Bergamo with kids: top things to do
(This article contains affiliate links which means if you buy something following a link on this page, we'll get a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting our blog!)
Updated 15 May 2025
Bergamo is a charming town located in northern Italy, in the Lombardy region. While it is well known as an international airport hub (Milan Bergamo Airport, Orio al Serio airport is only 5 km from the city of Bergamo and serves many budget-friendly flights from all over Europe), its beauty and attractions remain unknown among tourists, despite being a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Bergamo has a captivating old town (“Città Alta”), the historic center encircled by Venetian walls, characterised by its cobbled streets and historical monuments. There are plenty of attractions in Bergamo for those looking for an off the beaten path adventure. From art galleries and museums to the stunning views from the hilltop, Bergamo is an underrated gem that should not be missed. We’ll cover everything from what attractions are available, to things to do, and places to visit in Bergamo with kids.
Follow us on Instagram for more tips and recommendations.
Bergamo to Milan Bus Transfer from €10
-
Book here this convenient bus transfer between Milan city center Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport.
TOP RATED Bergamo Tours and Activities
-
Enjoy this 2.5-hour private walking tour to discover the Upper Town of Bergamo.
-
Explore the gastronomic culture of Bergamo on this 3.5-hour food-tasting trip in Città Alta.
-
Immerse yourself in a 4-course private dining experience in a local's home.
Visiting Bergamo with kids: Best Parks and Outdoor Activities in Bergamo for Children
01
San Vigilio Castle in Bergamo
San Vigilio Castle is one of the most scenic spots in Bergamo. Climb the castle tower for breathtaking views of the town below and the surrounding mountains. While it is open to visitors every day, we recommend visiting on a sunny day to make the most of the stunning vistas.
02
Giardino La Crotta hidden playground
Behind the high-set Venetian walls of Città Alta, a little doorway leads to a hidden Giardino La Crotta playground. This is where children can play and have more fun after visiting S. Vigilio hill. The entrance to this park is near the Tower of Adalberto. There are slides, swings and other things for kids to explore. Additionally, benches are available where parents can sit and relax while their children play. In the summer, large mature trees provide much-needed shade.
03
Rocca di Bergamo (Bergamo Fortress)
Rocca di Bergamo is a historic fortress perched high on the hills of the Upper Town of Bergamo (Città Alta). This well-preserved fortress not only boasts stunning panoramic views of Bergamo but also provides a fun, educational experience for children and adults alike.
​
​Visiting Rocca di Bergamo is like stepping back in time. The fortress, dating back to the 14th century, is an ideal location for families who wish to combine sightseeing with learning. The museum inside the Rocca showcases the rich history of the region, with exhibits that are both engaging and accessible for young visitors.
​
​​
One of the highlights of Rocca di Bergamo is its impressive collection of military machines, making it an even more exciting stop for families. Among the exhibits, you’ll find a range of historical military equipment, including artillery pieces and even a tank. Children and adults alike will enjoy exploring these machines up close and learning about their role in Italy’s military history. This interactive experience is a fantastic way for kids to engage with history in a hands-on way, sparking their imagination and curiosity.
​
​TIP: The beautiful park surrounding Rocca di Bergamo is free to visit for everyone, making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the scenic views. The museum inside the fortress costs just 5 euros for adults, while entry is free for children under 18. It's a great opportunity to explore both the history and the natural beauty of the area without breaking the bank!
04
Parco Suardi: A Family-Friendly Green Oasis in Bergamo
If you're visiting Bergamo with kids, make sure to add Parco Suardi to your list! This lovely green space is tucked away in the lower part of the city (Città Bassa), just a short walk from the Carrara Academy and GAMeC modern art gallery. It's a local favorite—and for good reason.
​
Parco Suardi is a great spot for families to unwind. There's plenty of open space to stretch out, shady trees for picnics, and lots of playground equipment to keep little ones entertained. One of the highlights is the mini fun park inside the grounds, with small rides and a cute little train—perfect for younger kids who need a bit more excitement after sightseeing.
​
Parents will appreciate the relaxing atmosphere, while kids will love running around and exploring.
​
It’s easy to reach on foot from the city center, and it makes a great break between cultural stops. Whether you're spending a day in Bergamo or just looking for a peaceful spot for the kids to play, Parco Suardi is a perfect pick.
​
TIP:​ Just a short walk from Parco Suardi, you’ll find Dolci Di Bea, a lovely pastry shop with a cozy kids’ corner filled with toys—perfect for a family break with delicious pastries, sweets, hard-to-find teas, aperitivi, and of course, great coffee.
Things to see in Bergamo with kids
01
Città Alta - Piazza Vecchia and Piazza Duomo
The main street of Città Alta has stunning architecture and is full of life with shops, bars and restaurants. It is the ideal place for a leisurely stroll with kids and a taste of traditional Italian cuisine.
Find out more about the exciting things to do in Città Alta, Bergamo's historic upper town.
02
Porta San Giacomo
After admiring the bustling atmosphere of Città Alta, you can start your way down to the lower part of the town. Take a short walk from Piazza Vecchia to Piazza Mercato Delle Scarpe. From there, via S. Giacomo leads to Porta San Giacomo, one of the most beautiful gates of the Venetian walls surrounding Città Alta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2017, where you can enjoy stunning views of the rolling hills and the town below.
03
Torre dei Caduti
Hidden Gem in Bergamo’s Città Bassa!
Right in the heart of Bergamo’s modern Lower City, the Torre dei Caduti is a historic WWI memorial that many walk past without realizing it’s open to visitors. Climb the 180 steps (note: no lift) and you’ll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views stretching toward the medieval Città Alta, with its ancient walls and cobbled charm.
The tower is spread across multiple levels, each featuring interesting exhibits and stories, so you get natural breaks along the way — making the climb feel more like a fun, family-friendly exploration than a workout. A true hidden gem to add to your Bergamo itinerary!
​Museums and Educational Experiences for Children in Bergamo
01
Civic Museum of Natural Science
If you're looking for a fun and educational activity to do with your kids in Bergamo, be sure to visit the Civic Museum of Natural Science. This interactive museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of the natural world, from geology to zoology. With hands-on exhibits and engaging displays, it's a fantastic place for families to learn and have fun together while discovering the fascinating history of our planet. A must-visit stop for families in Bergamo!
02
The Puppet Museum
​If you're looking for a fun and unique museum for kids in Bergamo, the Museo del Burattino (Puppet Museum) is a must-visit. This interactive museum offers an exciting journey into the world of puppetry, where children can learn about the history and artistry behind traditional Italian puppets. With colorful displays and engaging exhibits, it’s an entertaining and educational experience for the whole family. Perfect for a break from the typical sights, Museo del Burattino provides a memorable, hands-on adventure for kids visiting Bergamo.
03
Palazzo del Podestà: An Interactive Museum in Bergamo for Kids and Families
Right in the heart of Città Alta, Bergamo’s charming old town, you’ll find the Palazzo del Podestà, home to the Museo del Cinquecento—a fantastic interactive museum that brings Bergamo’s 16th-century Venetian past to life.
​
This isn’t your typical museum! With seven multimedia rooms full of sounds, images, and hands-on displays, it’s an exciting way to explore the stories of noble families, clever merchants, and everyday life in Renaissance Bergamo. Downstairs, the Roman ruins offer a cool glimpse into the city's ancient roots.
​
Even better—your ticket also includes access to the Campanone, Bergamo’s iconic civic tower. Climb to the top (or take the lift!) for breathtaking panoramic views over Città Alta and the surrounding valleys.
​
It’s a fun, educational experience that both kids and adults will enjoy. For opening times and tickets, visit the Museo delle Storie di Bergamo website.
Best Family-Friendly Attractions near Bergamo
Acquaworld aquapark near Milan Bergamo
The aquapark is only a short drive from Milan or Bergamo. It is the largest indoor and outdoor water park in Italy and the first of its kind. Open all year round. There is a large indoor swimming pool with slides for adults and children over 110 cm, wave machine, dedicated area for little ones, heated outdoor pool with sun loungers and SPA area exclusively for adults.
​
Book your 1 day Fast Track entrance ticket here.
​​
01
02
Malpaga Castle near Milan Bergamo airport
The castle is located in the province of Bergamo, just over 10 kilometres from Milan Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport, which is about 60 kilometres from the city of Milan. Malpaga Castle is definitely worth a visit if you're flying to or from Milan Bergamo Airport and have some spare time.
​
03
Summer Bob in Castione della Presolana
If you're looking for a fun day trip from Milan or Bergamo with the kids, we totally recommend checking out the Fun Bob in Presolana! It’s located in Via Donico, 7 Castione Della Presolana (BG, Italia), just about 45 minutes from Bergamo and around 1.5 hours from Milan by car — super doable for a quick mountain escape.
​
What we really liked is that there’s free parking right next to the track, and compared to similar rides in the Dolomites, this one is much more budget-friendly. The kids had a blast, and honestly, we did too — it’s one of those simple joys that everyone can enjoy.
So if you’re in the area and want to mix a bit of mountain air with some easy family fun, the Fun Bob is definitely worth a stop!
​
TIP: Just 1.5 km from Pista Bob Presolana, you’ll find even more fun for the kids at Pista dei Plok and the Giant Bench! While you're there, don’t miss the charming woodcraft shop GUSAT di Stefano Mainente—a perfect spot to pick up a unique souvenir.
04
Discover Family-Friendly Lake Iseo: A Peaceful Escape Near Bergamo
Lake Iseo is one of our favorite family-friendly destinations near Bergamo — and a hidden gem many visitors overlook. While others are stuck in the summer crowds at Lake Como or Lake Garda, we enjoy peaceful days by Lake Iseo’s tranquil shores. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxed family getaway, with fewer tourists, breathtaking views, and plenty of outdoor fun. In our guide, you’ll find the best things to do around Lake Iseo with kids — from exploring Monte Isola, the largest inhabited lake island in Europe, to discovering the top swimming spots for families, scenic walks, and fun activities that everyone will love.
How to Get Around Bergamo with Children
Bergamo's Funicular
The funicular is one of the most popular attractions in Bergamo, not only among children but also among adults. Bergamo actually has 2 funiculars. Here, you'll find everything you need to know about the funiculars in Bergamo, from their routes and tickets to tips for enjoying this unique way of exploring the city.
Getting around Bergamo with kids is easy and convenient, thanks to the city's well-connected transportation options. For family transport in Bergamo, the lower town offers excellent accessibility, with trams, buses, and trains connecting various areas. If you're driving, the motorway linking Milan and Venice is just 5 minutes away from the city center, with plenty of paid parking options available in the lower town. The train station, located conveniently in the center of Bergamo, is ideal for exploring the town by foot or catching a bus to the Upper Town (Città Alta).
When visiting the Upper Town, it's important to note that traffic is limited during certain hours, and parking options are scarce. To avoid penalties, it's best to use public transport. The most popular way to reach Città Alta is by taking the funicular, which offers a scenic and easy ride.
Bergamo's Tourist Train
Another fun way to explore Bergamo with kids is by taking a tourist train. The red route departs from Via XX Settembre, 10, and takes you on a ride around the Lower Town (Città Bassa), passing along the Venetian walls of Bergamo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to the Upper Town (Città Alta), before heading back down. For those wanting to focus on the Upper Town (Città Alta), the blue route is the perfect option. It departs from Piazza Mercato delle Scarpe and offers a leisurely ride through the historic and picturesque streets of Città Alta. You can choose to ride only one route or purchase a combined ticket for both lines, giving you the opportunity to enjoy the best of both the Lower and Upper Towns. This is a fantastic and relaxing way for families to see the city's highlights without the hassle of walking.
Ready to visit BERGAMO ITALY? Plan your trip with these tips.
-
Book your flight: Find the best rates on airline tickets using WayAway. Become WayAway Plus member and get cashback on flights, accommodation, car rentals, tours, and more.
-
Stay Connected: Enjoy a tailored eSim Data Plan that fits your needs, without the hefty roaming charges.
-
Want to travel on your own schedule?: Book your car with DiscoverCars.com. Rated 4.6 out of 5 from 111 000+ reviews. You can't get it wrong ))
POPULAR Day trips to Bergamo from Milan
-
Take a break from the hustle and bustle of Milan on this day trip to the stunningly-preserved town of Bergamo, a UNESCO world heritage site. Try some of the region’s most prestigious sparkling wines.
