GemmaBergamo isn’t just another charming Italian city you see in travel brochures. From my own personal experience, it’s a place that surprises you around every corner with history, art, and scenery that makes your heart skip a beat. Walking through its streets isn’t just a way to get from point A to point B—it’s an adventure. Whether you’re visiting for a day or planning a longer stay, Bergamo offers walking routes that allow you to explore the city’s soul in ways that cars, buses, or trains just can’t.
Let me show you how I make the most of exploring Bergamo on foot and which routes you absolutely cannot miss. These walks range from leisurely strollers through historic streets to hikes that reward you with panoramic views.
1. Città Alta – The Historic Heart
If Bergamo had a crown, Città Alta (Upper Town) would be it. This is where history clings to the walls and cobblestones like ivy on an old building. Walking through its narrow lanes, you’ll feel transported back in time.
Start at Piazza Vecchia, the iconic square where locals and travelers mingle. The square itself is a masterpiece with the Palazzo della Ragione and the Contarini Fountain stealing the show. From here, wandering is easy—you can stroll through Via Colleoni and Via Gombito, passing shops and cafés where you’ll feel tempted to linger.
Don’t miss the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, an architectural wonder with a richly decorated interior. Even if you’re not religious, the ceilings, frescoes, and wooden carvings are mesmerizing. Walking here slowly, you’ll notice details most visitors overlook—the subtle carvings on doors, the worn steps, the quiet courtyards tucked behind buildings.
2. The Venetian Walls – Walk Around History
Bergamo’s Città Alta is surrounded by Venetian Walls, which are not only historically significant but also perfect for a scenic walk. These walls date back to the 16th century when Bergamo was part of the Venetian Republic.
Walking along the walls gives you a unique perspective of the city below and the surrounding Lombardy countryside. The walk can take 30 to 60 minutes depending on your pace and photo stops (and trust me, you’ll take plenty). Along the route, you’ll find small gardens, old gates, and occasional benches where you can rest and soak in the view.
The beauty of this walk is that it combines history with exercise, and if you time it right, sunset views here are unforgettable. From my overall experience, it’s one of those walks that feels like a reward for both the eyes and soul.
3. San Vigilio Hill – For the Breathtaking Panorama
If you want a view that makes you gasp, San Vigilio Hill is the place to go. You can reach it via a funicular from Città Alta, but walking up adds an adventurous twist to the experience. The hilltop offers a panoramic view of Bergamo, the surrounding valleys, and even the distant Alps on a clear day.
The walk is slightly challenging, especially if you start from the lower streets of Città Alta, but it’s worth it. Along the way, you’ll pass olive groves, small parks, and a few cafes where locals stop for a break. At the top, Castello di San Vigilio is worth a quick exploration.
Let yourself linger here. Sit on a bench, watch the city lights start to twinkle in the evening, and breathe in the Italian air. This isn’t just a walk—it’s a moment.
4. Sentierone – Bergamo’s Central Promenade
For a more relaxed walk, Sentierone is ideal. This central promenade in Città Bassa (Lower Town) is perfect for people-watching, grabbing a coffee, or strolling with a gelato in hand. The area is surrounded by elegant buildings, theaters, and shops.
Walking here gives you a different side of Bergamo, one that feels lively and modern while still keeping its charm. Cafés line the street, and it’s common to see locals chatting on benches or enjoying an aperitivo. A morning walk here with a cappuccino is a must—you’ll feel the city wake up around you.
5. Orto Botanico – A Green Escape
Sometimes, walking isn’t just about streets and views—it’s about breathing space. Orto Botanico di Bergamo is a botanical garden that offers a quiet retreat from the bustling city. Located on the edge of Città Alta, it’s a serene place to explore different plant species, small fountains, and peaceful paths.
This walk is especially beautiful in spring when flowers bloom and the air is fragrant. For those who love photography or want a calm spot to read or sketch, it’s ideal. From my own personal experience, even a short 30-minute stroll here can feel like a mini-vacation.
6. Via XX Settembre – Shop and Stroll
If you love a mix of walking and window shopping, Via XX Settembre is your go-to street. Located in the Lower Town, this wide avenue is lined with shops, boutiques, and cafés. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll, especially if you enjoy stopping to admire local fashion or taste Italian pastries along the way.
The street’s atmosphere changes as you walk—from lively commercial hubs to quieter stretches with historic architecture. Stop for an espresso at a small café and watch the locals go about their day—you’ll feel like part of the city.
7. Parco dei Colli – Nature’s Playground
Bergamo isn’t just about historic streets and buildings; it’s also blessed with hills and greenery. Parco dei Colli is a vast regional park perfect for those who want to escape into nature. The walking paths vary from easy strolls to more challenging hikes.
This is a great route if you enjoy discovering local wildlife, wandering through forests, and following trails with panoramic views. Pack a small picnic—you can enjoy it in one of the designated areas while soaking in the views. Based on my overall experience, this park is underrated but absolutely worth a full day of exploration.
8. The Medieval Walk – From Porta Sant’Agostino to Rocca
For a walk that combines history, architecture, and a bit of adventure, try the medieval route from Porta Sant’Agostino to Rocca di Bergamo. The path takes you along ancient streets, past old towers, and up to the historic fortress that once defended the city.
Along the way, you’ll encounter hidden courtyards, small artisan shops, and viewpoints where you can pause to appreciate the city below. The Rocca itself has a small museum and a lovely garden—perfect for resting after the climb.
9. The Art Lover’s Route – Discover Bergamo’s Masterpieces
Bergamo is a city of art, and walking is the best way to explore its treasures. Start at Accademia Carrara, the city’s premier art gallery, and then follow the path through Città Alta to GAMeC, the contemporary art gallery.
This walk combines old masters and modern art, and the streets themselves feel like open-air galleries. Statues, frescoes, and architectural details are scattered throughout Città Alta, making every turn a visual treat. From my own personal experience, slowing down and noticing these details transforms a simple walk into an immersive experience.
10. The Culinary Walk – Tasting Your Way Through Bergamo
Why just walk when you can eat along the way? Bergamo offers a culinary walking route that lets you taste the city while exploring it. Start with a morning coffee and cornetto, stroll through the markets at Piazza Matteotti, and make your way to local bakeries, cheese shops, and trattorias.
Don’t miss Polenta e Osei, a Bergamo specialty. You’ll also find local wines and small delicacies that are hard to resist. Walking and tasting is an experience in itself—you’ll get to see the city and enjoy its flavors simultaneously.
11. The Hidden Corners – Secret Alleys and Courtyards
Some of the best walks in Bergamo are off the beaten path. Venture into hidden alleys and quiet courtyards in both Città Alta and Città Bassa. You’ll stumble upon tiny artisan shops, local cafés, and murals that don’t appear on maps.
These walks feel like a treasure hunt, and every discovery has its own story. From my overall experience, some of the most memorable moments in Bergamo happen when you wander without a strict plan.
12. Bergamo at Night – Illuminated Stroll
Finally, don’t underestimate the magic of walking Bergamo after sunset. The streets of Città Alta glow softly under streetlights, and the quiet ambiance is perfect for reflection.
Start at Piazza Vecchia and wander without a map. Stop at a terrace bar for a glass of wine or coffee and enjoy the view of twinkling lights. Nighttime walking gives the city a romantic, almost cinematic quality.
Final Thoughts
Bergamo is a city that rewards walking. Each route has its own personality—some are historical, some scenic, some culinary, and some just downright peaceful. From my own personal experience, walking is the only way to truly connect with the city. You notice things you’d miss in a car, you discover corners hidden to the casual tourist, and you get a feel for the rhythm of life in Bergamo.
Whether you’re climbing hills, exploring cobbled streets, or enjoying a leisurely promenade, these twelve walking routes ensure that your time in Bergamo is unforgettable. So lace up your shoes, bring your curiosity, and let the city reveal its secrets to you—one step at a time.
I’m Gemma, a passionate lifestyle blogger sharing my creative world with you. Gemitaliano.com is my little corner of the internet, glad you’re here.