Caffè Del Tasso Shows Off 500 Years of History in Beautiful Bergamo

In the heart of Bergamo Citta Alta, Caffè Del Tasso has a history that stretches back to 1476, long before espresso machines, the unification of Italy, and even the discovery of America.

Sitting in Piazza Vecchia, a square which can described as one of the most beautiful in the world, the area surrounding the café is a blend of Romanesque, medieval and Renaissance architecture, with cobbled streets and historical landmarks. Truly, Italy at its finest.

Originally called the Locanda delle Due Spade (the Inn of the Two Swords), it was named after the duels that took place in the square outside. The name changed in 1681 to Torquato Tasso Caffè e Bottiglieria, and then simply Caffè del Tasso. It is run by the Menalli family, who took over in the late 1980s and have kept it operating as a café and restaurant.

Such is the legacy of this venue it is a member of the Locali Storici d’Italia, an association that brings together around 200 of Italy’s most historic and prestigious places that have played a pivotal role in Italy’s story, either as locations of significant events or as favourite haunts of illustrious figures.

Tables spill out onto the cobbles in good weather, giving you a front-row seat to daily life in the Città Alta and making it the perfect place to stop off and take in the city. Hollywood even made an appearance with actress Julianne Moore enjoying lunch at the historic caffè in 2024.

Inside, the venue still carries a sense of its age. Antique furnishings, photographs of famous visitors and framed old newspapers hint at the volume of people who have passed through over the centuries.

But Bergamo isn’t just about medieval streets and Renaissance statues. It’s also a serious football town and home to Serie A club Atalanta. While the stadium sits in the lower city, on matchdays, supporters often drift through the upper town before or after games, and Bergamo’s bars and cafés become part of the culture for calcio lovers. Such is the passion for the beautiful game, a photo of former Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini proudly hangs on the wall from his visit to this iconic cafè.

Stop by for a morning coffee, pre-dinner aperitivo, or if you need a little pep in your step, a Caffe’ Corretto (coffee with a dash of grappa or any spirit of your preference).

“Today, Caffè del Tasso continues to be a symbol of culture and conviviality, keeping its historical legacy alive while remaining a beacon for those who appreciate art, thought and tradition,” explains the Menalli family, who are shepherding this iconic establishment through its next era.

Open seven days per week, 8am to 12:30am