Bergamo became a household name in the first months of the coronavirus pandemic, when the Lombard town and surrounding area were the European epicenter of the first deadly wave. Leaving aside that grim legacy, this lovely city at the foot of the Orobie Alps, 40 km (25 mi) northeast of the regional capital of Milan, has plenty to offer, whether you stay for a day or longer to explore the surroundings. 

Bergamo has two sections: Città Alta, the old walled town on top of a hill, and the modern part in the plains right below. If you only have a day, stick to the upper section, which we suggest you reach by taking the funicular, rather than the bus, for a more spectacular entrance into the old city.