Quick Answer
The best overall way to get from Bergamo Airport (BGY) to Cremona is by taking the direct bus operated by SAB Autoservizi. Itâs cost-effective, relatively simple, and drops you in the city center. The journey takes about 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours and costs between â¬7 (advance online booking) and â¬12 (on the bus). No complicated transfers are required, making it ideal for most travelers.
Option 1: Train & Local Bus Combination
While there's no train station at Bergamo Airport, combining a short local bus ride with a regional train is a reliable public transport route. This option offers flexibility in timing and connects you to Italy's national rail network.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Airport to Bergamo Railway Station (Stazione FS):
- Take the ATB Bus Line 1 (directly outside arrivals). Runs every 20 mins, journey ~15-20 mins. Ticket: ~â¬2.50. Buy from the airport newsagent or ticket machine.
- Alternatively, a taxi takes ~10 mins and costs â¬15-â¬20.
- Train from Bergamo to Cremona:
- No direct train. You must change at Treviglio (most common) or Milano Centrale.
- Bergamo to Treviglio: Regional trains (Trenord), ~20-25 min journey.
- Treviglio to Cremona: Regional trains (Trenord/Trenitalia), ~45-55 min journey.
- Total train time: ~1.5 hours, plus waiting time for connection (often 10-30 mins).
| Route Segment | Operator | Frequency | Approx. Duration | Approx. Cost (One-Way) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BGY â Bergamo Stazione (Bus) | ATB | Every 20 min | 15-20 min | â¬2.50 |
| Bergamo â Treviglio (Train) | Trenord | Every 30 min | 20-25 min | â¬3.50 |
| Treviglio â Cremona (Train) | Trenord/Trenitalia | Hourly | 45-55 min | â¬5-â¬7 |
| TOTAL (Estimated) | - | - | 1h 50m - 2h 30m* | â¬11 - â¬17 |
* Includes average transfer/wait time.
Pros, Cons & Key Considerations
Pros: More frequent departures than the direct bus; scenic train ride through Lombardy; can be combined with a Trenitalia or regional pass.
Cons: Requires two separate tickets (bus + train) and a change of transport; not ideal with heavy luggage due to stairs at stations; total travel time is variable and often longer than the direct bus.
Ticket Advice: Purchase train tickets via the Trenitalia or Trenord app, or at the station. Validate paper tickets in the green stamping machines before boarding to avoid fines.
Option 2: Direct Bus (Most Recommended & Economical)
The Autostradale bus service (SAB Autoservizi) provides the only direct ground transport linking Bergamo Airport to Cremona's city center. Itâs the primary choice for simplicity and value.
Detailed Route & Service Information
- Operator: SAB Autoservizi (under Autostradale brand).
- Departure Point: Bergamo Airport (BGY) â Coach Station, directly outside the arrivals hall. Look for signs to âBus Stationâ or âAutostradaleâ.
- Arrival Point: Cremona, Piazzale Guglielmo Marconi (main bus station). A 10-15 minute walk to the historic center (Piazza del Comune, Duomo).
- Journey Duration: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic on the A35 (BreBeMi) and A21 motorways.
- Frequency: Usually 5-7 departures per day, with the first bus around 8:30 AM and the last around 10:30 PM. Schedules can change seasonally.
Fares, Booking & Practical Tips
Pricing Structure:
- Online Advance Purchase: The cheapest option, typically â¬7 to â¬10. Book directly on the Autostradale official website.
- Purchase at Airport/Driver: Higher fare, usually around â¬12 to â¬15 cash. Card may not be accepted on board.
Luggage Policy: One large suitcase and one carry-on per passenger are typically included, stored in the under-bus compartment. Confirm limits when booking.
Onboard Comfort: Modern coaches with air conditioning, free WiFi (may be unreliable), and sometimes a toilet. No reserved seating.
Key Consideration: Always check the current timetable on the operatorâs website close to your travel date, as services can be reduced on weekends and holidays.
Option 3: Taxi or Private Transfer (Door-to-Door)
This is the most convenient but also the most expensive option, suitable for groups, those with mobility issues, or after-hours arrivals.
Taxi (Metered)
- Availability: Official taxi rank outside arrivals.
- Journey Time: ~1 hour 20 minutes (non-peak).
- Cost: â¬130 to â¬180+ one-way. The fare is metered based on distance and may include supplements for luggage, night travel, and airport pickup. Always confirm an estimated price before starting the journey.
- Reliability: Always available but very costly for a solo traveler.
Pre-Booked Private Transfer (Recommended for Groups)
- Service: Book online in advance via companies like Suntransfers, Welcome Pickups, or local providers.
- Advantages: Fixed, agreed-upon price; driver meets you at arrivals with a name sign; vehicles range from sedans to minivans; 24/7 service.
- Cost: Starts from â¬140-â¬160 for a standard car (1-3 pax). For 4-8 passengers, a minivan costs â¬180-â¬250. Often more cost-effective than a metered taxi for groups.
When to Choose This: Late-night/early-morning flights, traveling with small children or elderly companions, carrying special equipment (e.g., musical instruments for Cremona's violin culture), or corporate travel.
Option 4: Rental Car or Driving
Offers maximum flexibility for exploring the Lombardy region beyond Cremona.
The Drive & Route
- Distance: Approximately 90 km (56 miles).
- Time: 1 hour 10 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Main Route: Take the A35 (BreBeMi) from near the airport towards Brescia, then connect to the A21 towards Cremona/Piacenza. Exit at âCremonaâ.
- Tolls: Expect tolls of around â¬8 - â¬12 each way on the motorways.
Renting at Bergamo Airport
All major rental companies (Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Sixt) have desks in the arrivals hall. Book well in advance for best rates.
Critical Considerations for Cremona
- ZTL (Limited Traffic Zone): Cremona's historic center is a ZTL. Driving and parking here are restricted to residents and authorized vehicles only. Fines for violations are steep.
- Parking: Use designated parking lots on the periphery (e.g., Piazza Libertà , Piazza XXV Aprile). Costs ~â¬1-â¬2 per hour or â¬10-â¬15 per day. Your hotel may offer parking (often for a fee).
- Fuel Costs: Factor in fuel, approx. â¬15-â¬20 for the round trip.
Best For: Travelers planning to visit surrounding areas like the Franciacorta wine region, Soncino, or Mantua after Cremona.
Ticket & Cost Comparison Table
| Transport Method | Approx. Travel Time | Approx. Cost (One-Way) | Transfers / Complexity | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Direct Bus (SAB) | 1h 45m - 2h | â¬7 - â¬12 | None (Direct) | Most travelers, Budget-conscious, Solo/Couples |
| Train + Local Bus | 1h 50m - 2h 30m* | â¬11 - â¬17 | 1 Bus + 1 Train Change | Rail pass holders, Flexible travelers |
| Rental Car | 1h 10m - 1h 30m | â¬40 - â¬80/day + tolls + fuel + parking | None (Direct) | Families/Groups, Exploring the region |
| Private Transfer | 1h 20m | â¬140 - â¬250 | None (Direct Door-to-Door) | Groups of 3+, Late-night arrivals, Luxury/Convenience |
| Taxi (Metered) | 1h 20m | â¬130 - â¬180+ | None (Direct Door-to-Door) | Emergency, When no other option is available |
| BlaBlaCar (Carpool) | ~1h 30m | â¬8 - â¬15 | Depends on driver | Budget, Flexible, Social travelers |
* Includes average transfer/wait time.
Our Verdict: The direct bus wins for best balance of cost, simplicity, and time. For door-to-door ease with a group, a pre-booked private transfer is best value. The train+bus combo is a good backup plan if bus times don't align.
Traveler Experience & Insider Tips
Essential Tips for a Smooth Journey
- Book the Direct Bus Online: This is the single most important money-saving tip. The price difference between online and on-the-spot tickets can be almost 50%.
- Validate Train Tickets: If you take the train, do not forget to stamp your paper ticket in the small green or white machines before boarding the train. Failure to do so results in a hefty fine, even if you bought a valid ticket.
- Download Essential Apps:
- Trenitalia/Trenord: For train schedules and tickets.
- ATM Bergamo/ATB: For local Bergamo bus tickets.
- Moovit or Google Maps: For real-time public transport navigation.
- Beware of Italian Strikes (Sciopero): Nationwide transport strikes can affect trains and occasionally buses. They are usually announced in advance. Check news or the Italian strike calendar around your travel date.
- Language & Cash: While ticket counters and drivers may speak basic English, having a few key Italian phrases ("un biglietto per Cremona") and some cash (Euros) for smaller buses or taxis is very helpful.
- Luggage Storage at BGY: If you have a long layover, Bergamo Airport offers left luggage services ("Deposito Bagagli") in the arrivals hall, allowing you to explore Bergamo city before your onward journey.
- Consider Bergamo City: If your schedule allows, the stunning upper city (Città Alta) of Bergamo is a UNESCO candidate and well worth a half-day visit before catching your bus/train to Cremona.
FAQs: Bergamo Airport to Cremona
Is there a direct train from Bergamo Airport to Cremona?
No, there is no direct train from Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport (BGY) to Cremona. Bergamo Airport does not have its own train station. The most common route involves taking a short bus (or taxi) from the airport to Bergamo Railway Station, and then taking a regional train to Cremona, usually with one change in Treviglio or Milan.
What is the cheapest way to get from BGY to Cremona?
The cheapest way is the direct Autostradale bus service (operated by SAB Autoservizi). A one-way ticket typically costs between â¬7 and â¬12 if booked online in advance. The journey takes about 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours, dropping you at Cremona's central bus station (Piazzale Guglielmo Marconi).
What is the fastest way to get from Bergamo Airport to Cremona?
For a solo traveler, the fastest option is usually a combination of a taxi (or bus) + train, taking approximately 1.5 to 2 hours total, depending on connections. For a group of 3-4, a pre-booked private transfer can be equally fast (about 1h 20min drive) and offer door-to-door convenience.
How do I get from BGY to Cremona late at night or early in the morning?
Options are limited outside daytime hours. The last direct bus usually departs around 10:30 PM. Late-night or early-morning arrivals typically require a taxi or pre-booked private transfer, which is expensive (â¬130-â¬180). Alternatively, consider staying near the airport and starting your journey the next morning when public transport resumes.
Is it easy to travel with lots of luggage or with children?
The direct bus is generally easier for heavy luggage as it has storage compartments underneath. Trains require you to carry luggage on board and navigate station stairs/platforms. For ultimate ease with kids or multiple bags, a private transfer is recommended, though it is significantly more costly. Always check luggage space limits when booking.
Should I rent a car at Bergamo Airport for going to Cremona?
Renting a car is a good option if you plan to explore the Lombardy countryside (e.g., nearby Franciacorta wine region) or need maximum flexibility. The drive takes about 1 hour 20 minutes via the A35 (BreBeMi) and A21 motorways (tolls apply). Consider parking availability and costs in Cremona's historic center, which has limited traffic zones (ZTL).
Can I use a regional transport pass for this journey?
Yes, for the train portion. If you plan extensive travel in Lombardy, consider the âIo Viaggio Ovunque in Lombardiaâ regional pass. However, it does not cover the airport bus to Bergamo station. The pass can offer savings on regional trains between Bergamo/Treviglio and Cremona. Always validate your ticket or pass before boarding.
How far in advance should I book tickets?
- Direct Bus: Book at least 1-3 days ahead online for the best price (â¬7-â¬10), as walk-up fares are higher (â¬12+).
- Train Tickets: Regional train fares are fixed; you can buy them last minute at the station or via Trenitalia app.
- Private Transfer/Rental Car: Book 1-2 weeks in advance, especially during peak season (Spring/Summer, trade fairs), for better rates and availability.