Bergamo
A medieval upper town reached by funicular, with Alpine views and casoncelli pasta.
About Bergamo
Bergamo is two cities in one. The Città Bassa (lower town) is a prosperous, modern Lombard city with elegant avenues and excellent restaurants. The Città Alta (upper town) is a perfectly preserved medieval jewel, reached by funicular and enclosed within massive Venetian walls—now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Within the walls, Piazza Vecchia is one of Italy's most beautiful squares, and the Colleoni Chapel's Renaissance facade is a riot of colour and carved marble. The views from the walls stretch from the Po Valley to the Alpine foothills. Bergamo's food culture is hearty and distinctive: casoncelli (meat-filled pasta with butter and sage), polenta taragna with cheese, and Valcalepio wines from the nearby hills.
Best Time to Visit
April to June or September to October. The Città Alta is magical in autumn mist. Summer evenings on the terrace of the upper town are enchanting. Winter brings a cosy atmosphere and fewer crowds.
Local Tips
- Take the funicular at sunset.
The funicular to the Città Alta is an experience in itself. A local will time your ride for late afternoon, when the golden light hits the Venetian walls and the views from the terrace are at their most spectacular.
- Walk the Venetian walls.
The 6km circuit of UNESCO-listed walls offers panoramic views in every direction. A local knows the best access points, the hidden bastions, and where to stop for a glass of Valcalepio wine along the way.
- Eat casoncelli in the upper town.
Bergamo's signature pasta—meat-filled parcels dressed in butter, sage, and pancetta—varies from restaurant to restaurant. A local knows which family-run trattoria in the Città Alta makes the best version.
(the local lens)
Meet the Local Experts
Your on-the-ground insiders . The ones who know the enduring favourites, the quiet corners and what’s worth your time.
Nandor
Como, Milan +3
0.0(0 reviews)I help travelers discover the Italian Lakes, from the villages of Lake Como to the streets of Milan through the stories that shaped them. I’m Nándor, a professional tour leader and guide based in Northern Italy, guiding travelers across Milan, Lake Como, and Lago Maggiore. Originally from Hungary, I’ve spent years leading tours across Europe and now focus on sharing the culture, landscapes, and hidden corners of Northern Italy. I love connecting places with the history behind them, from Milan’s historic streets to medieval lake towns, monasteries, and mountain viewpoints I’m also passionate about storytelling and games. I design immersive experiences and enjoy board games, strategy games, and historical stories, which means I naturally approach travel as a journey full of characters, history, and discovery. When I’m not guiding, you’ll usually find me kayaking on Lago Maggiore, hiking in the hills above the lake, or researching the region's medieval history.
Kristine
Trento, Bolzano +6
5.0(5 reviews)I’m Kristine from Love Your Italy, and I will help you plan your dream trip to the Dolomites and Northern Italy. Having lived in Northern Italy and explored the region extensively, I design trips that flow naturally, feel beautifully paced, and let you fully enjoy the area. Whether you’re dreaming of mountain hikes, lakeside towns, or a slower journey through northern cities, I help you plan with clarity, confidence, and a sense of excitement. Book here to plan your Italy trip with confidence.