Hidden Gems in Northern Italy: Incredible spots to visit
/The best places to visit in Italy if you want to experience true Italian culture, is to find the secret towns away from the usual Big Three. These are Florence, Rome and Venice, which all have their charm. However, if you want to find the hidden gems of Italy the easiest way is to look out for a small town in the surrounding area.
One of the best things about heading off the beaten path is that often you will find a great place just outside the big cities and be amazed no one is talking about it yet! From the ever so quaint small village to a medieval castle, there are so many unique places to discover!
With this in mind today we're going to discover Bergamo! The perfect place to discover some of the best hidden gems in this old town.
Bergamo the City with a Split Personality
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Bergamo is a city of two parts, Alta and Bassa which means high and low. They are one city but with very different characters and plenty of things to do. A true hidden gem of Italy.
The way to Bergamo Alta, one of Italy’s prettier cities is through Bergamo Bassa. Here, you don’t find beauty but a normal Italian city of industry and commerce, however, the wise traveller never discounts a place for what it looks like on the outside. There are several places deserving interest before you escape the modern world for a medieval marvel.
Go to the Tourist Information Office (the perfect spot to start) located near the train station on via Bono and they will provide you with a map and give you the highlights. You might want to visit the Teatro Donizetti, the Chiesa Spirito Santo (with works of art by Lorenzo Lotto and Andrea Previtali) or maybe Chiesa San Bartolomeo (which also has artworks by Lotto). Spend some time getting a feeling for the city which supplies a number of wait staff and shop assistants up on top of the hill.
Bergamo Alta is built on a high hill with 360 degree views of the surrounding countryside. Only people who live in the city can drive through it, all tourists have to leave their cars outside the city walls or in the small car park in Piazza San Lorenzo.
Bergamo Alta, also known as Città Alta, is the historic upper town of Bergamo, located on a hill overlooking the modern city. The upper town is known for its stunning medieval and Renaissance architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, and picturesque piazzas.
One of the most iconic landmarks of Bergamo Alta is the Venetian Walls, a defensive system built in the 16th century by the Republic of Venice to protect the city from invaders. The walls are still largely intact and provide visitors with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Another must-see attraction in Bergamo Alta is the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, a beautiful church that dates back to the 12th century. The church is known for its stunning interior, which features intricate frescoes, paintings, and sculptures.
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Other notable sights in Bergamo Alta include the Piazza Vecchia, a beautiful square surrounded by historic buildings and cafes, and the Cappella Colleoni, a stunning Renaissance chapel with ornate decorations and frescoes.
Bergamo Alta is also home to a number of museums, galleries, and cultural institutions, including the Accademia Carrara, a prestigious art museum with an impressive collection of Italian Renaissance art.
Overall, Bergamo Alta is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, art, and architecture. Its charming atmosphere, beautiful landmarks, and stunning views make it one of the most popular tourist destinations in Northern Italy.
Where to go and what to see
Like many medieval cities, the streets are narrow allowing for one car in one direction only, if you happen to be walking down via Colleoni or via Gombito, you have to move out of the way if a car is coming but don’t worry, the cars can only travel slowly, around 15-20 kilometres an hour because of the number of people on the streets.
There is a tourist office on the viale della Mura, just outside the city gates, but the city is so small that once you pass through you may find a tourist guide unnecessary. If you don’t want to drive all the way up from Bergamo Bassa, try the funicolare railway (funicolare San Vigilio or funicolare via Locatelli).
Start by making your way to the Piazza Vecchia. It’s a good starting point, the middle point of the town and the centre of all the action. Bergamo is a university town so there are a number of 20-somethings during semester.
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The university buildings are spread out but the but the main building is in Piazza Vecchia. From the piazza, if you are looking for some local history and magnificent views, walk to La Rocca and the Museo Storico. The beauty of places like this is that everywhere appears to be a historic site. On a clear day there are uninterrupted views for about 20 miles (50 kilometers) and you can see all of Bergamo Bassa laid out before you. It is the highest point so you can see a fair amount of Bergamo Alta and its campanile, towers and rooftops. This is a great place to start for a walking tour or guided tour of this lesser-known place.
Bergamo is the perfect destination to explore a number of best-hidden gems. A short walk from the Piazza Vacchia there are a number of places to visit: the Capella Colleoni, the Palazzo delle Ragione, the Biblioteca Civica Angelo Mai and the Campanone and the Duomo
The Duomo was constructed with several shades of pink and gray marble and has a collection of niches with saints statues, gargoyles and a collection of Moorish-influenced domes and spires. It is totally surrounded by other buildings, built so close it is half hidden. It teases you to get a better look by going a little closer.
Eating in Bergamo
The local cuisine in Bergamo is incredible. If you are hungry or want a gelato there are the requisite stores or the local restaurants. For a five-star meal you can’t go past the Colleoni & dell Angelo in Piazza Vecchia. This unique experience is at an extra cost than the others but you might as well spoil yourself.
If you would like to hold onto your money a little bit longer, try Al Cantinone, a favorite place of mine. Owned for the past ten years by Oscar Lanzeroni, the food is good and the service friendly. Also try Paneficio Tresoldi for fantastic bread and cakes, pasticceria/gelateria Del Tasso and Pasticceria Caffeteria Cavour for that excellent cup of coffee. These are some of the best restaurants in this beautiful town.
Bergamo is known for its rich culinary traditions, and there are plenty of great restaurants and eateries throughout the city where you can enjoy delicious Italian cuisine. Here are some recommendations for where to eat in Bergamo:
La Colombina - located in the historic Città Alta, La Colombina is a charming restaurant that specializes in traditional Bergamo cuisine. The restaurant is known for its homemade pasta dishes, roasted meats, and excellent wine selection.
Trattoria Sant'Ambroeus - located in the heart of Bergamo, Trattoria Sant'Ambroeus is a family-run restaurant that serves classic Italian dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The menu includes a variety of pasta dishes, grilled meats, and seafood specialties.
Osteria della Birra - located in the lower city, Osteria della Birra is a popular spot for beer lovers, offering a wide selection of craft beers from Italy and around the world. The menu features classic pub fare like burgers, sandwiches, and fries.
Da Mimmo - located in the San Tomaso neighborhood, Da Mimmo is a cozy restaurant that specializes in Neapolitan-style pizza. The restaurant uses only the finest ingredients, including San Marzano tomatoes and fresh mozzarella, to create delicious, authentic pizzas.
La Bruschetta - located in the Borgo Palazzo neighborhood, La Bruschetta is a casual eatery that serves up delicious bruschetta, paninis, and other light bites. The menu includes a variety of toppings, from classic tomato and basil to more adventurous options like smoked salmon and ricotta.
These are just a few of the many great dining options available in Bergamo. Whether you're looking for traditional Bergamo cuisine, classic Italian dishes, or international flavors, you're sure to find something to suit your taste buds in this culinary hotspot.
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Accommodation
If you want to stay in Bergamo Alta, the Hotel San Lorenzo is located next to the Piazza San Lorenzo, just inside the first wall. A very comfortable hotel with parking available, it is situated in an ideal position being just inside the gate making it easy to exit and enter the town without hassles. The nearest airport is Milan Bergamo and a handy 6km in distance. The best way to get to Bergamo from the airport is by taxi or bus.
Bergamo offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some recommendations for where to stay in Bergamo:
Città Alta - The historic upper town of Bergamo, Città Alta, is the most popular place to stay for visitors. There are plenty of charming hotels, guesthouses, and B&Bs nestled in the narrow cobblestone streets and alleyways. Staying in Città Alta will give you easy access to all the main attractions of the city, including the Venetian Walls, Piazza Vecchia, and the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore.
Borgo Palazzo - The Borgo Palazzo neighborhood is located just south of Città Alta and is another popular area to stay in Bergamo. This residential neighborhood is quieter than Città Alta but still within easy reach of the main sights. There are several hotels and guesthouses in the area, as well as plenty of cafes and restaurants.
Lower City - The lower city of Bergamo is a more modern area, located at the foot of the hill on which Città Alta is perched. This area is home to many hotels, including some of the larger chain hotels, as well as plenty of shops, bars, and restaurants. Staying in the lower city can be a good option if you're looking for more affordable accommodation or want to be closer to the train station or airport.
Surrounding areas - If you're looking for a more rural escape, there are plenty of small towns and villages around Bergamo that offer accommodation options. These areas can be particularly appealing if you're interested in hiking, biking, or exploring the countryside.
These are just a few of the many options for where to stay in Bergamo. No matter where you choose to base yourself, you're sure to find plenty to see and do in this beautiful Italian city.
Bergamo, the beautiful city I've explained here is a perfect day trip and worth visiting if you're looking for something a little different on your next visit to Italy. By heading off the beaten track, you can explore a wonderful historic center and discover secret spots to share with your friends!
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How to get there
Bergamo is located in the Lombardy region of northern Italy, and it is easily accessible by a variety of transportation options. Here are some of the most popular ways to get to Bergamo:
By Plane - Bergamo's Orio al Serio International Airport is located just 5 km from the city center, and it is a major hub for low-cost airlines. From the airport, you can take a shuttle bus or a taxi to the city center.
By Train - Bergamo is connected to Italy's national rail network, and there are frequent trains running to and from Milan, Brescia, and other major cities. The train station is located in the lower city, just a short distance from the historic center of Città Alta.
By Car - Bergamo is well connected to Italy's highway network, and it is easily accessible by car. The A4 highway runs through the city, connecting it to Milan and other major cities in the region.
By Bus - There are several bus companies that operate services to Bergamo from major cities in Italy and across Europe. The bus station is located in the lower city, just a short walk from the train station.
Once you arrive in Bergamo, you can easily get around the city on foot or by using public transportation, which includes buses and a funicular railway that connects the lower city to Città Alta.
Are you a history buff? If so here's the low down on Bergamo's past:
Bergamo is a historic city located in the Lombardy region of Northern Italy. The city has a rich history that dates back to the pre-Roman era, and it has been influenced by a variety of cultures and civilizations throughout its history.
In the pre-Roman era, Bergamo was inhabited by the Celts, who established a settlement on the hill where the city's upper town, known as Città Alta, now stands. The Romans later conquered the area and established a military outpost in the city, which became an important center of trade and commerce.
In the Middle Ages, Bergamo became a free commune and developed into a major center of art, culture, and commerce. The city's wealth and prosperity led to the construction of many beautiful buildings, including the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, which was built in the 12th century.
During the Renaissance period, Bergamo was ruled by the Republic of Venice, and the city became a center of artistic and cultural activity. Many of the city's most beautiful buildings, such as the Palazzo della Ragione and the Cappella Colleoni, were built during this time.
In the 19th century, Bergamo became part of the Kingdom of Italy, and the city underwent significant changes as it modernized and industrialized. Despite these changes, Bergamo has managed to preserve much of its historic charm and beauty, and today it is a popular destination for tourists who come to explore its rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful scenery.
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Bergamo has quite a lively Political history as well
Bergamo, like many other cities in Italy, has a complex political landscape with a history of political struggles and changes. The political situation in Bergamo has been shaped by its location in the Lombardy region, which is known for its strong regional identity and political movements.
In the post-World War II era, Bergamo was a stronghold of the Italian Communist Party (PCI) and the Socialist Party (PSI). However, in the 1990s, the political landscape in Bergamo began to shift, and the center-right coalition led by Silvio Berlusconi gained significant support in the city.
Today, the political situation in Bergamo is characterized by a multiparty system, with various political parties and movements vying for power and influence. The city is currently governed by a center-left coalition, which includes the Democratic Party (PD) and various smaller left-wing parties.
One of the most pressing political issues in Bergamo today is the management of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has hit the city particularly hard. The pandemic has sparked debates about the role of the government in managing public health crises, as well as the need for more investment in healthcare and social services.
Overall, Bergamo's political landscape is shaped by a complex mix of regional and national political trends, as well as local concerns and issues. Like many other cities in Italy, Bergamo is home to a diverse range of political perspectives and movements, and the political situation in the city is likely to continue evolving in the years to come.
If you're looking for more Hidden Gems in Northern Italy read more here:
Northern Italy is a beautiful region with a rich history, stunning architecture, and incredible natural beauty. Here are some hidden gems in Northern Italy that you may want to consider exploring:
Bergamo: Bergamo is a beautiful medieval city located in the Lombardy region. It is known for its stunning architecture, charming streets, and beautiful views of the surrounding hills. Be sure to visit the Piazza Vecchia, the Cittadella, and the Colleoni Chapel.
Mantua: Mantua is a small, picturesque city in the Lombardy region. It is known for its beautiful Renaissance architecture and art, and it has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Be sure to visit the Palazzo Ducale and the Basilica di Sant'Andrea.
Lake Iseo: Lake Iseo is a beautiful lake located in the Lombardy region. It is less crowded than Lake Como or Lake Garda, but equally beautiful. Be sure to take a boat tour of the lake and visit the beautiful town of Sarnico.
Val di Mello: Val di Mello is a beautiful valley located in the Lombardy region. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, including waterfalls, rivers, and towering cliffs. It is a great place for hiking and rock climbing.
Valtellina: Valtellina is a beautiful valley located in the Lombardy region. It is known for its beautiful vineyards, stunning scenery, and delicious food. Be sure to visit the town of Tirano and take a ride on the Bernina Express.
Trento: Trento is a beautiful city located in the Trentino-Alto Adige region. It is known for its beautiful architecture, rich history, and stunning natural beauty. Be sure to visit the Buonconsiglio Castle and the Trento Cathedral.
Val di Funes: Val di Funes is a beautiful valley located in the South Tyrol region. It is known for its stunning scenery, including the iconic church of St. Johann in Ranui. Be sure to go hiking and enjoy the beautiful views.
Lake Braies: Lake Braies is a beautiful lake located in the South Tyrol region. It is known for its stunning turquoise waters and beautiful mountain scenery. Be sure to take a boat tour of the lake and hike the surrounding trails.
Bellagio: Bellagio is a beautiful town located on Lake Como. It is known for its stunning villas, beautiful gardens, and charming streets. Be sure to visit the Villa Serbelloni and the Giardini di Villa Melzi.
Portofino: Portofino is a beautiful town located on the Italian Riviera. It is known for its colorful houses, beautiful harbor, and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. Be sure to visit the Castello Brown and take a boat tour of the coast.
Looking for hidden gems throughout the rest of Italy? Here's a list of some great places to visit
Italy is a country with an abundance of hidden gems, from small towns and villages to natural wonders and historic landmarks. Here are some of the lesser-known places that are worth a visit:
Matera - located in the southern region of Basilicata, Matera is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ancient cave dwellings and stunning architecture.
Civita di Bagnoregio - a picturesque hilltop town located in the Lazio region, Civita di Bagnoregio is only accessible by a footbridge and is often called the "dying city" due to its slowly eroding cliffs.
Castelmezzano - a small town nestled in the Lucanian Dolomites, Castelmezzano is known for its breathtaking mountain scenery and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
San Leo - a medieval town located in the Emilia-Romagna region, San Leo is famous for its imposing fortress and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Castelluccio di Norcia - a village located in the Umbria region, Castelluccio di Norcia is known for its vibrant fields of wildflowers and stunning views of the Sibillini Mountains.
Orvieto - a hilltop town located in the Umbria region, Orvieto is known for its beautiful cathedral, Etruscan ruins, and underground caves.
Montefalco - a small town located in the Umbria region, Montefalco is known for its beautiful medieval architecture, excellent wine, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Santa Maria di Leuca - a small town located in the southern region of Puglia, Santa Maria di Leuca is known for its picturesque lighthouse, stunning beaches, and crystal-clear waters.
Ostuni - a whitewashed town located in the southern region of Puglia, Ostuni is known for its stunning architecture, excellent seafood, and beautiful beaches.
Palazzolo Acreide - a small town located in the Sicily region, Palazzolo Acreide is known for its well-preserved Baroque architecture and ancient Greek ruins.
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Do you speak Italian and if not how can you get by on vacation?
Getting by in Italian can be quite easy if you take the time to learn some basic phrases and vocabulary. Here are some tips for getting by in Italian:
Learn some basic phrases - Start by learning some basic phrases like "hello," "goodbye," "please," "thank you," "excuse me," and "sorry." These will be very useful in everyday interactions.
Use simple vocabulary - Stick to simple vocabulary when you're first learning Italian. Focus on the words and phrases that you'll need most often, such as numbers, days of the week, and food and drink items.
Practice with native speakers - The best way to improve your Italian skills is to practice with native speakers. Look for language exchange partners or language classes in your area.
Use language learning apps - There are many language learning apps available that can help you improve your Italian skills. Some popular options include Duolingo, Babbel, and Rosetta Stone.
Carry a phrasebook - Consider carrying a phrasebook or pocket dictionary with you when you travel to Italy. This can be a helpful reference if you need to look up a word or phrase on the go.
Remember that practice is key when it comes to learning a new language. The more you use Italian in your everyday life, the more comfortable and confident you will become in speaking and understanding the language.
Here are some phrases to use in an Italian restaurant...
1. Possiamo vedere il menù? May we see the menu?
2. Avete un tavolo per due persone? Do you have a table for two people?
3. Prendiamo l’acqua frizzante/l’acqua naturale. We will get sparkling water/still water. 4. Cosa ci consiglia? What do you recommend for us?
5. Vorrei la carbonara. Vorrei la pizza margherita. I would like carbonara. I would like pizza margherita.
6. Sono allergico/allergica a... I’m allergic to...
7. Sono vegetariano/vegetariana. Sono vegano/vegana. I am vegetarian. I am vegan.
8. Potrei avere un altro coltello/cucchiaio/tovagliolo? May I have another knife/spoon/napkin?
9. Il conto per favore. The check/bill please.
10. Accettate carte di credito? Do you accept credit cards?
How to find a tour guide?
If you're traveling to Italy and looking for a tour guide to help you explore the country's many attractions, there are several options available to you. Here are some tips for finding a tour guide in Italy:
1. Check with your hotel - Many hotels in Italy have relationships with local tour companies and can help arrange tours for their guests. Check with your hotel's concierge or front desk staff to see if they can recommend a tour guide or company.
2. Use a tour operator - There are many tour operators in Italy that offer guided tours of the country's major cities and attractions. Look for reputable tour companies that have good reviews and offer tours in your language.
3. Look for local guides - In many cities in Italy, you can find local guides who offer private tours. Look for guides who are licensed by the local tourism board or who have good reviews from past clients.
4. Use online resources - There are many online resources available that can help you find a tour guide in Italy. Some popular options include TripAdvisor, Viator, and GetYourGuide.
5. Ask for recommendations - Finally, don't be afraid to ask locals or other travelers for recommendations. If you meet someone who has had a great experience with a tour guide or company, ask for their contact information and consider booking a tour with them.
No matter which option you choose, be sure to do your research and choose a tour guide or company that is reputable and experienced. A good tour guide can enhance your travel experience and help you make the most of your time in Italy.
Day trips from Bergamo
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Bergamo is a great base for exploring the surrounding area, and there are many day trips you can take from the city. Here are some ideas for day trips from Bergamo:
Lake Como - Lake Como is located just 40 km north of Bergamo and is one of the most beautiful lakes in Italy. You can take a train or a bus to the town of Como and then explore the lake by boat or by foot.
Milan - Milan is located just 50 km west of Bergamo and is one of the most fashionable cities in Italy. You can take a train or a bus to Milan and spend the day exploring the city's many attractions, including the Duomo, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and the La Scala opera house.
Franciacorta wine region - The Franciacorta wine region is located just south of Bergamo and is known for its sparkling wine. You can take a tour of a local winery and taste some of the region's best wines.
Franciacorta is not a town, but rather a wine-producing region in the Lombardy region of northern Italy, located between the cities of Brescia and Lake Iseo. The region is known for its production of high-quality sparkling wine, which is made using the traditional Champagne method.
The Franciacorta wine region is home to a number of small towns and villages, many of which offer opportunities for wine tastings and tours of local wineries. Some of the most popular towns to visit in the Franciacorta region include:
Erbusco - a charming town known for its beautiful vineyards and historic buildings.
Adro - a small village that is home to a number of wineries and agriturismi (farmhouse inns).
Iseo - a picturesque town located on the shores of Lake Iseo, which offers opportunities for boat tours and water sports in addition to wine tasting.
Monte Isola - an island located in the middle of Lake Iseo that is known for its beautiful views and charming fishing villages.
If you're a wine lover, a visit to the Franciacorta wine region is a must-see destination in northern Italy. With its beautiful scenery, charming towns, and delicious wines, it's the perfect place to unwind and relax while enjoying some of the best wine that Italy has to offer.
Lake Garda - Lake Garda is located about 80 km east of Bergamo and is the largest lake in Italy. You can take a train or a bus to the town of Desenzano del Garda and then explore the lake by boat or by foot. One of our favourite spots on this lake is Sirmione. This is a beautiful town located on the southern shore of Lake Garda, in the Lombardy region of northern Italy. The town is known for its picturesque setting, historic landmarks, and beautiful views of the lake.
Some of the top attractions in Sirmione include:
Scaliger Castle - a 13th-century castle located on a narrow strip of land that juts out into the lake. The castle offers beautiful views of the surrounding area and is a popular spot for photos.
Grotte di Catullo - ancient Roman ruins that include the remains of a large villa and a number of thermal baths. The ruins are located on a hill overlooking the lake and offer stunning views of the surrounding area.
Church of San Pietro in Mavino - a beautiful church that dates back to the 8th century. The church is known for its beautiful frescoes and stunning views of the lake.
Beaches - Sirmione is home to a number of beautiful beaches, including Jamaica Beach, Brema Beach, and Lido delle Bionde. These beaches offer opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Shopping and Dining - Sirmione is home to a number of charming shops and restaurants, offering everything from local specialties to high-end designer goods.
Overall, Sirmione is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the Lake Garda region of northern Italy. With its beautiful scenery, historic landmarks, and charming atmosphere, it's the perfect place to relax and soak up the beauty of northern Italy.
Brescia - Brescia is located about 50 km east of Bergamo and is known for its beautiful historic center and Roman ruins. You can take a train or a bus to Brescia and spend the day exploring the city's many attractions.
Lake Maggiore is a large lake located in northern Italy, between the regions of Piedmont and Lombardy. It is the second-largest lake in Italy, after Lake Garda, and is known for its stunning scenery, charming lakeside towns, and beautiful islands.
If you love blue cheese, a trip wouldn't be complete without a visit to Gorgonzola. This is indeed an Italian town located in the Lombardy region of Italy, which is where the famous cheese of the same name originated.
The town of Gorgonzola is located just east of Milan and is known for its historic center, which features a number of beautiful churches and buildings dating back to the 17th century. The town is also home to a number of cheese shops and dairy farms that produce Gorgonzola cheese using traditional methods. Gorgonzola is one of the oldest blue cheeses in the world, with a history that dates back to the Middle Ages. It's protected under European Union law, which means that only cheese made in certain regions of Italy can be called Gorgonzola. The cheese is protected by a PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) status. There are three types of Gorgonzola: Gorgonzola Dolce, which is milder and creamier, and Gorgonzola Piccante, which is sharper and more pungent. Plus Gorgonzola cremosa which has cream added to it. Italians often eat this at Christmas where the top of the cheese is lined with walnuts and drizzled with honey. It's seriously good and I don't even eat blue cheese!
These are just a few ideas for day trips from Bergamo. With its central location, the city is a great base for exploring the many attractions of northern Italy.
