OUR Guide to Exploring & Enjoying the Region


We have put together this short guide to help you make the most of your time in the beautiful Bergamo province. Whether you are based in Bergamo city, near Lake Iseo, or decide to discover Brescia, here is a list of our recommended places to visit, local activities and restaurants to enjoy.


If you’re coming for a shorter trip, prefer to stay close to the venue, or would rather be somewhere with plenty to explore, we recommend staying in Bergamo.

Read about Bergamo >


If you’re planning to stay a little longer and would prefer to be closer to nature, the countryside around Lake Iseo is a lovely option and within easy driving distance. Even if you choose to stay in the city, Lake Iseo is well worth a visit. Although the Lake is less popular than Como or Maggiore, it has kept much of its local charm, with beautiful little towns dotted along the shore. Nearby is Franciacorta, a region known for its excellent sparkling wine and a very good excuse for a day trip.

Read about ISEO AND FRANCIACORTA >


If you would like to stay as close as possible to the venue, here are some accomodation suggestions.

  • Joia Hotel & Luxury Apartments — A modern and peaceful stay surrounded by greenery, offering spacious rooms and modern apartments, with a swimming pool and plenty of space to unwind. → Joia Hotel & Luxury Apartments
  • B&B Corte Seguini — A charming B&B set in a beautifully restored 17th-century residence, with spacious rooms, a peaceful courtyard and a leafy garden in the historic centre of Bagnatica.  → B&B Corte Seguini
  • Villa Vescovado — A spacious modern villa surrounded by gardens, hills and vineyards, offering several independent accommodation options, ideal for families or groups travelling together. → Villa Vescovado

staying in bergamo city


Bergamo is one of northern Italy’s loveliest cities, with its beautifully preserved medieval Città Alta sitting on a hill above the more modern lower town. It’s easy to reach thanks to the nearby Orio al Serio Airport, and has plenty to explore, from historic streets and beautiful views to very good food.



ACCOMODATION in bergamo


Bergamo has plenty of accommodation for different budgets, from small B&Bs and apartments to boutique and larger hotels. For atmosphere, look around Città Alta, where you’ll be surrounded by the old town and its restaurants and cafés. Città Bassa is more practical for transport and generally offers a wider choice of places to stay, while still being within reach of the historic centre. If you’re travelling by car, you may prefer somewhere towards the outskirts of the city, where parking is easier and you’ll have a quicker journey to the wedding venue. We’ve included a few of our recommendations below to help you get started.


Places to visit in Bergamo


Early September is a lovely time to enjoy Bergamo outdoors. The city is still buzzing with summer events, open-air cafés and aperitivo terraces, evening events, concerts and occasional outdoor cinemas around the city. Details of local open-air events will become available closer to the date, and we’ll be very happy to recommend a few of our favourites when the time comes.

  • Città Alta & the Venetian Walls — Città Alta, Bergamo’s walled upper town, is the historic heart of the city. Wander along the 16th-century Venetian Walls, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, before heading into the old town through its narrow streets, medieval squares, churches and little cafés. Via Bartolomeo Colleoni runs through the centre and is a good place to start exploring. The easiest and most scenic way up from the lower city is by funicular. It’s part of Bergamo’s regular public transport network, so the same ATB ticket can also be used on buses around the city.  → ATB funicular tickets
  • Piazza Vecchia & the Civic Tower (Campanone) — Piazza Vecchia is the heart of Città Alta, surrounded by some of Bergamo’s most beautiful historic buildings, including the Palazzo della Ragione and the Campanone tower. Climb the tower for sweeping views over the rooftops and, on a clear day, all the way to the Alps. The square itself is free to explore, and no planning is required: just wander in.
  • Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore & Cappella Colleoni — Just off Piazza Vecchia, this 12th-century Romanesque basilica is extraordinary inside, with rich Flemish tapestries and gilded decoration. Beside it, the Cappella Colleoni is one of the finest examples of Renaissance architecture of Lombardy. Its ornate marble facade is breathtaking, and both are free to enter.
  • Accademia Carrara — One of Italy’s most important art galleries, located just below the walls in the lower city. The collection spans six centuries and includes works by Raphael, Botticelli, Mantegna and Bellini. Tickets available online or at the door.  → Accademia Carrara


recommended restaurants in bergamo


Suitable for both lunch and dinner. Booking strongly advised.


Bergamo has a hearty local cuisine, with plenty worth trying while you’re there. Local dishes include casoncelli alla bergamasca, pasta filled with butter, sage and pancetta; or scarpinocc, a delicate meat-free filled pasta traditionally made around Bergamo. Polenta is everywhere, often served with porcini mushrooms, braised meats or local cheeses: cheese lovers should look out for Taleggio, Branzi and Strachitunt. For meat eaters, try coniglio con polenta (rabbit with polenta), brasato (slow-cooked beef), or ossobuco, the classic Lombard dish of slow-braised veal shank. For dessert, try stracciatella gelato, which was invented in Bergamo. To drink, look for Valcalepio, the local wine produced in the hills surrounding the city or Franciacorta sparkling wines from the nearby region.


In Città Alta (upper city):

  • Trattoria Il Sole (Piazza Vecchia 1, Città Alta) serving simple, genuine Bergamasco dishes: casoncelli pasta, polenta and braised meats.  → Trattoria Il Sole
  • Ristorante La Tana (Via S. Lorenzo, 25, Città Alta) is charming, rustic enoristorante in a quiet corner of Città Alta. Handmade casoncelli, chestnut pancakes and an exceptional wine selection.  → Ristorante La Tana
  • Antica Osteria del Vino Buono (Via Gaetano Donizetti, 25, Città Alta) is a historical traditional osteria in the heart of Città Alta, serving hearty Bergamasque dishes and local wines in a warm, rustic setting. → Antica Osteria Del Vino Buono


In Città Bassa (lower city):

  • Osteria Al GiGianca (Via Broseta, 113, Città Bassa), a modern take on Bergamasque cooking, combining local traditions with carefully sourced ingredients, Slow Food produce and a thoughtful selection of wines.→ Osteria Al GiGianca
  • La Scagna (Via Gianbattista Moroni, 31, Città Bassa), a traditional trattoria serving the flavours of old-fashioned Bergamasque home cooking, with handmade pasta, local cheeses and hearty dishes made from carefully sourced ingredients. → La Scagna
  • Begnini Ambulatorio Gastronomico (Via San Tomaso, 74, Città Bassa), a lively restaurant offering creative contemporary cooking in a relaxed, informal setting: a good choice for something a little different from the city’s traditional trattorie. → Begnini & Co


Other suggestions:

  • If you want to try some good wines along with your meal, try La Fiaschetteria (Via Borgo Santa Caterina, 8, Città Bassa), an alpine locanda with excellent selection of wine → La Fiaschetteria and Vineria Cozzi (Via Bartolomeo Colleoni 22, Città Alta), a Bergamo institution established in 1848, with vaulted ceilings, an outstanding wine list and a menu that balances tradition and innovation. It is one of the most atmospheric restaurants in the upper town.  → Vineria Cozzi
  • For a good pizza check out Da Mimmo (Via Bartolomeo Colleoni 17, Città Alta). Lively atmosphere and excellent value. Ideal for a relaxed lunch.  → Da Mimmo
  • For a desert, don’t miss La Marianna (L.go Colle Aperto, 4, Città Alta), the historic café and pastry shop in Città Alta, famous as the birthplace of stracciatella gelato → La Marianna


Bergamo has plenty of accommodation for different budgets, from small B&Bs and apartments to boutique and larger hotels. For atmosphere, look around Città Alta, where you’ll be surrounded by the old town and its restaurants and cafés. Città Bassa is more practical for transport and generally offers a wider choice of places to stay, while still being within easy reach of the historic centre. If you’re travelling by car, you may prefer somewhere towards the outskirts of the city, where parking is easier and you’ll have a quicker journey to the wedding venue. We’ve included a few of our recommendations below to help you get started.

BACK TO THE BEGINNING >

stayinG at lake iseo


If you’re staying a little longer and would rather enjoy the countryside, Lake Iseo is a beautiful alternative. Smaller and less internationally known than Lakes Como or Garda, it has a more relaxed feel, with pretty lakeside towns, mountain scenery, swimming spots and plenty of opportunities for walking, cycling or simply lingering over lunch by the water. You’ll need a little more travel time to reach the venue (30-40mins), but for a longer stay we think it’s well worth considering.


ACCOMODATION NEAR ISEO

  • Ulivi Hotel (Viale A. Madruzza, 11, Paratico). A relaxed lakeside hotel in Paratico, with comfortable rooms, a swimming pool and lovely views towards Lake Iseo — a convenient base for exploring both the lake and nearby Franciacorta. → Ulivi Hotel
  • Costa Verde Natura (Via Risorgimento, 174, 25049 Clusane, Iseo BS). A relaxed, camping-style stay surrounded by nature on Lake Iseo, with cabins and glamping accommodation, plenty of outdoor space and kayaks for getting out on the water. With different accommodation options together on the same property, it’s a fun choice for families or groups of friends travelling together. → Costa Verde Natura
  • Villa Antonella (Via Chiesa, 7/D, 25049 Cremignane). A peaceful villa-style stay surrounded by greenery near Lake Iseo, offering a more intimate and relaxed alternative to a traditional hotel and a lovely base for exploring the lake and Franciacorta. → Villa Antonella
  • La Terrazza Sulle Vigne (Via Sant’ Afra, 8, 25040 Corte Franca) .A peaceful countryside stay overlooking the vineyards of Franciacorta, with bright, contemporary rooms and beautiful views, ideal for those who want to be immersed in wine country while remaining within easy reach of Lake Iseo. → La Terazza Sulle Vigne
  • Cascina Dei Prati (Via dei Dossi, 23, Credaro) A charming countryside stay surrounded by the vineyards and rolling hills of Franciacorta, with a peaceful, rural atmosphere. And yes, Cascina dei Prati does sound suspiciously like Cascina dei Frati: make sure you head to the right one on the wedding day!  → Cascina Dei Prati
  • Agriturismo Terra e Lago (Via Giuseppe Garibaldi, 40, Paratico) A relaxed agriturismo in Paratico, surrounded by greenery and close to the shores of Lake Iseo, offering a peaceful countryside stay within easy reach of the lake, Sarnico and the vineyards of Franciacorta.  → Agriturismo Terra e Lago


Places to Visit & Things to Do

  • Ferry to Monte Isola. Monte Isola is Europe’s largest lake island and entirely car-free. Take the ferry from Sulzano or Iseo (a few minutes’ crossing) and spend the day walking or cycling the island’s 10km shoreline path. Book ferry tickets online in advance during peak season.  → Ferry tickets and schedules
  • Cycling the Lake, Franciacorta Hills or Monte Isola. The area has excellent cycling routes along the lakeshore, through the Franciacorta hills, and connecting to Monte Isola. For bikes on the mainland, Iseo Rent Bike is directly on the cycle path with city bikes, e-bikes, mountain bikes and road bikes available. → Iseo Rent Bike On the island of Monte Isola bikes can be hired at the island’s three rental points, open March to November.  → Bike hire info
  • Franciacorta Wine Tasting. The rolling hills south of Lake Iseo produce Franciacorta DOCG, Italy’s finest sparkling wine made by the traditional method like Champagne. Dozens of estates offer guided cellar tours and tastings. September is a particularly special time to visit, as the Franciacorta Festival brings special open days across many estates. See the dedicated section below for four recommended cantinas.  → Franciacorta official site
  • The Town of Iseo and the Lungolago. The charming town of Iseo sits at the lake’s southern end. Wander the medieval centre, browse the Friday market, and stroll the lakefront promenade with views across to Monte Isola.
  • Lovere and the Northern shore. Lovere at the lake’s northern tip has a beautifully preserved medieval centre, a lovely waterfront promenade and the excellent Accademia Tadini art gallery. The drive up the eastern shore through Marone, Sale Marasino and Pisogne passes through some of the most dramatic scenery in the region.
  • Pyramids of Zone is one of the most extraordinary natural spectacles in Lombardy, hidden in the hills above the eastern lakeshore near Zone. Centuries of erosion have carved dozens of tall earth columns, each topped with a boulder. A short walk from the village brings you to the best viewpoints.
  • Monastero di San Pietro in Lamosa and the Torbiere natural reserve. An atmospheric 11th-century Cluniac monastery at Provaglio d’Iseo, set amid the protected Torbiere del Sebino wetland nature reserve. A lovely walking path runs along the water’s edge. → Torbiere del Sebino — torbieresebino.it
  • Val Calepio Wine Route & the Forcella–Molere Walk. Sarnico sits at the gateway to Val Calepio, a gentle valley behind the town known for its Valcalepio DOC red wines. The hills above Sarnico also offer excellent walking;  the Forcella–Molere trail has sweeping views over Lake Iseo. Ask at the tourist office for trail maps and the Val Calepio wine route.  → Walking & wine info — prolocosarnico.it
  • For a quieter escape beyond Lake Iseo, Lake Endine and Lake Idro offer beautiful mountain scenery, peaceful villages and plenty of opportunities for walks, swimming and time by the water. Lake Endine is the closer and gentler detour, while Lake Idro makes for a longer day trip into a wilder, more Alpine landscape.
  • Brescia Brescia makes an easy day trip from Iseo, with elegant piazzas, Roman ruins, medieval streets and an impressive castle overlooking the city. Don’t miss the UNESCO-listed Roman archaeological area and Santa Giulia Museum, then leave some time for an aperitivo and a wander through the historic centre.


recommended restaurants near lake iseo

Suitable for both lunch and dinner. Booking strongly advised.

  • Vivilo Ristorante (Via Nazario Sauro, 15, Corte Franca). A refined yet relaxed restaurant with a contemporary take on Italian cuisine, combining carefully selected ingredients, elegant presentation and a stylish setting.→ Vivilo
  • Dispensa Franciacorta (Via Principe Umberto, 23 – fraz, Torbiato) A stylish and relaxed spot in the heart of Franciacorta, pairing contemporary Italian cooking with an excellent selection of local wines: if you are not planning visits to vinyeard, coming here is a great way to get familiar with local wines. → Dispensa Franciacorta
  • Cascina Doss (Via Colombera 15, Iseo) is an elegantly presented restaurant just outside Iseo town, set amid Franciacorta farmland. Artful seasonal dishes, an outstanding Franciacorta wine list and views over the Torbiere wetlands. → Cascina Doss
  • Agriturismo Grammelot (Via Brugali, 31, Adrara San Martino) is a hideaway in the hills above Sarnico, combining spacious rooms with its own winery and a restaurant serving local dishes. A great choice if you want countryside tranquillity and beautiful views while staying just a few minutes from Lake Iseo. → Agriturismo Grammelot
  • Al Porto (Piazza Porto Pescatori 12, Clusane d’Iseo) is right on the waterfront. Famous for tinca ripiena al forno (river tench baked in the oven with polenta), the iconic dish of this stretch of the lake. Rustic, authentic and delicious.  → Al Porto
  • Trattoria Del Muliner (Via S. Rocco, 16, 25049 Clusane BS) is an old-school trattoria where Lake Iseo takes centre stage, with freshly caught lake fish, generous local dishes and an unpolished, authentically Italian atmosphere. Come here for a long, leisurely meal and a taste of the lake beyond the usual tourist spots. → Trattoria Del Muliner
  • Ristorante Locanda al Lago (Monte Isola) — Located on the island of Monte Isola, the lakeside restaurant specialises in freshwater fish. Try the antipasto di lago with trout carpaccio, whitefish fillet and sardines with polenta. Perfect for a long lunch after the ferry crossing.  → Locanda Al Lago
  • Ristorante Approdo (Via XXIV Maggio, 92, Paratico) is lovely spot for seafood with a view, serving fresh fish and Mediterranean dishes in an elegant setting overlooking Lake Iseo. Come for a leisurely lunch or dinner and stay for the beautiful panorama across the water. → Ristorante Approdo
  • La Baia Sarnico (Via V. Veneto, 42, Sarnico) → La Baia Sarnico
  • Agriturismo Cascina Oglio (Via Fosio 4, Sarnico) — A genuine agriturismo on the outskirts of Sarnico, consistently praised as one of the best dining experiences in the area. Regional Lombard cooking at its most authentic; fresh pasta, local meats and ingredients from the farm itself. Closed Mondays and Wednesdays.  → Cascina Oglio
  • Dinner al Numero 24 (Piazza Venti Settembre, 24, Sarnico) — One of the highest-rated restaurants in Sarnico with a loyal local following. Beautifully cooked risottos, fresh pastas and seafood. The risotto with scallops and tagliolini with red prawns are particular highlights. Book well ahead.  → Dinner Al Numero 24
  • Ristorante Cascina Boneta (Via Pirone 12, Sarnico) — Set on the green hills above Sarnico with beautiful lake views, this family-run restaurant produces its own olive oil and wine from the surrounding estate. Known for superb fresh pasta, charcuterie boards, grilled meats and pizza. Closed Mondays and Tuesday evenings.  → Cascina Boneta
  • Enoteca Tresanda (Via Tresanda 25, Sarnico) — A lively, characterful enoteca in the old town’s historic streets, ideal for a relaxed lunch or a pre-dinner aperitivo with excellent charcuterie, cheeses, bruschette and a remarkable wine list featuring local Franciacorta and Val Calepio labels. → Enoteca Tresanda


Franciacorta vinyards

Here are some of the most notable vinyards of the region.

  • Ca’ del Bosco (Erbusco) — One of Franciacorta’s most celebrated estates, combining world-class wine production with a remarkable sculpture collection. The guided cellar tour (approximately 1.5 hours) passes through old barrel rooms, underground caveaux and the famous Cupola, decorated with site-specific artwork. Tours conclude with a tasting of the estate’s finest Franciacorta. Advance booking is essential. → Ca’ Del Bosco
  • Bellavista (Erbusco) — Named for its spectacular hilltop views, Bellavista is one of the region’s leading estates, producing consistently outstanding Franciacorta. The winery combines wine, art and elegant landscaping in a way that makes a visit genuinely memorable. Tours and tastings available by appointment. Check the website for current packages and pricing.→ Bellavista
  • Guido Berlucchi & C. (Borgonato di Corte Franca) — The estate where Franciacorta was born: the first ever bottle was produced here in 1961 by Franco Ziliani and Guido Berlucchi. The stunning 17th-century cellar descends 10 metres below the stately Palazzo Lana. Three tour packages available, from the classic cellar tour with tasting to an exclusive reserve experience. All tours require booking in advance. → Guido Berlucchi
  • Bersi Serlini (Provaglio D’Iseo). One of Franciacorta’s historic family-run wineries, Bersi Serlini is worth a visit for its beautiful vineyard setting, atmospheric cellars and the chance to discover how the region’s celebrated sparkling wines are made — with a tasting, of course. → Bersi Serlini
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We hope you have a wonderful time exploring this beautiful corner of Italy.
We cannot wait to celebrate with you in September 2027.