We already mentioned that Italy belongs to the category of European countries with an average price level. Compared to the countries of northern Europe, Britain and France, Italian prices are undoubtedly pleasing. However, tourists who have visited Italy's southern neighbors naturally complain about the Italian high cost.
The cost of accommodation varies depending on the region of the country. For example, prices in Bergamo are usually higher than in similar cities in Sicily.
If we look at the structure of travel expenses, the main portion goes to accommodation, food, and transportation. It’s hard to name fixed prices, as you can spend as much as 1000 EUR per week, or manage with just 150–200 EUR if you're traveling on a budget. It all depends on several factors — the season, time of year, the intensity of your travel plan, and whether you have a car.
Even on the tightest of budgets, you can arrange your accommodation in Bergamo inexpensively. Young people do a great job with this difficult task. Hitchhiking, walking or taking public transport, staying in hostels or campsites, and cooking your own meals from supermarket staples are all signs of a super-savvy budget.
Bergamo's accommodation prices are pleasantly different from Milan's, which is why the city is often frequented by tourists or shopaholics visiting the fashion capital.
When planning your travel budget, keep a few tips in mind:
- You can save on food by cooking for yourself or eating at inexpensive places like a trattoria or osteria.
- If you're lucky enough to have a press card, you can visit state museums completely free of charge. Others should consider buying a Bergamo Card.
Budget restaurants often offer what's called a menu turistico — a set menu similar to a fixed-price lunch, usually priced between 18–25 EUR.
Upon arrival, it's a good idea to purchase a SIM card from a local mobile provider. In that case, mobile internet and phone service will cost around 15–25 EUR.
With proper budgeting and attention to details, staying in Bergamo can be both affordable and enjoyable for tourists.
