Milan: Bergamo High Town and Wine Tasting Tour

Exploring Bergamo and Its Hidden Wine Treasures: A Practical Guide to the High Town and Wine Tasting Tour

If you’re craving a blend of history, scenic views, and authentic Italian wine, this Bergamo High Town and Wine Tasting Tour from Milan could be just what you need. While I haven’t personally taken it (yet), reviews highlight an engaging mix of culture, stunning vistas, and delightful wine experiences.

What travelers rave about most are the chance to see Bergamo’s UNESCO-listed walls and medieval streets, enjoy knowledgeable guidance from an Italian sommelier, and taste local wines paired with regional delicacies. The tour’s scenic viewpoints, especially overlooking the Milan skyline on a clear day, seem to leave a lasting impression.

However, one thing to keep in mind is the limited time—just four hours—which means some might wish for a longer exploration or more tasting variety. Still, this experience is perfect for those who want a compact, culturally-rich escape from the city, combining history, panoramic views, and wine in a manageable half-day trip.

This tour suits travelers eager to discover a less touristy side of Italy, wine enthusiasts wanting to understand regional viticulture, or anyone looking for a well-rounded, authentic experience just outside Milan.

Good To Know

• Stunning Views: Enjoy panoramic vistas of Bergamo’s Venetian Walls and Milan skyline.
• Authentic Experience: Visit a boutique winery and taste local wines like Moscato di Scanzo.
• Cultural Insight: Discover Bergamo’s medieval streets, city gates, and UNESCO heritage walls.
• Expert Guidance: Led by a skilled Italian sommelier, learning about local viticulture.
• Convenient and Compact: Perfect for a half-day escape with transportation included.
• Limited for Longer Stays: The four-hour format means less time for extensive sightseeing or multiple wine tastings.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll Actually Do

Starting from Milan, you’ll hop on a comfortable private bus that whisks you away to Bergamo. The journey itself is quick but scenic, giving you a taste of Lombardy’s rolling landscapes. Once in Bergamo, the adventure begins with a guided walk through the High Town, a part of the city perched above the lower town, surrounded by historic Venetian walls.

Exploring Bergamo High Town—you’ll visit iconic spots like the city gates, the Duomo square, and the Colleoni chapel. Our guide, who’s noted for being engaging and informative, will share stories behind these landmarks and give you a sense of the town’s unique character. Reviewers mention that walking shoes are a must due to cobblestone streets, but the views and architecture make every step worthwhile.

You’ll have some free time to browse shops, snap photos, or grab a quick coffee. The highlight here is the panoramic viewpoint, where you can take in the sight of the Venetian Walls stretching around the city, with Milan’s skyline visible if the weather permits—a rare treat for photography lovers.

Then, it’s time to head to a local boutique winery. You’ll visit a small, family-run operation where you can see how regional wines are crafted and learn about the unique features of Lombardy’s terroir. The sommelier will introduce you to a sparkling brut made using the traditional method, a 2018 Valcalepio Rosso Riserva, and the famous Moscato di Scanzo Passito. These are paired thoughtfully with local cheeses and cured meats, enhancing the tasting experience.

Guests from reviews emphasize the quality of the wines and the personal touch of the winery visit, often highlighting the friendly atmosphere and detailed explanations from Nicolò, the sommelier. Knowing about the distinct characteristics of each wine and how they reflect the local environment adds depth to your appreciation of Italy’s wine culture.

Finally, you’ll hop back on the bus and return to Milan, feeling enriched by the sights, stories, and flavors experienced. The entire activity lasts about four hours, making it an accessible option for those with tight schedules or a desire for a quick yet meaningful escape.

Deep Dive into Highlights

Discovering Bergamo High Town

The High Town is the heart of Bergamo’s medieval heritage, and it’s easy to see why it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city walls, built in the Venetian period, still frame the city, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and, on clear days, the Milan skyline in the distance.

Walking through the narrow streets, you’ll encounter chapels, small shops, and historic buildings. The Duomo square and the Colleoni Chapel stand out for their architecture and historical significance. Reviewers mention that the guide’s “knowledge of local legends and history made the visit engaging,” ensuring you appreciate the town’s deep roots beyond just looking at pretty buildings.

The Wine Tasting Experience

The winery visit is a highlight for many. It’s a small, family-run operation, giving visitors an intimate look at Lombard wine production. The sparkling brut provides a refreshing start, with its traditional method adding a touch of elegance. The Valcalepio Riserva offers a deeper red experience, showcasing local grape varieties with nuanced flavors.

Most reviews praise the passion of the sommelier, Nicolò, who is described as knowledgeable and approachable. His explanations help you understand what makes Lombardy wines unique—from the soil and climate to traditional winemaking techniques.

The pairing with local cheeses and cured meats elevates the tasting, allowing you to experience regional flavors in a relaxed setting. Visitors often mention how this part of the tour offers a true taste of local culture, beyond just drinking wine.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Panoramic Views and Photo Opportunities

The trip’s viewpoint stop provides an excellent chance to capture Mesmerizing vistas of Bergamo, the Venetian Walls, and if the sky is clear, the Milan skyline. Reviews highlight the beauty of the landscape and the value of taking photos from this vantage point.

This moment is often described as the perfect culmination of the tour, offering a chance to reflect and appreciate Italy’s scenic diversity.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Transportation is organized and included, meaning you won’t have to worry about navigating or parking. The pick-up point at Piazzale Piola is central and easy to access from Milan. The group size is private, ensuring a more personalized experience, and the guides speak both English and Italian, making the explanations accessible to a wide audience.

The duration of four hours makes this a flexible option, fitting neatly into a morning or early afternoon schedule. The tour’s price of around $192.58 per person reflects an experience that combines cultural sightseeing, wine tasting, and scenic views—a good value considering the personalized guide, transport, and tasting included.

Since hotel pickup is not included, travelers should plan to meet at the starting point, and arriving 10 minutes early is recommended. Comfortable shoes are a must due to walking on cobblestones, and bringing a camera, sunscreen, and water will enhance your comfort.

The wine tasting is designed for adults, and those with dietary restrictions should inform the organizer in advance. The experience is not suitable for children under 10 or guests with mobility challenges, including wheelchair users.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

If you’re someone who loves scenic views, historical towns, and local wines, this tour offers a compact yet immersive taste of Bergamo’s charm. You’ll walk through medieval streets, see historic fortifications, and learn about regional viticulture from a passionate sommelier—all within a manageable four hours.

The small-group format and personalized guidance make it ideal for couples, solo travelers, or small groups looking for a relaxed, enriching experience. The focus on authentic, locally-produced wines paired with regional specialties also appeals to food and wine lovers eager to explore Lombardy’s lesser-known treasures.

For travelers who prefer longer or more in-depth explorations, the limited time might feel a bit rushed, especially if you wish to spend more time shopping or sightseeing. However, for those seeking a balanced blend of culture, nature, and gastronomy, this tour hits the sweet spot.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately four hours, including transport, sightseeing, and tasting.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Piazzale Piola in Milan and ends back at the same point.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transport from Milan to Bergamo and back is included in the price.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended due to cobblestone streets; dress appropriately for the weather.

Are children allowed?
The tour is not suitable for children under 10 years old.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bringing a camera, sunscreen, water, and comfortable shoes will enhance your experience.

Is there an option to pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot with the ‘Reserve & Pay Later’ option and pay nothing upfront.

In summary, this Bergamo High Town and Wine Tasting Tour provides a delightful mix of history, panoramic views, and authentic regional wines—all within a well-organized, private setting. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers wanting to experience Italy’s Lombardy region beyond Milan’s city limits, especially if you are passionate about culture and cuisine.

You can check if your dates are available here: