Bergamo is a city that rewards curiosity and exploration. Its medieval streets, panoramic views, and hidden corners make it a perfect setting for engaging tours that go beyond the typical sightseeing. Whether you want to hike through lakeside trails, take a quick tuk-tuk ride through the old town, or explore on a comfortable e-bike, Bergamo offers options for every traveler. We especially love the Hiking Tour from Varenna for its combination of scenic beauty, history, and active adventure. It’s an excellent way to see Lake Como with a knowledgeable local guide, passing castles, villas, and even Italy’s shortest river, Fiumelatte.
For those who prefer a quick overview of Bergamo’s highlights, the 2-hour Best Intro Walking Tour offers a compact, friendly introduction to the city’s top sights and secret spots. And if you’re looking for something uniquely fun and eco-friendly, the E-bike tour takes you through the Upper Town, walls, and historic neighborhoods with ease and style.
Below, you’ll find a detailed look at each of the top tours in Bergamo — from scenic train rides to private walks — helping you decide which experience suits your interests, energy level, and time frame.
1. Hiking Tour: Varenna, Castle of Vezio, Villa Monastero, Fiumelatte
This Hiking Tour from Varenna is a standout because it combines active exploration with rich local stories. Over approximately six hours, a knowledgeable guide leads you through a carefully curated route along Lake Como’s quieter shores, away from the crowds. You’ll pass the Castle of Vezio, perched above the lake with breathtaking views of Bellagio, Menaggio, and Tremezzo. The guide shares tales about the castle’s mysterious past, including a legend that Queen Teodolinda’s ghost occasionally appears—just to keep things interesting.
Next, you’ll visit Villa Monastero, renowned for its botanical gardens stretching over two kilometers filled with thousands of plant species, and the House Museum. The tour includes a walk along the Walk of Lovers in Varenna, a romantic stretch perfect for photos. The highlight for many is stopping at Fiumelatte, the shortest river in Italy, which flows from a cave once explored by Leonardo da Vinci. The hike is quite vigorous, with some steep sections, so good shoes and a decent fitness level are recommended. Guests say their guide Nadia was especially knowledgeable and engaging, making the history come alive.
Bottom line: This tour offers a mix of nature, history, and local legends. It’s perfect for active travelers who want a deeper experience of the Lake Como area, especially those eager to learn about Leonardo’s exploration of Fiumelatte.
2. Tuk Tuk Tour in Bergamo, Città Alta, and the Ancient Venetian Walls
At number 2, this Tuk Tuk Tour in Bergamo is ideal for travelers short on time but eager to see a lot. In just about an hour, your small group or family can zip past Bergamo’s ornate theater, the lively Viale del Sentierone, and the imposing Venetian walls, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The tuk-tuk is a comfortable way to navigate the city’s narrow, cobbled streets without fatigue.
Your driver will point out key sights like the Galleria Carrara, Donizetti’s birthplace, and panoramic viewpoints over the Città Alta. Since the tour includes a climb up the Uphill Street to appreciate the walls’ grandeur, it’s a quick but rundown perfect for first-timers or those with limited time. Reviews praise it for being “fun, practical, and informative,” especially because it covers both the historic upper town and the vibrant lower city.
This tour is especially well-suited for families or groups wanting a relaxed yet insightful introduction, without the physical effort of walking long distances. The only drawback is that it doesn’t go inside landmarks, but it sets a solid foundation for further exploration.
Bottom line: For a quick, enjoyable overview of Bergamo’s highlights with minimal walking, the tuk-tuk tour hits the mark, especially if you’re pressed for time.
3. Bergamo Private Guided Walking Tour
Want a truly personalized experience? The Bergamo Private Guided Walking Tour offers an intimate, three-hour deep dive into the città alta with a dedicated guide. This tour is customizable, allowing your guide to focus on your interests—whether that’s medieval architecture, local legends, or hidden viewpoints only residents know.
Starting from the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, the guide will walk you through the historic streets, pointing out details that most visitors overlook. You’ll see the Duomo, the Cappella Colleoni, and the Rocca di Bergamo, an ancient fortress with sweeping views of the city. The guide shares stories about Bergamo’s development and its strategic position in northern Italy.
The tour includes admission tickets to key sites, making it a convenient all-in-one experience. Reviewers describe their guides as knowledgeable and flexible, with one saying, “Giorgio Ghidotti gave us details I doubt you’d find in guidebooks, making it a day we’ll never forget.” This tour is ideal for travelers who want a leisurely pace with depth and personal attention.
Bottom line: Perfect for history buffs or anyone wanting a tailored experience, this private tour offers a rich, relaxed exploration of Bergamo’s highlights.
4. From Milan: Bernina Express Train and St. Moritz Tour
Travelers craving spectacular scenery should not miss this Bernina Express tour from Milan. Over 14 hours, you’ll journey aboard the famous red Bernina train, winding through the Swiss Alps, with stops in Tirano and St. Moritz. The train ride itself is a highlight, offering panoramic windows to gaze at turquoise lakes, mountain peaks, and glaciers.
The tour starts early with a coach from Milan, passing through charming towns and scenic landscapes. Once in Tirano, you switch to the Bernina train for the journey into the Alps, considered one of the most beautiful rail routes in the world. After arriving in St. Moritz, you get free time for exploration and shopping. The return journey is equally scenic, making it a full day of stunning vistas. Many travelers rave about the Swiss chocolates and souvenirs available in the high-end town.
This experience suits those who want a luxurious and hassle-free day trip with plenty of opportunities for photos and relaxing. Keep in mind it’s a long day, so it’s better suited for energetic travelers comfortable with a full schedule.
Bottom line: If you want to combine luxury train travel with Swiss mountain scenery, this tour offers incredible value and unforgettable views.
5. E-bike Tour to Discover Bergamo
For those who enjoy a bit of exercise with sightseeing, the E-bike Tour in Bergamo is a fantastic option. Over three hours, you’ll pedal through the Upper Town, the historic city walls, and scenic hillside neighborhoods. The e-bike makes conquering some of Bergamo’s steep streets and hills much easier, even if you’re not an experienced cyclist.
Led by a friendly local guide, you’ll visit Piazza Vecchia, the Valley of Biodiversity, and the monastery of Astino. The tour is praised for its beautiful scenery, easy bikes, and Dario’s ability to customize stops based on your interests. Many reviewers mention how surprisingly doable the hills are thanks to the e-bikes, making it accessible for all fitness levels.
If you’re looking for an active way to get a broad view of Bergamo’s historic and natural beauty, this tour offers excellent value—especially if you want to combine exercise with sightseeing.
Bottom line: The e-bike tour is perfect for active travelers who want to see hilltop views and historic sites without the fatigue of walking.
6. Bergamo: 2-hour Best Intro Walking Tour with a Local
If time is tight but you still want a comprehensive taste of Bergamo, the 2-hour Best Intro Walking Tour is a smart choice. Led by a local guide, this tour hits the highlights like Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore, Cappella Colleoni, and the Old Square, while also revealing hidden corners and local tips.
The small group size ensures a personalized experience, and the guide’s insights help you understand Bergamo’s medieval defenses, sacred sites, and popular viewpoints. Reviewers appreciate the friendly guides and the fact that this tour gives a solid overview without feeling rushed. It’s suitable for all ages and mobility levels, making it ideal for travelers with limited time or those who prefer a relaxed pace.
This tour is a good value for its length, providing just enough time to orient yourself and plan further exploration independently.
Bottom line: For a quick, well-rounded introduction to Bergamo’s highlights, this tour hits all the marks.
7. Bergamo and the High Towns: Guided Tour by E-BIKE
Finally, for a combination of adventure and flexibility, consider the E-bike tour of Bergamo and the High Towns. This 2.5 to 3.5-hour journey takes you through the Venetian walls, narrow streets of the Upper Town, and breathtaking hilltop vistas. With two starting points and drop-off options, you can tailor the experience to your schedule.
This tour emphasizes relaxing exploration with a focus on history, views, and local traditions. The well-maintained e-bikes, combined with assistance whenever needed, make this accessible even if you’re not a regular cyclist. Travelers enjoy the exclusive itineraries that blend panoramic moments with cultural insights, and many mention the authentic connection they feel with a guide who acts more like a local friend.
If you prefer a flexible, scenic ride with stops for an aperitif at sunset or a photo session, this is a top pick.
Bottom line: This tour suits travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a bit of leisure, all while enjoying beautiful views and local stories.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding between these options, think about your fitness level, time available, and interest areas. For active outdoor lovers, the Hiking Tour from Varenna offers a full day of adventure, while the E-bike tour provides a relaxed but engaging way to explore Bergamo’s hills. If your schedule is tight, the 2-hour intro walk quickly introduces you to city highlights.
For those eager to see Bergamo’s UNESCO walls and secret viewpoints, the Tuk Tuk Tour and private guided walk are excellent choices. The Bernina Express is perfect if you’re craving mountain scenery and train travel, and it’s a great day trip from Milan.
Booking early is wise, especially for private or guided tours, as Bergamo’s popularity continues to grow. Consider your physical comfort and interests—whether that’s history, scenery, or active exploration—when selecting your ideal tour.
Final Thoughts
Bergamo offers a range of engaging tours that suit different interests and energy levels. For a full day of lakeside hiking, the Varenna hike is hard to beat. If you prefer a quick city introduction, the short walking tour provides a good overview. And for scenic journeys and mountain views, the Bernina train trip is unforgettable.
Whatever your style, planning ahead ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable experiences. Bergamo is a city that invites exploration, and with the right tour, you’ll walk away with stories and sights to cherish long after your trip.