The best things to do in Bergamo
Bergamo is a charming city located in Northern Italy, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The city is divided into two parts: the upper town, known as Città Alta, and the lower town, known as Città Bassa. Both areas offer a wealth of things to see and do, making it a perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation.
Explore Città Alta
Città Alta is the heart of Bergamo’s history and culture, and is home to many of the city’s most famous landmarks. The most notable of these is the Piazza Vecchia, which is considered one of the most beautiful squares in Italy. The square is surrounded by medieval buildings, including the Palazzo della Ragione and the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore. Visitors can also take a leisurely stroll along the charming cobblestone streets, lined with artisan shops and traditional restaurants.
Visit the Cittadella
The Cittadella is a fortress built in the 14th century, which offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains. The fortress is home to several museums, including the Museo Civico, which houses a collection of art and artifacts from the city’s history. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the fortress walls, which offers a unique perspective on the city’s layout and history.
Take the Funicular to San Vigilio
For breathtaking views of Bergamo and the surrounding mountains, take the funicular to the hilltop village of San Vigilio. At the top, visitors can explore the charming streets and enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants. The views from the hilltop are truly spectacular, and it is a great spot for photography.
Visit the Accademia Carrara
The Accademia Carrara is a art gallery that houses an extensive collection of paintings from the 14th to the 18th century, including works by Bellini, Raphael, and Botticelli. The gallery is located in the Palazzo della Ragione, in the heart of Città Alta, and is a must-see for art lovers visiting Bergamo.
Enjoy the local cuisine
Bergamo is known for its delicious local cuisine, which is heavily influenced by its location in the Lombardy region. Visitors should be sure to try some of the city’s famous dishes, such as polenta taragna (a type of polenta made with local cheeses and cornmeal), casonsei (a type of ravioli filled with meat or cheese), and bergamasc (a type of sausage). The city also has a thriving wine scene, with many local wineries producing excellent wines from the nearby Valcalepio and Franciacorta regions.
Take a day trip to Lake Iseo
Lake Iseo is located just a short train ride from Bergamo, and is a great destination for a day trip. The lake is surrounded by picturesque towns, including Iseo and Sarnico, and is a popular spot for swimming, boating, and fishing. Visitors can also take a boat tour to the small island of Montisola, which is the largest lake island in Europe.
Go skiing in the Orobie Alps
Bergamo is located in the foothills of the Orobie Alps, making it a great destination for winter sports enthusiasts. The nearby ski resorts of Foppolo, Carona and Schilpario offer a variety of slopes for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. In addition to skiing, visitors can also enjoy other winter activities such as snowshoeing, ice skating and even dog-sledding.
Relax in the Parco dei Colli
The Parco dei Colli is a large park located on the hills surrounding Bergamo. It is the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature, with hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the park to learn about its history and the plants and animals that call it home.
Take a cooking class
For a truly authentic Italian experience, take a cooking class and learn how to make some of the traditional dishes of Bergamo. Classes are usually held in local homes or in small cooking schools, and are taught by local chefs or food enthusiasts. Visitors will learn about the ingredients, techniques, and history behind the dishes and also get to enjoy a delicious meal at the end of the class.
In conclusion, Bergamo offers a wide variety of things to see and do, from exploring the charming medieval streets of Città Alta to skiing in the Orobie Alps. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or just looking for a relaxing getaway, Bergamo has something to offer for everyone.
