A Travel Price Comparison for Italy San Remo vs. Bergamo for Food, Old Town, Families, and Couples

Should you visit San Remo or Bergamo?

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

Should I visit San Remo or Bergamo? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

San Remo

San Remo is a scenic, authentic, and historic coastal city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Bergamo

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

San Remo and Bergamo: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in San Remo or Bergamo?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in San Remo than Bergamo. While Bergamo is larger than San Remo, San Remo has more sights and attractions for tourists. San Remo is more popular for its beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Bergamo is known for its museums. San Remo is popular for its olives, lemons, and flower market. It is also home to The Flower Market. Bergamo is popular for its historical buildings and beautiful squares.

How is San Remo different from Bergamo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in San Remo or Bergamo?

San Remo
Bergamo

Bergamo is a popular place for its museums and history. However, San Remo does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

San Remo does not have museums and landmarks.


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

San Remo
Bergamo

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

San Remo has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The local restaurants are charming and sell a number of local specialties. Many traditional dishes are made with rabbit or chicken. There are also vegetable pies and sardenaira, which is a type of pizza that's made with tomatoes, garlic, and anchovies. Also make sure you pick up Baci di Sanremo, which are soft chocolate biscuits that are available in local bakeries.

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 San Remo or Bergamo Better for Nightlife?

San Remo
Bergamo

The good nightlife scene is relatively similar in San Remo and Bergamo.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in San Remo. The city has a number of clubs and bars where you can enjoy a drink or hang out late into the evening. It's a pretty mellow nightlife scene, but there's still plenty of places to go as well as a local vibe that doesn't have the influx of tourists that you find in many of other Italian cities.

Bergamo has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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 San Remo or Bergamo Better for Beaches?

San Remo
Bergamo

San Remo is notable for the beache. However, Bergamo is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in San Remo. The beautiful sandy beaches are nice to visit and it's possible to rent chairs and umbrellas in many places. The main beach in town is Spiaggia dei Porti. Other popular nearby beaches include Spiaggia dei tre ponti, which is a large public beach, and Cala degli Orsi, which is one of the most beautiful public beaches in the area.

Bergamo is not a beach destination.


Is San Remo or Bergamo Better for its Old Town?

San Remo
Bergamo

San Remo is notable for its old town. Also, Bergamo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town charm.

Many visitors go to San Remo to see the historical old town. The old quarter of Pigna is a Medieval area with narrow streets that feel as if they're frozen in time. The hills offer impressive city views and the area has a unique historic character.

Bergamo has an old town worth visiting. 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 San Remo or Bergamo?

San Remo
Bergamo

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both San Remo and Bergamo.

San Remo has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are local and international brands as well as a shopping mall and outlets where you can enjoy shopping.

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 San Remo or Bergamo Better for Families?

San Remo
Bergamo

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

San Remo is a very kid-friendly coastal city. The area offers plenty of outdoor activities that the whole family will enjoy. There's horseback riding, hiking, rowing, snorkeling, cooking classes, farm tours and more. There are also a number of hotels in the area that have kid-friendly activities.

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 San Remo or Bergamo Better for Couples?

San Remo
Bergamo

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

San Remo is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's known as the city of flowers, and the many beautiful gardens make this a truly romantic place to visit. Couples will enjoy soaking up the city's history and enjoy the vibrant culture and outdoor activities that are available.

Bergamo is a good coastal 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 San Remo or Bergamo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Remo
Bergamo

Bergamo is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, San Remo is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Bergamo. 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.

San Remo is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't many hostels in town, and most backpackers head to more popular Italian destinations. If you're looking for a more off-the-beaten path destination, then this may be your style.

Is San Remo or Bergamo Better for Students?

San Remo
Bergamo

Bergamo is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, San Remo is not popular with students.

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

San Remo is not popular with students.


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

San Remo
Bergamo

Visitors will find good public transit in both San Remo and Bergamo.

San Remo has some public transit options. There are local buses around town.

You'll find some public transit in Bergamo, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. 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 San Remo or Bergamo a more walkable city?

San Remo
Bergamo

San Remo and Bergamo are very good when it comes to walkability.

San Remo is a very walkable destination. The old quarter is fun to explore on foot and there are a number of walking tours through town.

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 San Remo Worth Visiting? and Is Bergamo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bergamo or San Remo?

How long in San Remo or Bergamo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both San Remo and Bergamo. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Bergamo than in San Remo. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for San Remo, and 2-3 days is enough time in Bergamo.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bergamo than San Remo 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 Bergamo.


  • How many days in San Remo or Bergamo? Ideal Length of Stay
    San Remo 1-2 
    Bergamo 2-3

One day in San Remo or Bergamo?

In San Remo, you'll find shopping and nightlife. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This coastal city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

The city of Bergamo offers food and shopping. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in San Remo or Bergamo?

In San Remo, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that San Remo has to offer.

Bergamo is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bergamo, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in San Remo or Bergamo?

San Remo is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in San Remo or Bergamo?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in San Remo. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting San Remo. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Bergamo is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.


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


Which place is cheaper, Bergamo or San Remo?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in San Remo is €152, while the average daily cost in Bergamo is €155. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for San Remo and Bergamo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    San Remo 80
    Bergamo 83
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    San Remo 160
    Bergamo 166
Compare Hotels in San Remo and Bergamo

Looking for a hotel in San Remo or Bergamo? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in San Remo


Hotels in Bergamo


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: San Remo Hotel Prices and Bergamo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    San Remo 46
    Bergamo 32

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bergamo

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bergamo:

  • Small-Group Transfer from Bergamo Airport to Trieste: $268
  • Private Transfer from Milan Bergamo Airport to Bergamo hotels : $46
  • Private Departure Transfer from central Bergamo to Milan Malpensa airport: $262
  • Orio al Serio Airport to Madonna di Campiglio Arrival Transfer: $117
  • Milan: Orio al Serio BGY Airport Transfer SEDAN CAR E CLASS: $181
  • Milan: ORIO AL SERIO BGY Airport Transfer in Luxury MINIVAN: $222
  • Milan Bergamo Airport (BGY) to St. Moritz - Round-Trip Transfer: $205
  • Malpensa Airport (MXP) to Venice + Water Taxi - Private Transfer: $218
  • MILAN - ORIO AL SERIO BGY Airport Transfer Luxury: MASERATI: $326
  • Private Transfer to/from Crespi d'Adda UNESCO Site: $43
  • AC Bus transfer to Milan - No Hassle & Free luggage: $11
  • Bergamo to Bergamo Airport (BGY) - Departure Private Transfer: $46

Is it cheaper to fly into San Remo or Bergamo?

Prices for flights to both Bergamo and San Remo change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    San Remo 44
    Bergamo 42

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bergamo

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Bergamo.

  • Authentic Taste at the Table Family Recipes Cooking Class: $82
  • Tricolor Pasta Cooking Class with a Chef in Como countryside: $86
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Lomello with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Casorezzo with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Carugo with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining experience at a local's home in Ranica with cooking demo: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Endine Gaiano with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Cantù with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Busto Arsizio with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining experience at a local's home in Passirano with cooking demo: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Guardamiglio with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Cernusco sul Naviglio with Show Cooking: $93

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    San Remo 23
    Bergamo 33

Tours and Activities in Bergamo

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Bergamo are as follows:

  • 2.5-hour Private Bergamo Walking Tour: $120
  • Bergamo : Highlights Private Walking Tour: $70
  • Bergamo : Private Custom Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $49
  • Bergamo Old Town Scavenger Hunt and Landmarks Self Guided Tour: $6.55
  • Bergamo Old Town Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt Tour: $5.35
  • Bergamo Private Guided Walking Tour: $294
  • Bergamo Private Walking Tour: $164
  • Bergamo Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour: $8.94
  • Bergamo Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.75
  • Bergamo private guided tour: $156
  • Bergamo sightseeings tour. Magic of medieval town.: $273
  • 2.5-Hour Private Tour of the Lower Town: $118

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    San Remo 14
    Bergamo 23

Sample the Local Flavors in Bergamo

Also in Bergamo, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Food and Wine tasting of Valtenesi and Lugana: $46
  • Lake Como: Wellness Spa experience with wine tasting : $163


When comparing the travel costs between San Remo 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 San Remo Expensive? and Is Bergamo Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, San Remo or Bergamo?

Bergamo has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of San Remo. When comparing the sizes of San Remo 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 San Remo 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 San Remo or Bergamo in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to San Remo as well as Bergamo. Many travelers come to San Remo for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Bergamo in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, San Remo is generally around the same temperature as Bergamo. Daily temperatures in San Remo average around 23°C (73°F), and Bergamo fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bergamo. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Remo this time of the year. In the summer, San Remo often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bergamo. San Remo gets 295 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bergamo receives 286 hours of full sun.

San Remo usually gets less rain in July than Bergamo. San Remo gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Bergamo receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    San Remo 23°C (73°F) 
    Bergamo 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit San Remo or Bergamo in the Autumn?

Both Bergamo and San Remo are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to San Remo in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Bergamo for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

San Remo is a little warmer than Bergamo in the autumn. The daily temperature in San Remo averages around 17°C (63°F) in October, and Bergamo fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

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

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bergamo. It's quite rainy in San Remo. In October, San Remo usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bergamo. San Remo gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Bergamo receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    San Remo 17°C (63°F) 
    Bergamo 14°C (57°F)

Should I visit San Remo or Bergamo in the Winter?

Both Bergamo and San Remo during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to San Remo for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Bergamo because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Bergamo can be very cold. In the winter, San Remo is much warmer than Bergamo. Typically, the winter temperatures in San Remo in January average around 9°C (48°F), and Bergamo averages at about 2°C (36°F).

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

San Remo usually gets more rain in January than Bergamo. San Remo gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Bergamo receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    San Remo 9°C (48°F) 
    Bergamo 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit San Remo or Bergamo in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both San Remo and Bergamo. The spring months attract visitors to San Remo because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Bergamo this time of year.

In April, San Remo is generally around the same temperature as Bergamo. Daily temperatures in San Remo average around 13°C (56°F), and Bergamo fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

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

In April, San Remo usually receives less rain than Bergamo. San Remo gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Bergamo receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    San Remo 13°C (56°F) 
    Bergamo 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Bergamo and San Remo

San Remo Bergamo
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 9°C (48°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 2°C (36°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Feb 9°C (49°F) 76 mm (3 in) 5°C (40°F) 60 mm (2.3 in)
Mar 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 9°C (47°F) 85 mm (3.4 in)
Apr 13°C (56°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 13°C (55°F) 76 mm (3 in)
May 16°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 17°C (63°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Jun 20°C (68°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 21°C (70°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 16 mm (0.6 in) 24°C (75°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 23°C (73°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 23°C (73°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Sep 21°C (69°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 19°C (67°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Oct 17°C (63°F) 108 mm (4.3 in) 14°C (57°F) 103 mm (4 in)
Nov 12°C (54°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 8°C (46°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Dec 10°C (49°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 3°C (37°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)


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