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Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

Lombardy And The Lakes, Italy

Essential Preparations

A chronological timeline for a smooth journey to Bergamo.

Planning Milestones

actions to take at different stages before your departure.

1

+ Months Before

Passport Validity

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended return date.

Visa Application

If your nationality requires a Schengen visa, begin the application process; it takes several weeks.

Flight & Accommodation

Book international flights and your main accommodation to secure better prices and availability.

2

Month Before

Internal Travel

Book internal flights, train tickets, or car rentals if you plan further travel within Italy.

Major Tours

Confirm major tour bookings, especially for high-demand attractions with limited entry.

Driving Permit

Obtain your International Driving Permit if you plan to rent a car; it is required in Italy.

3

Week Before

Confirm Reservations

Double-check all flight, accommodation, and tour bookings for accuracy.

Packing & Banking

Pack according to climate and activities. Inform your bank of travel plans to avoid card blocks.

App Downloads

Install ATB Mobile, Google Maps (with offline maps), and Google Translate for convenience.

Pre-trip Research

Familiarize yourself with Italian basic phrases and cultural etiquette before you depart.

Areas of Study

  • Learn basic Italian phrases for greetings and common interactions.
  • Understand Italian cultural etiquette to navigate social situations gracefully.
  • If driving, learn about ZTLs (Limited Traffic Zones) to avoid fines.
  • Read up on Bergamo's history and main attractions to deepen your experience.

Home Preparation

Secure your home and manage tasks before your absence for peace of mind.

Before You Go

  • Inform trusted contacts of your itinerary and emergency details.
  • Arrange for mail collection, pet care, and plant watering.
  • Secure your home (lock windows, unplug non-essential electronics).
  • Pay any bills due during your trip.

Document & App Checklist

Digital and physical copies of documents, plus essential apps to install.

Important Documents

  • Make digital and physical copies of all important documents.
  • Store physical copies in a separate bag from originals.
  • Save digital copies in cloud storage for remote access.
  • Email copies to yourself for easy retrieval.

Essential Travel Apps

  • Install ATB Mobile for local public transport.
  • Download Google Maps with offline maps for your areas.
  • Install Google Translate for instant language help.
  • Consider NordVPN for secure Wi-Fi access.

Required Advance Bookings

  • Book international flights and main accommodation.
  • Secure high-demand attractions with limited entry.
  • Book special experiences like cooking classes or guided tours.
  • Purchase travel insurance from World Nomads.

Travel Insurance Recommendation

Obtain comprehensive travel insurance from World Nomads. This covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and lost luggage. It is a prudent step for any journey.

Arrival Checklist

These steps assist you in settling in smoothly upon arriving in Bergamo.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Immigration & Customs:

    Clear immigration and customs procedures at the airport efficiently.

  • 2
    Cash Withdrawal:

    Locate an ATM for initial Euro cash withdrawal for immediate expenses.

  • 3
    SIM/eSIM:

    Purchase a local SIM card or activate your eSIM if planned for connectivity.

Orientation Strategies

  • Locate Accommodation:

    Find your accommodation on a map (physical or digital) right away.

  • Nearest Transport:

    Find the nearest ATB bus stop or funicular station for easy transport.

  • Tourist Office:

    Locate the nearest tourist information office for maps and local event listings.

Transportation from Entry Point

From BGY Airport

Take the ATB Airport Bus (Line 1) directly to your destination in Citta Bassa or Citta Alta (via funicular connection).

This is the most direct and convenient public transport option from the airport.

From the Train Station

From Bergamo train station, use ATB buses to reach various parts of the city, including connections to Citta Alta.

Alternatively, enjoy a short walk if your accommodation is in Citta Bassa near the station.

Initial Purchases

Withdraw enough Euros from an ATM to cover immediate expenses like airport transfer and initial snacks.

Purchase your ATB ticket or Bergamo Card for immediate public transport use.

Orientation Tip

Locating your nearest transport options and tourist information center upon arrival simplifies your first hours in Bergamo.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for a smooth departure from Bergamo, avoiding last-minute rushes and ensuring all formalities are handled.

Souvenir & Shipping Considerations

  • Allow time for last-minute souvenir shopping on your final day in Bergamo.
  • If you plan to ship items home, understand customs regulations and costs beforehand.
  • Inquire with stores about their shipping services if purchasing larger items.
  • Use packing organizers from Eagle Creek to maximize space.

VAT Refund Procedures

  • If you made eligible purchases (over €154.94 per store), keep all receipts.
  • Complete tax-free forms at the store where you made the purchase.
  • At the airport, go to the customs office (Agenzia delle Dogane) before checking luggage for verification.
  • Proceed to the refund provider's kiosk (Global Blue, Tax Free Worldwide) for your refund.

Pre-departure Timing

Allocate sufficient time for airport procedures, especially during peak travel periods.

Recommended Arrival Times

  • International flights (non-Schengen destinations):3 hours before departure
  • Schengen flights:2 hours before departure
  • Train departures:At least 30 minutes before your train
  • Allow extra time for VAT refunds at the airport.Especially during peak hours.

Return Trip Preparation

  • Confirm all return flight or train details well in advance.
  • Pack any liquids or gels according to airline security rules for carry-on luggage.
  • Empty trash, turn off lights and air conditioning in your accommodation.
  • Have all your travel documents readily accessible for easy check-in and security.

Final Thoughts for Departure

By taking care of these details, you ensure a smooth transition from Bergamo.

Your attention to these final steps helps make your entire travel experience a positive one.