Retiring in Bergamo, Italy

Bergamo, with its stunning medieval upper town and modern lower city, offers retirees a perfect blend of historic charm and contemporary convenience. Located near Milan and the Alps, with excellent healthcare and a high quality of life, Bergamo provides an authentic Italian lifestyle with easy access to both urban amenities and natural beauty.

*Purchasing power compared to New York City (baseline = 100)

Pros

  • ✓ Excellent healthcare
  • ✓ Beautiful historic center
  • ✓ Close to Milan and Alps
  • ✓ International airport
  • ✓ Lower cost than Milan
  • ✓ High quality of life

Cons

  • × Cold winters
  • × Tourist crowds in upper town
  • × Limited nightlife
  • × Some fog in winter
  • × Hilly terrain

Transportation & Connectivity

Local Transportation

Walkability score: 8/10

Available public transport: Buses, Trams, Funicular, Regional Trains

Weather & Climate

Summer

Average temperature: 28°C / 82°F

Winter

Average temperature: 2°C / 36°F

Annual Climate Overview

Annual rainfall: 1034mm

Sunny days per year: 240

Language & Communication

Language information coming soon

Visa Requirements

Required Documents

  • Valid passport
  • Proof of income (minimum €31,000/year)
  • Comprehensive health insurance
  • Clean criminal record
  • Proof of accommodation

Application Process

Apply through Italian consulate in home country, then register at local anagrafe

Timeline

Estimated processing time: 3-6 months

Healthcare System

Public Healthcare

World-class public healthcare system with specialized centers

Private Options

Multiple private clinics with international standards

Wait Times

1-3 weeks for non-urgent procedures

Major Hospitals

  • Ospedale Papa Giovanni XXIII
  • Humanitas Gavazzeni
  • Policlinico San Marco
  • Clinica Castelli

Lifestyle & Community

Expat Community

Growing international community with regular social events

Activities

Historical tours Alpine excursions Art galleries Food tours Wine tasting Cultural events

Local Markets

  • Mercato di Piazza Pontida
  • Mercato della Malpensata
  • Mercato di Via Spino
  • Farmers Market Bergamo

Cultural Events

  • Bergamo Film Meeting
  • Bergamo Jazz Festival
  • Donizetti Opera Festival
  • Science Festival

Practical Information

Monthly Costs

  • Average Groceries €380
  • Utilities €145
  • Restaurant Meal €25

Banking Options

  • UBI Banca
  • Intesa Sanpaolo
  • UniCredit
  • N26 (Digital)
  • Wise (Digital)

Internet Providers

  • TIM
  • Vodafone
  • WindTre
  • Fastweb
  • Tiscali

Popular Areas

  • Città Alta
  • Centro Pignolo
  • Santa Lucia
  • Redona
  • Borgo Palazzo

Sources

Source: Numbeo Cost of Living (2024)
Source: Lombardy Healthcare System (2023)
Source: Climate Data (2023)
Source: Immobiliare.it Market Report (2024)