On the cobbled streets of Bergamo Alta, every stone seems to whisper stories of times gone by, and the medieval buildings embrace your presence with their ancestral warmth. On a cloudy day, when the sky wears its grey veil, the old town reveals a melancholic charm, transposed as if from a Renaissance painting.
How do you get to Bergamo Alta from Milano?
Train or bus. One of the most convenient and quickest ways to travel from Milan to Bergamo is by train. Trains frequently depart from Milano Centrale and arrive at Bergamo station in about 50 minutes. Once in Bergamo, you can take the local bus (e.g. line 1) or funicular to reach Bergamo Alta. The funicular is a popular choice because it offers a quick trip to the old part of town.
There are also bus services between Milan and Bergamo, including direct buses to Bergamo Airport, also known as Orio al Serio Airport. From the airport, you can take a local bus or taxi to Bergamo Alta.
Car.If you prefer to travel at your own pace, renting a car might be an option. The drive from Milan to Bergamo takes about an hour, depending on traffic. Once in Bergamo, you can park your car in one of the parking areas at the foot of the old town and then walk or take the funicular.
Distance between the airport and Bergamo Alta
The distance between Orio al Serio International Airport (also known as Bergamo Airport) and Bergamo Alta is approximately 6 to 10 kilometres, depending on the specific route chosen for the journey. Orio al Serio Airport serves as one of the main gateways for tourists visiting Bergamo and the surrounding areas, including Milan.
To get from the airport to Bergamo Alta, there are bus services that connect Orio al Serio Airport directly with Bergamo city centre. Once in the city centre, you can take one of the local buses or the funicular to reach Bergamo Alta. The bus journey from the airport to the city centre takes about 15-20 minutes, and from there the journey continues by another means of transport to Bergamo Alta.
What to do in Bergamo Alta
Exploring the Old Town
Exploring the old town, or “città alta”, of Bergamo is an unforgettable experience, full of history, impressive architecture and dreamy landscapes. This is a place where the past meets the present in a harmonious way, offering visitors an insight into Italy’s rich culture and history. Here are some suggestions to make the most of your visit to Bergamo Alta:
1. Old Square
The heart of the old town, Piazza Vecchia, is the perfect starting point for exploring Bergamo Alta. This square is surrounded by historic buildings, cafés and traditional restaurants. Don’t miss the Fontana Contarini, a beautiful fountain that adds to the charm of the square.
2. Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore
The impressive basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore is an outstanding example of Baroque and Renaissance architecture. The interior of the basilica is decorated with elaborate tapestries, fine sculptures and paintings by renowned artists. Admission to the basilica is free, but donations are appreciated.
3. Colleoni Chapel
Next to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore is the Cappella Colleoni, a mausoleum dedicated to the mercenary Bartolomeo Colleoni. Its Renaissance-style facade is absolutely stunning and the interior houses valuable works of art.
4. Views from the Torre Civica
For the best views of the city and its surroundings, climb the Torre Civica (also known as Campanone). The tower’s bell rings every evening at 10pm, a custom that dates back to the Middle Ages.
5. Walk the city walls
The old city walls, which date back to the Venetian period, offer a pleasant walk and spectacular views of the new town (città bassa) and the surrounding landscape. It’s a perfect opportunity for memorable photographs.
6. Explore the narrow streets
Wander the narrow cobbled streets of the old town to discover craft shops, art galleries and hidden cafes. This is the best way to feel the pulse of the city and discover its hidden treasures.
While the clouds may shade the sun, they can’t hide the glow of the old city. Bergamo Alta is where the comfort of a quiet day meets Italian sophistication, giving you an authentic experience away from the hustle and bustle of the city. So next weekend, leave Milan behind and let the story of Bergamo Alta’s jagged cobblestones carry you away.
