Private Bergamo Top Sights Upper Town Guided Tour

Bergamo’s Upper Town is a captivating destination, steeped in centuries of history and architectural wonders. This private guided tour offers visitors a chance to uncover the city’s cultural treasures, from the historic Piazza Mercato delle Scarpe to the awe-inspiring Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. With knowledgeable guides and the option for multiple languages, travelers can embark on a personalized journey through Bergamo’s enchanting streets, uncovering the stories that have shaped this remarkable Italian city.

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Key Points

A private guided tour of Bergamo’s historic Upper Town, lasting 2.5 hours and priced at Kč 3,502 per person.
Tour highlights include Piazza Mercato delle Scarpe, Rocca Castle, Piazza Vecchia, Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, Cathedral, Baptistery, and Colleoni Chapel.
Panoramic views of Bergamo’s lower town and surrounding valleys from the Rocca Castle.
Opportunity to explore the lively atmosphere and local artisans at the historic Piazza Mercato delle Scarpe.
Available in multiple languages with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Details

This private Bergamo guided tour allows visitors to explore the charming Upper Town of the historic city. Priced at Kč 3,502 per person, the 2.5-hour tour is available in multiple languages.

Guests can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. The tour starts at Piazza Mercato delle Scarpe and includes highlights like Rocca Castle, Piazza Vecchia, Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, and the Cittadella.

Comfortable shoes are recommended, and large bags aren’t allowed. The tour occurs mainly outdoors and may continue in light rain, though it may be canceled in heavy rain for a full refund.

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Itinerary Highlights

The private Bergamo guided tour begins at Piazza Mercato delle Scarpe, where you will then walk through ancient streets to Rocca Castle for panoramic views of the Lower Town and valleys. The tour continues to Piazza Vecchia, the heart of the Upper Town, surrounded by historic palaces. Visitors will admire the Romanesque Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, as well as the Cathedral, Baptistery, and the renowned Colleoni Chapel. The experience includes a stroll along Via Corsarola, where guests can explore local shops and eateries, before concluding at the 14th-century Cittadella and Colle Aperto for more stunning views.

| Highlight | Description |

|———–|————-|

| Rocca Castle | Offers views of Lower Town and valleys |

| Piazza Vecchia | Heart of Upper Town, surrounded by historic palaces |

| Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore | Romanesque art treasure |

| Cathedral and Baptistery | Historical religious sites |

| Colleoni Chapel | Renowned architectural landmark |

Piazza Mercato Delle Scarpe

The private Bergamo guided tour begins at Piazza Mercato delle Scarpe, a historic marketplace in the Upper Town.

This charming square dates back to the 14th century and was once a bustling hub for buying and selling goods.

Today, visitors can:

Admire the architecture, including the Renaissance-style buildings surrounding the square.
Spot local artisans and vendors selling their wares in small shops and stalls.
Enjoy a coffee or bite to eat at one of the cozy cafes lining the piazza.
Take in the lively atmosphere and soak up the authentic Italian ambiance.

Rocca Castle and Panoramic Views

From Piazza Mercato delle Scarpe, the tour proceeds through ancient streets towards the towering Rocca Castle. This 14th-century fortress offers panoramic views of Bergamo’s lower town and surrounding valleys. Visitors can explore the castle’s ramparts and inner courtyards, gaining a unique perspective of the city’s history and architecture.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Rocca Castle | 14th-century fortress with panoramic views |

| Ramparts | Visitors can explore the castle walls |

| Inner Courtyards | Offer a glimpse into the castle’s past |

| Views | Overlook Bergamo’s lower town and valleys |

| Historical Significance | Provide insight into the city’s history |

The tour continues, allowing guests to enjoy Bergamo’s rich cultural heritage.

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Piazza Vecchia and Ancient Palaces

Next, the tour leads visitors to Piazza Vecchia, the heart of Bergamo’s historic Upper Town.

This picturesque square is surrounded by ancient palaces, including:

The Palazzo della Ragione, a striking medieval structure housing the city’s administrative offices.
The Palazzo Nuovo, a Renaissance-style building home to the Biblioteca Civica, Bergamo’s public library.
The Palazzo del Podestà, a 13th-century palace with a distinctive clock tower.
The Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, a Romanesque masterpiece featuring intricate marble facades and ornate interiors.

Visitors can wander this enchanting square, soaking in the timeless ambiance of Bergamo’s well-preserved medieval heritage.

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Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore

As visitors approach the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, they’re immediately captivated by its Romanesque grandeur. This 12th-century architectural treasure is renowned for its stunning façade, adorned with intricate carvings and Byzantine-influenced mosaics.

Inside, the basilica’s vast interior showcases awe-inspiring marble columns, frescoed ceilings, and a magnificent main altar. Visitors can admire the basilica’s wealth of art and history, including the renowned Cappella Colleoni – a Renaissance chapel housing the tomb of renowned condottiere Bartolomeo Colleoni.

With its harmonious blend of Romanesque and Gothic elements, the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore stands as a testament to Bergamo’s rich cultural heritage.

Cathedral, Baptistery, and Colleoni Chapel

After exploring the grand Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, visitors continue their journey through Bergamo’s historic Upper Town by making their way to the adjacent Cathedral and Baptistery.

These neighboring structures offer a glimpse into the city’s religious past:

The Cathedral, dating back to the 12th century, features a mix of Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles.
The Baptistery, located just beside the Cathedral, is a circular building constructed in the 11th century.
Nearby stands the stunning Colleoni Chapel, renowned for its intricate Renaissance-era design and decoration.
Together, these sacred sites provide an enriching cultural experience for visitors exploring Bergamo’s iconic Upper Town.

Via Corsarola and Local Experiences

What awaits visitors as they stroll along Via Corsarola, the lively main street of Bergamo’s Upper Town? A captivating mix of local shops, artisan studios, and cozy eateries. Tourists can browse handcrafted goods, sample regional delicacies, and enjoy the vibrant daily life of the historic neighborhood. The guided tour offers insights into the architectural features and cultural significance of this charming thoroughfare. As visitors explore, they’ll uncover the traditions and local character that make Via Corsarola a highlight of the Bergamo experience.

| Shop Type | Examples |

| — | — |

| Artisan Goods | Ceramics, textiles, leather goods |

| Specialty Foods | Cheese, cured meats, pastries |

| Household Items | Linens, glassware, pottery |

| Clothing & Accessories | Apparel, footwear, jewelry |

| Arts & Crafts | Paintings, sculptures, handmade gifts |

The Sum Up

This private guided tour of Bergamo’s Upper Town offers a captivating exploration of the city’s rich history and stunning architecture. Visitors can enjoy the charming Piazza Mercato delle Scarpe, admire the panoramic views from Rocca Castle, and marvel at the magnificent Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. It’s an unforgettable experience that showcases Bergamo’s cultural treasures and ensures a personalized journey through this enchanting Italian destination.