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

Should you visit Ventimiglia or Bergamo?

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

Should I visit Ventimiglia 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.

Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia is a scenic, traditional, and understated seaside town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and food.

Bergamo

Bergamo is a fascinating, beautiful, and under-rated city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Ventimiglia and Bergamo: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
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 Ventimiglia or Bergamo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bergamo. Although Ventimiglia and Bergamo are both popular with visitors, Bergamo has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Bergamo is more popular for its museums and nightlife, while Ventimiglia is known for its beaches, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Bergamo is more touristy than Ventimiglia and is known for its historical buildings and beautiful squares. It is also home to Piazza Vecchia. Ventimiglia is popular for its weekly market, colorful old town, and nice beaches.

How is Ventimiglia different from Bergamo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Ventimiglia
Bergamo

Bergamo is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Ventimiglia 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.

Ventimiglia does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Ventimiglia
Bergamo

Foodies will find both Ventimiglia and Bergamo both to be very good destinations.

Dining out in Ventimiglia is an experience not to be missed. Italian classics are abundant including tiramisus, Italian pizzas, risotto alla milanese, and traditional lasagna. If you're in town on a Friday you should visit the local market which has stalls selling local produce and foods.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Bergamo. 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 Ventimiglia or Bergamo Better for Nightlife?

Ventimiglia
Bergamo

Bergamo is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Ventimiglia is a seaside town with minimal options for nightlife.

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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Ventimiglia Most people don't head to town for the nightlife, but there are some bars where you can grab a drink or sip a glass of wine.

Is Ventimiglia or Bergamo Better for Beaches?

Ventimiglia
Bergamo

Ventimiglia is a nice place to visit for the beache. However, Bergamo is not a beach destination.

Ventimiglia has a beach worth visiting. The lungomare is a promenade along the sea that allows visitors to wander and take in waterfront views. Most of the beaches are free to access and have been influenced by the coastal erosion efforts which have led to a series of scalloped bays. If you reach the end of the lungomare you'll find a natural area where the Roya and Nervia rivers meet the ocean. This is also a popular spot for breeding birds.

Bergamo is not a beach destination.


Is Ventimiglia or Bergamo Better for its Old Town?

Ventimiglia
Bergamo

Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia to see the historical old town. The old town is filled with cobblestone streets and charming pastel buildings. There are also a number of historic buildings and monuments that give the town a special atmosphere.

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 Ventimiglia or Bergamo?

Ventimiglia
Bergamo

Ventimiglia is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bergamo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

Ventimiglia is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Most people head in town on Friday for the market, which has stalls selling crafts and local products.

Bergamo has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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 Ventimiglia or Bergamo Better for Families?

Ventimiglia
Bergamo

Ventimiglia is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Bergamo is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

Ventimiglia is a family-friendly place to visit. The charming town is a great place for kids to explore. There is a botanical garden and hiking trails that the whole family can enjoy as well as quiet beaches where they can play. The Italian food is also perfect for young palates.

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 Ventimiglia or Bergamo Better for Couples?

Ventimiglia
Bergamo

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

Ventimiglia is a very popular place to visit for couples. This quintessential Italian town offers a romantic setting with cobblestone streets and pastel buildings. There are many culinary delights and romantic settings that are perfect for couples. The hiking trails and botanical gardens are also fun places to explore.

Bergamo is a good seaside town 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 Ventimiglia or Bergamo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ventimiglia
Bergamo

Bergamo is a popular place for backpackers. However, Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Ventimiglia or Bergamo Better for Students?

Ventimiglia
Bergamo

Bergamo is a popular place for students. However, Ventimiglia is not popular with students.

Bergamo is popular with students. The university attracts international students and the city makes a great base for learning and exploring.

Ventimiglia is not popular with students.


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

Ventimiglia
Bergamo

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Ventimiglia and Bergamo.

You'll find some public transit in Ventimiglia, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are trains and buses to town. Once you're in town it's easy to explore on foot.

While Bergamo offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. 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 Ventimiglia or Bergamo a more walkable city?

Ventimiglia
Bergamo

Ventimiglia and Bergamo both are very good when exploring on foot.

Ventimiglia is a very walkable destination. It's small size and charming atmosphere make it a great town 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 Ventimiglia Worth Visiting? and Is Bergamo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bergamo or Ventimiglia?

How long in Ventimiglia or Bergamo?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bergamo than Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia or Bergamo? Ideal Length of Stay
    Ventimiglia 1-2 
    Bergamo 2-3

One day in Ventimiglia or Bergamo?

Ventimiglia is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This seaside town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the fascinating city of Bergamo. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A weekend in Ventimiglia or Bergamo?

Ventimiglia might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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 Ventimiglia has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the historical destination of Bergamo. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Ventimiglia or Bergamo?

Ventimiglia is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

The beautiful city of Bergamo offers shopping and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Ventimiglia or Bergamo?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ventimiglia. Since Ventimiglia is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bergamo. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


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


Which place is cheaper, Bergamo or Ventimiglia?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Ventimiglia is €121, 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 Ventimiglia and Bergamo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ventimiglia 51
    Bergamo 83
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ventimiglia 102
    Bergamo 166
Compare Hotels in Ventimiglia and Bergamo

Looking for a hotel in Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia


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: Ventimiglia Hotel Prices and Bergamo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ventimiglia 49
    Bergamo 32

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bergamo

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bergamo:

  • Bergamo Airport (BGY) to Venice - Arrival Private Transfer: $183
  • Bergamo Airport (BGY): Private Transfer to/from Milan: $401
  • Bergamo to Bergamo Airport (BGY) - Departure Private Transfer: $46
  • AC Bus transfer to Milan - No Hassle & Free luggage: $11
  • Private Transfer to/from Crespi d'Adda UNESCO Site: $43
  • MILAN - ORIO AL SERIO BGY Airport Transfer Luxury: MASERATI: $325
  • Milan Bergamo Airport (BGY) to St. Moritz - Round-Trip Transfer: $205
  • Milan: ORIO AL SERIO BGY Airport Transfer in Luxury MINIVAN: $222
  • Milan: Orio al Serio BGY Airport Transfer SEDAN CAR E CLASS: $180
  • Private Departure Transfer from central Bergamo to Milan Malpensa airport: $261
  • Small-Group Transfer from Bergamo Airport to Trieste: $267
  • Transfer from Bergamo Airport to Koper: $255

Is it cheaper to fly into Ventimiglia or Bergamo?

Prices for flights to both Bergamo and Ventimiglia 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
    Ventimiglia 38
    Bergamo 42

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ventimiglia

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

  • Cooking Class Pesto Sauce: $75
  • Cooking Class Tiramisu': $86
  • SANREMO FOOD TOUR - Authentic Ligurian street food and Medieval town: $95
  • Pizza Making Class in Sanremo: $140
  • Sanremo Home Cooking Class: $221

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: $81
  • Tricolor Pasta Cooking Class with a Chef in Como countryside: $86
  • Dining experience at a local's home in Palazzago with cooking demo: $92
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Guardamiglio with Show Cooking: $92
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Busto Arsizio with Show Cooking: $92
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Laveno - Mombello with Show Cooking: $92
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Giarre with Show Cooking: $92
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Fino Mornasco with Show Cooking: $92
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Lomello with Show Cooking: $92
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Mariano Comense with Show Cooking: $92
  • 3.5-Hour Traditional Food Tour: $95
  • Do Eat Better Experience - Bergamo Traditional food tour: $99

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ventimiglia 27
    Bergamo 33

Tours and Activities in Ventimiglia

Here are a few actual costs in Ventimiglia for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Art studio tour in Italian sculpture gardens: $34
  • 1 Day road bike tour of Ligurian mountains from Italian Riviera : $76
  • Vespa Tour in Sanremo for half a day: $92
  • Small Group E-bike Tour in the Ligurian Riviera with Lunch: $109
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Sanremo: $114
  • sculpting art experience in Italy,class in sculpture gardens: $192

Tours and Activities in Bergamo

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

  • Bergamo Old Town Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt Tour: $5.33
  • Bergamo Old Town Scavenger Hunt and Landmarks Self Guided Tour: $6.52
  • Digital Guide made by a Local for your walking tour: $7.46
  • Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in Bergamo: $8.68
  • Digital guide made by a local for your walking tour: $8.69
  • Bergamo Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.78
  • Bergamo Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour: $8.98
  • Palazzo Moroni Entry Ticket: $12
  • photography tour in citta Alta: $16
  • Guided tour with tasting: $21
  • One Hour Shared Boat Tour on Lake Como from Varenna: $32
  • Children Daily Ticket for Adventure Park in Gravedona: $33

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ventimiglia 7.19
    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:

  • Wine Tasting Experience in Oltrepò: $42
  • E-Bike Tour with wine tasting from Polpenazze on Lake Garda: $87
  • Delightful Deluxe Cheese and Wine Tasting from Lake Como : $130
  • Lake Como: Wellness Spa experience with wine tasting : $163


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Ventimiglia and Bergamo, we can see that Bergamo is more expensive. And not only is Ventimiglia much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Ventimiglia would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Ventimiglia and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Bergamo would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bergamo than you might in Ventimiglia.

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


Which is Bigger, Ventimiglia or Bergamo?

Bergamo has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Ventimiglia. When comparing the sizes of Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia or Bergamo?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Ventimiglia or Bergamo in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Ventimiglia and Bergamo. Many travelers come to Ventimiglia for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Bergamo in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bergamo this time of the year. In Ventimiglia, it's very sunny this time of the year. Ventimiglia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bergamo during summer. Ventimiglia gets 295 hours of sunny skies, while Bergamo receives 286 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Ventimiglia usually receives less rain than Bergamo. Ventimiglia gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Bergamo receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Ventimiglia or Bergamo in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Ventimiglia as well as Bergamo. Many visitors come to Ventimiglia in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Bergamo for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

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

In the autumn, Ventimiglia often gets more sunshine than Bergamo. Ventimiglia gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bergamo receives 137 hours of full sun.

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


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

Should I visit Ventimiglia or Bergamo in the Winter?

Both Bergamo and Ventimiglia are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Ventimiglia for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Also, 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, Ventimiglia is much warmer than Bergamo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Ventimiglia in January average around 9°C (48°F), and Bergamo averages at about 2°C (36°F).

Ventimiglia usually receives more sunshine than Bergamo during winter. Ventimiglia gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Bergamo receives 98 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Ventimiglia usually receives more rain than Bergamo. Ventimiglia gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Bergamo receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


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

Should I visit Ventimiglia or Bergamo in the Spring?

Both Bergamo and Ventimiglia during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Ventimiglia because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Bergamo this time of year.

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

In the spring, Ventimiglia often gets more sunshine than Bergamo. Ventimiglia gets 198 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bergamo receives 169 hours of full sun.

Ventimiglia usually gets less rain in April than Bergamo. Ventimiglia gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Bergamo receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for Bergamo and Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia 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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