Guided tour of the upper city of Bergamo with French-speaking guide
Active
1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
You speak French, you go through Bergamo and you want to discover the upper city?
You're in the right place!
I am Valentina, born in Bergamo but French by training: I studied at the Ecole du Louvre in Paris and today I am official guide of the city of Bergamo.
Come with me to feel comfortable with a qualified Francophone guide and visit Bergamo without exhausting yourself: my visits never exceed 1h30!
Are you ready for a trip back in time, between important monuments and hidden corners?
We will start with the incredible panoramas of the Rocca Castle. Then we will cross the medieval streets and old market squares, passing between fountains, washhouses and towers.
Finally we will arrive in the political and religious heart of the city: Piazza Vecchia and Piazza Duomo, to enter (if opening hours allow) the Colleoni Chapel, a Renaissance masterpiece.
Discover Bergamo's old town with me: I'm waiting for you!
Available options
Guided tour of the upper city of Bergamo with French-speaking guide
What's included
Guided tour with an official Bergamo city guide
Francophone guide and graduate of the Ecole du Louvre in Paris
Guided walking tour in French
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
After our meeting in Piazza Mercato delle Scarpe, we will quickly leave the crowds and shopping streets to climb up to Rocca, a castle with incredible panoramic terraces of the upper and lower town of Bergamo.
2
Stop 2
We will continue in the silence of medieval streets and old market squares, to travel back in time and evoke the city of old through its fountains, washhouses and towers.
3
Stop 3
We will conclude in the political and religious heart of the city: Piazza Vecchia, with its places of power, and Piazza Duomo, with its three churches (the Cathedral of Saint Alexander, the Basilica of Saint Mary Major and the Colleoni Chapel).
4
If opening hours permit, we will enter the Colleoni Chapel.
This is the tomb of Bartolomeo Colleoni, an ambitious general of the Venice Army, ready to do anything to make his chapel a Renaissance masterpiece.
Available languages
Guide guide
FR
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Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
The route includes a small 5-minute climb with a few steps to reach the Rocca de Bergamo (no lift available)
Meeting point
The meeting point is in Piazza Mercato delle Scarpe, at the exit of the funicular.
The guide wears a badge with the words "Valentina Maini-Guida turistica"
About Bergamo
Bergamo is a stunning Italian city that beautifully blends medieval architecture with modern charm. Known for its Venetian walls, the upper city (Città Alta) offers a picturesque and historic experience, while the lower city (Città Bassa) provides a vibrant urban atmosphere. Bergamo's rich cultural heritage, combined with its strategic location in the Lombardy region, makes it a captivating destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Città Alta (Upper City)
The upper city is a UNESCO World Heritage site, enclosed by Venetian walls and featuring medieval architecture, charming streets, and historic buildings.
Historical
2-3 hours
Free to explore, individual attractions may have fees
Città Bassa (Lower City)
The lower city is the modern hub of Bergamo, with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
Urban
1-2 hours
Free to explore, individual attractions may have fees
Bergamo Alta Funicular
A historic funicular that connects the upper and lower cities, offering scenic views of the city and surrounding landscape.
Transport
10 minutes
€2.50 one way, €4.50 round trip
Mura Venete (Venetian Walls)
These 16th-century walls surround the upper city and offer a glimpse into Bergamo's historic past.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free to walk along the walls
Accademia Carrara
One of Italy's most important art museums, featuring works by Renaissance and Baroque masters.
Museum
1-2 hours
€12
Must-Try Local Dishes
Polenta e Osei
A traditional dish consisting of polenta with small bird meat, typically served with a rich sauce.
Main Course
Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians
Casoncelli
Stuffed pasta with a filling of meat, breadcrumbs, and herbs, served with butter and sage sauce.
Main Course
Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians
Stracchino di Bergamo
A soft, creamy cheese with a mild flavor, often used in cooking or eaten as a spread.
Cheese
Contains dairy, not suitable for vegans
Polenta e Formaggio
A simple dish of polenta served with melted cheese, often made with local cheeses like Taleggio or Fontina.
Side Dish
Contains dairy, not suitable for vegans
Popular Activities
Hiking
Cycling
Boat tours
Wine tasting
Spa treatments
Strolling through historic streets
Museum visits
Art galleries
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the peak tourist season with warm weather and numerous festivals. The city is lively, and all attractions are open, but it can be crowded.
18°C to 30°C
64°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Italian
- Widely spoken: English, German
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (Central European Time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Bergamo is generally safe, with low crime rates. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
Getting there
By air
- Orio al Serio International Airport • 5 km from city center
By train
Bergamo Station
By bus
Bergamo Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The ATB bus network is efficient and covers both the upper and lower cities. Buses are the primary mode of public transport.
Taxis
Available • Apps: FreeNow, MyTaxi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Città Alta
Città Bassa
Day trips
Lake Iseo
30 km from Bergamo • Half day to full day
Lake Iseo is a picturesque lake surrounded by mountains and charming villages. It's a popular destination for hiking, cycling, and water sports.
Brescia
60 km from Bergamo • Full day
Brescia is a historic city with a rich cultural heritage, featuring Roman ruins, medieval buildings, and a vibrant city center.
Franciacorta
30 km from Bergamo • Half day to full day
Franciacorta is a renowned wine region known for its sparkling wines and beautiful vineyards. It's a popular destination for wine tasting and scenic drives.
Festivals
Festa di San Vigilio • June 26
Bergamo Film Meeting • March
Christmas Markets • December
Pro tips
- Visit the upper city early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos
- Use the funicular or bus to travel between the upper and lower cities to save time and energy
- Try local specialties like polenta e osei, casoncelli, and stracchino di Bergamo
- Explore the Venetian walls for stunning views and a glimpse into Bergamo's historic past
- Visit the Accademia Carrara for a comprehensive overview of Italian art history
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
