BERGAMO & BRESCIA
Bergamo & Brescia is the vibrant heart of Lombardy, a region where ancient Venetian and Roman histories converge with sophisticated modern culture and stunning alpine scenery.
This area is a captivating blend of UNESCO-listed Venetian walls, medieval old towns, shimmering lakes, and world-class culinary and artistic traditions.
Most Popular Attractions
Combined Region Core – Bergamo & Brescia Cities:
Bergamo Alta (Città Alta): The magnificent walled upper town, a jewel of medieval and Renaissance architecture accessible by funicular.
Piazza Vecchia (Bergamo): Considered one of Italy’s most beautiful squares, featuring the Palazzo della Ragione and the Contarini Fountain.
Duomo di Bergamo (Cattedrale di Sant’Alessandro): The city’s main cathedral, dedicated to the patron saint.
Cappella Colleoni (Bergamo): A stunning Renaissance funerary chapel next to the Duomo, famous for its ornate façade.
Mura Veneziane (Venetian Walls, Bergamo): The UNESCO World Heritage-listed defensive walls encircling the Città Alta, offering incredible views.
Brescia Capitolium (Tempio Capitolino): The magnificent Roman ruins in Brescia’s historical centre, part of a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Museo di Santa Giulia (Brescia): A UNESCO World Heritage-listed complex featuring a vast museum spanning from the Roman era to the Renaissance.
Piazza della Loggia (Brescia): A beautiful Venetian-style square dominated by the Renaissance Palazzo della Loggia.
Duomo Vecchio (Rotonda, Brescia): A unique, 11th-century circular Romanesque cathedral.
Pinacoteca Tosio Martinengo (Brescia): A major art gallery with important works by local masters and Renaissance painters.
Natural & Lakeside Attractions:
Lake Iseo (Lago d’Iseo): A serene, lesser-known lake surrounded by mountains, popular for sailing and relaxation.
Monte Isola (Lake Iseo): Europe’s largest inhabited lake island, a beautiful spot free of cars.
Val Seriana & Val Brembana (Bergamo): Two main valleys offering spectacular hiking, skiing, and charming alpine villages.
Lake Garda (Lago di Garda – West Shore): The western coast in the Brescia province, known for its mild climate, stunning vistas, and charming towns like Sirmione (though technically Verona/Brescia/Trento) and Desenzano del Garda.
Tremezzo and its Villas (Lake Como – nearby access): Although on Lake Como, it’s a popular day trip for its proximity, known for the Grand Hotel Tremezzo and Villa Carlotta.
History, Culture & Modern Sites:
Accademia Carrara (Bergamo): A world-class art gallery renowned for its collection of Renaissance paintings, particularly by Lotto and Bellini.
Rocca di Bergamo: A historic fortress atop the Sant’Eufemia hill, now housing the Museo Storico.
Teatro Donizetti (Bergamo): A historic theatre named after the famous local opera composer, Gaetano Donizetti.
Quadrilatero Romano (Brescia): The area surrounding the Roman Forum, showcasing the city’s ancient past.
Franciacorta Wine Region (Brescia): Italy’s premier sparkling wine region, known as the “Italian Champagne,” with numerous wineries open for tasting tours (cantine).
Terme di Boario (Brescia): Historic thermal baths and spa known for their therapeutic waters, set in the Valcamonica.
Parco delle Colline di Bergamo: A large regional park surrounding the city, perfect for nature walks and cycling.
Valcamonica Rock Drawings (Brescia): A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring one of the world’s largest collections of prehistoric petroglyphs.
Castello di Brescia: A large medieval castle complex situated on Cidneo Hill, offering panoramic views of the city.
Activities & Experiences
Hike the Bergamasque Alps (Orobie Alps): Explore trails ranging from gentle valley walks to challenging multi-day treks, including via ferratas, with stunning views of the Lombardy pre-Alps.
Explore Città Alta (Bergamo): Take the funicular up to Bergamo’s walled Upper Town, wander the Venetian walls, visit the Cappella Colleoni, and enjoy panoramic views from the Campanone (Civic Tower).
Take a Boat Trip on Lake Iseo: Visit the largest lake island in Europe, Monte Isola, or take a cruise to the smaller islands of Loreto and San Paolo, enjoying the peaceful lake atmosphere.
Visit the Roman and Longobard Sites (Brescia): Explore the Archaeological Park and the stunning UNESCO World Heritage site of the Santa Giulia Museum, which houses artifacts spanning from the Roman era to the Renaissance.
Cycle the Val Seriana or Val Brembana: Rent a bike and ride along the scenic cycle paths that follow old railway lines through the valleys north of Bergamo, passing charming villages and industrial heritage sites.
Go Wine Tasting in Franciacorta: Tour the prestigious vineyards and cellars of the Franciacorta region near Lake Iseo, famous for its world-class sparkling wines made with the traditional method.
Experience the Mille Miglia (Brescia): If visiting in May, witness the historic Mille Miglia car race, which starts and finishes in Brescia, celebrating classic cars in a spectacular street parade.
Explore the Val Camonica Rock Drawings: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage sites in the Camonica Valley to see one of the world’s largest collections of prehistoric rock carvings.
Wander Sirmione on Lake Garda: Drive or take a bus to the southern tip of Lake Garda to explore the historic town of Sirmione, with its Scaliger Castle and the Roman ruins of the Grotte di Catullo.
Take a Cooking Class: Learn to prepare classic local dishes, such as Casoncelli (stuffed pasta) from Bergamo or Polenta Taragna (cornmeal with cheese and butter) from Brescia.
Visit the Torni di Braidaceli (Brescia): Explore the Brescia Castle, one of the largest fortified complexes in Italy, for a taste of medieval history and great views over the city.
Local Tips & Transport
Car for the Lakes and Valleys: While the cities of Bergamo and Brescia are walkable and well-served by public transit, a rental car is highly recommended to explore the stunning region’s best attractions. This includes the towns around Lake Garda, Lake Iseo, Franciacorta, and the Alps in the north.
City Public Transport:
Bergamo (ATB): The city has an efficient bus network and a modern Tramway (TEB) that connects the city center to the Val Seriana. The funiculars (for Città Alta and San Vigilio) are essential for tourists.
Brescia (Brescia Mobilità): Brescia has an excellent and user-friendly Metro line (automated) that connects the main train station, city center, and outer neighborhoods, making movement very easy.
Rail Connections (Trenord/Trenitalia): Reliable train lines connect Bergamo and Brescia to major cities like Milan and Venice. They also connect major towns within the region, such as Bergamo, Brescia, Rovato, and Desenzano del Garda.
From the Airports: Bergamo Orio al Serio (BGY) is a major hub. The best way to reach the Bergamo city center is via the Airport Bus (ATB), which is fast and affordable. For Brescia, take the dedicated shuttle bus or the train from Bergamo via the train station.
Embrace the Food Heritage: The regional cuisine is heavily influenced by the mountains, featuring Polenta (often taragna, made with buckwheat), Casoncelli (a signature Bergamo pasta), and abundant local cheeses, such as Taleggio and Gorgonzola. Don’t forget to try the local dessert, Polenta e Osei (a sweet cake shaped like polenta with chocolate “birds”).
The “Doppia Capitale” Culture: Since the area was the Italian Capital of Culture in 2023, many museums, historic sites, and cultural programs have received significant upgrades. Look for joint ticketing options or special combined itineraries that link the attractions of both cities.
Aperitivo Culture: Like much of Northern Italy, the evening Aperitivo is a popular tradition. From roughly 6 PM to 9 PM, bars offer a drink plus a complimentary buffet or tray of snacks. It’s a fantastic way to socialize and have a light dinner.
Hidden Gems
Lovere (Lake Iseo): Voted one of the “Most Beautiful Villages in Italy,” this charming town on the northern tip of Lake Iseo has a stunning old town, an important art gallery (Accademia Tadini), and a relaxed atmosphere.
The Quadriportico (Brescia): Tucked away behind the Roman ruins, this former monastic courtyard now houses shops and cafés. It’s a peaceful spot away from the crowds to enjoy a coffee.
Sentierone (Bergamo): This beautiful tree-lined promenade is the heart of Bergamo’s Lower Town (Città Bassa). It’s where locals gather and is surrounded by elegant Art Nouveau buildings and theaters.
Tassani Gelateria (Bergamo): Founded in 1879, this historic gelateria near the train station is renowned for its classic, high-quality Italian ice cream and is a true local institution.
The Torbiere del Sebino (Lake Iseo): This natural reserve on the south shore of Lake Iseo is a beautiful, protected wetland area, perfect for gentle hiking and birdwatching on wooden walkways.
Language: While English is spoken in tourist centers, you’ll find that having a few Italian phrases—like Buongiorno (Good morning/day), Grazie (Thank you), and Per favore (Please)—will be genuinely appreciated by locals, particularly in the smaller towns and villages.
Top Restaurants
Trattoria Parietti [$$35] – Located in Bergamo’s Città Alta, this trattoria is a local favorite for authentic Bergamasque cuisine, especially their excellent Casoncelli and Polenta Taragna.
Osteria Al Gigianca [$$50] – A renowned spot in Bergamo with a focus on traditional recipes from the Bergamo valleys, served in a warm, welcoming setting.
Osteria della Villetta dal 1900 [$$50] – A historic and authentic Brescia institution known for preserving the region’s traditional flavors and generous portions.
Antica Trattoria Piè del dos [$$40] – Located in Gussago (Brescia area), this highly-regarded trattoria serves classic Brescian cuisine, focusing on local ingredients and hearty dishes.
Trattoria Gambero [$$40] – A central Brescia favorite specializing in local dishes like Manzo all’Olio and Brescian-style risotto, providing an intimate setting with fresh, regional ingredients.
Osterèa de la Anetì [$$35] – Highly praised in Bergamo for its deeply traditional local dishes like Casoncelli alla Bergamasca and Polenta Taragna, offering a genuine, rustic experience.
Osteria Al Bianchi [$$35] – A popular, simple Brescian osteria in the city known for generous servings of local cuisine, including excellent selections of cured meats and cheeses.
Trattoria Glisenti [$$40] – Found in Marone on Lake Iseo (Brescia province), this spot is known for traditional dishes, often featuring lake fish and local specialties.
Ristorante Lalimentari [$$35] – A small, friendly restaurant and wine bar in Bergamo serving traditional regional cuisine made from high-quality seasonal ingredients, including excellent polenta dishes.
Trattoria Sant’Ambroeus [$$35] – Located in Bergamo’s Città Alta, this spot in Piazza Vecchia features classic Bergamasque dishes in a welcoming, genuine setting, popular with locals.
Trattoria del Muliner 1964 [$$45] – Situated in Clusane Sul Lago (Brescia province), this restaurant is a reference point for authentic Lake Iseo cuisine, especially oven-baked tench (tinca).
Osteria L’Imbufalita [$$40] – A well-known spot in Brescia city for its commitment to traditional Brescian cuisine and a great selection of Franciacorta wines.
Vineria Cozzi [$$50] – A historic, quirky, and beloved restaurant in Bergamo’s Città Alta, operating since the 1840s, known for its creative take on Lombardy-inspired dishes and great wine list.
La Madia [$$40] – A trattoria in Brescia that is a local go-to for traditional, unpretentious Brescian cooking.
Ristorante Ol Giopì e la Margì [$$45] – Located in Bergamo Bassa, this restaurant blends local culinary tradition with a touch of creativity, offering exclusive and delicious dishes.
Trattoria Cavour [$$50] – A classic and elegant restaurant in Brescia, serving refined versions of traditional Lombard and Brescian dishes.
Da Mimmo Bergamo Alta [$$45] – A popular spot in Bergamo’s upper city for traditional Italian fare with a Bergamasque slant, featuring rustic stone walls and a warm ambiance.
Caffè Del Tasso [$$40] – A historic establishment in Bergamo’s Piazza Vecchia that serves typical dishes from Bergamo.
Osteria La Miniera [$$35] – Located in Tignale (Lake Garda area, Brescia province), offering a rustic atmosphere and local food, often away from the main tourist crowds.
Ristorante Il Pianone [$$50] – A spot with beautiful views of Bergamo, known for traditional Mediterranean and Lombard cuisine, often recommended for a special occasion with a local feel.
La Cantina [$$35] – A Bergamo restaurant focused on local tradition, known for its margottino (polenta dome with Taleggio and truffle).
Osteria Gattolardo [$$40] – A refuge in Desenzano del Garda (Brescia province) that provides comfort and local Brescian cuisine, steering clear of the hyper-touristic fare.
Osteria ai Nidrì [$$50] – Located near Lake Iseo (Brescia province), this spot offers eccentric, yet well-crafted recipes utilizing seasonal products, including local lake fish.
Osteria Al Bianchi [$20-$35] – A well-loved traditional eatery in Brescia known for local dishes like casoncelli pasta, providing a deep dive into the heart of Brescian cuisine.
Trattoria Vantini [$20-$35] – A traditional trattoria offering classic Italian dishes, known for its strong local following and welcoming atmosphere.
Nuovo Inizio [$20-$35] – A traditional Italian restaurant well-regarded by locals, focusing on authentic regional flavors.
Ristorante Aroma – Brescia [$50-$80] – A more upscale traditional Italian restaurant that focuses on regional cuisine and high-quality ingredients, known for its elegant presentation of classics.
Trattoria Gambero [$25-$40] – Located in the heart of Brescia, this historic trattoria specializes in local dishes such as manzo all’olio and Brescian-style risotto, served in an intimate setting.
Hostaria Uva Rara [$20-$35] – Located near Brescia (Monticelli Brusati), this spot offers excellent country cooking and a focus on local ingredients, typical of the Franciacorta region.
Dispensa Franciacorta [$25-$40] – Located in the Franciacorta wine region (Torbiato), this restaurant and shop offers modern cuisine with a strong emphasis on local products and wines.
Trattoria del Muliner 1964 [$20-$35] – Situated in Clusane Sul Lago on Lake Iseo, this trattoria is a classic spot for regional dishes, often featuring local lake fish.
Osteria Dalie e Fagioli [$20-$35] – Located near Lake Garda (Manerba del Garda), this lively spot is known for its competitively priced menus covering local land, lake, and vegetable dishes.
Salamensa [$15-$25] – A budget-friendly spot (Montichiari) offering simple but hearty country cooking and a genuine local feel.
Al Carroponte [$30-$50] – A sophisticated eno-bistro in Bergamo blending modern elegance with culinary artistry, offering creative dishes and an excellent wine selection.
Bolle Restaurant [$40-$70] – Located near Bergamo (Lallio), this restaurant, led by a talented local chef, offers high-level, contemporary, and engaging cuisine.
Ristorante Vivilo [$40-$70] – Located near Brescia (Corte Franca), this spot focuses on modern cuisine, known for its refined dishes and presentation.
CUT – Caravaggio [$30-$50] – A modern and cozy ambiance near Bergamo (Caravaggio) offering straightforward, no-frills cuisine with fresh and powerful flavors, excelling with both meat and fish.
I Peruvià [$25-$40] – A highly-rated spot in Brescia offering authentic Peruvian cuisine, a fantastic choice for a unique and non-traditional experience.
La Tapería de Zorrilla [$20-$35] – Located in Brescia, this popular tapas bar offers a modern and creative twist on traditional Spanish dishes.
Al Malò – Cucina e Miscelazione [$40-$60] – A creative Italian contemporary restaurant near Brescia (Rovato) that often features inventive gastronomy and mixology.
Metodo [$40-$60] – Located near Bergamo (Marne), this creative restaurant is known for its inventive and high-quality cuisine.
LoRo [$40-$60] – A creative restaurant near Bergamo (Trescore Balneario) that showcases innovative dishes with a focus on technique and presentation.
Osteria ai Nidrì [$30-$50] – Near Lake Iseo (Iseo), this restaurant offers eccentric recipes crafted with excellent technique, focusing on seasonal products and lake fish.
Da Vittorio [$200+] – A world-renowned, three-Michelin-starred restaurant near Bergamo (Brusaporto), considered a temple of Italian fine dining. The price range reflects their prestigious tasting menus.
Villa Elena – Ristorante Enrico Bartolini [$150+] – A two-Michelin-starred restaurant in Bergamo with an excellent reputation for innovative Italian cuisine.
Aponiente [$150+] – (Wait, this is from the original Andalusia list. I must correct for the asked region.) Casual Ristorante [$120+] – A Michelin-selected restaurant in the Upper City of Bergamo, known for its sophisticated and contemporary cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
Impronte [$120+] – A Michelin-selected restaurant in Bergamo offering a refined Mediterranean dining experience.
Castello Malvezzi [$100-$150] – Located in Brescia, this elegant 16th-century hunting lodge offers a modern menu of creative fish and regional specialties, including a dedicated menu for local Calvisano caviar.
Due Colombe [$80-$120] – A Michelin-selected restaurant near Brescia (Borgonato), offering sophisticated Italian Contemporary cuisine in the Franciacorta area.
Leone Felice [$100-$150] – A fine dining restaurant near Brescia (Erbusco) with a focus on refined Italian cuisine.
La Madia [$80-$120] – A Michelin-selected restaurant near Brescia (Brione) known for high-quality, contemporary Lombardian cuisine.
Osteria della Brughiera [$100-$150] – A fine-dining experience near Bergamo (Villa d’Almè) focusing on Italian Contemporary cuisine in an elegant setting.
Lido 84 [$150+] – Located on Lake Garda (Gardone Riviera), this highly acclaimed restaurant is consistently ranked among the world’s best, offering a unique and spectacular dining experience focused on lake cuisine.
PolentOne [$10-$20] – Styling itself as Italy’s first polenta takeaway in Bergamo, this is a unique concept serving steaming bowls of polenta (gialla or taragna) with various sauces.
Oriental Areadocks Japanese Restaurant [$35-$50] – A well-rated Japanese restaurant in Brescia, offering a diverse culinary option outside of the traditional Italian fare.
Kanton Restaurant [$20-$35] – Located near Bergamo (Capriate San Gervasio), this Chinese restaurant offers a diverse choice of cuisine that is well-regarded.
DeGusto – Bergamo [$20-$35] – A popular spot for craft beer lovers in Bergamo, featuring a kitchen that prepares everything in-house, from hamburger rolls to desserts, pairing quality food with excellent beer.
Bugan Coffee Lab [$10-$20] – A temple of specialty coffee in Bergamo where the focus is strictly on high-quality coffee and an immersive experience (do not ask for sugar or decaf).
Pizzeria Ristorante Cristal [$20-$35] – A highly-rated European restaurant in Brescia, offering excellent pizza alongside other traditional European fare.
La Piada di una Volta [$10-$20] – A spot in Bergamo known for its piadine (thin, crispy Italian flatbreads) stuffed with flavorful Italian fillings, perfect for a quick and tasty casual meal.
Ma! Osteria [$20-$35] – A casual osteria in Brescia known for its good-value lunch options and homemade cuisine.
Il Colmetto [$20-$35] – Located near Brescia (Rodengo Saiano), this place often focuses on farm-to-table ingredients with a specialty in grilled meats.
Il Fornaio [$5-$15] – An excellent bakery in Bergamo’s lower city for pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice) with quality toppings, perfect for a quick, affordable, and local snack.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Botanico: Located in Bergamo’s city center, this refined establishment offers an innovative cocktail selection in a setting that merges vintage and contemporary styles, popular for its creative mixology.
The Alchemist Bar: Situated in Bergamo, this spot is known for its inventive and expertly crafted cocktails, providing a vibrant atmosphere for enthusiasts of high-quality drinks.
Hortus Bergamo: Found in the heart of Bergamo, this bar is known for a romantic atmosphere and is praised for its cocktail offerings within a stylish, natural-themed setting.
Barrier: A premier cocktail bar and restaurant in Bergamo, this stylish venue offers unique drinks and a sophisticated ambiance, making it a perfect spot for an upscale aperitivo.
Sottovoce Speakeasy: Experience a nostalgic ambiance and exquisite cocktails at this hidden gem in Bergamo, offering a classic speakeasy experience.
Dialogue Lounge: A sophisticated cocktail bar located in Brescia, known for its elegant setting and high-quality drinks, proudly featuring champagne expertise.
Mondo Liquido: Nestled in the heart of Brescia, this bar is an oasis offering a unique blend of creative cocktails and fine wines within the picturesque Parco dell’Acqua, complete with pond views.
Viselli Bar: Located in Brescia, this historic spot is famous for its self-made, secret-recipe cocktail known as “Sciampagnone,” providing a unique, vintage cultural experience in the city.
Contest Lounge Bar: A must-visit spot in Bergamo for an unforgettable night out, known for its vibrant atmosphere and exquisite, well-crafted cocktails.
Vox Restaurant & Lounge Bar: Conveniently located in Bergamo on Viale Papa Giovanni XXIII, this spot is popular for its lively Happy Hour and selection of drinks.
Caffè del Tasso 1476: A historic café in Bergamo’s beautiful Città Alta, located in Piazza Vecchia, offering outdoor tables and serving after-dinner cocktails in an iconic setting.
Oriental Areadocks Japanese Restaurant: Situated in Brescia, this venue also features a cocktail bar known for its high rating and modern, integrated lounge setting.
Bar Borsa: Discover this charming bar in Bergamo at Piazza della Libertà, offering delightful drinks and a vibrant atmosphere, often frequented for aperitivo.
Il Dispensario: A cocktail bar in Bergamo, noted for its diverse drink menu and known for having a smoking room with a view.
Caffè Artisan: A popular spot in Bergamo, perfect for enjoying a cocktail in a relaxed, local setting.
ZeroClub: A small but popular nightclub in Bergamo’s Lower Town, known for its energetic atmosphere and DJ sets that span various music genres, from hip-hop to indie rock.
Dancing Amadeus: One of the popular dance clubs in the Bergamo area, offering a space for those looking to party until late.
Setai: A trendy nightclub located near the Orio al Serio airport (5km from Bergamo center), known for its elegant design, commercial music, and garden area with palms.
VIBE Music Zone: Situated 6 km from Bergamo center in Treviolo, this club features an industrial style, light effects, and a variety of music, including techno house, hip hop, trap, and reggaeton.
Bolgia: A famous nightclub 12 km from the center of Bergamo (in Osio Sopra), specializing in electronic music and often hosting international guest DJs.
Bobadilla Feeling Club: One of the most famous nightclubs in the Bergamo province (in Dalmine, 14 km from the center), featuring elegant interiors and a requested chic dress code.
Circus Beatclub: A popular nightclub in Brescia, located on the outskirts of the city, known for its commercial house music and lively atmosphere, especially with the student crowd.
Art Club: A well-known club in Desenzano del Garda (Brescia province), a hub for Lake Garda’s vibrant nightlife, offering a large space for dancing.
Sesto Senso Club: Located in Desenzano del Garda (Brescia province), this club is a famous and elegant destination for those seeking high-end nightlife on Lake Garda.
Mazoom & Le Plaisir Club: Situated in Desenzano del Garda (Brescia province), this club is another major spot for the Lake Garda nightlife scene, known for attracting a large crowd.
NXT Station: Located in the lively Piazzale degli Alpini area of Bergamo, this premier night club is known for its contemporary decor and dynamic ambiance, featuring DJs and live performances.