Getting to Città Alta is easy; people often think that entering the most historic part of Bergamo is complicated, but in fact there are several convenient ways to get there and experience the visit with total peace of mind.
Whether you choose a car, motorcycle, public transportation or a scenic walk, Città Alta remains within easy reach. The important thing is to know the right way to get there.
By car: you can always get there
The good news is that access to Città Alta for parking is always allowed, every day, at any time, even when the ZTL is active. However, when the ZTL is active, one must enter from the correct route: from Viale Vittorio Emanuele II, passing through the Conca d’Oro Gallery traffic circle.
Once inside, it is necessary to park within 30 minutes in one of the dedicated parking lots: Città Alta parking lot on Via della Fara, Tre Armi parking lot on Via delle Tre Armi or Porta S. Alessandro parking lot on Largo Porta di S. Alessandro.
The panels at the traffic circle also indicate available spots in real time, so you can figure out right away where to head and not risk a ticket.
For those who are simply passing through the Upper City and Hills area without stopping, there are specific time slots that must be observed in the access zones. Below, you can download the infographic, which provides more details on parking access and access for through traffic only, with different hours depending on the restricted traffic zone (ZTL).
The “Città Alta e Colli” Limited Traffic Zone (ZTL) is in effect every Sunday and on holidays from 10:00 a.m. to midnight.
One important thing to remember: the Historic Center of the Upper Town Is not freely passable. Transit and parking are prohibited here unless specifically authorized.
N.B. In the historical center of UpperTown, those who are customers of an accommodation facility or have a reservation at a restaurant that has parking can contact the managers directly to request special access passes.
Free shuttles to the Upper Town will be available through the end of 2026. Three ATB lines, served by electric buses, depart from the parking areas in Celadina, Via Carducci, and the Stadium.
The service operates on the following schedule:
The shuttles will depart from Via Borgo Palazzo/Via Roggia Ponte Perduto (on the Esselunga parking lot side).
Departures to Upper Town: 10:10 am, 11:05 am and 12:00 pm.
Return from Open Hill: 4:45 pm, 5:40 pm and 6:35 pm.
Shuttles will leave from the bus stop at the Conad shopping center.
Departures to Upper Town: 10:30 a.m., 11:15 a.m. and 12:00 p.m.
Return from Open Hill: 4:30 p.m., 5:15 p.m. and 6 p.m.
The shuttles will depart from the Curva Sud stop (across from the Atalanta Store).
Departures to Upper Town: 10:00 a.m., 10:50 a.m. and 11:40 a.m.
Return from Open Hill: 4:15 pm, 5:05 pm and 5:55 pm.
By motorcycle or scooter: a freer solution
If you travel by motorcycle or scooter, getting there is even easier. Motorcycles can always pass through the areas ZTL Upper Town and Hills e ZTL Valverde, even when there are hourly restrictions for cars.
Instead, access to the Upper Town Historic Center, where the ban also applies to motorcycles and scooters.
By tour bus: best to arrange ahead of time
For tourist coaches, access requires more attention. The longer vehicles of 10.5 meters are not allowed to enter the Upper Town area, and groups must have their passengers disembark before reaching the funicular area.
To make things easier, you can use the ATB Easy Access, designed precisely to facilitate the arrival of tourist groups and the organization of the transfer to Upper Town.
Once you arrive, you can then continue comfortably by public transport or on foot, choosing the most suitable way to start your visit.
On foot or by transport: the best way to get there
Upper Town is easily reached even without a car. The most practical way is to take the Line 1, the bus that conveniently connects the lower town with the upper part of Bergamo. And if you want a tip from someone who knows Bergamo well: don’t go up by funicular, it’s much better to take the bus to the Colle Aperto terminus and start your visit from there, and then get off later by the historic funicular enjoying the panorama and beautiful views along the walls.
For those who enjoy walking, the characteristic stairways, perfect for experiencing the city step by step, entering its unique atmosphere little by little. A visit to be experienced carefree!
Città Alta is one of the most fascinating places in Bergamo, and getting there is much easier than it sounds. With a few clear directions, you can choose the most convenient way to get there and enjoy a stress-free visit among historic squares, views, stores, and unforgettable sights.
