Tucked away in the northern region of Italy, Bergamo is a charming city surrounded by picturesque countryside and steeped in history. As a traveler, you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to exploring this beautiful area, with numerous day trip options available from its historic center. In this article, we’ll delve into 12 of the best day trips from Bergamo, taking you on a journey through some of Lombardy’s most breathtaking landscapes and hidden gems.
The Monastery of Astino and Former Abbey of Valmarina: A Sacred Haven
Our first stop is the stunning Monastery of Astino, perched in a valley near the Colli of Bergamo. Dating back to 1100, this Benedictine abbey was once home to nuns who tended to the surrounding vineyards. Today, it’s part of the Parco dei Colli di Bergamo and offers breathtaking views from its hilltop location.
- Distance: 6.9 km
- How to get there: By car (follow Sp342), on foot (start at Largo Colle Aperto), or take the ATB Bergamo Alta bus.
- Opening hours: Tuesday-Sunday 18:00-22:00, Saturday and Sunday 10:00-22:00
- Admission: Free
Franciacorta: A Wine Lover’s Paradise
Next, we head to Franciacorta, a wine-producing region nestled between Brescia and Bergamo. Here, you can stroll through vineyards, visit famous wineries, and sample some of the world’s finest wines.
- Distance: 42.8 km
- How to get there: By car (follow SPexSS671 towards Milan-Venezia), or take a tour from piazza Marconi in Bergamo.
- Opening hours: Tours depart from Bergamo morning, lasting around 8 hours
- Admission: €49.00
Lake Iseo: A Haven for Relaxation and Leisure
Just an hour’s drive from Bergamo lies Lake Iseo, perfect for unwinding with a boat trip or leisurely stroll around its historic center.
- Distance: 45.1 km
- How to get there: By car (follow SPexSS671 and SP53), or take bus C from piazza Borgo.
- Opening hours: Always open
- Admission: Free
San Pellegrino Terme: A Thermal Oasis
Next, we visit San Pellegrino Terme, a thermal city situated on the banks of the Brembana River. This beautiful spa town is famous for its mineral-rich waters and stunning architecture.
- Distance: 23 km
- How to get there: By car (follow SS470), or take bus B00260 from piazza Marconi.
- Opening hours: Villa Speranza is open Monday-Saturday 10:00-12:00/14:30-17:00
- Admission: Free
Crespi d’Adda: An Architectural Marvel
Our next stop is Crespi d’Adda, an 18th-century village built by the Crespi family near their textile factory. This fascinating complex features a unique blend of architecture and engineering.
- Distance: 18 km
- How to get there: By car (take A4 exit Capriate), or on foot (approximately 2 hours).
- Opening hours: Always open
- Admission: Free
Clusone: A Hidden Gem
Located in the Valle Seriana, Clusone is a charming town renowned for its beautifully decorated palaces and loggias. This picturesque village is perfect for those seeking a tranquil retreat from the city.
- Distance: 33.5 km
- How to get there: By car (follow Sp35 and SPexSS671), or take bus S00190 from piazza Marconi.
- Opening hours: Always open
- Admission: Free
Sirmione: A Charming Lake Garda Town
Our next destination is Sirmione, a picturesque town on the shores of Lake Garda. Famous for its ancient Roman ruins and stunning harbor, this charming town offers something for everyone.
- Distance: 87.6 km
- How to get there: By car (follow A4 towards Venice), or take train from Desenzano del Garda.
- Opening hours: Castello Scaligero: Tuesday-Saturday 8:30-19:30, domenica 8:30-13:30; Grotte di Catullo: martedì-sabato 8:30-19:30; festivi 9:30-18:30
- Admission: €6.00 (castello); €8.00 (grotte)
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Monte Isola: An Island Paradise
Finally, we visit Monte Isola, an enchanting island in Lake Iseo perfect for a full-day excursion. With stunning views of the surrounding countryside, this idyllic destination is ideal for nature lovers.
- Distance: 45.3 km
- How to get there: By car or bike from Lovere or Sarnico (€2.00 ferry fare).
- Opening hours: Always open
- Admission: Free
Milan: The City of Style and Innovation
Last but not least, we visit Milan, a bustling city just a short drive from Bergamo. Famous for its iconic Duomo, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and Castello Sforzesco, this vibrant metropolis is a must-visit destination.
- Distance: 50.3 km
- How to get there: By car or train (€5.00) from Milan Lambrate station.
- Opening hours: Duomo: every day 8:00-19:00; Cenacolo di Leonardo da Vinci: every day 8:15-19:00
- Admission: €2.00 (Duomo); €10.00 (Cenacolo)
Lake Como: Bellagio and Varenna
Our final destination is Lake Como, a breathtakingly beautiful lake famous for its stunning villas and gardens.
- Distance: 63.7 km
- How to get there: By car (follow SP34 and then SP56), or take bus from Lecco.
- Opening hours: Villa Melzi: March-October 9:30-18:30; Castello di Vezio: November-March 10:00-19:00
- Admission: €6.50 (Villa Melzi); €4.00 (Castello di Vezio)
Lake Como: Como
Last but not least, we visit Como, a charming town on the shores of Lake Como. This historic town is famous for its picturesque old town and stunning views of the lake.
- Distance: 63.7 km
- How to get there: By car (follow SP34), or take bus from Lecco.
- Opening hours: Always open
- Admission: Free
Villa Carlotta: A Hidden Gem
Located in Tremezzo, Villa Carlotta is a stunning villa and gardens that offer breathtaking views of Lake Como. This beautiful villa was built in the 18th century for Count Alessandro Borromei Visconti.
- Distance: 65 km
- How to get there: By car (follow SP34), or take bus from Lecco.
- Opening hours: March-October 9:30-17:00; November-March 10:00-14:00
- Admission: €12.00
Tremezzo: A Charming Lake Como Town
Our final destination in Lake Como is Tremezzo, a charming town located on the shores of the lake. This picturesque town is famous for its stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
- Distance: 65 km
- How to get there: By car (follow SP34), or take bus from Lecco.
- Opening hours: Always open
- Admission: Free
Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or simply exploring new destinations, these day trips from Bergamo have something for everyone. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and discover the hidden gems of Lombardy!
In addition to the above-mentioned destinations, there are many other options available for day trips from Bergamo. Some other popular destinations include:
- Val Trompia: A scenic valley located in the province of Cremona, known for its stunning views and picturesque villages.
- Sarnico: A charming town located on the shores of Lake Iseo, famous for its stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
- Varenna: A picturesque town located on the shores of Lake Como, famous for its stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
All of these destinations offer a unique and unforgettable experience, and are definitely worth visiting if you’re looking to explore the hidden gems of Lombardy.
