A day trip from Lake Idro to Bergamo is a good idea, as Bergamo is known, among other things, for the cable car that connects the upper part (Città Alta) and the lower part of the city. If you are an opera lover, you will also know that this is the birthplace of the famous composer Gaetano Donizetti. And guess what? Bergamo is also known as the city where the taste of stracciatella ice cream was invented.
What can you see in one day in Bergamo?
Here are the city’s top attractions:
- Città Alta:
Start your visit by exploring Città Alta, Bergamo’s historic upper town. You can reach Città Alta by cable car or a leisurely walk through the Mura Venete. This area is rich in medieval and Renaissance architecture.
- Piazza Vecchia:
Visit Piazza Vecchia, Città Alta’s main square. Admire the Contarini fountain and the Palazzo della Ragione. Surrounded by historic buildings, the square is a central point to explore the Upper Town.
- Cathedral of Saint Alexander Martyr:
Explore the cathedral dedicated to Saint Alexander, the city’s patron saint. The exterior of Saint Alexander Cathedral has a 19th-century façade of white Botticino marble, while the interior is decorated with impressive frescoes and works of art.
- Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore:
Don’t miss the nearby Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, known for its Romanesque and Gothic architecture. The interior features beautiful frescoes and sculptures.
- Colleoni Chapel:
Visit the Colleoni Chapel, a mausoleum built in the 15th century. The chapel is known for its elaborate decorations, including a polychrome facade and a richly decorated interior.
- Rocca di Bergamo:
Take a walk to the Rocca di Bergamo, a fortress that offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. The fort houses a historical museum and the view from the walls is particularly impressive.
- Archaeological Museum of Bergamo:
If you are interested in archaeology, consider visiting the Museo Archeologico Civico di Bergamo. It houses artefacts from various historical periods, including Roman times and the Middle Ages.
- Bergamo Botanical Garden (Orto Botanico di Bergamo ‘Lorenzo Rota’):
For a peaceful escape, take refuge in the Bergamo Botanical Garden. It is an enchanting place to stroll and admire a variety of plants and flowers.
- Downtown Bergamo:
If time permits, you can explore the lower town, known as Città Bassa. The atmosphere here is different, with modern shops, cafés and a lively and dynamic place.
My advice. Don’t leave Bergamo without having tried ‘polenta e osei’, the typical dessert.
Have fun in Bergamo!
Credits ph. Visit Bergamo
