Piazza Vecchia

The basics

Its reputation as the beating heart of Bergamo’s Upper Town means you may run into Piazza Vecchia organically, and it's an essential stop on many guided walking tours of the area. These range from self-guided tours and games—accessed via a smartphone app—to private or shared guided tours. Tours typically provide in-depth commentary on local sights and include historical landmarks. Many guided food tours of the area stop here, as there's much good food nearby.

Things to know before you go

• Piazza Vecchia is wide, flat, and accessible to people using wheelchairs.
• If you need cash, there’s an ATM called Banco BPM Spa on the square.
• You can dine outside on the square with a view at one of the many restaurants and bars.
• There is a public bathroom called Bano Publico on Piazza Vecchia.

How to get there

Piazza Vecchia is located in the heart of Città Alta and is easily accessible by public transport. Take the funicular from the Lower Town (Città Bassa) to the Città Alta station, a 4-minute walk from the piazza. Alternatively, bus No. 1 connects the Lower Town to the Upper Town and stops at Delle Mura-Bettani, around a 6-minute walk away.

When to get there

The square is a delightful spot to visit at any time of day. At lunchtime, it buzzes with activity, particularly on sunny days when outdoor seating is in high demand. In the evening, the atmosphere transforms as the square is beautifully illuminated, making it charming for a relaxed dinner.

Where to eat near Piazza Vecchia

Many places to eat in and around Piazza Vecchia are traditional Italian restaurants that showcase regional specialties, such as Trattoria Sant' Ambroeus, which offers delicious Milanese veal and Bergamo-style rabbit with polenta. Taverna del Colleoni serves excellent pizza, and Lalimentari has delicious pasta dishes and a great wine list.