11 Awesome Things to Do in Bergamo for First-Timers

11 Best Things to Do in Bergamo

1. Enter the Upper Town Through Porta San Giacomo

One of the first things you will have to do when you arrive in Bergamo is to get to the Upper Town or as it is also known as Citta Alta. There are several ways to get up there but the best way is hands down, to hike from the bottom to the top and enter through Porta San Giacomo.

Porta San Giacomo is a beautiful city gate located in the ancient walls that surround the Citta Alta and serves as the main entrance to the old town. Built in the 16th century, the gate is a beautiful example of Renaissance architecture and features intricate carvings and sculptures that tell the story of the city's long and rich history.

As you pass through the gate, you will find yourself in the heart of the Citta Alta. The narrow cobblestone streets, lined with charming shops and cafes, offer a glimpse into the city's past.

To start hiking to the Upper Town, you will first have to get yourself from the train station to the trailhead which is located a bit west of the Upper Town funicular station. The walk from the train station should take about 30 minutes and from the trailhead, it is a rather simple hike on a cobblestone street that should take you up to the Upper Town in about 10 minutes.

Of course, you can also take the funicular from the Citta Alta funicular station for around 1.5 EUR per person but you will be arriving way uphill and you will have to backtrack your way down to see Porta San Giacomo.

Or if you prefer to walk down instead of up, you can take the funicular up, explore the Upper Town, and then check out the gate on your way down. Going down should be much easier than going up to the Upper Town. Definitely one of the best things to do in Bergamo so be sure to check it out.

2. Walk Along the Venetian Walls of the Upper Town

While you enter the Porta San Giacomo gate, be sure to look back and admire the view of Bergamo city and its surrounding. Continue through the gate and go for a stroll along the impressive Venetian Walls for a sweeping view of Bergamo.

These impressive and formidable walls were built during the 16th and 17th centuries by the Venetian Republic, which controlled Bergamo at the time, to protect the city against uninviting guests and invaders.

The walls are an impressive feat of engineering, stretching for over 4 kilometers and reaching a height of up to 15 meters in some places. They are made of brick and stone, and feature towers, bastions, and fortifications that offer a glimpse into the military history of the city.

The Venetian Walls are also home to a number of charming gardens and parks, such as the Cinta Muraria di Bergamo, which is located just east of the Porta San Giacomo gate that offers an incredible panoramic view of the city while offering a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.

While you are in the Upper Town of Bergamo, be sure to spend some time and walk along these walls and check out the view of Bergamo from all sides. The view of the city from above is quite a sight to behold.

3. Hang out at Piazza Vecchia Bergamo Alta

Once you enter the Upper Town of Bergamo, the first place you should begin exploring is Piazza Vecchia Bergamo Alta, which is the old town square right at the heart of Bergamo's Upper Town, surrounded by some of the city's most important buildings, which make for a perfect place to start your exploration.

The square is a popular gathering place for both locals and visitors as well as a great spot to hang out, go people-watching, and take in the sights and sounds of the city. The square is also home to a number of charming cafes and restaurants where you can indulge yourself in a coffee or a meal while taking in the views of the square.

The square is also connected all the branching charming streets and narrow alleys of Citta Alta together, inviting you to explore the city and discover its beautiful buildings, rich history, and interesting culture.

If you visit Bergamo on the right day, you might also be able to attend the "Festa delle Ciliegie" (Cherry Festival) which is often held right here in the spring every year as well as other seasonal festivals like the Christmas Market, etc.

If you want to explore Bergamo's Upper Town and are not sure where to begin or you are looking for a nice place to sit back and relax as you enjoy Bergamo's vibe, Piazza Vecchia Bergamo Alta is the best place to be.

4. Be Amazed by the Ancient Frescoes at Chiesa Di San Michele Al Pozzo Bianco

On your way to Piazza Vecchia Bergamo Alta, you might also wanna check out Chiesa Di San Michele Al Pozzo Bianco, a small little church that was founded way back in the 8th Century and located on the outer rim of the Upper Town.

While nothing remains of the old church, inside, you will find a collection of some of the most beautiful frescoes out there in a variety of styles including the Byzantine style that was created in the 15th Century.

The colorful frescoes are mostly concentrated around the altar area but you will find some of them scattered throughout the walls of the church. It is a small church that I just randomly encountered and the beautiful frescoes really took me by surprise.

If you are out and about exploring the Upper Town of Bergamo or on a stroll along the medieval walls, be sure to drop by this church. The church is open from 9 AM to 5 PM every day and it is free to enter.

5. Admire the Stunning Frescoes inside Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore

While you are at Piazza Vecchia Bergamo Alta, you will find Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, one of the city's most important religious and architectural landmarks that dated all the way back to the 12th century, and it is a must-visit place while you are in Bergamo.

The basilica is known for its impressive exterior, which features a mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance styles. The facade is adorned with sculptures and frescoes that tell the story of the city's history and its patron saint, Saint Alexander.

Inside, the basilica is equally impressive, with a grand nave, chapels, and a beautiful apse adorned with frescoes, which are considered some of the finest examples of medieval art in Northern Italy.

This is the best feature of the basilica in my opinion. I can barely keep my eyes off its incredibly beautiful and extremely detailed frescoes that covered every inch of the basilica from the ceiling to the walls. It is so mesmerizing, it is hard to describe in words!

The basilica also houses an important and impressive collection of art and religious artifacts, including a wooden choir, the "Madonna and Child" painting by Lorenzo Lotto, and massive tapestries that will blow your socks off.

The basilica is open from 9 AM to 12:30 PM and again from 2:30 PM to 6 PM on weekdays while on the weekends, the basilica is open from 9 AM to 1 PM and again from 3 PM to 6 PM. The entrance fee is 3 EUR per person. Trust me, seeing the interior of the basilica is worth every dime. Definitely one of the best things to do in Bergamo.

6. Stop By Bergamo Cathedral

Located right at in the heart of the old town, Bergamo Cathedral is another important landmark in Bergamo built all the way back in the 12th Century and it is a must-visit place while you are exploring Citta Alta.

The Cathedral of Bergamo is an incredible example of Neo-Classical architecture that features an impressive facade adorned with sculptures, a grand nave, chapels, and an impressive dome towering over all the low-rise buildings of the Old Town.

Inside, you will also find a number of important works of art that adorned the seat of a bishop, whereas above the altar lies the iconic golden crown-like adornment that is unlike anything I've seen before.

The cathedral is open from 7:30 AM to 12:30 PM and again from 3 PM to 6:30 PM on weekdays while on weekends, it is open from 7 AM to 7 PM. Again, this cathedral is free to enter which I think is always awesome to see in a country like Italy.

7. Visit Cappella Colleoni

Located adjacent to the Cathedral of Bergamo, the Cappella Colleoni is another iconic landmark of the Citta Alta. This chapel is situated between the Cathedral and the Basilica, giving the impression that it is a part of the same complex. In reality, they are separate structures but both are worth visiting for their unique architectural and historical significance.

The chapel was built in the 15th century and is considered one of the most important examples of Renaissance architecture in Northern Italy. The exterior of the chapel is adorned with sculptures and frescoes, while the interior is richly decorated with frescoes and inlaid marble.

One of the most striking features of the chapel is the tomb of Bartolomeo Colleoni, a famous condottiere (mercenary captain) who fought for the Republic of Venice during the 15th century. The tomb is considered a masterpiece of Renaissance sculpture and is the work of the famous Italian sculptor, Andrea Riccio.

Unfortunately, taking photos inside is prohibited so I can only provide you with photos of its exterior. The church is open from 9 AM to 12:30 PM and again from 2 PM to 6 PM every day except Monday. The place is also free to enter.

8. Check Out the view from the top of Campanone

For a great viewpoint that offers the best views over the Upper Town's old square, I have to give it to Campanone or the Civic Tower, an old medieval tower, home to the largest bell in the Lombardy region of Italy.

Standing over 52 meters high above Citta Alta, Campanone offers the best vantage point over Bergamo's Old Town as well as the mountainous surroundings and the Torre Castello San Vigilio, a medieval fortress located even high up in the hills behind Bergamo Upper Town, which we will be visiting next.

You can access the observational deck via a staircase where you will either have to climb around 230 steps or you can go up the tower conveniently with the elevator.

The tower is open from 10 AM to 6 PM every day except Monday. The entrance fee to the Civic Tower is 5 EUR per person which will also include the archeological museum on the first floor as well as a temporary exhibition located on the second level of the tower.

You can also align your visit around noon to be able to witness the bell chiming for the longest time but be prepared to cover your ears since it can get extremely loud up there.

When I was visiting the tower in August, there was a cool art installation about a local movie being held on the second level of the tower. It was pretty cool. Don't forget to drop by after climbing the tower to see what other temporary exhibitions you might find.

9. Admire the view from Saint Vigilio Funicular

After exploring the beautiful Upper Town of Bergamo, I highly recommend you continue on even further and take the funicular to explore Torre Castello San Vigilio way uphill.

The funicular is accessible from the Upper Town at Funicolare S. Vigilio, which is only a few minutes' walk from the Old Town. From there you have to pay around 1.5 EUR to get up the hill. The journey should take around 10 minutes and along the way, you will be able to see the beautiful Bergamo Old Town from afar which is quite a sight to behold.

Once you arrive on the other end of the funicular ride at the Saint Vigilio Funicular Station, do not forget to turn back and check out the incredible view of the surroundings from the station. I think this is the best viewpoint to see Bergamo Old Town from afar, so be sure to check it out while you are in Bergamo.

10. Relax at Torre Castello San Vigilio

After you have taken the funicular up, you can stroll around the area and make your way to Torre Castello San Vigilio, a castle ruin that sits on top of a hill overlooking the city of Bergamo which is only a few minutes' walk away from where you got off the funicular.

The castle dates back to the 14th century and has been used for various purposes over the centuries, including as a military fortress, a prison, and a residence for the local nobility. Today, the castle is open to the public and visitors can explore its battlements, courtyards, and various rooms which contain historical artifacts.

The fortress doesn't get as many tourists as Bergamo Old Town which makes for a perfect place to escape the bustling crowds. The area around the fortress is also built like a park with lots of trees and vegetation to provide shade for a nice stroll as well as park benches with an incredible view over the surroundings.

The entrance to the castle is located here and from there, you can visit Torre Castello San Vigilio which may look abandoned from the outside but if you go inside and climb the tower up, you will get access to a park on top which offers an incredible view over the surrounding areas as well as a nice quiet place to sit and relax at.

You can spend around an hour or two, just relaxing and exploring this part of Bergamo before you make your way back to Bergamo Old Town via the same funicular station. The castle and the park are open from 9 AM - 5 PM

11. Explore the Lower Town of Bergamo

Last but not least, if you have more time in Bergamo, you can explore the Lower Town or as it is also known as Citta Bassa as well which is the more modern part of the city and is characterized by its wide streets, shops, and restaurants.

Despite the difference in architecture, the Lower Town is also rich in history with beautiful buildings like Chiesa dei Santi Bartolomeo e Stefano and Basilica of St. Alexander in Column that you can check out.

Since Bergamo train station is located in the Lower Town and you will have to walk through it to get to the Upper Town, you might as well stop by some of these attractions along the way and see what the Lower Town has to offer.

Further Reading for Northern Italy

I hope you found this Italian travel guide useful. If you want to read more about Italy, here is a selection of articles you might like:

• First time visiting Italy? Here are the 15 Best Places to Visit in Italy.
• Want to see the highlights of Italy in 2 weeks? Be sure to check out our 2-Week Backpacking Italy Itinerary.
• Want to travel around Italy for one month, from the Dolomites in the north to Sicily in the south? You're going to love this backpacking itinerary packed with information: One Month Backpacking Italy Itinerary.
• Looking for a complete itinerary for Northern Italy? Check out: 2 Weeks Backpacking Northern Italy Itinerary.
• Every trip to Northern Italy starts in Milan. If you are a first-timer, here are the 16 best things to do in Milan.
• Ah... Venice, the city of art, culture, and the birthplace of the Renaissance. You just can't visit Italy without seeing it with your own eyes. To help you plan a trip there, here are the 15 best things to do in Venice.
• Planning a trip to Lake Como but not sure where to begin? Check out the 10 Best Places to Visit in Lake Como.
• For a complete backpacking guide to Lake Como, check out: The 3-Day Lake Como Itinerary For Those Without A Car.
• Want to visit Lake Como as a day trip from Milan? Check out: One-Day Lake Como Itinerary from Milan.
• For an off-the-beaten-path place to visit in Northern Italy, you can't go wrong with Bologna. For a complete travel guide, check out the 10 Best Things to Do in Bologna.
• Want to explore the Dolomites but not sure where to begin? Check out the 10 Best Places to Visit in the Dolomites.
• For a complete backpacking itinerary for the Dolomites, check out the 7 Days Dolomites Itinerary For Those Without A Car.
• At the heart of sunny Tuscany lies Florence, one of the most beautiful cities to visit in Italy. If you are planning to visit Florence, check out: 16 Best Things to Do in Florence.
• Cinque Terre, known for its picturesque stacked houses on cliffs and coastlines, is the perfect destination for those looking to escape the bustling city life in Northern Italy. To start planning, be sure to check out: A Complete Guide to Backpacking Cinque Terre.
• Planning to visit Pisa and the Leaning Tower? Check out: 10 Best Things to do in Pisa.
• Siena, a medieval town in Tuscany, will transport you back to the Middle Ages the moment you step in it. If you want to visit Siena, here are the 10 Best Things to do in Siena.
• For a complete 7-day backpacking itinerary in Central Italy that will take you from Rome to Pompeii to the Amalfi Coast, be sure to check out: 7 Days Backpacking Central Italy Itinerary.
• Not convinced by my words? Here are 125 photos that will inspire you to visit Europe.
• To see all the articles about Italy, visit the Italy Travel Guide page.
• Traveling in Europe can be cheap, really cheap. These are the 12 Cheap European Countries to Visit.
• Looking for more travel guides for Europe? You can find more on my Europe Travel Guide page.
• Or if you want something more specific to the region, visit our Southern Europe Travel Guide, Western Europe Travel Guide, or Central Europe Travel Guide pages.
• For more travel guides like this, visit my Destinations page.