. Both properties combine authentic charm with modern comforts. For an immersive experience, book a room facing the Castello di Bergamo, where you can watch sunsets over the rooftops. These hotels are ideal for travelers seeking both elegance and proximity to cultural landmarks.

The best area for first-time visitors is Città Alta, the ancient upper town perched on a hill. Accessible via the scenic Ascensore elevator or a leisurely walk up Via Colleoni, this UNESCO-recognized district offers breathtaking views, cobblestone alleys, and historic sites like Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore. It’s perfect for exploring on foot, with charming cafes and artisan shops. While slightly steep, the journey rewards you with unforgettable panoramas. For convenience, consider staying in Città Bassa, the lower town, which has easy access to public transport and shopping, yet remains just a short ride from the old town.

In Bergamo, immerse yourself in local traditions by attending the Bergamo Music Festival, a summer event featuring world-class opera and classical concerts in open-air venues like Piazza Vecchia and Castello di Bergamo. Explore the Museo del Castello to learn about medieval warfare and regional history. Visit the Mercato Contadino farmers’ market to taste authentic Polenta con Formaggio and Gorgonzola cheese. Don’t miss a guided walking tour through Città Alta to discover hidden courtyards and Renaissance architecture. These experiences offer deep insight into Lombard heritage and daily life in northern Italy.

Yes, Hotel Duomo Bergamo is highly recommended for families, offering spacious rooms, a kids’ play area, and a small indoor pool. The hotel also provides free cribs and organizes family activities like pasta-making workshops. Another great option is Hotel Villa San Giacomo, located in a peaceful garden setting with ample outdoor space for children. Both hotels are close to Museo dei Bambini Bergamo and feature multilingual staff. They offer breakfast buffets with kid-friendly options and can arrange transportation to nearby attractions. Perfect for a stress-free family trip.

Must-try dishes in Bergamo include Polenta con Formaggio, a creamy cornmeal dish topped with aged Gorgonzola cheese, and Ossobuco alla Milanese, slow-cooked veal stew served with risotto. Sample Biscotti Bergamaschi, crisp almond cookies often enjoyed with espresso. Visit Trattoria da Pino, a centuries-old restaurant renowned for its traditional recipes. At local markets like Mercato del Centro, pick up fresh cheeses, cured meats, and seasonal produce. Many restaurants offer "Tavola Calda" self-service meals—affordable and diverse, ideal for experiencing authentic Lombard cuisine.

To reach Città Alta, take the Ascensore Bergamo elevator from Piazza Vecchia near the train station—it’s quick, accessible, and offers scenic views. Alternatively, walk up Via Colleoni or Via Roma, a 15-minute climb through historic streets. For those with luggage, the Ascensore is the most convenient option. Bus line 3 also connects the lower town directly to Città Alta. Avoid driving into the old town, as it’s pedestrian-only. Early morning visits offer quieter streets and better light for photography.

Top attractions in Bergamo include the Castello di Bergamo, a massive fortress with museums, ramparts, and sweeping views of the city. The Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore, with its Byzantine mosaics and elegant dome, is a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture. Explore Piazza Vecchia, the heart of the old town, surrounded by arcades and historic buildings. Don’t miss Palazzo della Ragione, a grand 12th-century civic hall now used for exhibitions. Nature lovers should visit the Riserva Naturale di Valle Seriana, a scenic park along the Serio River, perfect for hiking and cycling. All these sites are concentrated in Città Alta, making it ideal for a full-day itinerary.

For authentic souvenirs, visit Città Alta’s artisan boutiques selling handmade leather goods, ceramics, and traditional textiles. Bottega del Cuore specializes in locally crafted leather accessories. In Piazza Vecchia, find specialty food shops offering Gorgonzola cheese, Biscotti Bergamaschi, and olive oil. The Mercato del Centro hosts weekly farmers’ markets where you can buy fresh produce and homemade treats. For modern shopping, head to Via dei Mille, a bustling street with international brands and independent designers. Look out for seasonal pop-up stalls during festivals—they often feature limited-edition crafts and gifts.

Bergamo is well-connected by train, bus, and bike. The Bergamo Train Station links to Milan (30 min), Venice, and Turin. Use Bus Line 3 or the Ascensore to travel between Città Bassa and Città Alta. The city operates a Bike Sharing Bergamo system for eco-friendly exploration. Taxis and ride-sharing services are available, but parking in Città Alta is restricted. For day trips, take Ferrovie Nord Milano trains to Milan Central Station. Most hotels offer free parking in the lower town, but avoid driving into the old town due to pedestrian zones.

Key events in Bergamo include the Bergamo Music Festival (summer), featuring world-class opera and concerts in historic venues like Castello di Bergamo and Piazza Vecchia. The Festa della Madonna (August 15) celebrates the city’s patron saint with processions and folk performances. During winter, enjoy the Mercatino di Natale, a festive market in Piazza Vecchia with lights, mulled wine, and handmade gifts. These events highlight the city’s rich artistic tradition and community spirit, creating unforgettable memories for visitors.