Bergamo: 3-Day Itinerary & Insider Tips

Discover the enchanting hilltop city of Bergamo, Italy! Explore charming cobblestone streets, admire stunning views, and savor authentic Italian cuisine. This detailed 3-day itinerary will help you plan your perfect Bergamo adventure, complete with insider tips for making the most of your trip.

Day 1 in Bergamo: A Day of Majestic Views and Artistic Wonders

Admire the Architectural Masterpiece of Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore

Begin your Bergamo adventure with a visit to the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, a stunning 12th-century Romanesque church. Immerse yourself in the rich history and artistry that adorn its walls and ceilings.

Conquer the Campanone for Panoramic Views

After your visit to the Basilica, ascend the iconic Campanone bell tower. Climb the 230 steps or take the lift to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of Bergamo and its surrounding mountains.

Discover Renaissance Splendor at the Colleoni Chapel

Next, step into the Colleoni Chapel, a Renaissance masterpiece adjacent to the Basilica. Admire the intricate architecture and artwork that adorn this magnificent mausoleum.

Stroll Along the Historic Venetian Walls

End your day with a leisurely stroll along the well-preserved Venetian walls. Enjoy stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains as you walk this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Day 2 in Bergamo: Exploring Bergamo's Hidden Gems

Uncover the Medieval Secrets of the Tempietto di Santa Croce

Start your day with a visit to the Tempietto di Santa Croce, an 11th-century chapel adorned with medieval frescoes. Discover the rich history and artistic heritage of this hidden gem.

Discover the Diversity of Bergamo's Botanical Garden

Escape the city bustle and explore the diverse plant species at the Bergamo Botanical Garden. Stroll through the serene gardens and learn about the fascinating world of flora.

Challenge Yourself with a Climb to the Torre di Gombito

For a more adventurous experience, conquer the steps of the Torre di Gombito. This climb will reward you with panoramic views of Bergamo from a different perspective.

Experience the Scenic Funicular Ride

End your day with a scenic ride on the Bergamo Funicular. This funicular will transport you between Bergamo's upper and lower towns, offering breathtaking views along the way.

Day 3 in Bergamo: A Day of Relaxation and Local Flavors

Discover the Diversity of Bergamo's Botanical Garden

Start your day with a relaxing stroll through the Bergamo Botanical Garden. Immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere and discover the diverse plant species that call this garden home.

Stroll Along the Historic Venetian Walls

After your visit to the garden, take a leisurely walk along the Venetian walls. Enjoy the fresh air and stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains.

Admire the Architectural Masterpiece of Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore

In the afternoon, revisit the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore. Take your time to appreciate the intricate details of its architecture and artwork.

Discover Renaissance Splendor at the Colleoni Chapel

End your day with a visit to the Colleoni Chapel. Admire the Renaissance architecture and artwork that adorn this magnificent mausoleum.

References

Transportation in Bergamo

To get around Bergamo, Italy, you have several options. The city has a funicular system that connects the lower town (Città Bassa) to the upper town (Città Alta), with two lines available: Funicolare Città Bassa – Città Alta (Linea FUN.C) and Funicolare di San Vigilio (Linea FSV). The funicular tickets are relatively affordable, with a one-way ticket price of 1.3€ and a 24-hour ticket for 3.5€. You can also use the regional train system "Regionali" for short distances, which has a fixed fare and doesn't require booking in advance. Additionally, you can walk or take a taxi, although the city is compact and easy to explore on foot. For longer trips, you can use the high-speed train Italo or Trenitalia, which connect Bergamo to other cities in Italy.

Dos in Bergamo

Learn some basic Italian phrases, such as "grazie" (thank you) and "per favore" (please), to show respect for the local culture.
Try the local cuisine, including traditional dishes from rural Lombardy and contemporary Italian cuisine, to experience the unique gastronomic scene.
Respect the local customs and traditions, especially when visiting churches and historical landmarks.
Explore the city on foot, as Bergamo's narrow streets and picturesque piazzas are best discovered by walking.
Try to avoid visiting during peak hours (usually between 12 pm and 3 pm) to avoid crowds and long lines.
Be prepared for variable weather, especially in the mountains, and pack accordingly.
Respect the local environment and try to reduce your plastic usage, especially when shopping at local markets.
Enjoy the local festivals and events, including the Bergamo Festival, to experience the city's vibrant cultural scene.

Don'ts in Bergamo

Don't assume that everyone speaks English, especially among the older population, so it's a good idea to download a translation app or carry a phrasebook.
Don't eat at touristy restaurants, instead opt for local trattorias and osterias for an authentic dining experience.
Don't tip excessively, as tipping in Italy is generally less than in other countries, and 1-2 euros per drink or 5-10% in restaurants is sufficient.
Don't rely solely on taxis, instead use public transportation, including buses and the funicular train, to get around the city.
Don't forget to validate your train tickets before boarding, as fines can be steep for unvalidated tickets.
Don't leave valuables unattended, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots, to avoid pickpocketing and petty theft.
Don't assume that all shops and restaurants accept credit cards, so it's a good idea to have some cash on hand.