Colle Aperto
A charming historic area in Bergamo's Città Alta, offering stunning views, artisanal gelato, and a peaceful escape.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, beautiful light
Colle Aperto
Best Time
Fewer crowds, beautiful light

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming historic area in Bergamo's Città Alta, offering stunning views, artisanal gelato, and a peaceful escape.
"Discover the magic of Colle Aperto, where history meets breathtaking views and delicious treats."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Cobblestone streets and inclines are common in Città Alta. :athletic_shoe:
Take the Funicular
A scenic and historic way to reach Città Alta from the lower city. :mountain_railway:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Orto Botanico Lorenzo Rota
Scalette di Colle Aperto
A peaceful botanical garden offering stunning panoramic views of Bergamo's rooftops and hills.

La Marianna Gelateria
Near Porta San Alessandro
Indulge in artisanal gelato, including the famous stracciatella, at this historic spot.

Scaletta di Vicolo Colle Aperto
Near Il Ducale restaurant
Discover a hidden, historic staircase offering a unique perspective of Città Alta's charm.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Colle Aperto
Navigating Città Alta
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Cobblestone streets and inclines are common in Città Alta. :athletic_shoe:
Take the Funicular
A scenic and historic way to reach Città Alta from the lower city. :mountain_railway:
Try the Stracciatella
La Marianna is famous for its artisanal gelato, especially stracciatella. :ice_cream:
Explore Hidden Gems
Don't miss the Scaletta di Vicolo Colle Aperto for a unique view. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Cobblestone streets and inclines are common in Città Alta. :athletic_shoe:
Take the Funicular
A scenic and historic way to reach Città Alta from the lower city. :mountain_railway:
Try the Stracciatella
La Marianna is famous for its artisanal gelato, especially stracciatella. :ice_cream:
Explore Hidden Gems
Don't miss the Scaletta di Vicolo Colle Aperto for a unique view. :camerawithflash:
Enjoy the Views
Colle Aperto offers breathtaking panoramas of the city. :cityscape:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the picturesque beauty and historic charm of Colle Aperto and Città Alta. The stunning panoramic views, delicious artisanal gelato from La Marianna, and the unique experience of the funicular are frequently praised. Some find the area can get crowded, especially during peak times, and navigating the cobblestone streets requires comfortable footwear.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Bergamo Airport (BGY), take bus line 1 to the lower city of Bergamo. From there, you can catch the funicular up to Città Alta. Once in Città Alta, Colle Aperto is a short walk away. Alternatively, taxis are available from the airport.
The most popular and scenic way is to take the historic funicular. It offers great views as it ascends to Città Alta. Buses are also available.
Driving directly to Colle Aperto within Città Alta is generally restricted. It's best to park in the lower city and use public transport or walk.
While Città Alta is very walkable, there are local buses that can help you navigate between different points, though many prefer to explore on foot.
From Milan Centrale, you can take a train to Bergamo station (approx. 1 hour). From Bergamo station, take bus 1 to the funicular, then the funicular to Città Alta. The entire journey can take around 2-3 hours depending on connections.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Colle Aperto itself is a public area and does not require an entrance ticket. However, you will need tickets for the funicular to reach Città Alta.
The funicular typically operates from early morning until late evening. It's advisable to check the current operating hours with ATB Azienda Trasporti Bergamo before your visit.
The Orto Botanico Lorenzo Rota may have a small entrance fee. It's best to check their official website or inquire locally for the most up-to-date pricing.
While specific city passes might exist, it's worth researching if they cover the funicular or any attractions near Colle Aperto to see if it offers savings.
Yes, Colle Aperto is accessible at night, and the views can be particularly magical with the city lights. The funicular also operates into the evening.
📸 📸 Photography
The Orto Botanico offers stunning panoramic views, perfect for landscape shots. The Scaletta di Vicolo Colle Aperto provides unique architectural photos. Don't forget the views from the funicular ride up!
Golden hour, around sunrise and sunset, offers the most beautiful light for photography. Weekday evenings can be less crowded for capturing these moments.
Drone usage is typically restricted in historic city centers and protected areas. It's essential to check local regulations before flying a drone in Bergamo.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the panoramic views. A standard zoom lens is versatile for general sightseeing. A tripod can be useful for low-light photography during sunset. :camerawithflash:
Yes, you can take photos inside La Marianna, especially of their delicious gelato and pastries. Be mindful of other patrons. :camerawithflash:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
La Marianna is a must-visit for gelato and pastries. There are also restaurants and cafes in Città Alta offering local Lombard cuisine. Consider Il Fornaio for pizza.
The stracciatella gelato at La Marianna is legendary and a must-try when visiting Colle Aperto.
Yes, Atmosfere – Life Source is a rooftop bar in Città Alta offering cocktails with a view of the sunset over the rooftops.
Look for polenta dishes, casoncelli (stuffed pasta), and local cheeses. Bergamo also has excellent artisanal bakeries.
Dining in Città Alta can be a bit pricier than in the lower city, especially at restaurants with prime views. However, there are options for various budgets, including pizzerias and cafes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
La Marianna is a guaranteed win with its delicious gelato, perfect for a treat after exploring. While the cobblestone streets can be uneven, they are generally manageable with strollers, though a carrier might be easier for very young children. Many of the historic streets are pedestrian-only, making them safe for little ones to wander. Consider a picnic lunch with items from a local bakery to keep costs down and allow for flexible meal times.
🚶 Solo Travelers
Solo travelers can enjoy the freedom of stopping at La Marianna for a gelato without needing to coordinate with others, or savoring a quiet drink at a cafe. The historic streets and architecture are perfect for photography enthusiasts. Consider joining a walking tour to learn more about the history and culture, or simply wander and discover hidden alleys and charming squares.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't miss the views from the funicular as it ascends, offering dynamic shots of the city below. The Venetian walls themselves are a subject of grandeur, perfect for capturing the scale and history of the fortifications. Experiment with different angles and focal lengths to capture the essence of this picturesque Italian gem. Remember to check local regulations regarding drone photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Città Alta and its Venetian Walls
To reach Città Alta, the most iconic method is the funicular, a charming historical transport system that connects the lower city to the upper town. The ride itself is an experience, offering scenic vistas. Once you arrive in Città Alta, the area around Colle Aperto is best explored on foot. The Orto Botanico Lorenzo Rota, located near Colle Aperto, is a peaceful oasis within the historic walls, offering a tranquil escape and more stunning viewpoints.
Beyond the walls and gardens, Città Alta is a labyrinth of charming cobblestone streets, medieval piazzas, and historic buildings. The Scaletta di Vicolo Colle Aperto is a lesser-known but intriguing spot, a hidden staircase that adds to the area's mystique. The entire upper city invites leisurely exploration, allowing you to soak in its rich history and picturesque atmosphere. Many travelers find that a day trip from Milan is sufficient to experience the highlights, but an overnight stay allows for a more immersive experience.
Culinary Delights: From Gelato to Rooftop Views
For those seeking a more elevated dining experience, Atmosfere – Life Source offers a sophisticated rooftop bar. Here, you can enjoy cocktails with a spectacular view of Città Alta at sunset. This provides a perfect blend of ambiance and gastronomy, making for a memorable evening. The area also boasts traditional trattorias and pizzerias, such as Il Fornaio, where you can sample authentic Italian cuisine.
When exploring the food scene in Città Alta, be prepared for prices that may be slightly higher than in the lower city, reflecting the prime location and historic ambiance. However, the quality of food and the unique dining experiences, from casual gelato stops to elegant rooftop bars, make it well worth it. Exploring these culinary options adds another rich layer to the Colle Aperto experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit