Where to stay in Bergamo

Lower Town (Città Bassa): the most practical base

The Lower Town is the modern heart of Bergamo: Via XX Settembre and the Sentierone for shopping and evening strolls, the Teatro Donizetti, cafés and restaurants open all year round. The station and the airport bus stop are within walking distance and the streets are flat, a real advantage when arriving with luggage.

From here the Upper Town is a few minutes away by funicular or bus: staying in the centre combines every convenience with easy access to the most beautiful sights in the city.

Upper Town (Città Alta): atmosphere within the Walls

The Upper Town is the postcard image of Bergamo: Piazza Vecchia, the Cappella Colleoni and the Venetian Walls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the evening, when the day visitors leave, it becomes quiet and full of charm.

Access by car is restricted (limited traffic zone) and the streets are cobbled and uphill: it suits short stays with light luggage. Many visitors prefer to stay in the Lower Town and go up on foot or by funicular.

Borgo Pignolo and Borgo Santa Caterina

The historic districts at the foot of the hill combine the charm of the old town with the convenience of the Lower Town. Via Pignolo is one of the most elegant streets, lined with noble palaces and churches; Borgo Santa Caterina is known for its bars and restaurants. Between the two stands the Accademia Carrara, one of Italy's most important art galleries.

Near the station or the airport

Staying near the station is convenient for early trains and for the airport bus, which reaches Orio al Serio in about fifteen minutes.

The airport is about 5 km from the centre: staying right next to it only makes sense for dawn flights, because the historic centre and the restaurants are still a bus or taxi ride away.