Bergamo is a city that can surprise at every turn, thanks to its perfect balance of history, culture, and contemporary vibrancy. Divided between the charming Upper Town, with its Venetian walls listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the more modern and dynamic Lower Town, Bergamo offers a complete and engaging experience.
Strolling through the cobbled streets, admiring squares like Piazza Vecchia, or climbing up to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore means immersing yourself in a unique atmosphere filled with art and breathtaking views. But Bergamo is also a lively city, with restaurants, events, museums, and plenty of activities for every type of traveler.
Whether it’s a cultural weekend, a romantic getaway, or a business trip, there’s no shortage of things to do: Bergamo captivates with its authenticity and a rich, diverse offering that can satisfy every need.
Taking the Funicular to the Upper Town
An iconic and evocative way to begin your visit to Bergamo is to take the historic funicular, a true prelude to discovering the Upper Town. This charming mode of transport passes through the imposing Venetian Walls of Bergamo and takes you directly into the heart of the historic center, all the way to Piazza Mercato delle Scarpe.
Operating for over a century, the funicular connects the Lower Town and the Upper Town and remains one of the favorite ways for locals to travel, alongside the characteristic stone stairways that wind along the route.
Moreover, not everyone knows that there is a second funicular that starts from the Upper Town and climbs up to Colle di San Vigilio, where you can enjoy a spectacular view of the city and its surroundings. An authentic experience not to be missed in both versions.
Visiting the Accademia Carrara
Among the things to do in Bergamo, a visit to the Accademia Carrara is definitely a must. The museum is one of the most important artistic institutions in Italy, standing out for the quality and identity of its extraordinary collection. It houses masterpieces spanning several centuries, from the 15th to the 19th century, with works by great masters such as Sandro Botticelli, Raphael, Titian, and Andrea Mantegna. Particularly notable are the collections dedicated to Lorenzo Lotto and Giovan Battista Moroni, among the most complete in the world.
The exhibition path is rich and varied: over 1,500 paintings, sculptures, drawings, prints, and decorative arts guide visitors on a fascinating journey through the history of Italian art. Must-see masterpieces include Pisanello’s Portrait of Leonello d’Este, Mantegna and Bellini’s expressive Madonnas, and the works full of humanity and realism by the great Lombard portraitists.
But the Accademia Carrara is not just about preservation: it is also a dynamic and constantly evolving space. Temporary exhibitions, research activities, restorations, and cultural projects help keep the institution alive, making it a point of reference for scholars and art enthusiasts alike.
Great attention is also given to the public, thanks to educational initiatives designed to engage adults, families, schools, and visitors of all ages. Workshops, guided tours, and inclusive projects transform the museum into an open, accessible, and participatory space.
Things to Do in Bergamo: Savor Local Wines and Cheeses
Among the unmissable experiences in Bergamo is undoubtedly one dedicated to the flavors of the region. The area is renowned for producing cheeses such as Taleggio and Strachitunt, true symbols of the local dairy tradition, often paired with wines from Franciacorta and Valcalepio.
Tasting these products means discovering not only the authentic flavors of the territory but also the stories and techniques that make them unique. Numerous wineries and food shops offer guided tours and tastings, allowing visitors to meet local producers and artisans firsthand.
It’s a perfect experience for those who want to combine culture, landscapes, and culinary pleasures: in Bergamo, food and wine become a true sensory journey, complementing every visit to the city and its surroundings.
Where to stay in Bergamo
For those wishing to visit Bergamo in complete comfort, the LVG Hotel Collection – Bergamo West is the ideal choice. Strategically located, it provides easy access to the city center, the industrial area, main transport routes, and Orio al Serio Airport.
The hotel offers 98 modern and welcoming rooms designed to provide relaxation for both business travelers and leisure tourists. Its three meeting rooms make it perfect for events, business meetings, and corporate gatherings, with services tailored to every professional need.
Staying at Hotel Bergamo West means combining comfort, convenience, and style, providing an ideal base both for exploring the city and for moving easily around the surrounding area.
