Bergamo is a city that rewards slow exploration. Its medieval streets, sweeping views, and Renaissance architecture are best appreciated on foot. The city’s Upper Town (Città Alta) is a maze of narrow alleys, piazzas, and ancient walls that invite wandering, pausing at viewpoints, and soaking in history. What sets Bergamo apart is its ability to combine authentic local charm with accessibility, making a walking tour a perfect way to experience its layered neighborhoods. One of our favorite experiences is the Digital Guide made by a Local; it offers a flexible, inexpensive way to explore at your own pace, with insider tips on food, viewpoints, and hidden corners.
If you prefer a more personalized approach, Bergamo’s private guided tours, like the 3-hour private walk of the Upper Town, give you tailored insights and the chance to ask all your burning questions in a relaxed setting. For those with limited time, a 2.5-hour private tour offers a quick, comprehensive look at key sights. And if you’re interested in combining sightseeing with local flavors, the Varenna food and wine tour shows how to mix culture with culinary delights along Lake Como’s stunning shores.
Below, we’ll walk through each of these options, highlighting what makes them different and who they’re best suited for.
1. Bergamo: Digital Guide made by a Local for your walking tour
At number 1, the Digital Guide made by a Local offers a budget-friendly, self-guided way to explore Bergamo’s historic center. For just $7, you receive a digital audio guide created by someone who knows the city intimately. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable navigating with your phone and want the freedom to explore at your own pace — from the Rocca di Bergamo to the colorful shops of Via Gombito.
What makes this digital guide stand out is its blend of historical anecdotes, food recommendations, and fun trivia told by a local. You’ll visit the main monuments, learn about Bergamo’s fascinating past, and get insider tips on where to find the best gelato (with a special promo) and authentic dishes. Reviewers love its ease of use and great value, noting how it makes exploring accessible even for travelers on a tight schedule or with limited mobility.
Bottom line: This is the ideal choice for budget-conscious travelers who love to explore independently, using their own devices to uncover Bergamo’s secrets.
2. Bergamo private guided walking tour
Number 2 on our list is the Bergamo private guided walking tour. This three-hour experience costs about $356 per group and is perfect if you want a more in-depth, personalized look at Bergamo’s Upper Town. With a dedicated guide, you’ll skip the generic tour and instead focus on your interests, from archaeological sites like the Rocca di Bergamo to secret viewpoints locals cherish.
The tour includes visits to Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, the Duomo, Cappella Colleoni, and San Michele al Pozzo Bianco, each with insights that bring their history to life. Guests rave about guides like Giorgio Ghidotti and Natalia, who share stories and curiosities that aren’t in guidebooks, making the experience truly engaging.
This tour is best suited for travelers who value customization, deeper knowledge, and exclusive access to lesser-known spots. Keep in mind that entry fees and funicular tickets are extra, but the added depth is well worth it.
Bottom line: Ideal for those who want a flexible, intimate experience and are happy investing a bit more for a tailored, comprehensive look at Bergamo’s highlights.
3. Bergamo: 2.5-hour private walking tour of the Upper Town
For around $126, the 2.5-hour private tour offers a quick, efficient way to see Bergamo’s most important sights. The tour begins at the funicular and covers the UNESCO-listed Venetian walls, Piazza Vecchia, and the Duomo, giving you a solid overview of the city’s medieval architecture and lively piazzas.
A key feature of this experience is its flexibility: you can choose whether to start in the morning or afternoon, and the guide will tailor the pace. Guests highlight how knowledgeable guides like Rosalba make the history come alive and how the tour’s short duration makes it perfect for a half-day visit.
This tour is best for travelers with limited time but who want to get a sense of Bergamo’s historic heart without feeling rushed. The guide’s detailed explanations and the opportunity to explore at a comfortable pace mean you’ll leave feeling well-acquainted with Bergamo’s highlights.
Bottom line: Great for visitors who want a quick yet insightful introduction to Bergamo’s top sights, especially if they prefer a private, personalized experience.
4. Varenna: guided Walking Tour with Wine & Food tasting
Number 4 takes you beyond Bergamo into Lake Como’s charming village of Varenna. The guided walking tour with wine and food tasting blends sightseeing with authentic Italian cuisine. For about $220, you’ll stroll along picturesque alleys, admire XIX-century villas, and hear stories about the town’s history.
The true highlight is the food and wine experience: sampling artisan cheeses, cold cuts, and local wines while enjoying stunning lake views. The guide Nadia, a local, shares her love of Varenna, making the experience both educational and delightful. Guests say the tour offers a wonderful balance of culture, scenery, and gastronomy, with many noting it as a top highlight of their trip.
This tour is perfect if you want a relaxed, small-group experience that combines sightseeing and tasting. It’s suitable for food lovers, couples, or anyone wanting to see Lake Como’s jewel from a local’s perspective.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for travelers seeking a leisurely, flavorful introduction to Varenna and its culinary traditions.
5. Bergamo Top Sights Private and Personalized Guided Walking Tour
At number 5, the Private and Personalized Tour offers a flexible 2.5-hour exploration of Bergamo’s main attractions. Starting from Piazza Mercato delle Scarpe, your guide will lead you through medieval streets, the Rocca fortress, Piazza Vecchia, and the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore.
What makes this tour special is its customization—your guide will tailor the experience based on your interests. Whether you want to focus on architecture, history, or local shopping, the itinerary can adapt. Guests praise guides like Sara and Simona for their knowledge and passion, often mentioning how they share insider tips about best cafes and hidden corners.
This tour is perfect for first-time visitors or those with a few hours to spare who want a personalized introduction. It’s also flexible enough to fit into a busy schedule.
Bottom line: Excellent for travelers who want a private, customizable experience that covers the essentials but also leaves room for personal interests.
6. Varenna Walking Tour and Cooking Class
Number 6 combines culture and cuisine in a full 5-hour experience. The Varenna walking tour and cooking class is a hands-on adventure that begins with a guided walk through Varenna’s charming streets, followed by a 3-hour pasta-making class with a professional chef.
This tour appeals to those who want more than just sightseeing—it’s about learning and tasting. Guests love Sabrina’s friendly approach and the quality of the food, noting how the class turns them into pasta aficionados. Walking through the village provides a beautiful backdrop of lake views and historic villas, making it an immersive experience.
It’s best suited for travelers eager to enjoy Italian culinary traditions and who aren’t in a rush. The long duration and interactive format make it ideal for food lovers and families wanting a memorable, active day.
Bottom line: Perfect if you want a deep dive into Italian cooking combined with sightseeing in Varenna.
7. Bergamo : Private Custom Walking Tour With A Guide
Number 7 offers the ultimate flexibility with a Private Custom Tour. Ranging from 2 to 8 hours, this tour lets you design your ideal itinerary based on your specific interests, whether that’s hidden alleys, local markets, or architectural marvels.
The guide will meet you where you stay and craft a personalized experience—perfect for travelers who want complete control. Reviewers mention how guides like Sara and others are passionate and knowledgeable, creating an authentic, tailored journey through Bergamo.
This tour is best for visitors who have particular interests, want to avoid standard routes, or are on a flexible schedule. It’s also great for families or groups with differing priorities.
Bottom line: The best option if your goal is a completely personalized, flexible walking experience in Bergamo.
8. Walking Tour Varenna, the village and the craftsmen
Finally, the Varenna: the village and the craftsmen offers a 2-hour walk that takes you off the beaten path. Led by Nadia, a local guide, you’ll explore craft shops, meet artisans, and see how Varenna’s traditions are kept alive.
This tour emphasizes local craftsmanship and authentic village life, with options to continue on a traditional boat ride for an extra fee. Guests enjoy Nadia’s insights and the chance to peek behind the scenes of Varenna’s artisans.
It’s ideal for travelers who want a short, intimate experience focusing on local arts and crafts, perfect for a relaxed half-day outing.
Bottom line: Suitable for those interested in artisanal traditions and authentic village experiences in a short time.
How to Choose the Right Walking Tour in Bergamo
Choosing the best walking tour depends on your budget, schedule, and interests. If you prefer flexibility and independence, the digital guide offers fantastic value. For those wanting a fully personalized experience, the private guided tours or custom private tour provide tailored insights. Budget travelers will appreciate the self-guided option, while culinary enthusiasts should consider the Varenna food and wine tour.
Think about how much time you have: a couple of hours for a quick overview or a full day with the cooking class. Also, consider your interests—history, food, or artisan crafts—and pick a tour that aligns with your passions.
Booking early is wise, especially in high season (spring and summer), to ensure availability and snag the best times.
To sum it up, Bergamo offers an impressive variety of walking experiences. Whether you want to explore on your own, enjoy a private guide, or indulge in local food and crafts, there’s a tour tailored for you. For first-timers, the private guided tour or the self-guided digital experience are excellent options. Those seeking a deeper culinary dive should look at the Varenna food tour.
No matter your choice, Bergamo’s streets are calling. Book early and enjoy your walk through Italy’s extraordinary northern city.