The Upper City of Bergamo is one of the most fascinating destinations in Lombardy, a place where history, culture and breathtaking views come together in a unique experience.
Nestled on seven hills and protected by the Venetian Walls, it is easily reached by funicular railway. Surrounded by the embrace of the Venetian Walls, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and immersed in the Park of the Hills, a 4700-hectare green area, Città Alta is the historic core of Bergamo.
Walk to it, starting from the modern Lower Town, via romantic stone stairways that climb up the sides of the hill, or breach the walls with the funicular which has been going up and down in its carriages for more than 100 years.
You will discover a medieval village with its ancient cobblestone streets, the architecture of its historic buildings, and squares. Picturesque glimpses of a timeless village.
In Upper Town, you can’t miss a number of places and attractions that tell the story of the city’s history, art and unique atmosphere. Here’s what to absolutely see:
La historic funicular represents the fastest and most fascinating way to reach Upper Bergamo. Starting from the Lower Town, this historic means of transportation breaks through the Venetian walls with its characteristic carriages that have been going up and down for more than 100 years. The ride takes just 2 minutes and is ideal for all visitors, especially families and people with reduced mobility. Rides are regular throughout the year, offering a unique experience that combines practicality and history.
For lovers of walking, Bergamo Alta can be reached on foot starting from the modern Lower Town. Through characteristic medieval streets that gradually ascend the hill, it is the perfect option for those who want to fully immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the city, providing striking glimpses at every turn.
More athletic visitors can try their hand at climbing historic stairways such as Salita San Vigilio or Colle Aperto. These routes, consisting of authentic stone steps dating back to the 15th century, take about 15-20 minutes to walk. There are numerous intermediate viewpoints along the way, perfect for taking unforgettable souvenir photos and catching your breath.
For those who prefer a convenient and fast option, Urban Line 1 regularly connects Porta Nuova to Colle Aperto with departures every 15 minutes. Expert tip: Get off at the “Via delle Mura” stop to get direct access to the UNESCO walkway, one of the most striking parts of the walled route. This is ideal on bad weather days or for those who want to conserve energy to explore Bergamo Alta ‘s attractions once they arrive at their destination.
You will find yourself walking along the Corsarola, the main road that runs through the entire Upper Town. Along the way you will come to Piazza Vecchia, the village’s central core, a perfect harmony of solids and voids.
In the center is the famous Contarini Fountain, with its sphinxes, one facing the neoclassical building of the Mai Library and the other facing the Palace of Reason, to represent reason and knowledge, man’s resources in the face of life’s challenges.
Towering above the Palazzo del Podestà is the Campanone, the Civic Tower, on which to climb for a breathtaking view. Every evening, at 10 p.m., the ritual of 100 chimes, marks the time when the Bergamasks were called to re-enter the 4 doors that open into the Venetian Walls, which were promptly closed.
A tip: At sunset, walk along the perimeter of the walls to enjoy a fantastic sunset. The city wall measures about 6 km and you can walk along it to discover picturesque corners and views of the surrounding area.
Past the arcades of the Palazzo della Ragione, you are in Piazza Duomo, where some pearls of the old city stand: the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, the Colleoni Chapel and the Duomo.
After discovering the iconic Piazza Vecchia, continuing along Corsarola, you will arrive at the Cittadella Viscontea, a fortified structure complementary to the Rocca that rises on the opposite side of the old city to the east, together with which it forms the city’s defensive system.
Passing through the Citadel gate or near Adalbert’s Tower you will reach Colle Aperto, where a taste of Stracciatella is a must and where you will find, past St. Alexander’s Gate, the second funicular, the one that leads to San Vigilio, the highest hill. The view from up there is absolutely not to be missed.
Diametrically opposite, on the other side of upper town, stands the Rocca with the beautiful Park of Remembrances, houses the 19th-century museum inside.
An interesting way to walk downhill is the Via Porta Dipinta, near which stands Palazzo Moroni with its gardens, you will arrive at the Fara and the monastery of Sant’Agostino, home of the University of Bergamo, surrounded by its beautiful park and Porta Sant’Agostino, which houses a museum dedicated to the walls.
