Lombardy And The Lakes, Italy
ATB (Azienda Trasporti Bergamo) manages Bergamo's public transportation. The system mainly consists of buses and two funiculars. These connect Citta Bassa (lower city) with Citta Alta (upper city), making movement between the historical and modern parts of Bergamo easy. The system is reliable and generally runs on time.
Bergamo Train Station in Citta Bassa serves as the main hub. Most bus lines originate from or pass through this station, connecting to various neighborhoods. The Funicular Citta Bassa-Citta Alta is a prominent feature, connecting Viale Vittorio Emanuele II in Citta Bassa to Piazza Mercato delle Scarpe in Citta Alta.
Tickets must be validated immediately upon boarding the bus or entering the funicular station to avoid fines.
Buses generally operate from early morning (around 5:30 AM) until late evening (around midnight or later on weekends). Funiculars run frequently (every 5-10 minutes).
Newer ATB buses are generally accessible. Funiculars are accessible, though Citta Alta's cobblestones and inclines may pose challenges for limited mobility.
Licensed taxis are white, display a "TAXI" sign on the roof, and have an inside meter.
Hailing taxis on the street is uncommon. Find them at designated stands at the train station, BGY Airport, and major squares.
Fares are metered, with an initial fee, plus charges per kilometer and for luggage. Surcharges apply for night service, holidays, and airport pickups.
Uber operates as Uber Black (licensed professional drivers), generally more expensive than standard taxis. Free Now (MyTaxi) works for licensed taxis.
Rental choices offer flexibility for exploring Bergamo and its surroundings.
Citta Alta is extremely pedestrian-friendly with narrow alleyways and historic squares. Be ready for cobblestones and inclines. The Venetian Walls offer a fantastic walking path.
Local companies offer guided walking tours of Citta Alta. Numerous online resources and guidebooks present self-guided itineraries.
Citta Bassa features some dedicated bike lanes. Parco dei Colli offers scenic cycling paths, some challenging. The River Serio Cycle Path presents a flat, pleasant route.
Bergamo features unique modes of transport that help define its character.
Citta Alta, with its historic cobblestones, steep inclines, and numerous steps, presents significant challenges for those with mobility impairments.
Be prepared for varied surfaces.
The funiculars are generally accessible, but movement beyond the funicular stations within Citta Alta may be difficult.
Consider accessibility needs in advance.
Contact local tour operators or accessibility services for tailored advice or assistance to plan your visit. They may offer information on accessible routes or specific services.
Prior arrangements are beneficial.
Walking and cycling present immersive ways to discover Bergamo's charm at a slower pace.
While cars face restrictions in ZTLs, pedestrians and cyclists are generally welcome within these zones.
Avoid walking or cycling on busy arterial roads outside the city center, which may lack sidewalks or dedicated bike lanes.
Citta Alta is not suitable for casual cycling due to its steepness and cobblestones.
Bergamo's transportation system, with its blend of modern buses and historic funiculars, offers diverse ways to explore the city.