Bergamo

Bergamo, the gateway to cheap flights to Milan, is a charming destination in its own right. The city stretches across two levels at the foot of the Alps, with the most important sights to be found in the upper level, the Città Alta. Here, winding cobbled streets lead to charming squares, including Piazza Vecchia with its cosy pavement cafés, a library and the elegant Palazzo della Ragione. Through its archways you can see the impressive Cappella Colleoni, a magnificently decorated chapel with an opulent interior. Right next to it is the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore with its fascinating frescoes.

Charming old town hotels and bed & breakfasts can be found in the surrounding streets of the historic centre, while Venetian walls from the 17th century surround Bergamo's upper town. Ruins of the Rocca di Bergamo castle bear witness to times gone by, while another castle in San Vigilio is enthroned on a hill and can be reached by funicular railway.

A funicular railway leads down to the modern city, the Città Bassa. The Accademia Carrara, an art gallery and school, is located nearby, as is the GAMEC gallery for modern and contemporary art opposite. 

The Serie A football club Atalanta FC plays its matches in the stadium to the north-east.