Bergamo – is an ancient and a lovely city located in the northern part of Italy in the fascinating foothills of the Alps. By the way, it’s not a secret that Bergamo is also the nearest neighbor of Milan, but despite this, the city is the exact opposite of the Italian fashion capital.
It cannot boast of the numerous luxurious boutiques, shops and hi-tech buildings around, but it strikes with its unique architectural landmarks and with its special, relaxing atmosphere which is inherent only to small provincial cities.

So, in case you’re tired of the city’s hustle, want to escape from the endless traffic, or just dream of quiet and unforgettable weekend in the suburb of Milan, welcome to Bergamo. This amazing place will help you to forget about everything and feel a deep relaxation.
In addition, you can find below the most outstanding Bergamo’s activities…

Climb the charming Bergamo Alta

It’s interesting to know that Bergamo is divided into 2 different parts – the old Upper City (Bergamo Alta) and the new Lower City (Bergamo Bassa). Bergamo Alta consists of unique renaissance and medieval constructions: Piazza Vecchia, Palazzo Ragione are the most stunning architectural gems of the city. You can take an elevator to the top of the city tower and enjoy breathtaking sceneries of the whole Bergamo.

The Upper City is also proud of its amazing Colleoni Chapel – the church and at the same time a mausoleum, which was built in 1476.
Of course, in this part of the city you’ll find many other stunning historical buildings such as Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore or the church of San-Mikele al Pozzo.
By the way, the most interesting way to reach Bergamo Alta is using the funicular railway.
Address: Piazza Mercato delle Scarpe
Hours: daily 7am-11pm
Funicular price: 1.5 €

Enjoy the wildlife at the Le Cornelle

“Le Cornelle» – is not only the zoo, but also a research center, which takes part in the European program for the conservation of endangered animals and allows visitors to find out more about wild nature from around the world.

The park takes the territory of 10 hectares and this is a home for about 125 different species of animals including such unique individuals as snow leopards, white lions and tigers, Bennett kangaroos, African camels and cheetahs.
At “Le Cornelle” you have an opportunity to take a 1, 2 and 3-hour guided tour or explore the park on your own.
If necessary, a restaurant, a pizzeria, and several souvenir shops are also at your disposal there.
Address: Via Cornelle, 16
Ticket price: kids 9€, adults 11€
Working hours: February-November daily 9am-5pm

Taste an amazing pizza at Da Nasti Pizzeria

At first sight – this is just a common pizzeria, but when you get in – it’s really amazing. Have you ever seen more than 250 kinds of pizza in menu? Well, you can see it with your own eyes at the Da Nasti Pizzeria, which offers the most delicious pizza in the city. Calabra, Margarita, Fungi, Prosciuto, Capricciosa and much more different kinds of pizza are presented there.

So, if you’re hungry, don’t miss Da Nasti Pizzeria during your weekend in Bergamo.
Address: Via Zambonate, 25
Price range: 5-35€
Working hours: daily 11am-3pm, 6pm-11pm

Admire fascinating views of Iseo Lake

If you want to find amazing sceneries not far from Bergamo, just set off to the Iseo Lake. It is situated at the foot of the Alps and offers incredibly diverse landscapes: rocky walls sprouting from the water, olive groves, tiny coves, picturesque bays and historical settlements.

In the center of the lake there’s a Monte Isola island – Europe’s largest island on the lake, and the other miniature islands – San Paolo and Loreto, which you can reach by taking a boat trip.
And in addition, there’s a good opportunity to touch the gastronomic traditions of the Lombardy region at one of the local restaurants located right on the lakeshore.
Address: 25049 Iseo, BS

Explore the local art

Did you know that Bergamo is rich in art? Its Accademia Carrara is famous throughout Italy. Actually, this is Academy of Art and at the same time the Art Gallery. The history of Accademia Carrara began in the 18th century, when the famous philanthropist and collector Giacomo Carrara gave away its vast collection of works of art to the city.
And now among the masterpieces presented at the gallery you can find the works of such painters as Bellini, Botticelli, Pisanello, Raphael, Canaletto and other well-known artists. Apart from painting, there are also lots of prints, drawings, sculptures, porcelain and bronze compositions, medals and furniture.
Address: Piazza Giacomo Carrara, 82
Ticket price: 5€
Working hours: Monday-Friday 10am-6.30pm, Saturday and Sunday-closed

How to get to Bergamo?

The quickest and the easiest way to get to Bergamo is via the local Orio Al Serio Airport (BGY). Right at the airport you can pick up a rental car and reach the city. Cheap rental cars are available at Bergamo Airport, where you can also make an advance booking.

As you can see, Bergamo is a unique and unusual place. You won’t find huge malls, modern skyscrapers or any super-entertainments there. This city, unlike Milan, provides excellent conditions for those who just want to relax.

Author Bio

Lily Berns likes adventurous trips and keeps herself on traveling for most part of the year. She likes to share her views to get enjoyable vacation.