A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Genoa vs. Bergamo for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Genoa or Bergamo?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Genoa or Bergamo, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Genoa

Genoa is a historic, vibrant, and colorful port city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Bergamo

Bergamo is a beautiful, under-rated, and historical city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Genoa and Bergamo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Genoa or Bergamo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Genoa than Bergamo, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Genoa is more touristy than Bergamo and is popular for its maritime history, its vibrant cultural scene, and being the birthplace of Christopher Columbus. It is also home to The Via Garibaldi Palaces. Bergamo is popular for its historical buildings and beautiful squares.

How is Genoa different from Bergamo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Bergamo and Genoa. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Genoa or Bergamo?

Genoa is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Bergamo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Genoa can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has a long history and it is filled with monuments, palaces, and museums. Popular places to visit include the Via Garibaldi Palaces, the aquarium (one of the largest in Europe), the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, and Santi Ambrogio.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bergamo. There are historical buildings as well as fascinating museums that are worth checking out. Highlights include the Basilica of St. Mary Major, Colleoni Chapel, the Accademia Carrara, and the Cathedral of Sant'Alessandro.

Is the Food Better in Genoa or Bergamo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Genoa and Bergamo.

Genoa has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city's maritime roots have influenced its cuisine and you'll find seafood in many local dishes. Other classic Genoese flavors include pesto, anchovies, fried squid, and focaccia and cheese.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Bergamo makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find traditional restaurants around town that serve the local specialties, many of which have their roots in peasant dishes. The flavors are humble but high quality and the food is fresh and masterfully prepared.

Is Genoa or Bergamo Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is good in both Genoa and Bergamo.

If you're looking for night time activities Genoa has a few options to choose from. The city lights up at night and it's fun to experience the activity and energy. There's a nice evening atmosphere with many people out and about. You can grab drinks in Piazza Lavagna or see live music in Porto Antico. There are also many bars and clubs around town.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Bergamo. Despite not being high on the itinerary of many travelers, the city has a great nightlife scene that includes many local bars and clubs. You can enjoy a local brew or sip some Italian wine while you enjoy the atmosphere of the old town.

Is Genoa or Bergamo Better for Beaches?

Genoa is a moderate port city for the beache. However, Bergamo is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Genoa. While many people head to other nearby towns to enjoy the beach, you will also find a beach just ten minutes from the old town by bus. Boccadasse is one of the closest beaches to town. It's also possible to do a day trip to other more famous beaches in the area, but you need to be prepared to travel a bit farther.

Bergamo is not a beach destination.

Is Genoa or Bergamo Better for its Old Town?

Genoa and Bergamo both have good historical old towns that attract visitors.

Genoa has an old town worth visiting. The old town is large and complex, with many different time periods represented in the architecture and development style.

Many visitors go to Bergamo to see the historical old town. Since the old town was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the town has become more popular with visitors. Still, you can enjoy the authentic and less touristy vibe of this beautiful city.

Is the Shopping Better in Genoa or Bergamo?

If you're looking to go shopping, Genoa and Bergamo both offer plenty of good spots.

Genoa has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You can pick up a number of different souvenirs around town including baskets, t-shirts, and local pesto. Popular shopping areas include Galleria Mazzini, Via Roma, and Via XX Settembr.

Bergamo is a great destination for shopping. There are a number of shopping areas around town including shopping malls and shopping streets. You'll find most of the major brands as well as some interesting boutique shops.

Is Genoa or Bergamo Better for Families?

Genoa is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Bergamo is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

Genoa is a very kid-friendly port city. The city is home to the second biggest aquarium in Europe as well as the Galata Maritime Museum and the Nazario Sauro Submarine. In the port there's also Vascello Nettuno, which was a pirate ship that was used in the filming of the movie 'Pirates' by Roman Polanski. Other fun kid-friendly attractions include La Biosfera, The Children's Museum, and the Bigo Lift.

Bergamo is not always a place people visit with their families. It's a beautiful city that is filled with history, and for kids there are pedestrian streets to explore and great Italian food. There's also the Museo di Scienze Naturali, which is worth checking out.

Is Genoa or Bergamo Better for Couples?

Genoa is notable for its romantic activities. Also, Bergamo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Genoa is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's a beautiful port city with charming neighborhoods and some great restaurants. Couples will enjoy exploring this beautiful city and visiting its palaces and cathedrals.

Bergamo is a good port city for couples to visit. Couples will appreciate the beautiful architecture and impressive squares. There are also great restaurants and pedestrian streets that are fun to wander through.

Is Genoa or Bergamo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Genoa is notable for backpackers. Also, Bergamo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Genoa is a great port city to visit for backpackers. There are a number of affordable hostels in the area, and while this isn't the top backpacker destination in Italy, it is a nice place to spend some time.

Bergamo is a good port city to visit for backpackers. While it's not the most popular backpacker city in Italy, it does have a couple of hostels and guesthouses that offer affordable rates and a young vibe.

Is Genoa or Bergamo Better for Students?

Genoa is notable for students. Also, Bergamo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Genoa is a great port city to visit as a student. It's a popular study abroad destination so you'll find a number of international students in the area. The city is also well connected for exploring the region.

Plenty of students visit Bergamo. The university attracts international students and the city makes a great base for learning and exploring.

Is Genoa or Bergamo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Genoa is notable for its public transit. Also, Bergamo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Genoa has some very good public transit options. There's a wide range of different public transit options that are all operated by AMT. The system includes buses, an underground (one line), funiculars (two), lifts (ten), a boat, cogwheel and narrow gauge railways.

Bergamo has some public transit options. There are buses around town as well as two funiculars, one connecting Città Bassa with the Città Alta and the other connecting Città Alta to San Vigilio.

Is Genoa or Bergamo a more walkable city?

Genoa and Bergamo are superb when it comes to walkability.

Genoa is a very walkable destination. The old town, where most tourists spend the majority of their time, is easy to explore on foot.

Bergamo is very walkable. There are many pedestrian streets and the best way to explore the city is on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Genoa Worth Visiting? and Is Bergamo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bergamo or Genoa?

How long in Genoa or Bergamo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Genoa and Bergamo. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Genoa than in Bergamo. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Genoa, and 2-3 days is enough time in Bergamo.

Families should spend more time in Genoa than Bergamo. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Genoa, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Genoa than Bergamo. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Genoa that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Genoa than Bergamo if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Genoa.

One day in Genoa or Bergamo?

In Genoa, you'll find nightlife and food. This port city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Bergamo, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this under-rated destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Genoa or Bergamo?

In Genoa, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Genoa has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bergamo. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Genoa or Bergamo?

Genoa is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Bergamo is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Bergamo. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Genoa or Bergamo?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Genoa. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Genoa. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find food and shopping around the historical destination of Bergamo. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, and The Best Walking Tours in Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Genoa and Bergamo, we can see that Bergamo is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Genoa Expensive? and Is Bergamo Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Genoa or Bergamo?

Genoa has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Bergamo. When comparing the sizes of Genoa and Bergamo, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Genoa or Bergamo?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Genoa or Bergamo in the Summer?

Both Bergamo and Genoa during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Genoa because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bergamo this time of year.

In July, Genoa is generally around the same temperature as Bergamo. Daily temperatures in Genoa average around 25°C (76°F), and Bergamo fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

In Bergamo, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Genoa. In the summer, Genoa often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bergamo. Genoa gets 295 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bergamo receives 286 hours of full sun.

Genoa usually gets less rain in July than Bergamo. Genoa gets 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Bergamo receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Genoa or Bergamo in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Genoa and Bergamo. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Genoa this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bergamo for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Genoa is a little warmer than Bergamo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Genoa averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Bergamo fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

Genoa usually receives more sunshine than Bergamo during autumn. Genoa gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Bergamo receives 137 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Bergamo receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Genoa usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bergamo. Genoa gets 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Bergamo receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Genoa or Bergamo in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Genoa as well as Bergamo. Many travelers come to Genoa for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Bergamo in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Bergamo can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Genoa is much warmer than Bergamo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Genoa in January average around 11°C (51°F), and Bergamo averages at about 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Genoa often gets more sunshine than Bergamo. Genoa gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bergamo receives 98 hours of full sun.

Genoa usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Bergamo. Genoa gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bergamo receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Genoa or Bergamo in the Spring?

Both Bergamo and Genoa are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Genoa in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Bergamo for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Genoa is generally a little warmer than Bergamo. Daily temperatures in Genoa average around 15°C (58°F), and Bergamo fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Genoa usually receives more sunshine than Bergamo during spring. Genoa gets 198 hours of sunny skies, while Bergamo receives 169 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Genoa usually receives less rain than Bergamo. Genoa gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Bergamo receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bergamo and Genoa