From Bergamo Airport (BGY), take the ATB bus line 1 to the lower town (Città Bassa). From there, you can take another ATB bus or the funicular up to Città Alta, where Piazza Vecchia is located. The journey to Città Alta takes about 30-40 minutes.

Take a train from Milan Centrale to Bergamo station. From Bergamo station, catch the ATB bus line 1 to the funicular station, then ascend to Città Alta. Alternatively, you can take a bus directly from Milan to Bergamo.

Yes, you can walk up to Città Alta from the lower town. There are several scenic routes, including paths through historic gates like Porta San Giacomo. Be prepared for a steep incline.

Città Alta is very walkable. For longer distances or to save energy, you can use the local ATB buses or the funicular connecting the lower and upper towns.

Parking in Città Alta is very limited and often restricted. It's best to park in the lower town and use public transport or walk up. Some hotels might offer parking arrangements.

Piazza Vecchia itself is a public square and is free to enter. However, there might be admission fees for specific attractions located around the piazza, such as museums or towers.

Piazza Vecchia is always accessible as it's an open public space. However, the surrounding buildings and attractions will have their own operating hours, typically from morning to late afternoon or early evening.

No advance booking is required for Piazza Vecchia. However, if you plan to visit specific attractions like the Civic Tower (Torre del Campanone), booking tickets online in advance might save you time, especially during peak season.

Yes, Piazza Vecchia is a hub for events. The most notable is the annual Landscape Festival, which transforms the piazza with stunning floral designs.+1 Check local listings for other cultural events.

Wander through the square, admire the architecture, enjoy a coffee at a cafe, and if visiting during the Landscape Festival, take time to appreciate the floral installations.+1

The entire piazza is picturesque! Key spots include the Sphinx Fountain, the view towards the Palazzo della Ragione, and the surrounding historic buildings. During the Landscape Festival, the floral displays offer incredible photo opportunities.

Early morning offers soft light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the piazza's tranquility. Late afternoon provides warm, golden hour light that enhances the historic architecture.

Drone usage is generally restricted in historic city centers and public squares due to privacy and safety regulations. It's advisable to check local drone laws before flying.

Yes, nearby landmarks include the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, the Colleoni Chapel, and the Torre del Campanone (Civic Tower), all offering excellent photographic subjects.+1

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both wide shots of the piazza and details of the architecture. A wide-angle lens is useful for encompassing the entire square.

Yes, Piazza Vecchia is lined with cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a coffee, aperitivo, or a meal while taking in the views.

For a traditional Bergamo experience, consider restaurants in Città Alta. Il Circolino is recommended for typical lunches within an ancient monastery setting. Many trattorias offer local Lombard cuisine.

Absolutely! You'll find several gelaterias in Città Alta, offering a delightful treat as you explore the historic streets.

Look for Casoncelli alla Bergamasca (stuffed pasta), Polenta e Osei (a sweet dessert), and local cheeses. Many restaurants in Città Alta will feature these dishes.

While dining directly on the piazza can be pricier, exploring the side streets of Città Alta can reveal more affordable trattorias and bakeries. Packing snacks is also an option.