Bergamo stands out as a city that combines medieval charm, stunning views, and authentic experiences. Unlike many tourist hotspots, Bergamo’s Città Alta feels like walking through a living museum—walled, lively, and packed with stories that date back centuries. Its compact size and rich history make it ideal for a range of tours, whether you’re after cultural insights, gastronomic delights, or adventure. We’re particularly fond of the small group pasta and tiramisu class in Varenna [], which offers a personal glimpse into authentic Italian home cooking. Plus, the E-bike tours give a fantastic way to explore both the hilltop and surrounding countryside with easy travel and stunning vistas.
Bergamo’s tours span a variety of interests—from self-guided digital explorations [] to full-day trips to Verona and Sirmione [], and even adrenaline-filled rafting adventures []. Whether you’re into gastronomy, history, or outdoor activities, this list has options that will fit your schedule and style.
Now, let’s explore each of these top-rated tours, highlighting what makes them special and why they made our list.
1. Cesarine: Small group Pasta and Tiramisu class in Varenna
Rating: 5.0/5 (149 reviews)
This intimate cooking class takes you into a local Varenna home, where you’ll learn to make two fresh pasta dishes and tiramisu from scratch. Hosted by Patrizia and Luca, who are part of the Cesarine network of home cooks, this experience offers personalized attention—limited to just 12 people. You’ll start with an aperitivo, chatting with your host amid the cozy kitchen setting, and finish with a delicious meal enjoyed together. Reviewers love how authentic it feels, praising Patrizia’s warmth and knowledge, along with the authentic Lombardy cuisine. It’s perfect for foodies who want genuine, hands-on experience in a home environment.
Key highlights include learning tips that you can replicate at home, and the chance to enjoy a local family’s hospitality. The value for money is excellent considering the personalized experience and the opportunity to bring culinary skills back home. Ideal for travelers who enjoy cooking, culture, and authentic food.
Bottom line: A warm, intimate class that’s great for couples or small groups wanting a genuine taste of Italy’s culinary soul.
2. Bergamo: Digital guide made by a local for your walking tour
Rating: 5.0/5 (142 reviews)
If you’d rather explore Bergamo at your own pace, this digital guide is a smart choice. Created by a local, it offers an interactive map that guides you through must-see landmarks like Piazza Vecchia, Rocca di Bergamo, and the Antico Lavatoio. It’s a cost-effective way to navigate the city without a large group or rigid schedule, with the flexibility to linger or skip around. Reviewers appreciate how easy to follow and informative it is, with local restaurant tips and the chance to snap photos of hidden corners.
It’s especially suitable for self-sufficient travelers who want control over their visit while still benefiting from expert insights. The only caveat is that it requires a bit of self-motivation, but if you love independent exploration, this is a fantastic option.
Bottom line: An affordable, flexible way to discover Bergamo’s highlights on your own terms.
3. From Bergamo: Verona and Sirmione Full-Day Tour
Rating: 4.7/5 (307 reviews)
For those wanting a taste of Italy’s classic sights, this full-day guided trip takes you from Bergamo to Verona—famous for Juliet’s balcony and the Roman arena—and then to Sirmione, a charming lakeside town with Roman ruins and medieval walls. The tour is well-paced, with highlights like Juliet’s House, the Verona Arena, and a scenic stop at Lake Garda’s Sirmione. It’s a good choice for history, architecture, and lovers of romantic scenery.
Traveling in a comfortable vehicle, you’ll get an insider’s perspective and some free time to explore each location. The reviews highlight how smoothly everything goes, with many travelers noting the quality of the guide and beautiful landscapes.
Bottom line: A rewarding day trip for those seeking cultural sights outside Bergamo, especially if you’re interested in Verona’s Shakespearean allure and lake views.
4. E-bike tour Bergamo
Rating: 5.0/5 (68 reviews)
Bergamo’s hilly terrain makes it perfect for an electric bike adventure. This 3-hour guided ride covers key spots like Castello di San Vigilio, offering breathtaking views over the city and Lake Como. The carefully planned route ensures you see the highlights of the city and its surrounding hills without breaking a sweat. Riders love how smooth the ride is and how knowledgeable Guide Mario is, sharing local stories along the way.
The tour is suitable for most fitness levels, provided you’re comfortable cycling. It’s a great way to cover more ground than walking, with stunning vistas and small-group intimacy. The adventure is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers eager to capture Bergamo’s diverse scenery.
Bottom line: An engaging, scenic way to see Bergamo’s historic core and surrounding nature—especially ideal for those who like active sightseeing.
5. Eat like a local
Rating: 5.0/5 (54 reviews)
This private cooking lesson in a Bergamo home immerses you in authentic Lombard cuisine. Sip Prosecco as you learn to prepare dishes like pasta or pizza, then enjoy a three-course meal paired with Italian wine. The host shares stories and tips about local ingredients and traditions, and the experience often includes a market visit. Guests praise Michele and his wife for their hospitality and the chance to cook and eat in a real home.
The value lies in the personalized experience and the chance to take culinary skills home. It’s perfect for food lovers wanting a hands-on, intimate experience, especially if they enjoy cooking and local stories.
Bottom line: A memorable, personalized food experience that combines cooking, culture, and conviviality.
6. Bergamo: 3.5-Hour Traditional Food Tour
Rating: 4.8/5 (80 reviews)
If you are hungry for authentic Bergamo flavors, this food-tasting tour within Città Alta lets you sample local specialties across five carefully chosen stops. From bakeries to restaurants, you’ll taste rural Lombardy dishes, modern takes, and finish with stracciatella gelato. The small-group format ensures personal attention and insights from your guide.
Guests love how varied and flavorful the experience is, with detailed local stories behind each dish. It’s a great way to combine walking and culinary discovery, perfect for foodies who want a comprehensive taste of Bergamo.
Bottom line: An immersive, delicious introduction to Bergamo’s gastronomic culture perfect for foodies.
7. Hiking Tour: Varenna, Castle of Vezio, Villa Monastero, Fiumelatte
Rating: 5.0/5 (45 reviews)
This 6-hour guided hike explores Lake Como’s lesser-known sights with a local guide in Varenna. You’ll pass by the Castle of Vezio, Villa Monastero’s botanical gardens, and the Fiumelatte River. The route offers panoramic views, historical stories, and a Lombardy-style lunch—with options for vegetarians if requested.
Guests rave about how knowledgeable and flexible Nadia is, making the experience personalized. The beautiful scenery and cultural insights make this an excellent choice for active travelers who are comfortable with uphill walking.
Bottom line: A compelling combo of outdoor activity and cultural exploration, ideal for those who enjoy nature and history.
8. Exclusive Picnic in the Foothills of the Alps with the Lake Views
Rating: 5.0/5 (44 reviews)
Escape the crowds with this small-group hike and picnic in the hills above Lake Como. Starting from Varenna, you’ll enjoy hiking nature trails with breathtaking views, then settle in for a local food and wine picnic featuring cheeses and regional delicacies. Guide Maria shares stories about regional farming and local traditions, making it both a scenic and educational experience.
Reviewers recommend this for outdoor lovers who want quiet, authentic scenery and a relaxed pace. The small group size enhances the intimate feel.
Bottom line: A peaceful, gastronomic escape perfect for nature lovers wanting to experience the Alpine landscape.
9. Bergamo: Full meal Food Tour with Local Delights by Do Eat Better
Rating: 4.5/5 (148 reviews)
Join this 3.5-hour gastro-tour through Bergamo Alta, sampling rustic Lombardy dishes at four different stops. Your guide shares stories about the region’s culinary evolution, from traditional farm meals to modern favorites like gelato stracciatella. The tour emphasizes local flavors and authentic ingredients, with plenty of tasty bites and drinks along the way.
Reviewers mention excellent variety and rich storytelling, making it well worth the price. It’s a great option for food lovers who want to experience Bergamo’s culinary scene firsthand.
Bottom line: An engaging, flavorful journey into Bergamo’s food culture for those who enjoy guided tasting experiences.
10. E-bike tour of Bergamo and its surroundings
Rating: 5.0/5 (25 reviews)
This 3-hour e-bike tour takes you beyond Città Alta into the hills and countryside. You’ll pedal past the Allegrezza forest, Benaglia hill, and Val d’Astino, visiting monasteries and Sanctuary of Madonna di Sombreno. The route is designed to be pleasurable and low-effort, with stunning panoramic views and the chance to see local villages.
Guided by Franco, who is praised for his knowledge and patience, this tour is perfect for active travelers seeking scenic vistas and relaxed exploration. The new equipment ensures comfort, even on the hilly terrain.
Bottom line: Best suited for active types who want a full perspective of Bergamo’s natural beauty without the fatigue.
11. Bergamo: Palazzo Moroni Entry Ticket
Rating: 4.4/5 (105 reviews)
A visit to Palazzo Moroni offers a glimpse into Baroque artistry with its colorful frescoes and stunning gardens. This entry ticket allows you to explore the palace interior and enchanting outdoor spaces, making it an easy, cultural addition to your day in Bergamo. Reviewers appreciate how beautiful and well-preserved the palace is, with some noting the vast gardens exceeding expectations.
Suitable for art and architecture enthusiasts or travelers looking for a relaxing cultural break. The ticket price is very reasonable for such a rich experience.
Bottom line: A straightforward but rewarding visit for those interested in Baroque art and garden scenery.
12. Tuk Tuk tour in Bergamo, Città Alta and the ancient Venetian walls
Rating: 5.0/5 (19 reviews)
For a fun, quick overview, this Tuk Tuk tour covers Bergamo’s upper town, Venetian walls, and city highlights in about an hour. It’s perfect for short stays or families who want to see as much as possible without too much walking. The guides take you past theater, Viale del Sentierone, Garibaldi monument, and Donizetti’s birthplace.
Guests enjoy the comfort and ease of the ride, describing the experience as “fun and informative”. The uphill streets and narrow alleys are best suited for this kind of short, scenic ride.
Bottom line: Ideal for quick orientation or families with children wanting an enjoyable overview.
13. Bergamo: Upper Town Guided Tour with French-speaking Guide
Rating: 5/5 (15 reviews)
Discover Bergamo’s historic center with a French-speaking guide with extensive training from the Ecole du Louvre. This 1.5-hour walking tour covers main monuments and hidden corners, with panoramic views from the city walls. Your guide, Valentina, shares detailed insights and local tips, making this a rich cultural experience.
Reviewers praise her deep knowledge and friendly approach, making the tour both informative and enjoyable. It’s perfect for French-speaking travelers or those who prefer a more detailed narrative.
Bottom line: A compact but thorough culture, ideal for history and art lovers.
14. Private Venetian Wooden Boat Tour up to 10 pax
Rating: 5.0/5 (14 reviews)
Experience Lake Como from the water aboard a luxurious Venetian-style wooden boat. This private tour can accommodate up to 10 people and offers a breathtaking route to the most beautiful lakeside villas and towns, like Varenna and Menaggio. The customized itinerary ensures a personalized, comfortable adventure with plenty of photo opportunities.
Guests love the atmosphere of elegance and the flexibility of the tour, with many describing it as unforgettable. It’s perfect for special occasions or anyone wanting a luxury experience on Lake Como.
Bottom line: An exclusive, relaxing boat trip suited for romantic getaways or special celebrations.
15. Rafting on Brembo River
Rating: 5.0/5 (14 reviews)
For adrenaline junkies, this rafting experience on the Brembo River is a thrilling ride through powerful rapids. Suitable for those with good water confidence, you’ll be descending rapids in a raft, immersed in Brembana Valley’s lush greenery. The tour includes opportunities to dive into the river’s clear waters and enjoy a full sensory experience.
Reviewers highlight the fun and safety of the activity, praising monitor guides for their kindness and professionalism. It’s an excellent outdoor adventure for active travelers seeking excitement.
Bottom line: Perfect for adventure seekers wanting a wild river ride amid nature.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Bergamo
Picking the best tour depends on your interests, budget, and physical activity level. If you love cooking and authentic experiences, the small group pasta and tiramisu class offers personal warmth and lasting skills. For a self-guided approach, the digital walking guide is ideal. Want a full-day adventure? The Verona and Sirmione trip blends sightseeing with leisure. For outdoor lovers, the hiking tour and bike rides are excellent choices.
Consider your fitness level, time restrictions, and whether you prefer guided or independent exploration. Book early during peak seasons to secure your spot, especially for popular small-group experiences.
Bergamo offers an appealing mix of history, scenery, and local culture. Whether you choose an intimate cooking class, a scenic e-bike ride, or a cultural walking tour, you’re sure to find an experience that enriches your trip. For outdoor enthusiasts, the rafting adventure or picnic hike will add a dash of adrenaline, while history buffs can’t go wrong with the guided city walks or museum visits. No matter your style, planning ahead ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable ways to discover Bergamo’s charm.
