When I first visited Bergamo I found myself wondering why I'd never heard of it before.

Verona, Bologna, Naples are all of international renown yet Bergamo has something very special to offer, which for me eclipses the beauty of many other cities.

In simple terms, the lack of fame makes it quieter and less tourist-infested and, in addition, it's not a big city so less crowded but it's more than that of course.


So here are my 5 reasons to visit Bergamo.

1) The walled high town with its castle, university, cable car, cobbled streets, pedestrian area and varied restaurants offering beautiful views out over the plains of northern Italy

2) The excellent shopping area to be found in the low town.

3) The superb location, 10 mins from Milan Bergamo airport (Ryanair Hub) and 40 mins by train from Milan.

4) The hinterland that includes lakes, mountains and varied activities.

5) Its history and culture rival that of any other Italian town (perhaps with the exception of Milan, Florence and Rome).

I have written a destination guide at www.monticolo.it/bergamoguide.html

40 mins by train from Milan
10 mins from Milan Bergamo airport.
20 Mins from Lake iseo

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Extensive ski resort stretching over three stations between 1,200m and 1,800m.

Has two ski schools, hotels, restaurants and lodges.

Compared with other more "international" resorts it is great value for money.

50 mins north of Milan Bergamo airport. Resort guide in English at
www.monticolo.it/montecampioneresort.html

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For activities, unspoilt nature and dramatic scenery.

A 16km lake nestled into the lower Alps, with the largest inland Island in Europe.

Ferry boats, windsurfing, golf, canoeing, multi-pool complex and many other activities.

Value for money and no tourist bussle.

Just north of Bergamo (Milan Bergamo airport is a Ryanair hub). Activities guide www.monticolo.it/activitieslakeiseovallecamonica.html

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Lake Iseo, with Monte Isola, southern Europe's largest lake island, is Italy's best kept secret and behind it is Valle Camonica with skiing, rivers and more lakes.

Easy to get to, lots to do, not expensive and unspoilt.

Just north east of Bergamo (Ryan air hub for Italy) see
www.monticolo.it/lakeiseovallecamonicaandmontecampione.html

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