A hillside town set against the Alps

Bergamo is a popular place to visit during a tour of Italy. The winding streets, terraced cafes and bustle of mopeds and people make it as cosmopolitan a destination as Milan. Bergamo is divided into the upper and lower regions known as Città Alta and the Città Bassa, both overlooked by the majestic foothills of the Alps. Museums, churches and galleries are home to some of Italy’s finest artwork and exhibits. Marvel over the 14th century Citadel and Palazzo della Ragione in the medieval town; wander around the Piazza Vecchia to see striking examples of Renaissance architecture. The Archaeological Civic Museum and Caffi Natural Science Museum are open daily; learn about Bergamo’s beloved composer Gaetano Donizetti at the museum dedicated to his life. For a taste of traditional Italy climb the footpath to the hillside village of San Vigilio and have lunch at the city’s highest restaurant.

Why Go?
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Alps, Bergamo is an idyllic city of two districts. Browse the boutiques and dine in one of several stylish restaurants in the Città Bassa or enjoy a tour around the medieval cathedrals and numerous exhibitions of the Città Alta. Bergamo is a place of contrasts.

When to Go?
Bergamo is located in the plain of Lombardy and as such benefits from a Continental climate. Winters can be severe with lows of -2°C and heavy snowfall. The best time to visit is at the start of summer. The average temperature between May-July is 24°C with light breezes. August is the hottest month with highs of 30°C, leaving visitors little choice but to sit back with an Italian gelato.

How to Get There?
Bergamo is served by Orio al Serio Airport located around 4km (approximately 3 miles) south of the city centre. Direct flights are scheduled throughout the year from the UK; the journey can take 2 hours. A local bus service is available from the terminal building taking passengers directly to the city’s central railway station. Milan is about 35 minutes away by train.

Must See
Walk along the city walls of Bergamo for panoramic views across Lombardy. Take the funicular up to the Rocca and explore the ancient artwork and monuments of the medieval Città Alta. Discover Bergamo’s theatrical past with exhibits on Italy’s composers and performers. Visit the mausoleum of Enrico Rastelli; Bergamo’s jester and world famous juggler. For a more active approach to admiring the landscape take a short car ride to the ski resort of Brembana Valley which boasts some of Europe’s finest slopes.