Bergamo, Italy; The City of Two Halves Part 1
July 8, 2024Bergamo was once ruled by Austria and is the fourth largest city in Lombardy, Italy.
Refreshments
Without fail, my favourite restaurant is Trattoria d'Ambrosio (Da Guiliana). The chaotic hustle and bustle combined with the amazing food, has me wanting to return time and again. Casconcelli alla Bergamasca, and the jug of vino rosso always puts a smile on my face! There’s a real whimsical vibe thanks to an array of quirky ornaments. If Betty Boop isn’t your thing, take a look at the Atalanta football shirts. Every nook and cranny offers a different theme, be sure to take some time to browse.
Now if you fancy fast food, I thoroughly recommend Il kebabbaro; I’m almost ashamed I’ve lost count of the amount of times I’ve eaten here. That won’t stop me eating here again though!
L’appetito vien mangiando was a great find, full of Sicilian treats and was almost directly outside of my last apartment.
If you’d prefer a coffee and a snack, head to Bar Flora. People watching is a great way to spend an hour and here provides a fantastic spot. Around Christmas, you have views of the displays and the markets, in the warmer weather you can simply enjoy the sun surrounded by plants.
At various times of the year, particularly Christmas, you’ll find street markets. Vintage clothing, gifts, food and beverages will take pride of place. I’ve often sampled delicacies (one being intestines on a stick; still not sure how I feel about that), and picked up a mulled wine whilst visiting.
Gallery
Going Places
Bergamo is known for its ‘scalette’, the ancient stone stairs that can be found all over the city leading from Città Bassa up to Città Alta. Always fun after a few drinks at Baretto di S.Vigilio if you’re not stopping to watch the sunset, the stairs can be swapped for the funicular. Be aware that this closes quite early so if you are relying on the funicular, check the operating times.
Bergamo, Città Alta
After a spectacular day with Walkinita, my newfound friend Chiara recommended a few places I hadn’t seen in the upper half of the city. We visited museums, restaurants, and churches but I’ll outline that adventure in the other blog (soon to be posted!).
Onwards
Exploring on my own, I made a beeline for the Biblioteca to marvel at its painted ceilings, ancient book collection, and huge globes. They stood as tall as me and I spent an age reading the maps printed on them and looking at the constellations and sea monsters dotted all over. Another place I’d walked past yet never entered; it was lovely to see, and worth being quiet for. There were free lockers plenty big enough for a Ryanair sized backpack.
With so many side streets, it’s easy to get lost but there’s some interesting hidden history amongst them. From hidden Roman ruins down the side of an alley, to quirky ironmongers’ store fronts, you need to keep your eyes peeled.
Piazza Vecchia is the apple of my eye and leads to the breathtaking Colleoni Chapel. I could stare at this for hours; the details are sublime.
The Outskirts
Wandering around the outer edges of Città Alta, you really start to get some beautiful views cross the landscape. Passing Roman doors and marvelling at the ancient Venetian walls, it’s not hard to understand why it’s become a UNESCO site.
Whilst you’re admiring the walls, you may find yourself drifting along to La Marianna. Perfect for a break, try the renowned la stracciatella, their specialty originating here in 1961. It’s delicious, regardless of the weather!
Babilonia (their sister shop) is also worth a mention, offering the most amazing desserts with a mouth-watering display. Polentina has been a breakfast favourite of mine.
Heading Home
Bergamo airport is located directly opposite the Orio Center which I visit often. Great transport links mean it is easy to get around.
The mall has a great selection of fashion and food so you can while away the hours counting down for the flight home – just don’t exceed your luggage allowance! Ca’Pelletti is a surprisingly tasty spot that offers a great selection of food for a small price.
I’m forever longing for Bergamo and cannot wait to return. Whether you use this as a base for Milan or further afield, I trust you will enjoy a few days here as much as I have. This small snippet has barely scratched the surface, but I sincerely hope it’s enough to pique your interest. Happy travels!
BONUS - if you find this particular yellow building, walk halfway down the stairs toward it, look to your left. There you will see a window (not so great for selfies), and inside are some hidden Roman ruins!
