Piazza Vecchia is the historic and cultural heart of Città Alta, Bergamo’s Upper Town. Surrounded
by elegant Renaissance and medieval buildings, it is considered one of Italy’s most beautiful
squares. Its perfect balance of architecture and atmosphere makes it the center of life in Bergamo.
The square has served as a gathering place for centuries — locals and visitors alike come here to
enjoy coffee, admire the architecture, and feel the rhythm of old Italy. From its cobblestone
pavement to the ringing of church bells, Piazza Vecchia captures the true spirit of Bergamo.
At night, when the lights reflect off the stone façades, the square becomes a magical setting ideal
for a peaceful evening stroll.
- Admire Palazzo della Ragione 🏰 – a medieval palace 👑 with striking arches 🧱👀
- Visit Torre Civica 🗼 (Campanone) 🔔 and enjoy the panoramic views 🔭 from the top ⬆️📸
- Explore the Fontana Contarini ⛲ – the marble fountain 💧 at the square’s center ✨✅
- Enjoy a cappuccino ☕ or aperitivo 🥂 at one of the historic cafés 🥐 facing the square 😋🍹
- Step into Biblioteca Angelo Mai 📚 – a neoclassical building 🏛️ housing ancient manuscripts 📜💡
- From Bergamo Train Station 🚆: Take the Funicolare di Bergamo 🚠 to Città Alta ⛰️💨✅
- By Foot 👣: A 25-minute ⏱️ uphill walk ⛰️ from Città Bassa 🏘️ (Lower Town) 🚶♂️💪
- By Car 🚗: Limited parking 🅿️⚠️ near the Upper Town 🏘️; best to park below ⬇️ and walk 🚶♀️ or take the funicular 🚠👍
- Arrive early ⏰ to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere 🤫 before crowds 🏃♀️ arrive 😌✨
- Bring a camera 📸 – the square’s symmetry 📐 and light ☀️ make it a photographer’s dream ⭐🖼️
- Try local sweets 🍰 like polenta e osei 🍮 at nearby cafés ☕😋🇮🇹
- Combine your visit 🤝 with nearby attractions ⛪ such as Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore 🕍🗺️✅
- 10:00 AM – Start your day ☕ at Piazza Vecchia ⛲ with a coffee 🥐 at Café del Tasso 😋💨
- 10:30 AM – Visit Palazzo della Ragione 🏰 and Torre Civica 🗼👀
- 12:00 PM – Lunch 🍽️ at one 🍝 of the piazza’s outdoor restaurants 🥂😋
- 2:00 PM – Explore nearby churches ⛪ and shops 🛍️ in Via Colleoni 🛒🗺️
- 5:00 PM – Relax 😌 at the fountain ⛲ and enjoy the evening ambience 🌙✨👋
