Città Alta, also known as the Upper Town, is the historic core of Bergamo, Italy. Surrounded by
Venetian walls and filled with cobblestone streets, this medieval district offers a timeless glimpse
into Italy’s past. Visitors can wander through narrow alleys, admire centuries-old architecture, and
enjoy breathtaking views over the modern Città Bassa below.
The atmosphere is enchanting — small cafés, artisan shops, bell towers, and churches line the
streets. Whether you’re walking up from the Lower Town or taking the funicular, Città Alta
welcomes travelers with old-world charm and rich cultural heritage.
It’s the perfect destination for history lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking to experience
authentic Italian life away from the crowds.
- Explore Piazza Vecchia ⛲ – the heart ❤️ of the Upper Town ⛰️ surrounded by elegant architecture 🏰✨
- Visit Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore 🕍 and Cappella Colleoni 💎 – masterpieces 👑 of Renaissance art 🎨🙏
- Walk 🚶♀️ along the Venetian Walls 🧱 (Mura Venete) – a UNESCO World Heritage site 🌍 offering panoramic views 🔭👀
- Climb Torre Civica 🗼 (Campanone) 🔔 for a 360° view 🤩 of Bergamo 🏘️📸
- Enjoy Italian coffee ☕ or gelato 🍦 at a traditional café 🥐 on Via Gombito 😋🇮🇹
- From Bergamo Train Station 🚆: Take the Funicolare di Bergamo 🚠 up ⬆️ to Città Alta ⛰️💨✅
- By Foot 👣: 20–30 minute ⏱️ scenic uphill walk ⛰️ from the Lower Town 🏘️🚶♂️👍
- By Car 🚗: Limited parking 🅿️⚠️ near the entrance gates 🚪; best to use public transport 🚠👍
- Wear comfortable shoes 👟 – the cobblestone streets 🧱 can be uneven 🚧🥾
- Try local dishes 🍝 like casoncelli 🥟 (stuffed pasta) and polenta 🌽😋🇮🇹
- Visit in the evening 🌙 for romantic lighting 💡 and fewer crowds 🤫😌🧡
- Respect local life 🙏 – many residents 🏘️ still live in the historic area 🤫💚
- 9:00 AM – Start 🧭 at the Funicolare 🚠 and enjoy the ride ⬆️ up to Città Alta ⛰️💨
- 9:30 AM – Explore Piazza Vecchia ⛲ and Palazzo della Ragione 🏰✨
- 10:30 AM – Visit Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore 🕍 and Cappella Colleoni 💎🙏👀
- 12:00 PM – Lunch 🍽️ at a local trattoria 🍝 on Via Colleoni 😋🍷
- 2:00 PM – Walk 🚶♀️ along the Venetian Walls 🧱 for stunning photos 📸🔭🏞️
- 4:00 PM – Enjoy coffee ☕ or gelato 🍦 before heading back down 🚠👋