A Perfect Trip to Bergamo, Italy
Bergamo, a charming city in northern Italy, offers a perfect blend of historical charm, modern amenities, and stunning natural landscapes. Our recent trip to Bergamo was an unforgettable experience, and we recommend staying for four days to truly soak in all that this beautiful city has to offer.
Day 1: Exploring the Old City (Città Alta)
Start your adventure in Bergamo's historic heart, the Città Alta. Begin your day with a visit to Piazza Vecchia, the central square surrounded by medieval and Renaissance architecture. Don't miss the Palazzo della Ragione, Torre del Campanone, and the stunning Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore. For lunch, head to Da Mimmo, a traditional restaurant offering delicious local cuisine with a charming atmosphere.
Despite feeling tired and not particularly hungry after a long morning exploring Città Alta, our visit to Da Mimmo completely rejuvenated us. The charming atmosphere of the old city paired with the restaurant's warm and welcoming ambiance created the perfect setting for a delightful meal. We indulged in the eggplant parm in tomato sauce, which was truly amazing, and their simple yet spot-on Margherita pizza. The flavors were impeccable, and the experience left us refreshed and ready to continue our Bergamo adventure.
Continue your exploration with a walk along the Venetian Walls, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside. Visit the Rocca di Bergamo for a taste of medieval history and more breathtaking views. The highlight of our day was the Bergamo Cathedral. Jono was particularly captivated, spending almost 45 minutes in complete awe of just one of the rooms. The intricate details and overwhelming beauty of the cathedral left him speechless. He emerged with a profound understanding of the immense love and dedication that went into creating such a magnificent structure. The experience was deeply moving and highlighted the extraordinary beauty and significance of the cathedral. End your day at Ristorante Al Giardinetto, known for its exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance.
Day 2: A Bicycle Trip Around Bergamo
Rent a bike from Bike & Co., a reputable bike rental shop located in the city center. They offer a wide range of bikes suitable for all levels of cyclists. Head out on a scenic ride along the Parco dei Colli di Bergamo, a regional park offering beautiful trails through lush greenery and picturesque landscapes. A popular route is the trail to the San Vigilio Hill, providing stunning views of Bergamo and the surrounding area. Enjoy a picnic lunch with local delicacies at one of the park's many scenic spots.
Continue your ride through the park, exploring the charming villages and vineyards that dot the landscape. The Valle Imagna route is also a great choice, taking you through quaint villages and beautiful natural scenery. Return to the city and enjoy dinner at Trattoria La Colombina, a lovely spot with delicious food and a welcoming atmosphere.
Day 3: Shopping and Modern Bergamo
Spend the day exploring the modern part of Bergamo, known as Città Bassa. Start your day with a visit to Accademia Carrara, an art gallery housing a rich collection of Renaissance and Baroque masterpieces. Stroll down Via XX Settembre, Bergamo's main shopping street, where you'll find a mix of high-end boutiques, local shops, and charming cafes. For lunch, have a delightful meal at Bacaro.
Continue shopping and exploring the vibrant streets of Città Bassa. Visit Teatro Donizetti and the bustling Piazza Matteotti for a taste of Bergamo's cultural life. For dinner, head to La Tana, a restaurant known for its creative dishes and excellent service.
Day 4: Spa Day in San Pellegrino
Dedicate your last day to relaxation at the QC Terme San Pellegrino spa. Located in the picturesque town of San Pellegrino Terme, this luxurious spa offers a variety of facilities, including thermal baths, saunas, and steam rooms. We took the couple's package, which includes a full day at the spa and a 50-minute massage, a must in our opinion. The facilities are top-notch, but we recommend avoiding weekends as it tends to be very busy. Mid-week visits are much more relaxing. We decided to add the lunch, which was decent but not the highlight of the day. However, the overall spa experience more than makes up for it.
Spend two hours walking around San Pellegrino Terme. The town is known for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture and beautiful riverfront.
Head back to Bergamo for dinner at Bu Cheese Bar. The sommelier provided excellent recommendations, and the food was incredible, making it a perfect end to our trip.
Nightlife in Bergamo
Bergamo offers a vibrant nightlife with a range of bars and clubs to suit all tastes. Bu Cheese Bar stands out for its excellent selection of wines and cheeses. The sommelier's recommendations were spot-on, and the food was exceptional.
Accommodation Recommendations
Relais San Lorenzo: Located in the heart of Città Alta, this luxurious hotel offers modern amenities in a historic setting.
Petronilla Hotel: A boutique hotel in Città Bassa known for its personalized service and stylish rooms.
Hotel Excelsior San Marco: Offering stunning views of Città Alta, this hotel is a perfect blend of comfort and convenience.
GombitHotel: A contemporary hotel in a medieval tower, providing a unique and memorable stay.
Bergamo is a city that beautifully combines history, culture, and modernity. Whether you're exploring its ancient streets, cycling through scenic routes, indulging in delicious cuisine, or relaxing in a luxurious spa, Bergamo promises an unforgettable experience.
