Located in the foothills of the Alps and surrounded by the flourishing beauty of Lombardy, Bergamo is a city with natural splendour on its side. Dating back almost 2,000 years, it has historical intrigue in abundance too. This is a hotbed of Italian culture that’s just waiting to be discovered.
Medieval marvels
Step back in time as you board the city’s vintage railway and climb up from the contemporary lower town to the historic, hilltop streets. For more than 120 years, this charming train has connected the Citta Bassa to the Citta Alta, passing through the ancient Venetian walls that once defended Bergamo from enemy attacks.
The upper city is characterised by narrow, cobbled streets that are packed full of historical architecture. Head to the Piazza del Duomo where the 15th-century Bergamo Cathedral stands in all its majesty, gleaming white with copper domes and golden statues, all dedicated to the patron saint of the city.
Next door is the Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica, towering high above the surrounding buildings. For a taste of the Renaissance, look to the Cappella Colleoni adjacent to the Basilica. This holy building has a distinctive, checked marble façade, rose-shaped windows and a high altar inside.
A few minutes’ walk away is the Rocca, a 14th-century fortress now transformed into a museum. Head inside to discover the details of the old town’s history and round off the day on the balcony, enjoying panoramic views over Bergamo.
Home of artistic masters
Bergamo is the birthplace of world-famous art masters, including the revered portrait artist Moroni and operatic composer Donizetti. The Accademia Carrara is one of Italy’s premier art galleries, collecting around 1,800 pieces over the course of two centuries. Showcasing masterpieces within a palatial setting, highlights include works by greats including Botticelli and Raphael.
In upper Bergamo you can walk in the footsteps of composer Donizetti – starting at his home, now the Museo Donizettiano, and then visiting his grave in the basilica. Spend your evening listening to his compositions at the Gaetano Donizetti Theatre around the corner, named in his honour.
Italian indulgence
You’ll see the word Bergamasca in the city a lot – it translates as ‘from Bergamo’. The city is a proud producer of many of its own culinary delicacies, allowing you to tuck into authentic flavours wherever you go.
Try Da Mimmo, the one and only for traditional margherita pizza. This elegant venue holds ‘Protected Designation of Origin’ status, which is as authentic as it gets. Using fresh dough, sun-ripened tomatoes and creamy cheese, they’re experts at taking these simple ingredients and turning them into something sublime.
Trattorias are found all over the city, rustic eateries with relaxed atmospheres. Pop inside for local dishes such as casoncelli alla bergamasca – silky pasta parcels filled with meat. Sweet tooth? Give into the temptation of local bakeries and gelato stands piled high with creamy flavours.
Hire a car in Bergamo and embark on a tour of the finest art, history and food in and around this ancient north Italian city.