Why Visit Bergamo?
Although millions of passengers pass through Milan Bergamo Airport (Orio al Serio Airport) every year, many never realise that one of Northern Italy’s most beautiful cities is only a few kilometres away. Instead of heading straight to Milan, consider spending some time exploring Bergamo, a city that perfectly blends medieval history with modern Italian life.
The city is divided into two distinct areas. Città Alta (Upper Town) sits proudly on a hilltop behind impressive UNESCO-listed Venetian Walls, where you’ll discover cobbled streets, Renaissance churches, historic piazzas and panoramic viewpoints across Lombardy. Below, Città Bassa (Lower Town) offers elegant shopping streets, excellent restaurants, museums, hotels and Bergamo’s main railway station, making it the transport hub for exploring the rest of Northern Italy.
One of Bergamo’s biggest advantages is its proximity to the airport. Milan Bergamo Airport is located just 5 kilometres south-east of the city centre, making transfers quick, straightforward and inexpensive. Whether you’re travelling by bus, taxi, private transfer or hire car, reaching the city usually takes between 10 and 20 minutes, depending on traffic and your final destination.
For most visitors, the ATB Line 1 bus is the easiest and most economical option. It connects the airport with Bergamo Railway Station, Città Bassa and continues all the way to Città Alta, meaning many travellers can reach their hotel without changing transport. Those carrying heavy luggage or arriving late at night may prefer a taxi or private transfer, while hiring a car is a good option if you’re planning to explore Lake Como, Lake Garda, the Italian Alps or other parts of Lombardy.
In this guide we’ll explain every way to travel from Bergamo Airport to Bergamo city centre, including journey times, ticket prices, where to catch each service, and which option is likely to suit your trip best.
Bergamo Airport to Bergamo City Centre at a Glance
| Transport | Journey Time | Typical Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| ATB Line 1 Bus | 15–20 minutes | € | Most visitors |
| Taxi | 10–15 minutes | €€€ | Families & heavy luggage |
| Private Transfer | 10–15 minutes | €€€ | Door-to-door convenience |
| Hire Car | 10–15 minutes | Variable | Exploring Lombardy |
Taking the ATB Line 1 Bus
For most travellers, the ATB Line 1 bus is by far the easiest way to travel from Milan Bergamo Airport into the city. Operated by ATB (Azienda Trasporti Bergamo), this frequent public bus service links the airport with Bergamo Railway Station, Città Bassa and Città Alta, making it suitable whether you’re staying in the modern city centre or the medieval Upper Town.
Finding the bus couldn’t be simpler. After leaving the Arrivals Hall, follow the clearly marked signs for Buses. The Line 1 stops are located immediately outside the terminal building alongside the other local and long-distance coach services. Electronic departure boards display the next departures, while staff are often available to answer questions during busier periods.
Services generally operate every 20 minutes throughout the day, with slightly reduced frequencies during the early morning and late evening. Because the airport handles a large number of flights, buses are timed to cope with passenger demand and are capable of carrying luggage, although they can become busy when several aircraft arrive at the same time.
The journey to Bergamo Railway Station usually takes around 15 minutes, depending on traffic. If you’re staying in Città Alta, simply remain on board as the bus continues beyond the station before climbing towards the Upper Town. Most journeys to the historic centre take around 20 to 25 minutes from the airport.
Tickets can be purchased from the ticket machines inside the airport, at authorised retailers, through the ATB mobile app, or from some airport shops before you board. Remember to validate your ticket using the machine onboard or at the stop if required, as ticket inspections are common and fines apply if your ticket hasn’t been correctly validated.
One of the biggest advantages of using ATB tickets is that they’re valid across Bergamo’s public transport network during their period of validity. This means you can continue your journey on local buses and even use the city’s two historic funicular railways without purchasing another ticket, making it particularly good value if you’re heading to San Vigilio or planning to explore immediately after arriving.
If you’re travelling with one suitcase and a small bag, the bus is usually the best value transfer option. It’s reliable, inexpensive and stops close to many of Bergamo’s hotels and attractions, making it the obvious choice for most visitors.
Taking a Taxi
If you value convenience over cost, a taxi is the quickest and most straightforward way to travel from Bergamo Airport into the city. Official taxis are available directly outside the Arrivals Terminal, so there’s no need to pre-book unless you particularly want to.
The journey to Bergamo city centre normally takes around 10 to 15 minutes, although traffic can increase slightly during the morning and evening rush hours. Even with delays, it’s still considerably quicker than waiting for the next bus if you’ve just landed after a long flight.
Fares are charged using the official meter, although the final price depends on your exact destination, the time of day and whether any airport or luggage supplements apply. If you’re travelling to Città Alta, expect the fare to be slightly higher than travelling to hotels near the railway station because of the additional climb through the city.
Most official taxis now accept contactless card payments, although it’s always worth confirming with the driver before setting off, particularly if you don’t have any euros with you. Larger taxis are usually available for groups or passengers travelling with several suitcases, although there may occasionally be a short wait during peak arrival periods.
A taxi makes the most sense if you’re arriving late at night, travelling with young children, carrying heavy luggage, or simply want the convenience of being dropped directly outside your accommodation without navigating public transport. While it’s considerably more expensive than the bus, the journey is short enough that many visitors consider the additional cost worthwhile.
Booking a Private Transfer
If you’d rather avoid waiting for a bus or searching for a taxi after landing, a private airport transfer offers the most convenient way to travel from Bergamo Airport to your accommodation. Although it costs more than public transport, many travellers feel the added comfort and convenience are well worth it, particularly after a long flight or when travelling with family.
With a private transfer, your driver will usually meet you inside the Arrivals Hall, often holding a sign displaying your name. After helping with your luggage, you’ll be taken directly to your vehicle before travelling straight to your hotel, apartment or other accommodation. There’s no need to queue for tickets, navigate unfamiliar streets or worry about changing buses.
The drive into Bergamo city centre typically takes 10 to 15 minutes, while hotels in Città Alta can usually be reached in around 20 minutes, depending on traffic and access restrictions. Because the journey is direct, it’s often the quickest option available.
Private transfers are particularly popular with families travelling with children, groups, older travellers, and anyone carrying multiple suitcases. They’re also a good choice if your flight arrives late in the evening, when you may simply want to reach your accommodation as quickly as possible.
Unlike taxis, the price is normally fixed in advance, meaning you know exactly what you’ll pay before you travel. Most operators also monitor flight arrival times, so if your flight is delayed, your driver will usually adjust the pickup time accordingly without additional charges.
If you’re looking for the most stress-free arrival possible, particularly on your first visit to Bergamo, a pre-booked private transfer is an excellent option.
Book Your Airport Transfer in Advance
Arriving in a new destination can be stressful, especially after a long flight. Welcome Pickups lets you pre-book a private airport transfer, so your driver is ready and waiting when you land.
It is ideal for first-time visitors, late-night arrivals, and travellers who want a smooth, reliable start to their trip. Instead of searching for taxis or navigating public transport, you can head straight to your accommodation.
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Hiring a Car
Although you certainly don’t need a car to explore Bergamo itself, hiring one at the airport can make excellent sense if you’re planning to discover more of Lombardy or continue your journey into other parts of Northern Italy.
Milan Bergamo Airport has an excellent selection of international and local car hire companies, with rental desks located inside the terminal building and collection areas just a short walk away. Booking in advance is generally recommended, particularly during the busy summer months, when demand can be high.
Driving from the airport into Bergamo is straightforward, with the journey usually taking 10 to 15 minutes. However, it’s important to remember that much of Città Alta is protected by ZTL (Limited Traffic Zones). These areas restrict vehicle access during certain times of the day, and driving into them without permission can result in substantial fines being issued automatically through camera enforcement.
Parking can also be limited within the historic Upper Town, so if your accommodation is located there, it’s worth checking in advance whether parking is available and whether you need to register your vehicle. Many visitors choose to stay in Città Bassa, where parking is generally easier and public transport provides quick access to the Upper Town.
Where a hire car really comes into its own is when exploring beyond Bergamo. Destinations such as Lake Iseo, the Franciacorta wine region, the Italian Alps, the Dolomites, and smaller mountain villages become far easier to reach by road than by public transport. A car also gives you the flexibility to stop at scenic viewpoints and explore places that aren’t well served by trains or buses.
If your plans focus mainly on Bergamo, Milan, Lake Como or Verona, public transport is usually the simpler and more economical choice. However, if you’re planning a broader road trip around Northern Italy, collecting a hire car directly from the airport is both convenient and practical.
Travelling to Bergamo Railway Station
For many visitors, Bergamo Railway Station is the first destination after leaving the airport. Located in Città Bassa, the station serves as the city’s main transport hub, with frequent trains to Milan, Brescia, Verona, Lecco, Lake Como and destinations throughout Northern Italy.
The easiest way to reach the station is by taking the ATB Line 1 bus. The journey normally takes around 15 minutes, and the station is one of the first major stops after leaving the airport. Buses stop directly outside the station, making it easy to transfer onto regional or long-distance rail services without a long walk.
If you’re travelling with heavy luggage or arriving during quieter hours, a taxi can reduce the journey to around 10 minutes, depending on traffic. Private transfers are equally convenient, particularly if you’re connecting with an early morning or late evening train and want to minimise the risk of delays.
The railway station itself is modern and well equipped, with ticket offices, self-service ticket machines, cafés, waiting areas, luggage storage facilities and shops. Digital departure boards clearly display train information, while lifts and step-free access make moving around the station relatively straightforward.
If you’re continuing your journey across Italy, it’s worth allowing at least 20 to 30 minutes between your flight landing and your onward train departure, particularly if you’re collecting luggage. Although the airport is close to the city, unexpected queues at passport control or baggage reclaim can occasionally add to your journey time.
For anyone planning to explore Northern Italy by train, Bergamo Railway Station provides an excellent starting point, with reliable connections to many of the region’s most popular destinations.
Travelling to Città Alta
If your hotel is located within Città Alta, it’s worth planning your transfer slightly differently. While many visitors automatically leave the bus at Bergamo Railway Station, the ATB Line 1 bus actually continues beyond the station before climbing towards the historic Upper Town.
Remaining on the bus saves you the trouble of changing transport and is usually the easiest option if you’re staying close to the main streets of Città Alta. Depending on your exact accommodation, you may still have a short walk along the cobbled streets, but it’s generally much easier than carrying luggage uphill from the Lower Town.
Another popular option is to leave the bus at the railway station and take the historic Bergamo Funicular. This charming railway has linked the Lower Town with Città Alta since 1887 and is included within Bergamo’s public transport system, provided your ticket is still valid. The journey takes only two to three minutes, while offering lovely views across the city as you climb towards the medieval centre.
Travellers with heavy suitcases should remember that many streets within Città Alta are paved with historic cobblestones, and some hotels are located a short walk from the nearest road. If convenience is your priority, a taxi or private transfer that drops you as close as possible to your accommodation may be worth considering.
Whichever option you choose, arriving in Città Alta is one of the highlights of any visit to Bergamo. Passing through the ancient city gates and stepping into the medieval streets is a memorable introduction to one of Northern Italy’s most beautiful historic centres.
Travelling Late at Night
Although Milan Bergamo Airport operates flights throughout the day and well into the evening, getting into the city after a late arrival is usually straightforward. The airport is located so close to Bergamo that you’ll almost always find a transport option available, although your choices become more limited as the night goes on.
The ATB Line 1 bus operates from early morning until late evening, with services becoming less frequent later in the day. If you’re arriving on one of the final flights of the evening, it’s worth checking the latest timetable before you travel, particularly if you’re relying on public transport to reach your accommodation.
If you’ve missed the last bus, official taxis are available directly outside the Arrivals Hall whenever flights are operating. Because the journey into Bergamo is so short, a late-night taxi is often far less expensive than travellers expect, especially when the cost is shared between two or more people.
A private transfer offers even greater peace of mind for late arrivals. Your driver monitors your flight, so if it’s delayed, they’ll normally adjust the collection time automatically. This can remove a lot of stress if you’re arriving after midnight or travelling to Bergamo for the first time.
If you’re catching an early morning flight, it can often be worth staying overnight in Bergamo rather than Milan. The short transfer time means you can leave your hotel much later while still arriving at the airport comfortably before departure.
Whatever time you arrive, avoid accepting lifts from anyone approaching you inside the terminal. Instead, use the official taxi rank or a pre-booked transfer, ensuring you travel with a licensed operator.
Which Transfer Option is Best?
The best way to travel from Bergamo Airport to the city depends largely on your budget, the amount of luggage you’re carrying and where you’re staying.
For most visitors, the ATB Line 1 bus is easily the best choice. It’s inexpensive, runs frequently throughout the day and stops at Bergamo Railway Station, Città Bassa and Città Alta, making it suitable for the majority of hotels and apartments. Because your ticket is also valid on Bergamo’s buses and funiculars during its validity period, it offers excellent overall value.
If you’re travelling as a family, carrying several suitcases or arriving after a long international flight, a taxi may be worth the additional cost. The journey is quick, comfortable and completely door-to-door, removing the need to carry luggage through the city’s cobbled streets.
A private transfer is ideal for travellers who want the easiest possible arrival. Knowing that your driver will be waiting inside the terminal can be particularly reassuring if you’re visiting Bergamo for the first time or landing late in the evening.
A hire car is only really necessary if you’re planning to explore Lombardy or continue into other parts of Northern Italy. For visitors spending a few days in Bergamo before travelling by train, a car is more likely to become an inconvenience than an advantage, particularly because of the city’s ZTL restrictions and limited parking in Città Alta.
Overall, unless you have specific requirements, the ATB Line 1 bus provides the best balance of cost, convenience and speed, making it the option recommended for the vast majority of travellers.
Rupert’s Handy Travel Tips
Flying into Bergamo? These simple tips will help make your arrival as smooth as possible.
- Don’t assume you’re in Milan: Although it’s marketed as Milan Bergamo Airport, the airport is actually located beside Bergamo. If you’re staying in Milan, you’ll need to continue your journey by coach or train.
- Stay on the bus for Città Alta: Many visitors get off at Bergamo Railway Station, but many ATB Line 1 services continue to the historic Upper Town.
- Validate your ticket: If you’re travelling by bus, make sure your ticket is validated before or immediately after boarding to avoid unnecessary fines.
- Use the funicular: If you’re exploring Bergamo after arriving, your transport ticket can also be used on the city’s famous funicular railway, provided it’s still valid.
- Watch out for ZTL zones: Hiring a car? Check whether your hotel is inside Bergamo’s Limited Traffic Zone before driving into the historic centre.
- Allow extra time during summer: Traffic around the airport can become much busier during the peak holiday season, especially on Friday evenings and weekends.
Want to meet the reindeer behind our travel tips? Find out more in our page Who is Rupert?.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Bergamo Airport from Bergamo city centre?
Milan Bergamo Airport is located approximately 5 kilometres from Bergamo city centre. Depending on your choice of transport, the journey usually takes between 10 and 20 minutes.
What is the cheapest way to get from Bergamo Airport to the city centre?
The ATB Line 1 bus is the cheapest and most popular option. It provides direct connections to Bergamo Railway Station, Città Bassa and Città Alta.
Can I take the bus directly to Città Alta?
Yes. Many ATB Line 1 services continue beyond the railway station and climb to Città Alta, meaning you may not need to change buses.
How much does a taxi cost from Bergamo Airport?
Taxi fares vary depending on your destination, the time of day and any additional supplements, but the journey normally takes around 10 to 15 minutes.
Is there a train from Bergamo Airport?
No. Milan Bergamo Airport does not have its own railway station. You’ll first need to travel to Bergamo Railway Station by bus, taxi or private transfer before continuing by train.
Can I walk from Bergamo Airport to the city?
Technically yes, but it’s not recommended. The route isn’t designed for pedestrians carrying luggage and involves busy roads. Public transport or a taxi is a far more practical choice.
Are taxis available 24 hours a day?
Official taxis are generally available whenever flights are operating, although waiting times can occasionally increase during very quiet periods.
Should I hire a car at Bergamo Airport?
Only if you’re planning to explore destinations beyond Bergamo. For visitors staying in the city, public transport is excellent, and driving can be more trouble than it’s worth.
Can I use the same ticket on the bus and funicular?
Yes. A valid ATB transport ticket can also be used on Bergamo’s funicular railways during its validity period.
Is Bergamo Airport actually in Milan?
No. Despite often being marketed as Milan Bergamo Airport, the airport is located beside Bergamo, around 50 kilometres from central Milan.
Further Reading
Now that you’ve arrived in Bergamo, it’s time to explore the city itself. Our Things to Do in Bergamo Guide covers the must-see attractions, including Città Alta, Piazza Vecchia, the Venetian Walls, San Vigilio and the city’s historic funiculars. If you’re planning to stay a little longer, our Day Trips from Bergamo Guide highlights the best excursions to Milan, Lake Como, Verona, Lake Iseo and other destinations across Lombardy.
Travellers planning several regional journeys should also read our Italia in Tour Pass Guide, which explains where the pass is valid, how it works and when it can save you money.
Our eSIM Apps Guide compares the best eSIM providers to help you stay connected throughout your trip without paying expensive roaming charges.
Last Updated
June 2026
This guide is reviewed regularly and updated whenever there are significant changes to ATB bus services, taxi information, private transfer options, journey times, ticket prices, airport facilities or other transport information to help ensure the advice remains accurate and up to date.
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