15 Things to do in Bogota, Colombia

15 Things to do in Bogota, Colombia

Welcome to the sprawling metropolis of Bogota, a melting pot of towering skyscrapers and cobbled streets bordered by green mountains. The capital of Colombia is often missed in favor of other parts of the country, but it’s completely underrated. Spend a few days here enjoying the vibrant street art culture, the historical center, the delicious food, and connect with the friendly locals! Enjoy all the top things to do in Bogota, Colombia.

Things to do in Bogota, Colombia

Bogota is one of the largest cities in South America and the capital of Colombia. It’s a megacity of epic proportions, sprawling out into endless suburbs with gritty streets and glass skyscrapers mixed in with pretty colonial buildings.

Also see: The Ultimate 3-week Colombia Itinerary (Travel Guide)

street art tour bogota

It may have more attractive parts than others, but one thing is for sure, you’ll always find something to marvel at in Bogota. 

The city is usually the starting point of any Colombia itinerary (especially as most people fly into Bogota), so don’t skip it; enjoy all the top things to do instead!

Here are all your hotel options in Bogota.

bogota city travel guide

1. Iconic Plaza Bolivar

The heart of the historic center of Bogota is the Plaza Bolivar, surrounded by some of the most important buildings in the city, like the cathedral and the mayor’s office. Most important of all is the Simon Bolivar statue that sits in the middle of the square. He was the man who liberated South America and was an icon of independence. 

bogota plaza Bolivar

Join the locals who use the square as a meeting point and enjoy imagining what it would have been like when it used to be one of the busiest parts of the city; under Spanish rule, you would have seen bullfights, circus acts, and many stalls here. 

Also visit Cartagena in Colombia .

bogota to do Iconic Plaza Bolivar

2. Street Art Tour: Top Thing to do in Bogota

Street art in Bogota is something else, with streets filled with colorful murals depicting stories, myths, and political messages. This kind of art was highly illegal in the past, and the history between artists and the police was very turbulent. These days, CRISP (one of the most famous graffiti artists in Bogota) says that the lack of fear over being jailed allows artists to have more creative freedom, painting murals that have significant value for the community. 

Book your spot at this popular street art tour.

bogota best street art tour

La Candelaria is one of the most famous districts for street art and the location for most of the street art tours in Bogota. Join a tour to learn more about political expression and the importance of street art in the city. After the tour, take advantage of the endless hipster cafes and art galleries nearby—it’s a fantastic place to hang out for a few hours.

bogota street art tour

These are some of the best streets to spot incredible art:

  • Plazoleta Chorro de Quevedo
  • Calle Del Embudo
  • From Calle Del Embudo, follow to the end of Carrera 2

15 Things to do in Bogota, Colombia

3. Cerro Monserrate

Bogota sits in the shadow of the majestic Monserrate, a beautiful mountain just outside the city that stands over 3000 meters tall. For those looking for a bit of adventure and exertion, you can hike to the top of the peak. However, be aware that this can take between 2-4 hours, so take a reusable water bottle with plenty of water. It’s safe as guards are posted throughout the hike for safety but keep in mind that you can only enter the trail in the morning.

Read: Tips to travel plastic-free!

Cerro Monserrate things to do bogota

If you don’t have that much time, take the exhilarating cable car or funicular instead! The cable car flies high and incredibly fast, sweeping over the forest and providing magical views below. The views get even better once you’re at the top, particularly at sunset. At the top, you can also discover the small church, the tranquil garden walk, or enjoy a coca tea at the English-style cafe. 

The price is 22000 COP (~5.50 USD) for a return ticket with the cable car.

things to do in bogota Cerro Monserrate cable car

4. Botanical Gardens

The Botanical Gardens are a fantastic thing to do in Bogota. After spending time among the bright lights and noise of this buzzing metropolis, what better way to unwind than to visit this peaceful oasis at the heart of the city. Walk around the 19.5 hectares of land among 20,000 plants, beautiful rose gardens, and animals. 

Entry fee: Best of all, the botanical gardens are a cheap activity in Bogota, costing just 1 USD.

5. La Candelaria 

La Candelaria is the most beautiful and historic district in Bogota, a place you can come to escape the modern buzz of the city and visit the colonial streets and houses.

Also visit: Tatacoa Desert: Colombia’s Best Kept Secret !

la candelaria bogota colombia

The colorful, bohemian neighborhood is full of history and filled with artists and musicians practicing their crafts. Because of this, one of the best things to do in La Candelaria is simply to sit down at one of the cute cafes and people watch.

Tip: While in La Candelaria, visit Casa de la Moneda, a fascinating museum where you can learn more about how money developed in Colombia and the country’s up and down economy in general.

la candelaria bogota cafe

6. Santuario Nuestra Señora del Carmen

Nestled within the historic district of La Candelaria is the beautiful church of Santuario Nuestra Senora del Carmen. Unlike the typical look of most churches, this one is covered in red and white stripes, looking like a piece of candy among the city’s roofs. 

bogota Santuario Nuestra Señora del Carmen

The exterior is pretty, but the interior is where the church really comes to life; the red and white theme continues but with the addition of beautifully detailed tiles and ornately carved pews. Open daily from 07:30 AM – 11:30 AM.

7. Dinner at Madre

After spending time in the historic district of La Candelaria, head out for a delicious dinner at the pizza restaurant ‘Madre’. You’ll find a beautiful restaurant with a fun industrial-style interior hidden down a small alley. They do great pizzas, delicious cocktails and often have live music while you eat!

Read about the best things to do in Colombia .

restaurant bogota madre

8. Lunch at Quinua y Amaranto   

Another La Candelaria gem, Quinua y Amaranto, is a small intimate restaurant serving tasty vegan and vegetarian food. This is an excellent option for a reasonably priced veggie lunch in Bogota, with lovely wait staff and great vibes. 

restaurant Quinua y Amaranto bogota

9. Sunday Usaquen Market 

A lovely thing to do in Bogota if you happen to be in the city on a Sunday is the Usaquen Market. Beautiful stalls line the streets, selling souvenirs different from the standard ones you’d find at most markets.

best things to do bogota market

Leave a little room in your suitcase for some of the high-quality handicrafts made by the finest artisans in the city, whether that’s bags, shoes, or jewelry. You’ll also be able to buy delicious (and cheap!) street food—yum! Opening times: 11 AM – 4 PM

Tip: If you’re not in Bogota on a Sunday, head for Pasaje Rivas , a small hidden market in La Candelaria. You’ll discover beautiful handicrafts here, from handmade hammocks to wooden furniture.

market bogota

10. Salt Cathedral, Zipaquira  

Just 1 hour from Bogota is the fascinating Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira. Underneath the ground, discover the salt mine tunnels and a cathedral carved down to a depth of 200 meters. The massive space is lit with neon blue light to highlight the alcoves, stones, and pews. In fact, people still attend church services here; it’s a completely unique religious site!

11. Botero Museum 

The Botero Museum is a free art museum in Bogota home to multiple modern art exhibitions. It’s named after Fernando Botero, the most famous Colombian artist (from Medellin ) renowned for his colorful, funny, and large paintings. His artwork is totally unique, painting and sculpting humans with proportions far bigger than the average! There is even Botero’s version of the Mona Lisa. You will love it! You can see his work displayed all over the world, in major cities like Madrid or Singapore . 

Opening times: 9 AM – 7 PM (closed on Tuesdays. Open 10 AM – 5 PM on Sundays)

bogota botero museum

12. Bike Tour

Bogota is such a big sprawling city, so a bike tour works surprisingly well! The bike tours are very well organized, and a guide will help you navigate the busy streets, so you don’t need to worry about traffic. It’s the perfect way to see the city and learn more from knowledgeable locals who are passionate about their city. Make sure to ask for recommendations on top things to do in Bogota and places to eat!

Join this popular bike tour in Bogota .

street artists

13. Gold Museum

The Museo del Oro (Gold Museum) is a top thing to do in Bogota. Home to over 34,000 gold items, it’s no surprise that this museum has been named one of the greatest in the world. Each piece tells an incredible historical story, with many coming from the rituals and practices of indigenous communities. 

bogota gold museum colombia

Taking an audio tour of the Gold Museum is possible, but you don’t necessarily need to, as each piece of art has Spanish and English descriptions.

Entry Fee: 4000 COP (~ 1 USD)  or 9000 COP for an audio tour. On Sundays, the Gold Museum is free.

14. Visit a Local Coffee Plantation 

Colombian coffee is widely known as some of the best in the world, so make the most of being in Bogota by visiting one of the many coffee plantations up in the surrounding hills. Not only will you learn all about the growth, production, and sale of coffee, you’ll get to try the coffee too!

For more coffee visit Salento in Colombia

coffee plantation

By taking part in a coffee tour, you’ll also get out into the beautiful nature just a stone’s throw away from the city, learning a little more about the farming culture in Colombia.

15. Food Tour  

Colombia is home to some delicious flavors, and Bogota, being the capital, has some of the best restaurants of them all! If you want to try lots of delicious local foods, learn more about the ingredients, and find some traditional restaurants, we highly recommend joining a food tour. There’s something for all tastebuds: ceviche, empanadas, filling arepas, or cheesy palitos! 

Join Bogota’s populair food tour here.

things to do in Bogota street food

Best Cafes and Restaurants in Bogota, Colombia

Bogota is full of incredible restaurants! Try some delicious local dishes at one of the typical Bogotan cafes, or head to a super cool restaurant like Andres Chia, which turns into a nightclub after dinner.

Our favorite restaurants in Bogota:

  • De Una Travel (perfect spot for lunch)
  • Varietale (delicious coffee and cakes)
  • Quinua Y Amaranto (vegetarian local food)
  • Madre (hidden gem in the center of Bogota)
  • Enchiladas La Candelaria (mexican)
  • Nativa Arte y Comida Natural (vegan food)

restaurants bogota colombia

An absolute top thing to do while in Bogota is head to Puerta Falsa, where they sell traditional tamales and hot chocolate (in fact, Anthony Bourdain even visited once!).

bogota things to do church

Where to Stay in Bogota

The best place to stay in Bogota is the historic district of La Candelaria , a beautiful, atmospheric neighborhood of colorful streets and cute houses with balconies. There are few cars here and many pedestrianized streets making it feel less noisy and busy than other areas. Plus, it’s also the safest neighborhood in Bogota.

Hotels in Bogota 😴

Botanico Hostel

Although a little bit more expensive, Zona Rosa is also a great place to stay. It’s one of the most exclusive neighborhoods in the city, filled with fancy restaurants, nightclubs, and high-end shops.

How to Visit Bogota

Bogota is the capital city of Colombia and, therefore, has excellent transport links. There is an international airport in Bogota, and most global flights arrive here or in Cartagena and domestic flights leave for other parts of the country.

Getting Around Bogota

Bogota is a massive city so you’ll need to take public transport to visit all the sights. The good news is that the bus system is super cheap, as well as the local taxis and Uber. Bicycles and buses have their own lane, making it faster to get around this way. If you’re planning on cycling, we recommend taking a bike tour to learn as much as possible and travel safely around the city. 

bogota bus

How Much Does Bogota Cost?

Bogota is a really affordable city to travel in, and you can stay in beautiful accommodation for very reasonable prices. Although most sights have paid entry, it’s always cheap, especially the food! 

Tip: We got Claro sim cards at Bogota Airport at the Techport shop located on the 2nd floor.

Costs of Traveling in Bogota

Travel on a budget in Bogota, from $190 − $480 USD weekly per person, mid-range $350 − $660 USD, and high-end from $660 − $1080 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

  • Hotels: $20 − $120 USD Check available hotels
  • Hostels: $15 − $50 USD Check available hostels
  • Transport: $3 − $20 USD Book public transport
  • Food: $3 − $10 USD
  • Activities: $3 − $15 USD See tickets & tours
  • Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
  • Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

Safety in Bogota

Despite its reputation, Colombia, in general, is safe. Bogota is a big city, so it does have higher crime rates, but as long as you exercise caution, you’ll be able to enjoy yourself freely on your trip! For example, don’t walk alone in the evenings, don’t go down dark and quiet streets, and always store your valuables at your accommodation/put a padlock on your bag.

Travel Insurance Don't forget a travel insurance for your Colombia trip! Heymondo covers medical emergencies, theft, delays, cancellations, lost luggage, and more, with 24/7 worldwide assistance and medical chat. As a Salt in our Hair reader, we've got you 5% off! Check Heymondo here

Make sure to also always use the official taxis as those without proper accreditation have been known to scam or steal from tourists.

Read: How to travel safely

safety bogota

Although it’s technically illegal, Uber is the safest taxi service in Bogota. Because of this, the driver might ask you to sit in the front, so it looks more like they’re driving a friend (particularly if the police stop you!). This is something to be aware of when you use Uber.

Please note: This article is based on the safest areas of Bogota, mainly La Candelaria. In this neighborhood, there are police with dogs on every street corner. We don’t recommend leaving the main, busy tourist areas. 

bogota tourist tips

Best Time to Visit Bogota

Bogota is 2600 meters closer to the sun, so even on cloudy days, you can get burnt! It’s pretty warm all year round, and the driest months are between December-March and July-August. It can be stormy outside of these months, but it’s still a nice time to visit (March-September is the primary rainy season), and best of all, the prices are lower!

Tip: Whatever time you visit, be aware that weather changes quickly in Bogota, so it’s always best to come prepared with layers, waterproofs, and sunscreen .

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Home » Travel Guides » Colombia » 25 Best Things to Do in Bogotá (Colombia)

25 Best Things to Do in Bogotá (Colombia)

Don’t be intimidated by the sprawling, bustling city of Bogotá. Colombia’s capital is truly historic and packed with touristy things to do, but it’s also got a cool, hip, and even chic side to it as well. From its weekly Ciclovía bike route through the streets to its upscale neighborhoods filled with great restaurants, parks, and excellent nightlife, Bogotá is a real cosmopolitan city.

At the same time though, you’ll love all of the authentic culture, markets, and street art that you’re surrounded by on a daily basis. And after you’ve explored La Candelaria all the way up through Zona Rosa, you can head out of town for some day trips to colonial villages, beautiful lakes, and dramatic waterfalls.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Bogotá :

1. Stroll Through La Candelaria

La Candelaria, Bogota

This is probably the first thing tourists do in Bogotá because La Candelaria the historic center of the city.

These colorful, bohemian streets are convenient to several tourist attractions, but the area can but a little sketchy, especially at night, so be aware of pickpockets.

Follow the cobblestone streets past colorful Spanish colonial buildings and university halls, check out the street art, and pop into a few cathedrals.

Have a drink at one of the many bars, cafes, and restaurants, and people watch – there are many artists and musicians around the area.

Available tour : Bogotá: private historical tour of La Candelaria

2. The Gold Museum

Gold Museum, Bogota

Bogotá’s Museo del Oro is the most popular (and possibly the most interesting) museum in the city, and it’s home to more than 30,000 pieces of gold.

There are three floors filled with artifacts collected from Colombia’s pre-Hispanic cultures, each focusing on a different theme.

Learn how these people discovered, mined, and then worked the metals, making jewelry, masks, bowls, offerings, and armor.

Discover the symbolism and spiritual aspects of gold’s everyday uses.

The whole museum is very well done and absolutely stunning, plus the entrance fee is small for this dramatic and detailed look into the past.

Guided tour : Bogotá Gold Museum: 3-Hour Guided Tour

3. Climb Monserrate

Monserrate, Bogota

Walk the steep steps up the hill (or take the funicular) to this incredible viewpoint of sprawling Bogotá.

There’s a little white church at the top, but the act of climbing Cerro Monserrate and seeing the city from above is the real attraction here – be sure to stay hydrated and aware of the altitude though. There are a couple of overpriced fancy restaurants up top, but there’s also a snack bar where you can grab drinks and food while you take in the views (they have coca tea if you’re hurting from the climb). Be careful who you go with though, the Colombian superstition surrounding the hill says that couples who visit Monserrate together will never get married.

Suggested tour : Private Tour of Monserrate

4. Plaza Bolívar

Plaza Bolívar, Bogota

Head to the center of this capital city to see where government business gets done.

This sprawling, pigeon-filled plaza is home to Colombia’s Palace of Justice, the Capitol Building, the Cathedral of Bogotá, and the city mayor’s office.

You’ll see lots of police around, but they’re just for security as the Presidential Palace – the Palacio de Narino – is just around the square too.

Learn a little about Colombia’s history, from its fight for independence to the days of Pablo Escobar’s siege of the Palace of Justice, to really get the most out of your visit here.

5. The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá

Zipaquira Salt Cathedral

One of the most popular day trips from Bogotá, the Salt Cathedral is located in the town of Zipaquirá about an hour outside the city.

This whole cathedral was carved deep underground in a salt mine, and it contains alcoves for worshipping and beautifully lit crosses.

It’s huge too, like a small town set 590 feet (180 meters) beneath the earth with places to eat and buy trinkets as well.

Get here early to beat the crowds, sign up for one of the frequent tours, and take some time to explore the colonial town nearby once you’re done.

Recommended tour : From Bogotá: Zipaquirá Salt Cathedral Guided Tour

6. Andrés Carne de Res

Andrés Carne de Res

It’s not just a restaurant, it’s an experience.

The original Andrés Carne de Res is in Chia, a little town outside of Bogotá, but now there’s a location in Zona Rosa as well.

When you’re ready for a wild night out, go with a big group or sign up for a trip with a hotel or hostel that’ll provide transportation (and instant friends). This is a restaurant turned nightclub turned carnaval where you can get your fill of Colombian food and all the merengue and salsa dancing you can handle.

With different themed rooms, the atmosphere is like a festival or circus with tons of vibrant decor, cocktails, confetti, and even parades.

Book online (with transfer) : The Best of the Night: Andres Carne de Res

7. The Botero Museum

Botero Museum, Bogota

Colombia’s (probably) most famous artist, Fernando Botero, was from Medellín and he painted portraits, famous people, animals, and fruits… all chubby.

The artist is known for his paintings of overweight folks, and many of his works now hang in the Botero Museum in Bogotá.

Located in a lovely, renovated colonial house with an internal courtyard, admission to this internationally important collection of art is free.

The museum is also home to several pieces of art by other famous painters like Picasso, Monet, and Renoir.

Guided tour : Guided Visit to Botero Museum

8. Street Art Tour

Bogota Street Art

You could just stroll aimlessly through Bogotá and stumble upon a ton of great street art, but why not get the pros to show you around? Graffiti tours are another super popular activity here, and they’re a great way to see the best of the best.

Local guides will tell you a little something about the artist and the social movements that the paintings represent or the politics they’re speaking out against.

It’s an eye-opening look into both Bogotá and Colombia’s tumultuous past and hopeful future.

Book online : Bogotá: Capital Street Art

9. Mercado de las Pulgas de Usaquén

Mercado de las Pulgas de Usaquén

This street market takes place on Sundays in Usaquén, a neighborhood in the north of Bogotá.

Vendors set up stalls and tents in the park and down the streets to sell handicrafts, trinkets, and lots of stuff that’s different from the typical souvenirs you’ll find in Colombia.

You can buy high quality, handmade goods like bags, shoes, and jewelry here.

This area is filled with upscale restaurants and cafes, but during market days you’ll find tons of cheap foods options on the street – like cupcakes, sausages, fresh juices, and cheesecakes – plus Bogotá Beer Company has a location here for when you’re done shopping.

10. Take a Bicycle Tour of the City

Bogota by Bike

While it wouldn’t seem like the best thing to do in a big, bustling city, bike tours of Bogotá are really popular.

They’re also an excellent way to see a few neighborhoods that are rather spread out and some you wouldn’t stop by on your own.

From fruit markets to tejo games to the Plaza de Toros and a stop for coffee, you’ll get to taste (literally in some cases) many different parts of the city.

The guides are great at storytelling and keeping you safe, and it’s way easier to make it through that heavy traffic on a bike than you might think.

Bogotá Bike Tours has two tours leaving daily from La Candelaria.

Suggested tour : Bogotá Bicycle Tours, 4-5 Hours

11. Take a Day Trip to Villa de Leyva

Villa De Leyva, Colombia

Get out of the city and experience one of the most lovely little colonial towns in Colombia.

This village has an impressive central square, cobblestone streets, and very well-preserved Spanish architecture.

While you’re here, check out some unique attractions like Casa Terracotta, a whole functioning house made out of clay – many say it’s the largest piece of pottery in the world.

There’s also a museum of fossils and even a vineyard.

There are now plenty of boutique hotels if you want to spend the night, but avoid the weekends as that’s when the tourists from Bogotá flock here to visit and it gets crowded.

12. Zona Rosa

Parque 93, Bogota

This Bogotá neighborhood is upscale, trendy, and known for its nightlife.

It’s also a good place to base yourself if you’re not too fussed about being located next to all the touristy stuff in town.

It’s home to tons of restaurants, boutiques, malls, bars, and the very nice Parque 93 which is surrounded by shops and even more places to eat.

You’ll find whatever evening activities your heart desires here, from laid back pubs serving craft beer to raging nightclubs and the party restaurant Andres D.C. “Zona T” is a great pedestrian area with outdoor seating and plenty of places for dancing when nighttime rolls around.

And El Chapinero is the gay friendly area within Zona Rosa with lots of gay and lesbian bars.

13. Laguna de Guatavita

Laguna de Guatavita, Bogota

Wanna take a break from the city and get a dose of nature? North of Bogotá and surrounded by green rolling hills, you’ll find Lake Guatavita, the place where the story of El Dorado originated and a spiritually significant area for local indigenous groups.

Trek through the biodiverse, jungle-like Paramo to get to the rim of this crater lake for views of the water below.

Arrange for a guide if you’d like transportation and to hear more about the Muisca people, the myth of the golden kingdom, and the flora and fauna of the area.

Suggested tour : Golden Guatavita

14. Parque Central Simón Bolívar

Parque Central Simón Bolívar

For a big capital city, Bogotá is full of green open spaces where people congregate, exercise, eat, and spend time with their families.

Simón Bolívar is the Central Park of the city, and it’s an enormous free park that gets super busy on the weekends.

There’s a lake with ducks where you can rent small boats and lots of trails where you can walk, jog, or ride bikes.

In the summer, bands and performers take the stage, and a popular event called Rock in the Park attracts famous performers and tons of fans.

Pack a picnic or grab a bite at the cheap cafeterías nearby for lunch on a bench, in the grass, or on the sand by the lake.

15. Play Tejo

Tejo Game

The national sport of Colombia is tejo, a game that involves gunpowder, targets, and loud explosions.

It’s usually accompanied by a few beers, so you should definitely play a couple of rounds while you’re in Bogotá.

Players throw heavy metal disks across the room (about 20 meters) at small gunpowder-filled targets stuck into clay.

Hitting one results in a loud bang, cheers, and points for your team if you’re actually keeping score.

Try Club de Tejo La 76 if you want to play, and maybe head upstairs for “mini tejo” where it’ll be easier for beginners to hit the targets.

Some bicycle tours of Bogotá might also take you to a tejo joint.

16. Try Ajiaco and Chocolate Completo at La Puerta Falsa

Ajiaco Soup

Try some classic local cuisine while you’re in Bogotá, starting with ajiaco – a chicken stew with potatoes and corn, accompanied by toppings of capers, avocado, and cream – at La Puerta Falsa.

Established in 1816, La Puerta Falsa is a famous old restaurant near Plaza Bolívar that serves up traditional dishes.

Also order the the chocolate completo – hot chocolate, cheese, and fresh bread – a typical mid-morning snack in Colombia.

While it sounds like a weird combination, dipping your cheese into hot chocolate until it melts is delicious.

There are several restaurants alongside La Puerta Falsa serving the same things if it happens to be super busy.

17. Plaza de Mercado de Paloquemao

Paloquemao Market, Bogota

Visit an authentic market while you’re in Bogotá to browse the fresh selection of foods and see how the locals shop for groceries.

Plaza Paloquemao is home to a brilliant selection of vendors who sell fruits, vegetables, flowers, spices, eggs, seafood, and recently-butchered meats.

There are also stalls selling cooked foods like ajiaco, tamales, fried fish, and soups along the outside of the market.

Go early, don’t expect any English, and be prepared for an amazing sensory overload.

You can have breakfast at the market before roaming around to take photos and try a few exotic fruits.

18. Teatro Colón

Teatro Colón, Bogota

Built in the late 1800s and designed by an Italian architect, the Teatro Colón was named after Christopher Columbus and it’s the national theater of Colombia.

This majestic building was constructed in the neoclassical style and it has beautiful interiors decorated by frescoes.

The seats are set in a horseshoe shape modeled around the Palais Garnier in Paris, though it’s only half the size.

Check online to see what shows are on and head to the theater to purchase tickets or take a guided tour to have a look around.

There are operas, concerts, and modern plays to choose from, and the whole experience has a magical, romantic vibe to it.

Plaza de Lourdes, Bogota

Just a little south of Zona Rosa is another high-end neighborhood that’s filled with hip restaurants, cafes, bars, elegant hotels, and beautiful tree-lined streets.

Zona G (the “G” stands for “gourmet,” of course) has a range of different cuisines, and though it isn’t that cheap, it’s a fun place to spend an evening eating and bar-hopping.

You’ll have your pick of steak, Mexican, Peruvian, Lebanese, and Colombian, plus a few coffee shops and breweries.

Aside from drinks and fancy, romantic dinners, you can wander your way over to the Plaza de Lourdes for its impressive church and cheap eats like churros and fried arepas.

20. Museo Nacional de Colombia

National Museum, Bogota

Built in 1823, the biggest and oldest museum in Colombia was originally a prison constructed in the style of a fortress.

It’s truly massive and contains over 20,000 pieces of Colombian history that are on display in over 17 permanent galleries which used to be cells.

There are pre-Colombian artifacts as well as exhibits about the colonial times under Spanish rule.

Browse the artwork, furniture, and their Afro-Caribbean collections, and be sure to check which traveling exhibits are there when you visit.

The museum hosts lots of special exhibits, seminars, and musical performances which are quite popular.

21. Biblioteca Público Virgilio Barco

Biblioteca Pública Virgilio Barco

Book nerds and fans of architecture will love this enormous library in Bogotá.

Located just next to Parque Simón Bolívar with plenty of gardens and spaces for reading, it was designed by one of the most important architects in Colombia, Rogelio Salmona.

The round building is encircled by mirror-like waters to create a serene environment.

They have free wifi and art exhibits on display frequently – you know, in addition to all the books.

There’s a cafe offering snacks and drinks, as well as an open air theater on the roof where views of the city are great when it’s sunny.

22. Jardín Botánico de Bogotá

Botanical Garden, Bogota

This peaceful place is never too crowded and it’s always super peaceful and lush.

Entry to the botanical gardens is cheap (less than 1 USD), and you’ll have free reign over the 19.5 hectares of gardens for a perfect day of being surrounded by nature.

There’s plenty of room to do some walking, or you can head out in search of lizards, turtles, ducks, peacocks, and other animals.

Because Colombia gets nearly 12 hours of sunlight a day, the range of flora here is superb, and you’ll find exotic flowers as well as a rose garden.

Have a snack from one of the food stalls nearby or take a guided tour to learn more about the plants here.

23. Eat More Colombian Food

Lechona

There’s a lot to eat here in Colombia.

You’ll need to try sancocho, a thick, meat-filled stew with potatoes and corn, and then some of the succulent, slow roasted pork known as lechona.

You’ve also gotta grab an Aguila or Club Colombia beer and some cheese-filled arepas.

Be sure to taste their amazing Colombian coffee, fruit juices, and the anise-flavored liquor aguardiente.

Or better yet, enlist the help of a seasoned guide and take a Food Safari with the Bogotá Foodie.

You’ll get to hit traditional markets to try exotic fruits and sample foods like fish stew, lechona, pastries, cheesy breads, coffee, and empanadas.

24. Hike to La Chorrera and El Chiflón Waterfalls

La Chorrera Watterfall

These two waterfalls are located outside of Bogotá, and they’re about a 3-hour round-trip trek through lush and bright green vegetation.

The drive there will take you through the edge of the Andes with beautiful views of picturesque colonial villages, cliffs, and forests along the way.

Take the bus there yourself and pay the entrance fee, or opt for an organized trip with a hostel or tour company so that you’ll have transport, guides, and meals all arranged.

The routes can be a bit strenuous and muddy, but the trails are well-marked and the pounding waterfalls are incredible (and great for a swim after all that walking).

25. Ciclovía Sundays

Ciclovía Sundays

If you’re here on a Sunday, you’ll get to see how awesome Bogotá is when it closes down over 100 kilometers of roads to cars for the weekly Ciclovía.

Families and friends come out with their bikes, skateboards, rollerblades, and dogs to get moving around the city.

Rent a bike and join in on the fun like a local – it’s a great way to experience regular life in Bogotá while getting some exercise yourself.

Roadside food stalls pop up on Sundays so you can grab a fresh juice or arepa as you explore.

And if you feel like joining in on an exercise or dance class, you can pop over to one of the parks along the cycling route for what’s called Recreovía – they’re free!

25 Best Things to Do in Bogotá (Colombia):

  • Stroll Through La Candelaria
  • The Gold Museum
  • Climb Monserrate
  • Plaza Bolívar
  • The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá
  • Andrés Carne de Res
  • The Botero Museum
  • Street Art Tour
  • Mercado de las Pulgas de Usaquén
  • Take a Bicycle Tour of the City
  • Take a Day Trip to Villa de Leyva
  • Laguna de Guatavita
  • Parque Central Simón Bolívar
  • Try Ajiaco and Chocolate Completo at La Puerta Falsa
  • Plaza de Mercado de Paloquemao
  • Teatro Colón
  • Museo Nacional de Colombia
  • Biblioteca Público Virgilio Barco
  • Jardín Botánico de Bogotá
  • Eat More Colombian Food
  • Hike to La Chorrera and El Chiflón Waterfalls
  • Ciclovía Sundays

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Bogota , Colombia  - February 24, 2017 : Museo del Oro gold museum in Bogota capital city of Colombia South America; Shutterstock ID 650281423

Museo del Oro

Bogotá's most famous museum and one of the most fascinating in South America, the Gold Museum contains more than 55,000 pieces of gold and other materials…

BOGOTA, COLOMBIA - OCTOBER 22, 2015: Interior of the Botero Museum. The art collection donated by Colombian master artist Botero is considered the most important donation in the Country's history. ; Shutterstock ID 337708817; Your name (First / Last): Josh Vogel; GL account no.: 56530; Netsuite department name: Online Design; Full Product or Project name including edition: Digital Content/Sights

Museo Botero

Even if you've never heard of Fernando Botero, you'll probably recognize some of his highly distinctive paintings of oversized (read: chubby) characters,…

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Iglesia de San Francisco

Built between 1557 and 1621, the Church of San Francisco is Bogotá's oldest surviving church. In the atmospherically dark interior, with its extravagant…

Plaza de Bolívar

Plaza de Bolívar

The usual place to start discovering Bogotá is the giant concrete Plaza de Bolívar, the heart of the original town. What it lacks in green foliage it…

Colección de Arte

Colección de Arte

Most of Banco de la República's permanent art collection, which features 800 pieces by 250 different artists spread over 16 exhibition halls at two…

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Casa de Nariño

On the south side of Plaza de Bolívar, beyond the Capitolio Nacional and reached via Carreras 8 or 7, this is Colombia's neoclassical presidential…

Museo Nacional

Museo Nacional

Housed in the expansive, Greek-cross-shaped building called El Panóptico (designed as a prison by English architect Thomas Reed in 1874), the Museo…

Statue in front of Santa Clara church.

Museo Santa Clara

One of Bogotá's most richly decorated churches, the Santa Clara is also its oldest (along with Iglesia de San Francisco). Deconsecrated in 1968, it was…

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The 13 best things to do in bogotá.

Theatron

On a small road between Carreras 9 and 13 in the heart of Chapinero, the classic Theatron is carved from a huge film house. It draws a gay and straight…

Plaza Central de Usaquén

Plaza Central de Usaquén

Just north of the main square in the village-like Usaquén, you'll find stallholders selling food, colorful purses, assorted handicrafts and bamboo…

Centro Cultural Gabriel García Márquez

Centro Cultural Gabriel García Márquez

Slotting seamlessly into historic Candelaria, this cleverly constructed arts center anchored by a graceful amphitheater was designed by Franco-Colombian…

Plaza de Mercado de Paloquemao

Plaza de Mercado de Paloquemao

A real-deal, messy Colombian market. Go early on Friday or Sunday – flower days!

Prudencia

This doozy of dining and design is run by Colombian-American husband-and-wife team Mario and Meghan. The sunlit canopy, an unorthodox marriage of bamboo…

El Goce Pagano

El Goce Pagano

Forty years in and this divey salsa and reggae bar near Universidad de Los Andes remains a mainstay with DJs and sweat-soaked bodies from all over…

Plazoleta del Chorro de Quevedo

Plazoleta del Chorro de Quevedo

No one agrees exactly where present-day Bogotá was founded – some say by the Catedral Primada on the Plaza de Bolívar; others say here, in this wee plaza…

Quiebra Canto

Quiebra Canto

Name-dropped first – for years now – by salsa-seekers across town, the Canto is a double-level disco a short walk from La Candelaria. Wednesday is big…

Museo de Arte del Banco de la República

Museo de Arte del Banco de la República

Though indistinguishable as its own museum, this is the space inside Banco de la República's museum complex used for temporary exhibitions. Its auditorium…

Single shot (No bracketing) HDR

Andrés Carne de Res

This legendary steakhouse blows everyone – even repeat visitors – away with its all-out fun atmosphere. The 75-page menu of classics like arepas (corn…

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Catedral Primada

This neoclassical cathedral stands on the site where the first Mass may have been celebrated after Bogotá was founded in 1538 (some historians argue that…

Iglesia La Tercera

Iglesia La Tercera

Boasts a fine stone facade and lovely wood-carved altars in walnut and cedar set on white walls below a wood-carved ceiling.

Iglesia de la Veracruz

Iglesia de la Veracruz

Iglesia de la Veracruz is known as the National Pantheon because many of the heroes of the struggle for independence have been buried here.

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30 Things to Do in Bogota: Travel Guide & Itinerary

Written by Becca

Updated on March 1st, 2024

A cloudy sky over a city.

What’s best to do on a trip to Bogota, and is Bogota safe? See our unique things to do in Bogota, where to stay, what to see in Bogota and the best cafes for Colombian coffee.

This article may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commissions when you purchase via those links — and it's free for you. It's only us (Becca & Dan) working on this website, so we value your support! Read our privacy policy and learn more about us .

Posted in Colombia

Table of contents

  • La Candelaria
  • La Candelaria Graffiti Tour
  • Zona T Nightlife & Parque La 93 Expat Area
  • Cafe Cultor
  • Azahar Cafe
  • Colo Coffee
  • Juan Valdez Cafe
  • La Taqueria
  • BBC La Bodega - Santa Barbara
  • BOHO food market in Usaquen
  • Bogota Colombian street food
  • Little restaurants where locals are eating
  • Parque El Virrey
  • Funicular or Cable Car at Monserrate
  • Botero Museum & Museo de Arte Miguel Urrutia - MAMU
  • Colección de Arte del Banco de la República
  • Bogotá Museum - Casa Sámano
  • Military Museum of Colombia
  • Museo de Trajes
  • Santuario Nuestra Señora de El Carmen
  • Museo de Oro
  • Sendero La Aguadora - Santa Ana
  • Monserrate City Hike
  • Ciclovia Sundays
  • Bogota Bike Tours
  • Parque Nacional Natural Chingaza
  • Chicaque Natural Park

Bogota is a big cosmopolitan city in Colombia with a ton to do and see!

For two people (us) who’ve collectively spent a whole bunch of time in Colombia relative to other countries we’ve traveled in, we’re finally ready with our guide to Bogota for backpackers, digital nomads and travelers.

And we’re excited for you, as you head to Bogota to see Colombian history, eat Colombian food, climb Colombian mountains and take in Colombian art and culture.

In the travel guide that follows, we’re answering popular questions about Bogota as a travel destination for a Colombia itinerary, especially because many flights stop through Bogota and many travelers use Bogota as a point for seeing other regions of the country or the South American continent.

What are you waiting for? Let’s see all about Bogota and places to visit in this cool city.

A group of people walking down a street.

How many days do you need in Bogota?

Most people would say three days is ideal for seeing any city, and for Bogota, it remains the same. With three days, you can divvy up your time engaging in city hikes, a bike tour, visiting several museums, experiencing several neighborhoods, dining at trendy restaurants, trying street food AND sitting down to Colombian coffee at some great cafes.

A man eating a plate of food.

With a two-day itinerary in Bogota, figure that you’ll just have to pick and choose from the above, in order to pack it all in.

If you have five days or more in Bogota, then you can really check out some neighborhoods in depth. You could even stay in two different neighborhoods, trying a lively hostel in La Candelaria and then a quieter Airbnb in Usaquen or Chapinero.

A girl carrying a bunch of balloons.

Is Bogota safe for solo travelers?

Yes, for the most part! By this I mean that we met many solo travelers spending long amounts of time (or short stints) in Bogota, and no one had any hesitations about safety.

If you mind your business, do not flash your phone or valuables, and minimize your time walking alone at night, you should be very fine.

As a solo woman, I would walk alone at night home from a restaurant, bar or supermarket run, near Parque la 93 and would see other women alone and doing the same thing.

The only hesitations about safety I would have are if you are not completely with all your wits about you very late at night, looking lost, engaging in trouble or being flashing with expensive valuables that would make you a target. But, this would go for any city around the world, even my hometown of NYC !

The sun is setting over a city.

What’s the weather like in Bogota?

Bogota has an interesting annual climate which I can only really compare to San Francisco or another place that’s temperate and moderate, never too hot and never too cold. Bogota has historically been a great idea for a cool place to travel in summer .

Bogota’s annual average weather stays between highs of 66 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit, daily, with nights between 43 and 48 F, depending on the time of year.

The highest months of rainfall are April and May, and October and November, and I can certainly attest to the autumn rainfall, because the week I arrived in Bogota, it rained every day at about 3 pm and it also hailed. Talk about needing a travel-sized umbrella in your bag at all times!

A mountain range with clouds in the sky.

A Bogota itinerary for 3 days

With a Bogota itinerary for a three-day trip, there are some things I will immediately recommend without hesitation:

  • Start with coffee at Azahar , Cafe Cultor , Colo Coffee or any other choice among the best cafes in Bogota
  • Get out and join a city biking tour
  • Experience an assortment of Bogota’s neighborhoods to feel out all their personalities
  • Visit Bogota’s famous set of cultural and historical museums
  • Put on your hiking shoes for one of Bogota’s city hikes, to get a sunset view (Bogota’s cliffs face west, so you always get a sunset if the weather is nice!)
  • Try local Colombian street food from peddlers and vendors

A woman selling food on a cart on the side of a street.

How to get from Medellin or Cartagena to Bogota

If you’ve looked into your Colombia trip yet, you may start to get a gist of how big Colombia is. This country is about 1.7 times bigger than Texas, and if you live in Texas,you may know how big this is! (I don’t live in Texas, but I have a fair idea that it is very large).

If you want to take a bus from Bogota to Medellin or Medellin to Bogota, expect the journey to take around 10 hours, to cover 415 km, or 260 miles, but with roads that wind through mountains and valleys.

A road in a mountainous area.

The best way to get from Medellin to Bogota or Bogota to Medellin is (undeniably) to fly. For those who love buses, thereby being able to “see everything in between two destinations,” you can still choose to take a bus if you have a LOT of time.

For most travelers, flying makes the most sense, and there are heaps of flights per day from one city to the other, sometimes as low as $28 USD for a one-way trip!

The same goes for flying from Cartagena to Bogota or from Bogota to Cartagena: that’s because these two destinations in Colombia are more than 1000 km (645 miles) away from each other, and taking a bus (do these exist?) would take 18-20 hours. That would certainly kill off a day of your trip! We suggest flying from Bogota to Cartagena, for about $55-68 one-way nonstop.

Looking for cheap flights to Colombia or within Colombia? The best solution is to sign up for Going , the ideal way to find flight deals and mistake fares, directly to your inbox. Use HALFHALF20 to get 20% off!

A man and a woman posing for a photo.

Best Neighborhoods to See in Bogota

Bogota has quite a few neighborhoods to visit, each with their own attractions or reasons to go there. Here is a rundown of a few, and things to do in each.

A view of a city with mountains in the background.

La Candelaria

La Candelaria is the most popular area with travelers because it’s picturesque, it’ll have all your popular photo spots for Instagram and it is where most of the great museums are located. It is also one of the best areas of Bogota for finding a hostel .

Want to see more of what La Candelaria looks like on a typical day? Do a virtual walk through our photo gallery of La Candelaria street life .

A group of people standing in front of a blue and yellow building.

La Candelaria Graffiti Tour

Many travelers recommend taking a graffiti tour in La Candelaria. There are a few ‘best tours’ that come recommended by the Internet and by guidebooks, but you can also take a free tour where it will only cost you gratuity (recommended as $10 USD approximately).

A building with a lot of graffiti on it.

Zona T Nightlife & Parque La 93 Expat Area

Zona T is the area of Bogota known for a bar and club section. Are you ready to party? Come to this part of town on the weekend.

Most travelers tend to stay in La Candelaria for its central location near all the museums and famous historical sights, but if you’d like to have a more local experience or if you’re seeking accommodation as an expat , staying in the Parque la 93 area is nice.

A green car parked on a street.

Best Cafes & Coffee shops in Bogota

During our month (my first month in Bogota, and Dan’s second!) we made it our mission to learn about Colombian coffee, support Colombian third wave coffee shops and use what we had learned several years before on our trip to Salento in Colombia’s coffee region.

What we enjoyed about Bogota was its blossoming coffee scene, where “third wave cafes” have popularized authentic Colombian coffees and harnessed their goodness before they are exported to foreign countries.

These cafes are making it so that Colombians can enjoy the fruits of their country, and they look pretty great in our Bogota cafe photo gallery .

Here are a few of the best coffee shops and cafes in Bogota that we really hope you get to visit!

A woman sitting on a wooden bench.

Cafe Cultor

In our review of Cafe Cultor , we talk about this nice coffee shop in a brick row house on a beautiful street in Bogota. With a spacious ambiance and a nice backyard garden, this is a cool spot to come work remotely in Bogota with the cafe WiFi.

Woman holding Google Pixel phone to take a photo of two cups of coffee on a bright green table

Cafe Cultor is ironically one of the more under-the-radar coffee shops in Bogota, and we don’t know why. With a nitro brew that’ll zing some caffeine into your brain and a breakfast menu that has cakes and salads, this is a great cafe at which to meet a friend or have a coworking session.

A woman is sitting at a table with a cup of coffee and a box of coffee.

Azahar Cafe

Azahar is like the “it” coffee shop that’ll come recommended from coffee-enthusiast travelers who pass this recommendation on to newcomers.

One of the things we liked best about Azahar Cafe 93 (okay, there are two main things) are the natural light aesthetic with lots of plants and a great color palette, and the fact that the cafe has relationships with its coffee farmers down in the Zona Cafetera of the country.

A cup of coffee on a table next to a bag of coffee.

This means that they’re creating fair selling and buying price points with the farmers and making sure they are supported. They have great branding that’s apparent in the bags of coffee you can pick up and take home. Can you tell we couldn’t stop taking photos? See our full cafe review here .

A person holding a bag of coffee on a table.

Colo Coffee

Colo Coffee is an excellent cafe with a modern chic cement look. There’s cool staff, a full coffee counter where you can see each drink being made, and walls of their bagged Colombian coffee for sale.

We tried the espresso (wow!) and the pour over, and especially liked the natural light in the skylight tables section at the Zona T location. If you’re not staying in Zona T, don’t worry, because Colo Coffee also has locations in Usaquen and Quinta Camacho.

Check out our full review with more photos .

A coffee shop with a sign that reads 'colo'.

Juan Valdez Cafe

If you come all the way to Colombia for a trip, you may get a kick out of having coffee at a Juan Valdez that is actually in Colombia. Well, know this: Juan Valdez, originally the embodiment of Colombian coffee as a character developed for marketing, was a real person.

However, as time went on, Juan Valdez became so ubiquitous in Colombia and around the world that most locations now feel like Starbucks franchises.

Nevertheless, going to a Juan Valdez Cafe feels like sipping on some Colombian culture as you take your trip to Colombia, because without Juan Valdez, Colombia’s economy might be quite different.

We’d recommend learning more about Juan Valdez and the history of the brand, at the Juan Valdez website , which says that the company has provided work for 540,000 coffee-producing families.

Where to Eat & Drink in Bogota

Given that Bogota is a big city that also draws Colombians from all over the country (which is huge), there is a wide range of cuisines and types of regional Colombian food in Bogota.

Close up of a cocktail with a dried star anise

La Taqueria

This Mexican taqueria dine-in restaurant has exceptional ratings and is a great stop for tacos and cocktails. It really can’t be beat. I went several times, and each time was consistent and delicious.

BBC La Bodega - Santa Barbara

If you’re into beer in a casual environment, check out the BBC La Bodega locations throughout the city. While they seem to not have a working website, you can see the location we went to (Sta Barbara) on Untappd .

Andres DC is like “the place” to go for dinner if you have a few days in Bogota, or if you live there full-time. The experience is eclectic, loud, fun, funky, big, slightly over-the-top and festive. Andres has locations in a few cities in Colombia, and in Bogota, the location is right in Zona T, at Cl. 82 ## 12 -21.

BOHO food market in Usaquen

This new food market in Usaquen goes by the name “BOHO” and serves up everything from Mexican food to croissants to pastries. It’s a trendy food hall that has its own Instagram .

Bogota Colombian street food

Ay, ay, ay! If you’re always in the mood for a snack like I am, try whichever Bogota street foods you see first, whether it’s fresh juices, tamales, arepas or empanadas.

A man pushing a cart on the street.

If you’ve been to other parts of Colombia by this point in your trip, you may notice a difference in ingredients.

A display of plastic cups with fruit in them.

Little restaurants where locals are eating

We can never pass up an opportunity to eat at a place filled with locals. In Bogota, we sat on a patio eating traditional foods like a filling meal of fried plantains, meat, rice, arepas, salads, avocado slices and eggs. Ay dios mio!

A plate of food on a table.

Best Parks and Museums in Bogota

Bogota is not a tropical city where you’ll be laying on a beach by any means, so it’s a chance to see Colombia’s culture and history before (or after) you jet off to Medellin or Cartagena during your Colombia trip itinerary.

Seriously, Bogota has no shortage of museums and they are very well-kept and well-done. As for parks, there are lots of little urban oases to visit, like Parque la 93.

A large building with a clock tower.

Parque El Virrey

This is a nice park in between the area called Parque La 93 and Zona T. The neighborhood itself is known as a good area for walking, with the park as a central point, and it’s a place where you can walk on the paved paths, people-watch or admire people’s dogs.

Funicular or Cable Car at Monserrate

Both of these methods are the fun rides that’ll take you up to Monserrate (or down). Both exist solely for the enjoyment of tourists (or locals who are out for a touristy day).

The funicular is a tram that goes very steeply up the mountain, and the cable car is referred to as a ‘teleferico’ in Spanish. Both are for anyone who does not want to do the hike up or down the Monserrate city mountain.

A cable car on a mountain.

Botero Museum & Museo de Arte Miguel Urrutia - MAMU

If you love art, or if you just want to learn more about Colombia from the comfort of somewhere dry on a rainy Bogota day, the Botero Museum is the #1 choice for admiring the famous art works of Fernando Botero and more.

A painting of a yellow pear hanging on a wall.

Colección de Arte del Banco de la República

This art museum in La Candelaria is where you can visit 6,000 works of art at this famous cultural institution.

Bogotá Museum - Casa Sámano

This small museum in La Candelaria is where you can go to learn about Bogota’s urban development with “historic memories” of the city. Here’s the website .

Military Museum of Colombia

For learning about 200 years of Colombian military history, this is the spot. See the museum website to decide if this is a good thing to do on your Bogota itinerary.

Museo de Trajes

This museum about clothing and textiles is so interesting! For anyone who wants to see some exhibitions on European styles, or the production of textiles, head to this unique museum .

Santuario Nuestra Señora de El Carmen

This striped church is a good idea for a photo spot in Bogota. Built in gothic style, it is certainly one of a kind. It’s located in La Candelaria as well.

Museo de Oro

Do you like shiny things? The Museum of Gold (Museo de Oro) is one of the highlights of Colombia for many visitors who like to see history combined with art and culture.

Best hikes & activities in Bogota

Bogota is unique in that it’s a temperate city built at the foot of an elevated mountain ridge. If you look at your map and zoom out, you’ll see how the city is built right up until when the land starts elevating and elevating. This is why you can do so much hiking in the city limits of Bogota itself, and why the city has invested in making hiking fun and accessible.

Purple flowers on a hill overlooking a city.

Sendero La Aguadora - Santa Ana

This is a pretty challenging hike for first thing in the morning (recommended) that will get you sweating even if it’s 60 degrees out at 8 am. Here’s a map pin . This hike begins in Usaquen, which is worth a visit on its own as a nice neighborhood to see in Bogota.

A man and woman hugging on top of a mountain.

Monserrate City Hike

Probably the most famous of the Bogota city hikes, this hike will take you up lots of stairs and then up to the top of a cliff where you can see the city. To get down, you can take the funicular.

Two people looking at the city from the top of a mountain.

Ciclovia Sundays

Many visitors to both Medellin and Bogota who get to experience Ciclovia Sundays can’t help but rave about the experience. Ciclovia translates to “Cycle road,” and means that major roads are closed off for bikers, walkers, runners and anyone who wants to be out on the street (be mindful that many bikes will whiz by).

In Bogota, this means 127km of closed roads! What a cool way to spend a day each weekend!

You can read about it in Spanish , here.

Bogota Bike Tours

If you are looking for ways to work out during traveling , check out Bogota Bike Tours . Choose from private tours ranging from a graffiti bike tour, mountain bike tour or the “Daily Bike Tour” that hits all the top city sights.

Day trips and side trips from Bogota

Use Bogota as a home base during your trip to explore the surrounding region. Given that Bogota is situated in the middle of the Northern Andes Mountains, known as the “Cordillera Oriental” (Eastern Mountain Range, in English).

Zipaquirá is a Colombian mountain village known for its “salt cathedral,” the Catedral de Sal. Not sure what this is? You may have to hop a bus (it’s 30 miles away) and see for yourself during your stay in Bogota.

Known as Colombia’s capital of rock climbing, this is where climbers go for cliffs and adrenaline rushes! You can also go on softer hikes that will take you through small rivers, into cafes, and across cliffs with pretty views of mountains and open green spaces.

A small house in the middle of a grassy field.

Parque Nacional Natural Chingaza

Not exactly a day trip at all, but worthy of a few days is this stunning natural national park that doesn’t get the hype it deserves.

Once you Google photos of “Parque Nacional Natural Chingaza,” you may be sold, especially if you are a hiker. For stunning vistas (and maybe bear sightings??), start planning your trip to this Andean mountain reserve as soon as you can.

Chicaque Natural Park

This totally underrated natural park (not national park status) is a gorgeous scenic area right outside the city limits of Bogota. Here, you can find hiking trails, horseback riding, cliffs and mountainous views.

This area is favored by locals, so as a foreigner, you’re basically in for a local secret. Visiting this natural area can be a day trip if you leave early, or, you can stay in nearby lodging. Check out the location, here in Google Maps .

Where to stay in Bogota

You have lots of options when it comes to where to stay in Bogota. For most travelers, we’d recommend staying in La Candelaria for a top experience. If you want something big quieter or more of a residential neighborhood feel, Usaquen and

Here’s a list of the best hostels in Bogota .

Botanico Hostel Bogota (La Candelaria)

Pretty crazy that Botanico Hostel Bogota has the perfect matrix of lots of reviews that are also great reviews. It’s located in La Candelaria and has a fantastic rooftop with city views that should not be passed up.

Book this hostel here.

Usaquen Station Hostel (Usaquen)

If you want to stay in the up and coming trendy and quieter neighborhood of Usaquen, there’s a hostel for that! Usaquen is described as one of the newest cool hoods in Bogota, with award-winning eaters and a vibrant scene.

Try out the hostel Usaquen Station to be in the middle of it all.

Selina (La Candelaria)

If you’ve seen our other reviews of Selina locations in Mexico City and Chicago , you may well be aware now that Selina hostels are conducive to digital nomads.

For a Selina in Bogota that we’ve visited (and it’s where we met our friend Kanacia! ), check out Selina La Candelaria Hostel .

A table with chairs and a mural on the wall.

Where to work remotely in Bogota

Bogota sports various coworking spaces, cafes with WiFi and digital nomad hostels that make it possible to work remotely and travel in this Colombian metropolis.

Two men working on laptops at a table.

Dan and I have both spent about a month in Bogota (and Dan has done this twice) with Remote Year . Dan worked at Work & Go, and we both had a month-long membership to WeWork La 93 with our Remote Year program.

If you’re interested in coffee shops with WiFi for getting work done, see above, where we recommend Bogota’s best cafes.

If you’re more into the benefits of coworking spaces , check out this list of coworking spaces in Bogota that has already laid out the information for you.

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The 20 Best Things to Do in Bogotá, Colombia

The towering skyline of Bogota, Colombia as seen from a scenic view over the green hills nearby

The capital of Colombia , Bogotá was the home to the region’s indigenous people, the Muisca, before the Spanish arrived to plunder gold and resources. Centuries later, it’s been the country’s main city ever since.

Before I went, everyone told me Bogotá wasn’t anything special: dirty, crowded, hard to get around, and lacking the charm of the other big cities in Colombia.

“Spend a few days there and move on,” they all said.

Well, I spent a few days there…and then a few more.

Because I LOVED Bogotá.

It felt like the most “Colombian” city I visited. It’s not like the gringofied cities in the rest of the country. Its “gritty” nature was what appealed to me.

Bogotá was a vibrant, lively city I couldn’t get enough of.

The museum scene is incredible, there’s a lot of history, a blossoming art community, an exciting food scene, a wild nightlife, and super welcoming people.

It is also a huge city with a ton of tours, day trips, and other things to do. You could easily spend a week here and not get bored.

To help you make the most out of your visit, here’s my list of the best things to see and do in Bogotá .

Table of Contents

The Best Things to See and Do in Bogotá

The best day trips from bogotá, where to stay in bogotá, staying safe in bogotá.

1. Take a Free Walking Tour One of my favorite things to do when I get to a new destination is to take a free walking tour. It’s a great way to get the lay of the land, see the main sights, and have a local expert answer any and all of my questions.

BeyondColombia has an insightful free walking tour that will give you a solid introduction to the city. They also offer a free food tour, which is a terrific way to get a taste of some local Colombian dishes (you’ll spend around 37,000 COP on food for the tour). Just be sure to tip your guides at the end!

Pigeons wandering around in front of the cathedral in Plaza Bolívar in Bogotá, Colombia

3. Stroll in the Botanical Gardens Opened in 1955, the Botanical Garden of Bogotá is home to almost 20,000 plants. There is a focus on regional plants, usually those that are endemic to the Andes and other high-alpine regions of the continent. It’s a really peaceful place to walk around, and there are some food stalls nearby so you can grab a quick bite as you explore the gardens and browse the exotic flowers and trees.

Cl. 63 No. 6895, +57 1-437-7060, jbb.gov.co. Open Tuesday-Friday 8am-5pm (9am-5pm on weekends). General admission starts at 7,000 COP. There are separate tickets for the tropical gardens (10,000 COP).

4. Attend Gringo Tuesdays This is a weekly language exchange that evolves into an international party. Every Tuesday, you can meet with other locals and travelers for a few hours of conversation. Once that’s over, the real party begins and goes late into the night. It’s a fun, social night out if you’re looking to meet fellow travelers. A lot of hostels organize party buses to the event, so if you’re coming from La Candelaria, this is a good transportation option.

Street 85 No. 11-53, Promenade del Faro, +57 311-492-0249, instagram.com/gringotuesdays. Every Tuesday, the language exchange occurs 4pm-8pm, followed by the party, which runs 8pm-3am. It’s free entry until 6pm, 10,000 COP from 6pm-8pm, and 20,000 COP from 8pm onwards.

5. Visit the Museo del Oro (The Gold Museum) This is the most interesting museum in the entire country and sees over half a million tourists every year. Opened in 1939, the Gold Museum documents the importance and use of gold in pre-Hispanic civilizations in Colombia and is home to over 55,000 gold items. There’s a lot of information to take in, so be sure to get the audio guide (8,000 COP) or join one of the daily free tours.

Cra. 6 No. 15-88, +57 1-343-2222, banrepcultural.org/bogota/museo-del-oro. Open Tuesday-Saturday 9am-7pm and Sundays 10am-5pm. Admission is 5,000 COP for adults and free for children. Admission is free for adults on Sundays, but it gets busy quickly so arrive early!

6. Climb Monserrate Standing tall at over 3,000 meters (9,840 feet), you can see Monserrate from pretty much everywhere in town. It’s a popular spot to take in the view, and since there is a church at the summit, it’s also a popular spot for local weddings. You can walk up yourself in under an hour, or you can take a cable car or funicular to the top. Keep in mind that the walk up isn’t that safe at night or alone as thieves scout out the route. Travel during the day and with a group if possible, just to be safe.

monserrate.co. The funicular runs Monday-Friday 5:30am-11:45am, Saturdays 5:30am-4pm, and Sundays 5:30am-6pm. The cable car is available Monday-Saturday 12pm-10pm and Sundays 5:30am-6pm (ticket offices close one hour beforehand). Tickets for either vehicle are the same price: round-trip tickets cost 27,000 COP (16,000 COP on Sundays).

7. Check out the Museo de Botero Founded in 2000, this museum is home to one of Latin America’s most important art collections. The museum was created after artist and sculptor Fernando Botero donated hundreds of his works to the Banco de la República de Colombia with the promise that they would be displayed in a free museum for everyone to see. In addition to his own pieces, included in the donation were works by Monet, Picasso, and other world-famous artists.

Cl. 11 No. 4-41, +57 1-343-1316, banrepcultural.org/bogota/museo-botero. Open Monday and Wednesday-Saturday 9am-7pm and Sundays 10am-5pm (closed Tuesdays). Admission is free with free audio guides as well.

8. Wander the Usaquén Market Every Sunday, artisans line the cobblestoned streets to sell all sorts of local crafts and goods. While it’s usually referred to as a flea market, things here are a bit nicer and more upscale than some of the other markets. It’s still quite affordable, though, and makes for a fun way to spend the day. It’s a great place to people-watch too.

Carrera 6A entre Calles 119 y 120A, mercadopulgasusaquen.com. The market runs 9am-5:30pm every Saturday, Sunday, and holiday Mondays.  

Brightly colored buildings lining a street in the historic neighborhood of La Candelaria in Bogotá, Colombia

Watch live music while hanging at Plaza Chorro de Quevedo, try the local chicha (a drink made from corn, often fermented to be alcoholic) on the side streets, and take in some of the amazing restaurants in this district.

Gran Colombia Tours offers a tour of the neighborhood that also includes local coffee and fruit juice tastings. It’s a really fun tour and provides a lot of information about the neighborhood and culture.

10. Discover the National Museum of Colombia Situated in the heart of Bogotá, this is the oldest and biggest museum in the entire country (and one of the oldest on the continent). Built in 1823, it’s home to over 20,000 pieces of art and historical artifacts, some dating as far back as 10,000 BCE. The building was actually used as a prison initially (it definitely looks imposing) until it transitioned into a museum in 1946. If you’re a history buff or just want to learn more about the country, this museum is a must.

Carrera 7 No 28-66, +57 1-381-6470, museonacional.gov.co. Open Tuesday-Sunday 9am-5pm. Admission is around 39,000 COP for foreign adults. Entrance is free on Wednesdays from 3pm-5pm, and on the last Sunday of the month.

11. See the Santuario Nuestra Señora del Carmen The National Shrine of Our Lady of Carmen is a Gothic church located in La Candelaria. The church has a red-and-white striped pattern (both on the outside and inside) making it look like a giant candy cane. Built from 1926 to 1938 and designed by architect Giovanni Buscaglione, the church stands almost 60 meters tall (196 feet) and has some incredible Byzantine and Moorish art. It was designated a National Monument in 1993 and is worth a quick visit to snap photos as it is one of the most unique churches you’ll ever see.

Cra. 5 No. 8-36, +57 1-342-0972. Unfortunately, opening hours for the interior are erratic but are listed as 7:30am-11:30am.

Bunches of bananas in Bogota, Colombia

The best way to get a sense of the city’s culinary offerings, though, is to take a food tour. The True Colombian Experience takes you on a food-tasting extravaganza that lasts three hours, stopping at seven different eateries within the La Candelaria neighborhood. It’s the best food tour in the city.

13. Sample the local brews Bogotá (and the country as a whole) has a growing craft beer scene. On this three-hour tour , you’ll learn the history of Colombian beer and taste some of the best craft brews in town at a mix of historic and trendy bars and breweries. The tour includes a bottle of beer, five pints of beer, plus samples, so it’s definitely one for beer lovers! I had a blast and learned a lot.

14. Visit Simon Bolívar Metropolitan Park This is one of the most popular parks in Bogotá. Created in 1979, it spans almost 1,000 acres. You can find people exercising, relaxing, or attending concerts here. The park is named after the famous Simón Bolívar, who led the liberation of the region from its Spanish overlords. It’s a nice place to relax with a book or take a stroll when the sun is shining.

Open daily 6am-6pm. Admission is free unless there is a concert or event in progress.

15. Explore Parque 93 This park is in the district of Chapinero, one of the nicer areas of town, known for having some of the best restaurants, nightclubs, and bars in the entire city. The park itself is fairly new, having opened in 1979. It’s home to an ongoing rotation of temporary art exhibitions and is a great place to just stroll around or have a picnic. It’s more frequented by locals than tourists, so it’s a great place to really soak up local life.

16. Visit the Iglesia de San Francisco Built in the 16th century, this Catholic church is the oldest surviving church in Bogotá. The interior is incredibly ornate, with a beautiful altar that dates back to the 17th century. It’s still in use, and you’ll likely see some locals praying during your visit, so make sure to dress appropriately and be respectful.

Av. Jimenez De Quesada No. 7-10, +57 1-341-2357. Open Monday-Friday 6:30am-10:30pm, Saturdays 6:30am-12:30pm and 4pm-6:30pm, and Sundays 7:30am-1:30pm and 4:30-7:30pm. Admission is free.

17. Explore the Museo Santa Clara This church was built in the 17th century and is one of the oldest in the entire country. It was deconsecrated in the 1960s and converted into a museum by the government. There are over 148 baroque paintings that almost entirely cover its walls, making this one of the most beautifully decorated churches you’ll see in Colombia.

Cra. 8 No. 8-91, +57 1-337-6762, museocolonial.gov.co. Open Tuesday-Sunday 9am-5pm. Admission is 6,000 COP and is free on the last Sunday of the month. There is also free admission every Wednesday from 3pm-5pm.

Colorful street art in Bogota, Colombia

19. See Bogotá by bike Exploring a city by bike is a great way to cover more ground, and while it might seem surprising, Bogotá is a pioneer in urban cycling. Every Sunday since the 1970s, cyclists (and pedestrians) take over the city’s streets during La Ciclovía, when 120 kilometers of the city’s streets are closed to traffic from 7am-2pm. It’s a great way to enjoy the city like the locals do in this beloved institution. You can rent a bike for 15,000 COP per hour, or 80,000 COP for eight hours.

If you won’t be in the city on a Sunday or want a more guided experience, Bogota Bike Tours offers daily tours. You’ll visit local fruit markets, a traditional coffee roastery, the bullfighting stadium, the historic center, and many different plazas, parks, and neighborhoods. Tours last around four hours and cover a lot of ground. It’s really fun but still quite leisurely.

20. Grab a snack from La Puerta Falsa This little shop has been serving locals for over 200 years! La Puerta Falsa (The False Door) is a small restaurant with room for fewer than 20 people, yet the tamales and ajiaco soup have been community staples for generations. If you’re looking to try traditional Colombian food, this is the place to go!

Calle 11 No. 6-50, +57 1-286-5091, restaurantelapuertafalsa.inf.travel. Open daily 7am-7:30pm (Sundays until 6pm) though its schedule isn’t set in stone.  

The emerald green Lake Guatavita surrounded by lush ferns, greenery, and rolling hills, in Colombia

Day trips to the area last around six hours and vary in price. Many day trips, such as this one , combine a trip to Guatavita and the Salt Cathedral (see below) in one adventure-filled day. This is one of the most popular activities and it’s best to visit on a tour because it’s hard to get there on your own.

See the Salt Cathedral Located about an hour’s drive from Bogotá in the city of Zipaquirá, the Salt Cathedral is a Roman Catholic church built in the tunnels of an old salt mine. It’s 200 meters (656 feet) below ground, making this one of the more unique religious sites in the country, if not the world. Every Sunday, up to 3,000 people attend church services here. Bogotá City Bus runs day trips to the cathedral, including round-trip transportation and skip-the-line entrance.

Parque de la Sal, +57 315-760-7376, catedraldesal.gov.co. Open daily 9am-5:40pm. Basic admission is 98,000 COP.  

Colorful houses along a hilly cobblestone street in Bogota, Colombia

Two other areas of the city that are considered safe are Zona Rosa and Chapinero. However, they are both more expensive areas and too far away from downtown to walk to all of the main tourist attractions.

With that in mind, here are some of my suggested places to stay in Bogotá:

  • Selina (Chapinero)
  • The Cranky Croc Backpackers Hostel (La Candelaria)
  • Masaya (La Candelaria)
  • Botinico Hostel (La Candelaria)

Colorful shantytowns on the hillside in the city of Bogota, Colombia

That means no walking around with your phone out, never keeping anything in your pockets (especially when on public transport), and always keeping hold of your bag. If you are eating out, keep your backpack on your lap or place your foot or a chair leg through your strap. It is very common for someone to try to do a bag swap (meaning they swap their empty bag for yours).

For more in-depth coverage of how to stay safe in Colombia, check out this post that answers some frequently asked questions and concerns.

Lastly, make sure to purchase good travel insurance before you go. I recommend SafetyWing if you’re on a budget and just need basic coverage and World Nomads if you want something more comprehensive.

It’s true that Bogotá is an “edgy city” where you have to be more alert than in other places. Yet I loved the atmosphere and vibe of the city. It had grit (kind of like Naples , Italy). I loved the art, the museums, and the food. The city has so much to offer travelers. You can really fill a lot of time between all the sights, tours, parks, and activities. I would have liked to stay longer in Bogotá if I could.

I’d budget three to five days for your visit. It will definitely be worth it.

Book Your Trip to Colombia: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. Two of favorite places to stay are:

  • Masaya Hostel
  • Botánico Hostel

For all the best neighborhoods and more suggestions on where to stay, here’s my detailed neighborhood breakdown of the city .

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

  • Safety Wing (best for everyone)
  • Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
  • Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Colombia? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Colombia for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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Traveling to Bogota Colombia | The Essential Guide 2024

arial view of Bogota at night

High in the Colombian Andes sits the city of Bogotá , Colombia one of Latin America’s best-kept secrets. Though once deemed unsafe due to Colombia’s decades-old internal conflict, Bogotá has slowly, but surely, transcended to become a thriving regional hub for culture and the arts. As tempting as it may be to make a bee-line for popular destinations like Tayrona and the Lost City, you truly would be doing yourself a disservice by skipping Colombia's capital city and we consider it a must-see if you visit Colombia. Use this Bogota Travel Guide to discover the best that the city has to offer, from its avant-garde culinary culture and festive nightlife scene, to its well-preserved historic quarter and city center to the warm, convivial people.

Today, Bogotá is a bustling city with a rich history and culture. From its colonial architecture to its vibrant street art, its historic neighborhoods (like la Candelaria) and its world-famous Gold Museum, Bogotá has something to offer everyone.  And with so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that this Colombian gem is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South America .

In this complete and up-to-date travel guide, we hope to provide you with absolutely everything you need to know to make the most out of your trip to this magical city.

What You will Find in this Bogota Colombia Travel Guide

  • Why Visit Bogota, Colombia

Brief History and Background of Bogota

  • What is the  weather and altitude like
  • What are the various neighborhoods of the city

How to get to and from Bogota Colombia

  • Transportation in and around Bogota Colombia
  • How many days should you spend in Bogotá
  • Activities and Attractions You Don't Want to Miss

Where to Stay in Bogota

  • Best Places to Eat and Drink
  • Bogota Nightlife

Escape the city: Things to do Outside of Bogota

  • Final Tips and Frequently Asked Questions

Why Visit Bogota Colombia?

According to Nobel Laureate Gabriel Garcia Marquez ,  in Colombia "any gathering of more than six people regardless of class or hour is doomed to turn into a dance.” If that isn’t a reason to visit Bogota, what is? This Latin American metropolis is currently experiencing an unprecedented artistic, culinary and cultural boom you won’t find in other capitals of the region. In just 2-3 days, you can cover the cities main sights and you might even consider extending your trip by another few days to explore all that this up-and-coming city has to offer. In addition, Bogotá is an often necessary jumping-off point to other destinations like Medellin, Cartagena, Tayrona, la Guajira and la Ciudad Perdida, whether you’re traveling by plane, bus or car, so you mine as well take advantage and venture into this thriving metropolis. Finally, the city of Bogotá, surrounded by green peaks, is a spectacular sight to behold. This dramatic backdrop corresponds to its rich history, which extends far beyond the 16th-century Spanish conquest and into the intoxicating energy and optimism pulsating through its streets today.

With over 8 million inhabitants , Bogotá can be an intimidating place to visit for even the most big-city dwellers. A sprawling 1,587 square kilometres (613 square miles), it’s a multi-faceted metropolis with hundreds of gems and nooks to discover. Even the most comprehensive Bogota Colombia travel guide wouldn’t be able to cover the entire city with all of its beauty and intricacies, but we will do our best to share the highlights you simply can’t miss during your visit.

Bogota's Role in Colombian History

Bogotá was founded on August 6, 1538, by Spanish explorer Gonzalo Jiménez de Quesada, who named it after his hometown of Bogotá in present-day Spain. Originally a small indigenous village, Bogotá flourished as a trade center due to its strategic location at the intersection of two major trade routes. However, Bogotá's fortunes changed in the mid-1700s when it was occupied by rebel forces led by Juan del Corral. The city did not recover from this setback until the early 19th century when it began to experience a period of rapid growth. Since then, Bogotá has continued to grow and evolve, becoming one of the largest and most vibrant cities in South America.

Altitude in Bogota

Located in one of the six regions of the country, the Andean Region, in the middle of Colombia, Bogotá sits at 2,640 meters (8,660 feet) above sea level, making it the third-highest capital city in South America, after La Paz and Quito. This doesn’t mean much until you start exploring on foot and quickly become short of breath. In fact, you might even get a little dizzy or nauseous, in which case you’re suffering from altitude sickness, also known as soroche, in the Andes.

Pro tip : To help your body acclimate to the altitude, try and take it easy on your first day; avoid strenuous activities, like hiking. Also, stay hydrated and get plenty of rest. A local trick to curing soroche is a panacea - warm agua de panela (melted sugar cane with squeezed lemon) which you can find from street vendors around the city.  

Weather in Bogota

If there’s one thing you don’t need to worry about in Bogotá, it’s the weather. The climate here is moderate throughout the year 7°C-19°C (45°F-66°F), though the rainy season occurs around April - March and October - November. Mist and cloud cover is common in the city, but you can also expect plenty of sunshine. Make sure to always pack a light sweater and rain protection since the temperature may fluctuate throughout the day.

Pro tip : There are really only two seasons in Bogotá, wet and dry, and the sun sets and rises consistently throughout the year, around 6:15 in the morning and evening. As soon as the sun drops over the horizon, expect the temperature to drop significantly; make sure to bring a light sweater or jacket.

Neighborhoods in Bogota Colombia

La Candelaria, Bogota, Colombia

Bogota is organized into 20 Districts, and a few of them can’t be missed. Among these are: La Candelaria (the historic city center) Chapinero-Zona T , the Zona Rosa , La Macarena in Santa Fé, Parque 93, and Usaquén's colonial center. If you’re not sure where to start, head to the colonial neighborhood of La Candelaria.

You’ll find that the majority of these neighborhoods, their restaurants and hotels, are found in the north and center of the city, while the South is where most working-class families reside.

There are many ways to get to Bogota. Because the capital of Colombia is in the center of the country as well as the gateway to the South American continent, many flights include a stopover at Bogota’s airport El Dorado . Many international airlines arrive to the city including Iberia, Avianca, Air France, Air Canada, Lufthansa, British Airways, and American Airlines. Another way to get to the capital of Colombia if you are on the continent is by bus from countries like Brazil, Ecuador, Chile, Bolivia, Venezuela, and Peru.

If you’re entering Bogota by plane, you’ll most likely land in El Dorado International Airport ( BOG ), which offers travelers many connections and direct flights to other countries in the region, as well as domestic flights to Colombian destinations.

Pro tip : Are you looking for some affordable domestic flights? Check out wingo.com. Viva Air & Air Colombia tend to be the cheapest (though their customer service could improve and they tend to nickel and dime you with extras - print your boarding pass in advance!) So, if you can, choose Avianca or Copa instead.

Bogota’s main bus station is called El Terminal de Transporte de Bogotá (Terminal Salitre). If you’re traveling from a neighboring country by bus, this is where you’ll end up. It’s also only a short taxi ride away from the airport.

There are two other bus stations in Bogota that are useful to know. They are La Terminal del Sur (South Terminal) located along Autopista Sur at Carrera 59 in La Bosa and Terminal Satelite del Norte (North Terminal) located on Calle 192, #19-43 off of Ave Carrera 45.

Transportation in and around Bogota

As you travel around Bogotá, you’ll have numerous options to choose from to explore the city.

TransMilenio BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) system

TransMilenio BRT is an affordable and efficient way to get pretty much anywhere in the city. Note that the buses tend to get crowded around rush hour and as always, practice good safety measures and keep a close eye on your phone and possessions.

Pro tip : A few helpful apps to get around Bogotá include MoviliXA, Moovit and Google Maps (download an “offline map” of the city to save on data). Figure out your route while you have wifi so you don’t miss your stop on the TransMilenio!

Apart from the TransMilenio, there are regular buses to get you around town. Getting around on these may require a bit more research; make sure you know which bus to take and where to hop off.

Taxis and Ubers

are another good option to get around Bogota, though Ubers are technically not legal. Drivers may often ask you to sit in the front to avoid raising suspicion among police. In terms of safety, always try to have your taxis radioed in or use Uber, which also tends to be the cheaper option. If you’re taking a taxi, ask a local (or your hostel staff) about the price to avoid getting ripped off, though most taxis will use a meter.

Another great option if you like to cycle is to rent a bike as Bogotá has the most extensive network of bike paths in the country. Cycling is a great way to explore the city’s nooks and crannies and skip its notorious traffic jams. If you want to cycle but feel disoriented, look into joining a bike tour ( Bogota Bicycle Tour is a great option)

The Best Time to Visit Bogota

There really is no wrong time to visit Bogotá. Since the weather is pretty consistent, the only other factor you should consider are national holidays and high tourist seasons.

In terms of national holidays, December is a festive time to visit and, if your trip coincides, make sure to explore the Festival of Lights in Villa de Leyva , just outside the city. In March, you’ll be able to check out the Estéreo Picnic Music Festival , Colombia’s biggest alternative music festival, and one of the most recognized across South America. Then, during the summer, there’s Bogota’s Festival de Veranos that showcases performances in Simon Bolivar Metropolitan Park concert stage as well as other venues across town.

In September and October, you can attend Bogota’s International Jazz Festival or its International Film Festival , respectively. Both events attract region-wide spectators and feature internationally recognized musicians and films.

In terms of high tourism season, these coincide with the dry season between December and February and the summer months from June to August.

What to do in Bogota - Must-See Attractions

When visiting Bogota, expect to have a few jam-packed days of exploration. There are seriously so many things to do in Bogota, it can get overwhelming, so here are some of our favorite activities:

Cerro de Monserrate / Mount Monserrate

Mount Monserrate, Bogota, Colombia

You can’t miss it, it’s literally the mountain looming over the city, known for its panoramic views and a sacred church, the Montserrat Monastery. This is an ideal activity for one of your first days in the city, since it provides excellent perspective on the city’s sheer size. To reach the top of Monserrate , you can either take a cable car or hike. Both are awesome in their own right. Given the city's high altitude, if it's one of your first days in the city, the cable car might be the move. if your body is more acclimated, or you're feeling up for the challenge, the hike up is beautiful as well.

pro tip : Arrive around 4pm to ensure you are there for sunset and reserve dinner at San Isidro. As lines can get long during busy times, you can buy tickets online .

Visіt the Historic La Candelaria neighborhood

Full of colonial buildings, a visit to La Candelaria is like traveling back in time. While exploring, make sure to order a cup of chicha , eat tamales and stop through Plaza de Bolivar, Calle de Embudo, Primada Cathedral, San Francisco Church, San Agustin Church, and Carrera Septima street, where you’ll often see street performers.

Although being the smallest district of Colombia's capital, La Candelaria offers a tremendous diversity of heritage infused in each of its cobbled landed streets

La Candelaria Map, Bogota, Colombia

City tours are probably one of the easiest ways to explore Bogota, and there are a number to choose from, like food tours, street art tours, free walking tours ( Gran Colombia offers a free walking tour daily at 10am and 2pm) and bicycle tours. You can find several options with a simple Google Search or on Tripadvisor.

Graffiti Tour

Graffiti La Candelaria, Bogota, Colombia

Not everyone wants to show their work in a gallery or display it in conventional ways, and Colombia's graffiti artists have been years ahead of the game when it comes to utilizing unusual public spaces to display and inspire a new generation of art fans.

With the declassification of graffiti from a crime to merely a "violation" Bogotá has become a mecca for home-grown and international artists alike.

Take a graffiti tour of Bogota and you'll find yourself immersed in Colombia's history as well as its present, because the city's street artists are constantly finding new methods to express everything the country has gone through. Graffiti artists and collectives take inspiration from the lives of everyday people, and their work often serves as a mirror for society at large. Hearing the stories behind the art will surely leave you with a whole new appreciation for Colombia.

A Bogota graffiti tour will not only introduce you to Colombian art, but it will also bring you into the beating heart of the Colombian capital. Look for unique architecture, vendors selling juice from exotic tropical fruits, and dark gloomy cafés where some of Colombia's greatest writers produced their works, during your trip around the city.

Graffiti La Candelaria, Bogota, Colombia

Famous Bogota Museums

Compared to other South American capitals, Bogota has some top-notch museums you should definitely make time to visit. All the museums are easy and relatively cheap to access

Museo Botero

Museo Botero is considered one of Latin America's most important international art collections, containing works of renowned Colombian painter and sculptor, Fernando Botero - considered the most recognized and quoted living artist from Latin America

Museo Botero Museum, Bogota Colombia

The Gold Museum

Named by National Geographic magazine as one of the most important museums in the world , Gold Museum along with the likes Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum (Poland), and the Vatican museums (Italy), the Gold Museum boasts over 34,000 gold pieces, a breathtaking collection of gold artifacts from Colombia’s pre-hispanic indigenous cultures and in our opinion should not be missed.

Pro tip: The Museum is open Tuesday to Saturday from 9am to 6pm, and on Sundays from 10am to 4pm. Touring the whole museum will take about 3-4 hours (although of course it can be done in less if your in a time crunch). Entrance is ~$1 USD and there are daily free tours in English and Spanish which are well worth it, to dive deeper and learn the remarkable histories of Colombia's indigenous peoples.

The Gold Museum, Bogota, Colombia

The National Museum of Colombia

Housed in an old prison, the National Museum and so its architecture Founded in 1824, the museum houses 20,000+ artifacts, antiquities, and works of art from pre-colonial to colonial through the revolution and present-day.

National Museum of Colombia, Bogota, Colombia

Art Galleries

Bogotá has a thriving art scene that you can explore by touring its art galleries like:

La Silueta Casa

Instituto de visión, la ciclovía.

Every Sunday, major city streets are closed off to all vehicles other than bicycles , encouraging locals to get on their bikes and ride! And that’s not all, in Carrera 7, from Parque de La Independencia in La Macarena to Plaza Bolivar, you can enjoy an impromptu street party with street musicians, performers and vendors.

This pedestrian street goes from Plaza de Simon Bolivia up to the National Museum. Since it’s closed to vehicles, it’s a wonderful route for a stroll and an opportunity to enjoy street performers, street art and eat tasty bites from the street food carts.

Teatro Colon

One of the oldest opera houses on the continent, Teatro Colon opens to visitors regularly for performances by world-renowned artists in dance, theater, music and more.

Teatro Colon, Bogota, Colombia

What better way to explore a new city than by visiting its markets. (You’ll also be able to stock up on souvenirs and gifts.) Some of the best markets in town are Chapinero Farmers’ Market , Paloquemao , and Usaquén Market. Keep your eyes open for delicious chocolates, world-famous Colombian coffee, ceramics and even hammocks.

Mercado Paloquemao, Bogota, Colombia

If you like combining gunpowder with beer, you’ll probably like Tejo. This is a national sport that involves throwing metal discs at a ceramic board. If you hit the right spots, you win points and are also rewarded with a loud blast and spark from a small packet of gunpowder. Checkout Anthony Bourdain’s hilarious demonstration of playing Tejo during his trip to Colombia. This is the perfect activity if you’re traveling with a group of friends. Where is such an activity accessible, legal and pretty safe you might ask?: Club de Tejo La 76 For some do’s (and dont’s), check out this awesome clip of Anthony Bourdain playing Tejo during one of his many trips to Colombia.

Learn to Salsa Dance

Even with two left feet, you’ll enjoy learning salsa in Colombia, one of the world’s salsa capitals. After a couple of classes, head over to Galería Café Libro to put your moves to the test (classes are also often offered here before the night begins).

bogota tourist tips

Watch a Live Soccer Game

If you want a real South American experience, head to El Campín Stadium , where soccer games are regularly hosted for Colombia’s national soccer team and other professional league teams like Millonarios FC and Santa Fe.

El Campin Stadium, Bogota, Colombia

After exploring Bogotá for a couple of days, you might need a retreat from its constant hubbub.

Bogota’s Botanical Gardens

The Botanical Gardens are an oasis within the city itself featuring an amazing variety of plants and trees from every region in Colombia including greenhouses with all types of climates, ponds

Bogota Botanical Gardens

Simon Bolívar Metropolitan Park

Located nearby the garden is the city’s primary greenspace that has a lake and paths for walking or running.

From the north othe city, you can take the Quebrada la Vieja páramo trail all the way up the Cerros Orientales (Eastern hills). While access is free, you need to make a reservation online in advance.

On the outskirts of Bogotá you’ll find la Calera, a popular weekend destination for locals because of its natural surroundings, impressive views and delicious colombian food. La Calera can easily be reached by taxi from Bogotá.

Day trips from Bogota

If you have a full day to spare during your visit, check out one of the following day trip destinations.

Zipaquirá Salt Cathedral

Located about an hour’s drive from Bogotá, this was a salt mine for the indigenous Muisca people that inhabited the region prior to the Spanish invasion. Much later, it was turned into a Cathedral, which explains the gigantic cross in its final chamber. If you like, you can travel to Zipaquirá by train .

La Chorrera Waterfall

Colombia’s tallest waterfall (590 meters) and is only 1 hour and 40 minutes from Bogotá. Take the Transmilenio south to Tercer Milenio then head to the nearby bus station to grab a bus to Choachi.

Villa de Leyva

Another worthwhile day trip is a visit to, a colonial town about 3.5 hours from Bogotá by car or bus. The town, having been well preserved since its founding in the 16th century, provides visitors a glimpse into what life might’ve looked like, back in the day.

Laguna de Guatavita

historically a sacred lake to the indigenous Muisca people, and the site of gold rituals is, today, a lush, protected area only 1.5 hours from Bogotá. While you’re there, check out the hot springs in Sesquilé.

Where to Eat in Bogota

Foodie or not, you’ll be blown away by the gastronomical options and variety in Bogotá. While you can buy many local classics like arepas, empanadas and soups all over the city, there are a few spots in town renowned for the quality of their food that you simply can’t miss.

Andres Carne de Res

  • Andrés Carne de Res is truly a unique experience, not just a restaurant. The original Andrés Carne de Res is located about 45 minutes outside the city and is well worth the trek. While a closer Bogota location exists, if you can make the time, the original is 100% the way to go. As its name implies, the speciality here is grilled meat, though there are many vegetarian dishes you can also sample, like plátano maduro relleno de queso y bocadillo (baked plantains stuffed with cheese and guava), and arepas de choclo (sweet corn cakes). Later in the evenings, especially on Saturdays, the restaurant transforms into a nightclub with performances and lots of dancing - Colombian style.

Andres Carne de Res, Bogota, Colombia

Near Candelaria, you’ll find a number of other delicious spots, like Prudencia , built in a renovated colonial French-style home, and only open for lunch (vegetarian option available), and De Una Travel Bar , where you’re find a variety of South American dishes in a laid-back environment.

If you’re looking for a local favorite, check out La Puerta Falsa , renowned for its delicious tamales , and located just a block from la Plaza de Bolivar. Finally, Capital Cocina transports you straight into a Colombian home with its mouth-watering soups, grilled chicken and steak.

Finally, if you’d like something a bit more modern, visit the beautifully decorated Madre for their brick oven-baked pizzas and cocktails.

Only a 2-minute walk from Museo Botero is El Son de Los Grillos, a charming spot that fuses international cuisine with traditional Colombian recipes. You can’t go wrong at la Chichería Demente with its open style, industrial layout and decor. Nearly all ingredients are locally-sourced and it’s a great place to go with a group to taste a variety of dishes.

Pro tip:   While exploring the city, keep your eye peeled for Juan Valdez and the BBC - Bogota Beer Company. These two chains can be found throughout the city and are a great alternative for when you need a quick coffee or bite to eat. They are especially useful on Sundays when nearly everything else is closed.

Best Nightlife in Bogotá

If you like a good party, you’ve come to the right city; Bogotá has a popping night scene. When in doubt, head to Chapinero’s Zona T with many bars and nightclubs to choose from.

Before partying, grab a few cocktails in the luxurious Red Room or, if you prefer drinks with a view, head to Apache Bar , located on the 10th floor of the beautifully designed (and very pricey) Click Clack Hotel overlooking the city. Llorente, another good spot, is found in the Quinta Camacho neighborhood, offers live music, food and drinks in an elegant environment.

If you’re looking to practice your Spanish and make new friends, head to Vintrash on a Tuesday night for Gringo Tuesday. After practicing your Spanish or English, you can practice your dance moves and get down to some reggaeton.

For the hard core partiers among you, head to Theatrón , known as one of South Americas best  gay bars. But all are welcome here and there’s more than enough space, since the club spans 5 stories and 13 dance floors. Other good places to dance include Kukaramákara , a typical Colombian bar, Armando Records ,  a multi-level bar with a variety of music and cool rooftop, and el Bembé, a cuban salsa joint with excellent mojitos.

Given the sheer size and demographic mix of Bogota, there are thousands of accommodation options to choose from. Finding one that is well-situated and also fits your budget can be overwhelming. Although you can find tons of options on Tripadvisor or hostelworld, below are a few of our favorites:

Click Clack Hotel

If you're looking for a modern luxury option (and willing to spend a little extra) check out Following up on the success of their sister location in Medellin, they do a great job of creating beautiful experimental design. Located next to Park 93 in one of the city's key cultural and business hubs.

The Four Seasons

For a top-notch luxury accommodations, this is truly a thing of beauty. This 1946 building, complete with stone columns, beamed ceilings and hand-carved details, has recently been declared a Monument of Cultural Interest by Colombia’s Ministry of Culture. Located in Zona G, the hotel is steps from many of Bogotá’s five-star restaurants.

If you're an adventurous traveler looking for a quality, yet affordable option, as well a place to meet other travelers, hostels are a great choice. You’ll find many hostel options around la Candelaria which, apart from being a lovely colonial district, is also the most convenient spot from which to explore the city and its main sites. Access around la Candelaria to public transport is easy, and you’ll find many places to stop for some delicious home brewed Colombian coffee, lunch, or an evening drink.

The Dreamer

Dreamer Bogotá, (opening in 2023) is located in La Candelaria, is a recently renovated and an excellent option for those that want a cozy, comfortable and conveniently located home base while visiting Bogotá. It overlooks the park, Parque de los Periodistas Gabriel Garcia Marquez, and also has panoramic views of Cerro de Monserrate.

"Casa Dreamer” is built in a colonial building and offers a rooftop terrace, a communal dining & entertainment room with a fireplace, bar and restaurant, all built around a lovely interior courtyard. After a day out on the town, “the casa” is a great place to unwind, relax and cozy up by the fire. Did I mention there is a sauna? If you're planning on staying in la Candelaria neighborhood this is a great option.

Bogota: Final Thoughts

Bogota is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you are looking to party all night, dance the salsa, or take in some of the city's rich history and culture, Bogota will not disappoint . With a vast array fo neighborhoods to explore, from La Candelaria to Chapinero-Zona T, and the Zona Rosa, you will find yourself with plenty to explore. With so many accommodations and nightlife options to choose from, we hope we have given you just a taste of what this amazing city has to offer. Be sure to add Bogota to your list of places to visit in 2022!

Travel Tips and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is bogota safe.

Yes. Despite its tumultuous history involving guerilla groups and drug cartels, Bogota, and much of Colombia, is considered perfectly safe. In fact, likely because of its history, great effort has been made to ensure Bogotá is a safe city for travelers of all types. That said, as in most other Latin America capitals, certain precautions will always be necessary, but most of these are common sense.

Generally speaking, apart from the most visited neighborhoods like La Candelaria, Chapinero-Zona T, the Zona Rosa, don’t wander around areas of the city that you’re unfamiliar with. Also, in the evening, always try to take a safe taxi or Uber, rather than a random taxi off the street.

Pro tip : No dar papaya . This is a colloquialism that literally translates to “don’t give papaya.” In other words, don’t give people the chance to steal your possessions. Always keep an eye on your personal belongings, also, don’t flash your cash, letting people know how much money you’re carrying. Particularly on public transport, be cautious when using your phone publically and keep valuable in your front pockets.

How many days should you spend in Bogotá?

Try to set aside at least two days, if not three, to explore Bogotá. This will give you enough time to visit its best museums (like the Museo del Oro , which is stunning!), wander through the la Candelaria district, and eat at some of its top-rated restaurants.

What should I pack?

Apart from a rain jacket (or an umbrella which can be purchased on the street, if need be!), all you really need in Bogotá are comfortable shoes, a sweater or light jacket for the evenings and sun protection (hat, sunscreen, possible a light long-sleeved shirt).

The riches you won’t find in Colombia’s breathtaking Caribbean beaches and its lush tropical rainforest can be found in Bogota’s museums, parks and along its cobblestone streets. To close this Guide to Bogota, here are a few final tips you should keep in mind during your journey.

Though younger Colombian generations are well-equipped in English, most of the population won’t speak it well. Brush up on your Spanish before (and during) your trip to facilitate your travel experience and to interact more authentically with locals.

Bogota is an entire world in and of itself. If you have some time to spare, consider spending more than two nights here. A more reasonable timeframe would be 3 nights and 4 days - you really won’t regret it!

Heading to the coast after your visit to Bogotá? Check-out our Costal Guide and Tayrona Park Guide

36 Hours in Bogota Itinerary

With only a day and a half in Bogotá, you’re not going to know where to begin! Here is our recommended 36-hour itinerary.

7:00 am: Start early and head to Monserrate before the crowds arrive. You’ll find a breakfast spot behind the church.

9:30 am: Join a Bogota Bike tour or a free walking tour

12:00-2:00 pm: Lunch at Prudencia

2:30 pm: Visit the National Museum

4:00 pm: Bike or walk along Calle 7

7:00 pm: Dinner at Andrés Carne de Res

9:00 am: Visit the Museo de Oro (entrance fee is $4mil COP, open Monday – Saturday and free on Sunday).

11:00 am: Depending on how quickly you made it through the Museo de Oro, you might have time to visit the Botero Museum

1:00 pm: Lunch at De Una Travel Bar

2:00 pm: Go on a Bogota Graffiti Tour

Looking for more things to do on your travels through Colombia?

If you are headed to The Caribbean Coast after Bogota, check out our comprehensive guides to Tayrona Park and Santa Marta . If you are planning on staying on San Andres Island, and looking for a nice place right near the beach, and within walking distance from the airport, check out the brand-new Dreamer Beach Club . If you're planning on exploring Parque Tayrona and decide to stay outside the park, both Dreamer Santa Marta or Dreamer Palomino are great options as well. They have a pool, restaurant, bar, and comfortable rooms making it an excellent option to relax and unwind before or after your trip. With partnerships with the top tour providers, they can help organize and plan your trip to the park and surrounding areas including The Lost City Trek, Scuba Diving, Cabo de la Vela & Punta Gallinas

For more information on activities or tours or general questions about the area, don’t hesitate to give us a shout! We’re here to help you have the best time possible and hope you will love the Colombian coast just as much as we do!

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BOGOTA , COLOMBIA , SOUTH AMERICA · March 26, 2020 Last Updated on December 26, 2023

BOGOTA, COLOMBIA ULTIMATE CITY GUIDE

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. We may receive a small commission when you make a purchase using our link.

Bogotá isn’t usually the first city people think of when they think of Colombia but it is well worth a visit! While other Colombian cities such as Medellín and Cartagena are more popular with tourists than the capital city, there are so many things to do in Bogotá.

In this article, I share why I love Bogotá, my favourite things to do in the city, the best places to stay, and tips for a visit to Colombia’s capital.

Why Visit Bogotá

Bogotá and Colombia have been overlooked as a travel destination in the past thanks to its portrayal in the media and reputation in the past 30 years. Today things in the city and country are much different than they once were. Colombia is establishing itself as an idyllic travel destination and each year more and more tourist and backpackers from all over the world are visiting the country. 

While Bogotá may not the most visited city in the country, it shouldn’t be overlooked. Bogotá is surrounded by mountains and the city has ample things to see and do.

The city combined the old historic centre of downtown or La Candelaria with the modern skyscrapers in Calle 100. This makes Bogotá a truly unique and exciting city to visit. 

When To Visit Bogotá

Bogotá is located high in the Andes mountain range in central Colombia, the city sits at an altitude of 2,640m (8,660ft). The high altitude means the city is cooler than other cities in Colombia. Colombia has no traditional seasons, but instead just wet and dry seasons.

December to March and July to September are considered the dry seasons with less chance of rain and more sunshine. So we recommend visiting Bogotá between December and March when the weather is drier and the sun is shining. 

Things To Do In Bogotá

There are plenty of things to do in Bogotá. I lived in the city for 2 years and since I have left new things keep popping up and each time I revisit there are new things to enjoy.

Some of the best things to do in Bogota are:

1) Visit La Candelaria

La Candelaria is the historic centre of Bogotá, with its colourful buildings, museums, narrow cobbled streets, and beautiful buildings. La Candelaria is located in the southern part of the city, with several museums, government buildings, the President’s House , and Plaza Bolivar to explore. 

This neighbourhood has an abundance of restaurants, quiet unique cafes, and street vendors, to purchase traditional Colombian street food. La Candelaria is well worth a day trip from other areas of the city, but caution should be taken as this is the most touristy spot and if you visit after dark, don’t walk anywhere take a taxi. 

2) Usaquen Sunday Market

Usaquén used to be a small village outside of the city but as the city has expanded Usaquén became a neighbourhood of the city. Usaquén still has that small-town feel with a central plaza and small one-of-a-kind coffee shops and restaurants. 

Every Sunday there is a market in the streets of Usaquén, with vendors selling everything from souvenirs, freshly made soap, coffee, and hand-made artisan products. It is a great place to walk around and stop for lunch on a Sunday. 

3) Climb To The Top Of Monserrate

The Monserrate is a cathedral located on one of Bogotá’s eastern mountains. You can either take a tram to the top or walk up the mountain, either way, you can experience the incredible views over the city and beyond. 

The Monserrate is a fully functioning cathedral with regular services, visitors can walk around the cathedral, take in the city’s skyline, and walk around the market stalls. 

4) Plaza De Bolivar

Walk around the Plaza de Bolivar with a beautiful cathedral and a large square surrounded by government buildings. The square is often home to events and festivals, at different times of the year from concerts to music festivals. 

The cathedral is located on one side of the square and Government buildings are located around the other three sides, this area is large and beautiful. On Sunday’s there are often market stalls on the adjacent streets and events in the plaza.

5) Experience Andres Carne De Res

Andres Carne de Res in Chia is a unique and wonderful restaurant that stretches over the streets. The restaurant has great typical Colombian foods, fun dancing and incredible decor. Andres is decorated with extreme and extravagant objects and antiques, lights everywhere and is a feast for the eyes! 

6) Discover The Cities History On A Graffiti Tour

All over La Candelaria and other areas of the city are pieces of street art that have been commissioned and represent Colombia’s history or tell a story. You can book a Graffiti tour which will take you on a walking tour around the city, showing you all the best graffiti art.

7) Visit The Gold Museum (Museo De Oro)

The Gold Museum (Museo Dr Oro) is located in La Candelaria and is home to over 55,000 pieces of gold from jewelry to figures and everyday items found all over Colombia. The museum showcases pieces of gold from different communities around Colombia and each piece displays the history of the area and tribes who inhabited it. 

The Gold Museum is my favourite museum in the city because it has such unique pieces on display and highlights major parts of Colombian history. 

Other Things To See in Bogotá:

  • Visit A Fruit Vendor
  • Have A Picnic Or Relax In Parque Virrey
  • Botanical Gardens Of Bogotá 
  • Lake Guatavita
  • Nemocon Salt Mine
  • Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá
  • Dance Salsa
  • Parque Simon Bolivar
  • Andino Mall 
  • Museo Botero 
  • National Museum of Colombia
  • Paloquemao Market
  • Casa De Narino
  • Quebrada La Vieja – Hike

Where To Stay In Bogotá

My favourite place to stay in Bogotá is Hotel B3 Virrey . This hotel is not 5-star luxury but it is clean, rooms are spacious, and it is in a great location. B3 Virrey is located next to Parque Virrey which is a lively park that has events year-round from food shows, weekly yoga in the park, on Sunday they have exercise classes and stalls. 

Parque Virrey is located on the edge of Chapinero and Chico and is within 5 minute walking distance of Calle 85. Calle 85 is the main street which has shops, supermarkets, restaurants, bars, and is one block from Andino shopping mall. This area has good transportation links and roads to other areas and attractions in the city. 

Other luxury hotel options in this area are:

  • Hotel Sofitel Bogota Victoria Regia
  • Click Clack Hotel
  • Hotel ESTELAR Parque de la 93

If you prefer to be in the heart of the shopping, nightlife and restaurants then you can book a hotel in the Chico area. For those looking for a budget or hostel option then you should look at Chapinero where more affordable accommodations can be found.

For a more detailed guide, be sure to read our dedicated article on the best areas and hotels in Bogota !

Where To Eat In Bogotá

Great cuisine might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Bogotá, but the city has been making a name for itself through Latin America. Bogotá has a number of areas that are well known around the city for having world-class restaurants – Zona G and Zona T.

Here are a few of my favourite restaurants in Bogotá:

  • Villanos-en-Bermudas

Bars & Hangouts In Bogotá

Colombian’s are known for partying, they love to socialise with friends, family, colleagues, either during football matching, the weekend, or even after work in the evenings. For this reason, Bogotá has countless bars and restaurants from rooftop bars, luxury cocktail bars, side corner hidden hole in the wall bars, and street vendors who serve alcohol.   

Here are a few of the best bars in Bogotá:

  • Apache – Click Clack Hotel
  • El Fabuloso – Rooftop Bar in Chapinero
  • Bogota Beer Company – A chain of bars and brewery company in Bogota
  • Andres Carne De Res
  • Armando Records – Three-story concert and nightclub venue on Calle 85
  • Odem – Rooftop Bar

Where To Go From Bogotá

Colombia is slowly becoming a top tourist destination and is appearing on everyone’s travel bucket lists. While many destinations and cities are becoming more popular with tourists the quieter and countryside towns still have a local feel. 

Bogotá is a great stopover city or place to start a trip in Colombia or South America. You should consider visiting other cities in Colombia such as Medellín , Cali, Cartagena , and Santa Marta.

Colombia has Caribbean Islands, a Caribbean coastline, tropical rainforests, an ancient Lost City , Amazon rainforest, desert, Pacific Coastline, whale watching, bird watching, plains, countryside, and more!

Related Article: How To Get The Most Out Of 7 Days In Colombia

What To Know For Visiting Bogotá

Colombia visas.

The typical visa to visit Colombia allows you a free 9 0 day stay depending on your country of nationality. Be sure to check the official Colombian visa website for the latest information.

The currency used in Colombia is the Colombian Peso (COP) . The current exchange rate is approximately 1 USD to 4,000 COP. You can check the latest COP exchange rate on Google.

While travelling, our number one tip is to use a free Charles Schwab Debit Card which gives unlimited worldwide ATM Fee Refunds and the true exchange rate.

Best Tours In Bogotá

Some of the best tours and things to do in Bogotá are:

  • Zipaquira: Half-Day Salt Cathedral Tour
  • Bogotá City Tour with Monserrate Hill
  • Bogotá Capital Street Art Tour

Bogotá’s Chapinero neighbourhood  is our recommended area to stay when visiting the city. We recommend booking your hotels on Booking.com to get the best rate and many hotels offer free cancellation in case your plans change.

Some of our favourite hotels in Bogotá are:

  • Hotel B3 Virrey : Great location and some rooms have a park view, right in the middle of Chapinero within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and bars. 
  • Click Clack Hotel : A beautiful design hotel close to Park 93, within walking distance of restaurants, parks, and has its own rooftop bar. 
  • TRYP by Wyndham Bogotá Usaquén : 2 minutes walk from bars, restaurants, shops, and a weekly Sunday market.

For more information, be sure to read our dedicated article on the best neighborhoods and hotels in Bogota !

AirBnB is also a great option in Bogotá and you can save up to $44 on your first booking with that link!

Best Books About Bogotá

Read more about Colombia before you go! Some of the best books about Bogotá  are:

  • Lonely Planet Colombia (Country Guide)
  • Insight Guides Colombia
  • Short Walks From Bogota: Journeys in the New Colombia

What Power Adapters Do You Need

Colombia uses standard 2 prong Type A or B adapters also commonly used in the United States.

You can buy a universal adapter that will work in any country and has extra ports for USB cables to charge your phone and other devices.

We also always travel with a portable battery pack which is great to keep your phone charged on long journies.

Transportation In Bogotá

  • Public Transportation: Bogotá has an extensive bus system called the TransMilenio which runs from every corner of the city. The TransMilenio can be accessed with a loadable card and is very inexpensive. Be aware the buses and stations can get very crowded at peak times and keep your valuables close. 
  • Rental Cars : It is possible to rent a car at the airport in Bogotá, though driving might be challenging due to bad road congestion, local rules, and specific driving times.
  • Taxis: Uber is not available in Colombia anymore but there are many taxi applications such as Tappsi . Do not catch a taxi from the road, always prebook or organise with the reception at your hotel. 

Travel Insurance

Our top recommended travel insurance companies for Bogotá are:

  • World Nomads : Comprehensive coverage for medical, travel delays, and electronics.
  • SafetyWing : Cheaper monthly coverage primarily for medical.

More Articles About Colombia

  • How To Get The Most Out Of 7 Days In Colombia
  • Ultimate Guide To The Lost City, Colombia
  • 6 Reasons To Sail From Panama To Colombia
  • Where To Stay In Bogota, Colombia: A Guide To The Neighbourhoods & Hotels
  • Where To Stay In Cartagena, Colombia: A Guide To The Neighbourhoods & Hotels

We hope that this article has inspired you to visi t Bogotá . If you have any questions about the destination or have your own travel tips to share please leave these in the comments below.

Do you want to share your own travel tips by guest writing for We Are Travel Girls? Please visit our Contribute page for guidelines and to submit your article.

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We Are Travel Girls Editor Anny Wooldridge  of AnnysAdventures.com Connect with Anny  Instagram  | Twitter | Pinterest  

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Bogota Travel Tips: A Complete Guide to Visiting Bogota, Colombia

If you’re planning a trip to Colombia, then you’re most likely going to be visiting Bogota, the country’s capital city. You’ve probably landed on this post because you’re doing research about the city. If that’s the case, then we hope that you’ll find everything you want to know prior to visiting Bogota in this travel tips post.

This guide aims to answer every question you might have, such as how to get to Bogota and get around the city, where to stay and eat, and how to stay safe and avoid altitude sickness.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission if you click a link and purchase something. Clicking these links won’t cost you anything, but it will help us to keep this site up and running! Learn more about our affiliate policy.

bogota tourist tips

Table of Contents

Introducing Bogota, Colombia

The sprawling city of Bogotá, Distrito Capital (Bogotá, D.C.) is located in the center of Colombia, on a high plateau known as the Bogotá savanna. Situated at around 2,640 meters (8,660 ft) above sea level, it’s considered one of the world’s highest capital cities along with La Paz, Bolivia and Quito, Ecuador.

Before the Spanish arrived, the area was inhabited by the Muisca people and their city was called Bacatá . In 1538, a new city was founded by Spanish conquistador Gonzalo Jiménez de Quesada, who named it  Santa Fé de Bacatá . Later, in 1550, it became the capital of the viceroyalty of New Granada up until 1819. In 1810, the people of the city started to revolt against Spanish rule, but had to continue to contend with Spanish military loyalists until 1819. This was when Simón Bolívar took the city after his victory at the Battle of Boyacá.

In 1821 Bogota was made capital of Gran Colombia, which was a self-proclaimed state that incorporated modern day Colombia, Ecuador, Venezuela and Panama between 1819 and 1830. After this state dissolved, the city stayed the capital of New Granada, which later became the Republic of Colombia. In 2000, the capital’s name was officially changed from ‘Santa Fé de Bogotá’ to ‘Bogotá’. 

Over the past few centuries, Bogota has evolved into one of the most vibrant Latin American cities. It’s the largest city in Colombia and also the fourth most populous city in South America.

bogota tourist tips

Is Bogota Safe to Visit?

Probably one of the biggest questions you’ll have before visiting Bogota will be, is it safe?

Unfortunately, the answer to that will be different depending on who you ask and their experience when visiting the capital.

Bogota is the biggest city in Colombia and, just like any big city in the world, that also means crime is more prevalent. We’ve heard and read stories about many petty crimes happening in the city. There are also some scary and violent stories on the internet. However, this doesn’t mean that you should skip visiting the capital. Quite the opposite. We think you should definitely spend a few days in Bogota, because there’s a lot of  interesting things to do  there.

Progress has been made on improving safety in recent years and we generally felt safe during our visit. However, it’s good to be aware of a few things prior to your trip. Below, we’ll list a few health and safety precautions you should bear in mind before and during your travels around Bogota. For more official safety advice please visit the Government’s website .

Have Travel Insurance (The Most Important Bogota Travel Tip)

Often at the end of most people’s travel planning checklists is insurance. However, it is one of the most important things you should be thinking about when planning your travels. Travel insurance will give you protection if you get ill, injured, have things stolen or suffer last-minute cancellations.

Whilst purchasing travel insurance can feel like a waste of money, if something happens during your trip, it’ll quickly become one of the best investments you’ve made.

We never go anywhere without travel insurance, so make sure to buy one prior to your visit too. There are many different companies out there offering varying levels of cover depending on your needs. We personally use  SafetyWing , who offer a high level of coverage at a much more affordable price than most other insurers.

SafetyWing also allows you to sign up even if your trip has already started and you completely forgot about travel insurance in the midst of all your travel planning.

bogota tourist tips

Crime Related Bogota Travel Tips

  • Follow the ‘no dar papaya’ rule, which means don’t make yourself a target for crime.
  • Hailing down taxis is not recommended as some drivers can take you on a ‘Millionaire’s Ride’, or in worst case scenarios sprinkle a drug known as  burundanga somewhere on the back seats, which sedates you and makes it easier for them to access all your money.
  • Don’t walk alone at night. Even La Candelaria can become unsafe after dark, so pre-book a taxi or get an Uber instead.
  • Be extra vigilant in busy plazas, bus terminals and on public transportation. Keep your valuables hidden where possible and wear your backpack on your front just like the locals.
  • Phone snatching is probably the most common type of theft you could encounter. Make sure not to walk out of a building with your phone in your hand. Instead, look where you have to go before you leave a building, so you won’t look lost.
  • Try to avoid using public transportation during rush hours. It’ll be super crowded and you’re more likely to get pickpocketed. We used  money belts  to store our cash and travel cards and always felt more secure with these on.
  • We recommend having a physical SIM card or an eSIM so you have a local phone number with 4G coverage. For an eSIM you can use  Airalo , which is an app that allows you to download a prepaid eSIM to your phone.
  • Make sure to also have a VPN to avoid hackers accessing your personal data when using public WIFI. We use  Surfshark , which is the only VPN that offers one account on unlimited devices. 
  • Research and book your accommodation in safer neighbourhoods, so you don’t have to worry about your belongings when you’re out exploring.
  • Protests can happen on short notice, which can impact roads and transportation. Make sure to check the local news for up-to-date information.

Tourism police are present in the touristy areas of Bogota, and will help with any crime-related issues.

bogota tourist tips

Health and Safety Related Bogota Travel Tips

One thing you want to avoid on your holiday is getting sick, especially in a foreign country where you might not even speak the language. Here are a few of our personal health and safety related tips to reduce the risk of getting ill or injured during your trip. For more official information, check out Colombia-specific health advice from the  National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) .

  • Drinking tap water in many big cities in Colombia is considered safe. However, it can still upset you stomach if you’re not used to it. We recommend using a filtered bottle such as  WaterWell  or buying bigger bottles of water and filling up a reusable water bottle if you’re concerned.
  • Make sure to drink enough water to avoid dehydration and other issues such as altitude sickness. Bogota is located at 2,640 meters (8,660 ft)   above sea level, which means you could get altitude sickness there.
  • Be aware of hailing down taxis which might have a drug, known as  burundanga , sprinkled somewhere around the back seats.
  • Don’t leave your food or drink unattended, especially in bars at night, to avoid getting spiked.
  • There are many pharmacies in Bogota where you can buy medicine, so only bring your prescribed medication and some basic painkillers.
  • Make sure to watch where you’re going otherwise you may end up in a random hole with a twisted ankle. More than anywhere else we’ve been in South America , Colombia is just full of pavements with uncovered manholes.
  • You may want to search the reviews for information on hot showers when booking your accommodation! Hot doesn’t always mean ‘hot’ as you might know it. Bogota is relatively cold because of the altitude and having daily cold showers wasn’t the favourite part of our stay.

bogota tourist tips

How to Avoid Altitude Sickness in Bogota, Colombia?

As highlighted before, Bogota is located at an altitude of about 2,640 m (8,660 ft) above sea level, making it one of the highest capitals in the world. It is important to know that  anyone can develop altitude sickness  and its symptoms can be less or more severe depending on the person. Symptoms of altitude sickness include dehydration, dizziness, headaches, shortness of breath, heavy breathing, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting.

To avoid altitude sickness, we recommend spending at least one or two full days in Bogota. If you can spare more, that’s even better. Luckily, most other places you might have on your Colombia itinerary such as Medellin, Salento, and Cartagena are located much lower.

Try to avoid drinking too much alcohol on your first day and don’t eat too many heavy foods either. It’s very important to stay hydrated to avoid dehydration and headaches. In addition, you can also buy some altitude sickness tablets at one of the pharmacies.

Can You Use English in Bogota?

The official language in Colombia is Spanish. Generally speaking, in big cities like Bogota there very likely will be some people who speak English, especially in the touristy areas. You can definitely book English speaking tours and many of the museums have descriptions in both languages.

However, don’t rely on only using English, especially if you’re planning on using the public transport system or exploring the city without guided tours. We highly recommend learning some basic phrases in Spanish prior to your visit. It’ll come in handy when taking taxis, ordering food in restaurants or asking for directions. Colombians are very friendly and helpful.

Don’t forget to download the Google Translate app, which can be a lifesaver. Practicing a country’s native language is always nice and people will appreciate your efforts.

Top Tip  – You can always ask the person if they speak English first, but come prepared in case they don’t.

Best Time to Visit Bogota

Thanks to Bogota’s location, expect much cooler temperatures all year round compared to other areas such as the Caribbean coast. The average temperature in the city is around 15°C (59°F) during the day, which does drop at night. Probably the driest months to visit are between December and March, although it can still rain in the afternoon.

Bear in mind that December and January are considered the peak holiday months, so the main tourist attractions will be more crowded.

It’s always good to have some extra layers with you and something waterproof before you head out for the day.

bogota tourist tips

How to Get to Bogota?

By Plane  – Obviously the easiest and least time consuming way to reach Bogota is by flying to El Dorado International Airport (BOG). It is South America’s busiest airport. Depending on where you’re coming from, there are many direct flights between Bogota and other major cities in North, South, and Central America, as well as from Europe. You can check where you can fly direct to Bogota from on  this website.

By Bus  – If you’re coming from Ecuador , then you can opt to take an international bus from Quito. The most common border crossing route is via Rumichaca between Ipiales in Colombia and Tulcan in Ecuador. From Ipiales, you can travel to Bogota the next day.

Currently, it’s not advised to cross the land border between Colombia and Venezuela. There’s also no road crossing between Colombia and Panama.

Bus travel between cities in Colombia is a popular and affordable way to travel for both locals and backpackers alike. Travelling by bus will also give you the chance to stop at other places of interest along the way. Our main online sources that helped us to find bus routes and companies operating to and from our next destination were  Busbud.com  and  Rome2Rio .

How to get from Bogota Airport to La Candelaria?

By TransMilenio  – The most affordable way to get from El Dorado airport to La Candelaria is by public transport. Just follow the signs to the free shuttle called Feeder (16-14 Airport ) that takes you to Portal El Dorado station. From there just hop onto the TransMilenio bus that goes towards Universidades. We’ll discuss how to use the city’s buses in the next section.

If you’re arriving at unsociable hours, we recommend opting for an airport taxi that will drop you off directly to your accommodation.

Airport Taxi – An easy way to reach your accommodation is by booking an airport taxi. This is the safest and easiest way if you have a lot of luggage and don’t feel confident taking public transport in an unfamiliar city.

You can pre-book your taxi at the booth outside the arrivals building. You’ll have to tell them your destination and they will calculate your fee.

It’s normally a set fee depending on the distance, but to La Candelaria or Chapinero it can cost between 70,000 – 90,000 COP ($17 – 23 USD).

bogota tourist tips

Best Ways to Move Around Bogota

Whenever we can, we enjoy exploring a new place on foot. You can discover so much more whilst walking than by taking taxis everywhere. La Candelaria – Bogota’s Historic Centre – is definitely walkable and we suggest exploring some of the main sites on foot. It’s also a great way to acclimatise to the high altitude before you head up to Monserrate.

If you’ve just arrived in the city, it’s always a good idea to  join a free walking tour  where you won’t just see, but also learn, a lot about Bogota.

Top Bogota Travel Tip. Many people challenge themselves with a hike up to Monserrate. It is a great activity, but make sure to do this in the morning, as for safety reasons the path is closed after 1PM.

Another fun way to get around Bogota is by bike. We were pleasantly surprised by just how many dedicated cycle lanes there were in this huge city. Hopping on a bike is definitely a much faster way to get around, and we read that hotels and hostels sometimes offer bike rental services to their guests.

If you’re visiting on a Sunday, you’ll also see that many main roads are shut to vehicle traffic so that people can cycle or run along those roads. We absolutely loved this initiative in the big cities across South America.

In case you don’t fancy navigating on your own but do want to get to know the city this way, we recommend joining a bike tour around Bogota .

bogota tourist tips

For places located a bit further away from La Candelaria, we recommend using Bogota’s bus rapid transit system (BRT) called TransMilenio. The buses run in dedicated lanes throughout the city, which makes it a fast and affordable way to get around.

It’s worth noting that the system can feel a bit confusing for someone new to the city. There are 12 different bus lines which are marked from A to M and are also colour coded. You can use this bus map to find the nearest bus stop to where you’re staying in Bogota. Maps with all the bus services on them are also available at every station.

In order to use TransMilenio you’ll need to purchase a bus card, known as a tullave card, first (7,000 COP / $1.75 USD). Then you can top that up with however much credit you need for your bus rides across the city. A one-way journey is normally 2,950 COP ($0.75 USD). For more information on rates and routes you can check out the official website .

There are also some Urban Services, known as the Integrated Public Transport System (SITP), which are blue buses that don’t travel in dedicated lanes. Now, you can use your bus pass on these services too and a one-way journey is slightly cheaper at 2,750 COP ($0.70 USD). If you change buses within 110 minutes of leaving the last one, then a transfer to another SITP bus, or from a TransMilenio to a SITP bus, is free. However, a transfer from a SITP bus to a TransMilenio bus is 200 COP ($0.05USD).

bogota tourist tips

Another way to get around Bogota is by taxi. The safest way to use taxis is to pre-book them through your hotel / hostel staff. This is especially true if you’re heading to the airport. You can also download some apps such as Tapsi, Cabify, or Easy Taxi to book a ride.

Drivers can drive a little aggressively and the traffic in Bogota is a bit mad! Many people use motorbikes to avoid the rush, and they can come out of nowhere from any direction, which can feel quite chaotic when you’re in a car. Seatbelts are also rarely available in the back seat.

It’s always good practice to have a local SIM card so you can follow your route on Google Maps. We always do that to make sure we’re not taken the long-way around or somewhere completely different to where we want to go.

Now, Uber is actually not legal in Colombia, but in big cities such as Bogota it’s well-used. However, never try to take an Uber to the airport. Both you and the Uber driver could get into trouble because it’s monitored there more than anywhere else.

bogota tourist tips

Where to Stay in Bogota?

Bogota is a huge city, so naturally there are going to be districts where it’s not recommended for visitors to stay.

If you’re short on time and want to be close to the main attractions, then the La Candelaria neighbourhood is a great place to base yourself. There are plenty of hotels and hostels in this area depending on your budget and needs. La Candelaria is also filled with cafes, bars and restaurants, and is generally a walkable district. Below are some places you can check out:

  • Selina La Candelaria
  • Arche Noah Boutique Hostel
  • Candelaria House Boutique
  • Botanico Hostel

Located to the north east of Bogota, Chapinero is a trendy and bohemian neighbourhood. Although you won’t find many attractions here, it’s a good base for those who’re in the city for longer, or just want to stay away from the main tourist areas. It also has a great LGBTQ+ community, trendy cafes, restaurants and markets. Find accommodation in Chapinero here.

You can also consider La Zona Rosa , which is known for its nightlife, the financial district for any business-related travel, or Teusaquillo which has a lot of green spaces.

bogota tourist tips

Where to Eat in Bogota?

There are plenty of places to eat in Bogota and you definitely won’t get hungry as you’re exploring the city. Below are some of the favourite spots we ate at during our stay:

  • Quinua y Amaranto is a small restaurant in La Candelaria serving great vegetarian and vegan food. Definitely come here to get a lunch menu.
  • Nativa Arte y Comida Natural  is a vegan restaurant that also offers some nice lunch deals.
  • Mercy Vegan Food is another small vegan restaurant with very friendly staff.
  • Usaquen Market is filled with street food vendors and sit-in restaurants and cafes. The options here are endless.
  • Vegoto Fast Food is another great vegan restaurant in Chapinero serving some great lunch menu’s.
  • Juan Valdez Cafe is basically the Starbucks of Colombia. Whilst it’s a large chain, we definitely enjoyed popping in here for a quick coffee and some pastries.

Do you want to learn more about Colombian cuisine? Then make sure to book a street food tour to have a fantastic gastronomic experience.

  • Things to do in Bogota, Colombia’s capital city
  • Things to do in La Candelaria, Bogota’s Historic Centre
  • How to Visit the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira from Bogota

bogota tourist tips

Final Thoughts on Bogota Travel Tips

Before arriving to the Colombian capital we did a ton of research. Backpacking across Peru and Ecuador, we also met fellow travellers who shared their own experiences in Bogota. We definitely received mixed feedback on the city, so didn’t arrive with very high expectations.

Although we were cautious and stayed vigilant, we definitely enjoyed the city more than we thought we would. We visited most places on foot or by bus and never had an issue. Whilst you can sometimes end up in unfortunate situations through no fault of your own, if you follow the general rules around safety you’ll most likely be fine.

Have you ever been to Bogota before? If so, what was your experience? If not, would you feel more confident spending a few days in the city after reading our guide? Let us know in the comments below.

Now, let your adventure begin,

bogota tourist tips

Our Top Travel Resources

Accommodation:  For hotels we always use  Booking.com  and  Hostelworld  for hostels. We also book longer stays on Airbnb or  Vrbo.

Flights:  To find the best flight prices we always check  Skyscanner ,  Google Flights  or  WayAway.  Then we also check the airlines’ websites too for comparison.

Car Rentals:  We use  Discover Cars  when we want to rent a car as it compares local, national and international companies.

Activities:  If we book organised tours we always check either  GetYourGuide  or  Viator.

Foreign Currency:  Whenever we can we prefer to pay in local currency and for that we always use our  Wise card.   We can easily withdraw money from the ATM or pay by card at most shops and restaurants.

Travel Insurance: We never go anywhere without travel insurance. You never know what will happen on your trip, so good travel insurance like SafetyWing can protect you in case of injury, illness, theft and cancellations.

eSIM and VPN: To get data abroad we use  Airalo which is an app that allows you to download a prepaid eSIM to your phone in over 190 countries. Make sure to have a VPN to avoid hackers accessing your personal data when using public WIFI. We use  Surfshark  which is the only VPN that offers one account on unlimited devices. 

Remember…It all starts with a Pin…

bogota tourist tips

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Things to Do in Bogota, Colombia

Things to Do in Bogota, Colombia

👍Really detailed and useful guide. Thanks.

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10 Unmissable Things to Do in Bogota: Beyond the Beaten Path

bogota tourist tips

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10 Unmissable Things to Do in Bogota: Beyond the Beaten Path

But how do you truly soak in its essence and skip the mundane? We’re about to unveil the secrets. Flora Goodwin , your travel guide for today, has been down the cobbled streets and up the mountain trails to curate the best for you.

  • Bogota received a staggering 2.5 million foreign visitors in 2019.
  • Home to the largest collection of pre-Hispanic gold work in the world.
  • Street art, markets, museums – a cultural trove awaits.

Things to Do in Bogota:

Unearth treasures at the gold museum.

Nestled in the heart of Bogota, the Gold Museum, locally known as “Museo del Oro,” is a shimmering testament to Colombia’s rich pre-Hispanic history. Holding the title for the world’s most extensive collection of gold artifacts, the museum offers more than just glittering jewels and trinkets. Instead, it provides a golden window into the past, revealing stories of ancient civilizations that once thrived on this land.

According to the museum’s official records, it boasts over 55,000 pieces of gold and other precious materials. But beyond the sheer number, it’s the intricate craftsmanship, profound symbolism, and stories of rituals and royalty that capture the visitors’ imagination. Notable displays include the iconic ‘El Dorado’ raft, representing a sacred ceremony of the Muisca people and exquisite masks that were believed to connect the earthly with the divine.

Additionally, the museum is thoughtfully curated into thematic rooms, exploring various aspects of indigenous cultures, from their religious ceremonies to their social structures.

With an aura of mystique enveloping every artifact, a visit here is like traveling back in time, unravelling tales of power, belief, and unparalleled artistry. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or just curious, the Gold Museum offers a golden journey like no other.

Embrace the Street Art Revolution

Anthony Bourdain once beautifully encapsulated Bogota’s soul:

“Bogota is a city that’s full of life and color.”

And nowhere is it more evident than in the La Candelaria neighborhood, a canvas painted with history, rebellion, and vibrant stories .

Tantalize Your Tastebuds with Local Delicacies

From Ajiaco to Arepas, Bogota’s culinary scene is bursting with flavors.

Explore the local markets, and you might even chance upon a secret family recipe!

Hike Up Monserrate for Breathtaking Views

Perched at an astonishing 3,152 meters above sea level, Monserrate is not just a mountain—it’s the guardian of Bogota, watching over the city since time immemorial. This towering landmark is more than just a geographic marvel; it’s deeply interwoven with Bogota’s cultural, spiritual, and daily life.

There are three ways to reach the summit: by funicular, cable car, or on foot. But for those with a penchant for adventure, the hike is the way to go. As you tread the well-marked path, the city’s hustle and bustle fade, replaced by the sounds of nature and crisp mountain air. The ascent, though challenging for some, is interspersed with spots where you can rest, sip on fresh fruit juices sold by local vendors, and soak in the views.

Upon reaching the top, the panorama is simply awe-inspiring. The sprawling urban landscape of Bogota stretches infinitely, framed by distant mountains and illuminated by the golden hues of sunrise or sunset. Besides the vista, the summit also houses the Sanctuary of Monserrate, a pilgrimage site that adds to the mountain’s spiritual allure.

In essence, a hike up Monserrate is not just a physical journey but a transformative experience, offering solace, inspiration, and unparalleled views.

Dive into Literature at The Gabriel Garcia Marquez Cultural Center

Situated in the heart of Bogota, The Gabriel Garcia Marquez Cultural Center stands as a profound homage to Colombia’s literary genius, the Nobel laureate who authored world-renowned novels like “One Hundred Years of Solitude.” Named after the maestro of magical realism, the center is not just a repository of books; it’s a haven for literary enthusiasts.

Designed with open spaces and intricate murals, the ambiance conjures a sense of wonder akin to Garcia Marquez’s narratives. The center houses an extensive library with a vast collection of literary works, from contemporary Colombian writers to international classics. Regular workshops, discussions, and exhibitions keep the essence of storytelling alive and vibrant.

Venturing inside, one can almost sense the spirit of Macondo’s tales wafting through the air. Whether you’re diving into a new book, revisiting Garcia Marquez’s masterpieces, or attending a literary event, the center is a reminder of the timeless magic of stories.

Salsa Your Night Away

Salsa Your Night Away

Discover salsa bars hidden in alleyways, where the rhythm of the music matches the heartbeat of the city.

Explore the Andino Shopping Mall

It’s not just shopping ; it’s an experience.

With high-end brands and local artisan shops, there’s a perfect mix of the modern and traditional.

Delight in the Botero Museum

Located in the historic neighborhood of La Candelaria in Bogota, the Botero Museum stands as an artistic jewel that pays tribute to the whimsical and iconic work of Fernando Botero .

Renowned for his unique style of portraying people and figures in exaggerated, voluminous forms, Botero’s creations are immediately recognizable and profoundly evocative.

The museum boasts an extensive collection of his works, spanning sculptures, paintings, and sketches. But beyond Botero’s contributions, the museum also showcases pieces from his personal collection, including works by masters like Picasso, Renoir, and Monet, reflecting Botero’s passion and discerning eye for art.

The spacious colonial building, which houses the museum, adds to the charm, with its beautiful courtyards providing moments of respite between explorations. As visitors wander through, they’re treated to a visual feast of colors, forms, and emotions, capturing both the essence of Colombian culture and universal human experiences.

A visit to the Botero Museum offers a deep dive into the mind of one of Latin America’s most celebrated artists and a unique perspective on global art history.

Recharge in the Simón Bolívar Park

Amidst the hustle and bustle, find a tranquil escape in Bogota’s largest park. Perfect for picnics, paddle boating, or simply breathing in fresh air.

Explore Teusaquillo: A Blend of History and Modernity

This locality mirrors Bogota’s transition. The blend of colonial houses with urban architecture offers a distinct visual treat.

Is Bogota safe for tourists?

While like any major city, Bogota has its challenges, with standard precautions, tourists can safely enjoy its wonders.

What’s the best time to visit Bogota?

Between December and March, the weather is pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing.

Do locals in Bogota speak English?

While Spanish is predominant, many in tourist areas and younger folks are conversant in English.

What currency is used in Bogota?

The official currency is the Colombian Peso.

Is tap water safe to drink in Bogota?

While the tap water in Bogota is potable, it’s recommended to stick to bottled water for tourists.

Bogota, the beating heart of Colombia, stands as a testament to a tapestry of time, with each thread narrating tales of its rich past, vibrant present, and promising future.

Here, age-old cobblestone streets meet futuristic skyscrapers ; verdant mountain trails give way to bustling urban markets. It’s where colonial-era churches rest under the watchful gaze of contemporary art installations, and time-honored traditions find their voice amidst the city’s youthful energy.

Whether it’s the profound silence atop Monserrate, the golden whispers of history at the Gold Museum, or the lively chatter in local cafés, every aspect of Bogota tells a story. It beckons travelers to not just see, but to feel, to immerse, to resonate with its rhythm.

To visit Bogota is to journey through a living mosaic of experiences, to engage with the myriad faces of its identity, and to be touched by its soul.

It’s a dance between the old and the new , the spiritual and the mundane.

So, as you step onto its grounds, come with an open heart and let the magic of Bogota sweep you off your feet, one captivating moment at a time.

  • Bogota Tourism Institute’s official data, 2019.
  • Gold Museum’s official site.
  • “Parts Unknown” series by Anthony Bourdain , CNN.

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One response to “10 Unmissable Things to Do in Bogota: Beyond the Beaten Path”

Deborah, what a fascinating read! Your point about seasonal shifts impacting moods rings true. I recall one harsh winter when I felt utterly lethargic, a stark contrast to sunny July. Can the biometrics data you mentioned predict these transitions? Furthermore, have you considered exploring light therapy as an intervention? My aunt swears by her therapy lamp during the gloomy winter. Thanks for shedding light (pun intended) on this topic! 🌞💡

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Colombia’s capital, Bogotá, is a city that divides opinion. Its detractors cite poverty, gridlock traffic and crime, as well as depressingly regular rain, and with 7.6 million tightly packed inhabitants and some decidedly drab neighbourhoods, Bogotá rarely elicits love at first sight. Given a day or two, however, most people do fall for this cosmopolitan place with its colonial architecture, numerous restaurants and raucous nightlife. Besides, love it or hate it, odds are you’ll have to pass through it at some stage during your travels in Colombia.

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Bogota drinking and nightlife, eating in bogota, mirador torre colpatria, museo de arte colonial, museo de arte moderno, museo botero, museo del oro, museo histórico policía, museo militar, museo nacional de colombia, plaza de bolívar, plazoleta del chorro de quevedo, quinta de bolívar, the zipaquirá salt cathedral.

Situated on the Sabana de Bogotá, Colombia’s highest plateau at 2600m, the city was founded on August 6, 1538 by Gonzalo Jiménez de Quesada in what was a former citadel belonging to the Muisca king Bacatá, from whom the city’s name is derived. For many years, Bogotá’s population did not expand in step with its political influence, and even in the 1940s the city had just 300,000 inhabitants. That all changed in the second half of the twentieth century, thanks to industrialization and civil war, which prompted a mass exodus of peasants from rural areas who live in dire conditions in the slums on the southern approach to the city – in marked contrast to the affluent neighbourhoods in the northern part of town. Today, Bogotá is South America’s fourth-largest city and home to one of the continent’s most vibrant cultural scenes.

The city’s historic centre, La Candelaria, is full of colourfully painted colonial residences. It begins at Plaza de Bolívar and stretches northward to Avenida Jiménez de Quesada, and is bordered by Cra 10 to the west and the mountains to the east. Downtown Bogotá is the commercial centre, with office buildings and several museums, while North Bogotá, a catch-all term for the wealthier neighbourhoods to the north of the centre, offers stylish shopping districts and enough dining options to suit most palates and wallets.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Colombia, created by local experts

Unforgettable Colombia

7 days  / from 1284 USD

Unforgettable Colombia

Spend your first days in Colombia exploring its capital city Bogotá before heading further to the coast: Cartagena and Santa Marta will be next on the agenda. From wandering the historic city center to hiking the jungles to a virgin beach, Colombia will be an unforgettable trip!

Colombia: music & arts explored

18 days  / from 3664 USD

Colombia: music & arts explored

If you are a lover of the arts than look no further. This trip will bring you culture, art, architecture, music and dance: visit local markets and workshops, admire the graffiti in Bogotá, discover historical city centers and “Fondas” – local bars with exotic decoration and typical Colombian music.

Colombia for nature & adventure lovers

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Colombia for nature & adventure lovers

Do you like adventure and nature? Then you're in luck, this trip combines the best of both. Go horse riding through the Risaralda valley and join a bike tour through Cartagena, visit the beautiful Cocora Valley and discover the Coffee Cultural Landscape. There's something for everyone!

Classic Colombia

12 days  / from 2370 USD

Classic Colombia

Colombia's rich culture and traditions make it a fascinating holiday destination: from the streets of Bogotá move on to the stunning Valle de Cocora and Salento with its remarkable wax palms. From Medellín take a day tour to Guatapé before finalizing your trip in coastal Cartagena.

Exploring Colombia

9 days  / from 1085 USD

Exploring Colombia

Explore three of the most famous Colombian cities Bogota, Medellín and Cartagena during this 9-day trip. Get to know each city and its unique people by diving deep into the culture, history and traditions.

Colombia: Family Adventure

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Colombia: Family Adventure

From city adventures to experiencing a pump in your adrenaline while river rafting and learning more about the different species of birds, monkeys, squirrels, peccary and other species that can be found during an exiting rainforest trail....this truly is a trip packed with family fun activities!

Best Machu Picchu and Galapagos Islands Tour Package

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Best Machu Picchu and Galapagos Islands Tour Package

Explore a trio of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in this Machu Picchu and Galapagos tour package! Your journey begins in Quito, home to the Middle of the World. Afterward, fly on over to the Galapagos Islands the best biodiversity hotspot and following with the sublime Machu Picchu in Peru.

Magnificent Colombian Highlights

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Discover the vibrant beauty of Colombia. From the bustling streets of Bogota to the colorful charm of Cartagena, this trip has it all. Visit the stunning natural wonders of Puerto Narino and explore the vibrant culture of Medellin.

Traditional Colombia

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This 7-day trip lets you explore Bogotá and Cartagena. Be amazed by the Zipaquira's Cathedral of Salt, discover local flavours of the city and learn about Cartagena's culture. To top it off, you will be shown how to dance salsa, the dance of passion.

Fascination Colombia - Medellin & Cartagena

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Fascination Colombia - Medellin & Cartagena

This beautiful trip has you stay in 2 different centers - Medellin and Cartagena. From there, you will explore Colombia's culture and traditions, including Guatape, an authentic cooking class, horseback riding in nature and much more.

Colombia - from the mountains to the beach

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Colombia - from the mountains to the beach

Start your trip in Bogotá, one of the highest capital cities in the world, high up in the Andes mountains range. Spend your days exploring the city and surroundings before heading to the coastal city of Cartagena, with its historic city center and fascinating islands to explore.

Galapagos Cruise and Scuba Diving Adventure

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The Galapagos Islands rank as one of the world’s top dive sites, famous for its incredible underwater wonders, and huge quantities of marine life. This package offers a full-day SCUBA diving tour for guests that wish to experience the impressive diving in Galapagos, all in a safe and fun environment

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Get to know the locals that give Colombia its charms, from entrepreneurs to chefs, to nature lovers and craftswomen. This itinerary will allow you to discover the real Colombia and the people that make it an exciting destination.

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You won't be able to forget Colombia with this adventure-packed trip. Spend your days explore the natural surroundings of Bogotá and the rural landscapes of Villa de Leyva before you head to Pereira where you will bike and hike, only to end your trip chasing waterfalls and rivers in San Gill.

Unforgettable Colombia - cities, coffee and islands

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Explore three main areas in Colombia - the capital Bogotá with a side trip to Villa de Leyva, a beautiful colonial town. Afterwards, proceed to the Coffee Region and learn more about this important product in the local economy. Your final days are spent by the coast - Cartagena & the islands await.

Nature of Colombia

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The Best of the Mashpi Rainforest and Galapagos

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The Best of the Mashpi Rainforest and Galapagos

Begin this journey in one of the first cities to be given the title of UNESCO World Heritage Site – Quito, Ecuador! Afterward, just a few hours away, you’ll head down into the lush cloud forests that surround Quito to experience Mashpi Lodge. You’ll finish this journey with the the Galapagos Islands

A Colombian culinary experience

17 days  / from 4327 USD

A Colombian culinary experience

This trip allows you to discover the real taste of Colombia as it takes you through some of the country's most interesting and exciting cities. Eat like a local in Bogotá, try Colombia's high-quality wines, learn all about the famous coffee beans and try your hand at fishing in La Boquilla.

Colombia Express

6 days  / from 1388 USD

Colombia Express

Pack in the best of Colombia on this express trip to see some of the country's top highlights. Go boho in Bogotá as you explore its old La Candelaria district, see the Salt Cathedral and explore traditional Villa de Leyva. Then it's off to the Caribbean coast to spend time in lovely Cartagena.

Discover Colombia

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Intensely beautiful and seductive, and beset with colourful colonial cities, Colombia's allure is strong. From Bogotá in the backdrop of the misty Andes and back up to Cartagena with its old-world charm, be ready for a warm welcome, surprising finds and a sense of discovery in a special country.

Colombia's Beaches

12 days  / from 4414 USD

Colombia's Beaches

Take a break from the busy cities and make your way down to Colombia's tropical beaches and lush rainforests but not before you get to know some Colombian cultural and traditional food, music and dance in Cartegena.

Adventure Trip in and around Medellin

4 days  / from 1415 USD

Adventure Trip in and around Medellin

An exhilarating 4-day trip to Medellin and Rio Claro, filled with thrilling adventure activities. Day 1 explores the vibrant streets of Medellin on a city tour. Day 2 takes you to the breathtaking Rio Claro for zip-lining, rafting, and exploring the lush rainforests. Return to Medellin on Day 3.

Medellin & Cartagena Medley

5 days  / from 1825 USD

Medellin & Cartagena Medley

Begin in Medellin, where you'll soar through the sky with a thrilling paragliding adventure, taking in panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes. Continue to Cartagena, where you'll indulge in a unique experience at the Mud Volcano, followed by exploring the city's colonial charm.

Most budget accommodation is concentrated in La Candelaria; all accommodation reviewed apart from one hostel is in La Candelaria. All offer free internet and/or wi-fi. Most have private rooms with either shared or private bathrooms; prices here are for doubles with shared bathroom in high season (single rooms are often around two-thirds the price of a double).

Colombia’s capital has no shortage of festivals. The year begins with the Bogotá Feria Taurina (bullfighting festival; Jan–Feb), with matadors from Spain and Mexico flown in for the occasion, while Semana Santa (Holy Week; March or April) brings processions, re-enactments and religious pomp. Every other year around Holy Week the city also hosts the Ibero-American Theater Festival, one of the continent’s biggest festivals of theatre, a fortnight of international performing art and street processions. Perhaps the highlight of the annual calendar is Rock al Parque (Rock in the Park; June/July; rockalparque.com.co), South America’s biggest rock music festival, which lasts three days, before the Festival de Verano (summer festival; Aug) to commemorate Bogotá’s founding and Salsa al Parque (Salsa in the Park; Aug) heats things up. September heralds the Festival de Jazz at the Teatro Libre, followed by the Festival de Cine (film festival; Oct), which includes open-air screenings. Soon after that, the city begins gearing up for a truly South American Christmas.

A couple of blocks south of Plaza de Bolívar, between Cra 7 and 8, is the heavily fortified presidential palace and compound, Casa de Nariño, done in the style of Versailles. This is where President Santos currently lives and works. To take part in a guided visit, book online – look for “Visitas Casa de Nariño” on the website. It’s also possible to watch the ceremonial changing of the guard three times a week – best viewed from the east side of the palace.

The stone-built Casa de Moneda, or mint, is home to the Colección Numismática, its displays chronicling the history of money in Colombia from the barter systems of indigenous communities to the design and production of modern banknotes and coins. Ramps lead to the Colección de Arte, featuring a permanent exhibition of works owned by the Banco de la República. The predominant focus here is on contemporary Colombian artists, but the pieces on display range from seventeenth-century religious art through to modern canvases by twentieth-century painters. Behind the permanent collection is the Museo de Arte, a modern, airy building that houses free, temporary exhibitions of edgy art, photography and challenging installations.

Bogota's Catedral

Looming over the Plaza de Bolívar, Bogotá’s Neoclassical Catedral allegedly stands on the site where the first Mass was celebrated in 1538. Rebuilt over the centuries after several collapses, it was completed in 1823, and while its interior is gold-laced, it’s still relatively austere compared to the capital’s other churches. You’ll find the tomb of Jiménez de Quesada, Bogotá’s founder, in the largest chapel.

In addition to its cathedral, La Candelaria is teeming with some of the best-preserved colonial-era churches and convents found in Latin America:

Museo Iglesia de Santa Clara Overlooking Palacio Nariño, the austere exterior, built in the early part of the seventeenth century and formerly part of the convent of Clarissa nuns, contrasts sharply with its opulent gold-plated interior and Day of the Dead-looking anaemic Christ.

Iglesia de San Francisco Across from the Gold Museum, San Francisco is appropriately noted for its particularly splendid golden altar.

Iglesia de la Concepción The soaring vault here is a fine example of the Moorish-influenced Mudéjar style popular in the sixteenth century.

Iglesia de San Ignacio The largest and most impressive of the colonial-era churches is the domed San Ignacio founded in 1610 as the first Jesuit church in Nueva Grenada.

Rumbear, literally to dance the rumba, is how locals refer to a night’s partying, which invariably involves heavy doses of dancing. Bars and discos in La Candelaria attract a somewhat bohemian, often studenty crowd, while their fluorescent-lit counterparts in the Zona Rosa in North Bogotá (around C 83 and Cra 13) appeal to the city’s beautiful people. Virtually everywhere shuts down at 3am. Take taxis to and from your destination.

While the traditional highlander diet consists of meat and starch, middle-class cachacos prefer the same cosmopolitan cuisine as their counterparts in London or New York. Bogotá has four main restaurant zones, from south to north: gritty La Candelaria; yuppie La Macarena (Cra 4 between calles 23 & 28); gay-friendly Chapinero, also called the “G-Zone” (between calles 58 & 72 and carreras 3 & 7); and upmarket Zona Rosa (concentrated in the “T Zone” at C 82 and Cra 12).

Fantastic 360-degree views can be had from the Mirador Torre Colpatria, Colombia’s tallest skyscraper (162m). Here you can catch a glimpse of the Plaza de Toros La Santamaría, the Moorish-style bullring where the Temporadas Taurinas (bullfights) take place each January and February.

Perched above La Candelaria is the rocky outcrop that is one of Bogotá’s most recognizable landmarks: Cerro de Monserrate. The hilltop, crowned by El Santuario de Monserrate church, offers spectacular views back down on the seemingly endless urban sprawl that is Bogotá. It is easily reached by the frequent teleférico cable car or by funicular railway. Alternatively, it’s a ninety-minute trek up the 1500-step stone path that begins at the base of the hill and leads to the summit 600m above.

Be aware that there are reports of robberies both on the way up the hill and on the walk between the Quinta and its base. The safest (and cheapest) time to go is Sunday, when you’ll be accompanied by thousands of pilgrims hoping for miracles from the church’s dark-skinned Christ.

Set around a beautiful, leafy courtyard, the Museo de Arte Colonial displays fine colonial-era religious and portrait art, as well as sculptures and furniture. A highlight is the exhibition about the life and work of seventeenth-century Baroque painter Gregorio Vásquez de Arce y Ceballos.

The Museo de Arte Moderno has the largest collection of contemporary Colombian art in the country, running the gamut from photography and painting to sculpture and graffiti. Frequently changing exhibits tend to focus on Latin American artists, such as the psychedelic works of Jairo Maldonado. There’s also a bookshop and a cinemateca that projects art films on weekends between 3 and 5pm.

Housed in a fine colonial mansion surrounding a lush courtyard, the Museo Botero contains one of Latin America’s largest collections of modern and Impressionist art, donated in 2000 by Colombia’s most celebrated artist, Fernando Botero. There are no fewer than 123 paintings and sculptures by Medellín-born Botero himself, which rather upset the residents of his home city. Botero’s trademark is the often satirical depiction of plumpness – he claims to find curvy models more attractive than slim ones – and here you will find fatness in all its forms, from a chubby Mother Superior to rotund guerrilla fighters.

Also on display are works by Picasso, Miró, Monet, Renoir and Dalí, as well as a sculpture room featuring works by Henry Moore and Max Ernst.

On the northeastern corner of Parque de Santander, at Cra 6 and C 16, is Bogotá’s must-see Museo del Oro, or Gold Museum. The world’s largest collection of gold ornaments, some 55,000 pieces strong, is spread out over three floors, with extensive displays on Colombia’s indigenous cultures, cosmology and symbolism, techniques used in working with gold, and a region-by-region breakdown of the use of various pieces. Note the recurring symbolism of animals (jaguars, birds, monkeys, human/animal hybrids), the very fine filigree earrings, gold offerings used in rituals and elaborate ornamentation worn by chieftains and those who communed with deities. Free one-hour tours in Spanish and English take place from Tuesday to Saturday at 11am and 4pm, respectively.

Friendly young English-speaking police offer free guided tours of the Museo Histórica Policía, which are really worthwhile just to hear about their experiences. The basement is largely given over to a display on the notorious 499-day police hunt for drug lord Pablo Escobar, and includes his Bernadelli pistol, also known as his “second wife”, and there’s a great view across the city from the roof.

Run by the military, the Museo Militar showcases weaponry through the ages, jaunty military uniforms, model battleships, anti-aircraft guns and other articles relating to the art of war. You need ID to enter.

Inside a fortress-like building, the Museo Nacional de Colombia provides a detailed chronological look at the country’s tumultuous history. The converted jailhouse’s most impressive exhibits relate to the conquest and the origins of the beguiling El Dorado myth that so obsessed Europe. The second floor houses an extensive collection of paintings by modern Colombian artists, including Fernando Botero, while on the third floor, don’t miss the exhibit on Jorge Gaitán, the populist leader assassinated in 1948. Descriptions are in Spanish only, but you can pick up English-language placards.

The heart of La Candelaria is the Plaza de Bolívar, awhirl with street vendors, llamas, pigeons and visitors; in the evenings, street-food carts set up shop by the cathedral. A pigeon-defiled statue of El Libertadór himself stands in the centre of the square, surrounded by monumental buildings in disparate architectural styles spanning more than four centuries, most covered with political graffiti.

On the west side of the cathedral stands the Neoclassical Capitol, where the Congress meets, with its imposing, colonnaded stone facade. On the plaza’s north side is the modern Palacio de Justicia, which was reconstructed in 1999 after the original was damaged during the army’s much-criticized storming of the building in 1985, in response to the M-19 guerrilla takeover, with more than a hundred people killed in the raid.

Every Friday from 5pm, Cra 7 is closed to traffic from Plaza de Bolívar all the way to C 26, and the streets fill with performers, food vendors and cachacos (Bogotá natives). The Septimazo, as it is called, is people-watching at its best.

Nowhere is La Candelaria’s grittier, bohemian side better captured than on the streets surrounding the Plazoleta del Chorro de Quevedo. The tiny plaza is said to be the site of the first Spanish settlement, though the tiled-roof colonial chapel on the southwest corner was built much later.

At the foot of Monserrate is the Quinta de Bolívar, a spacious colonial mansion with beautiful gardens where Simón Bolívar lived sporadically between 1820 and 1829. The informative museum retells the story of Bolívar’s final, desperate days in power before being banished by his political rivals, in a collection that includes a plethora of Bolívar paraphernalia including his military medals, billiard table and bedpan. One object you won’t see here is the sword El Libertadór used to free the continent from four centuries of Spanish rule. It was stolen in 1974 from the collection in the now legendary debut of urban guerrilla group M-19. When they handed in their arsenal in 1991, the sword was quickly shuttled into the vaults of the Banco República.

Some 65km north of Bogotá, the small town of SUESCA is one of Colombia’s top rock-climbing destinations. Adventure-sports enthusiasts of all persuasions will feel at home here, but it is the sandstone cliffs on the town’s doorstep that steal the show, offering traditional and sport rock-climbing with more than six hundred routes including multi-pitch.

The majority of the rock-climbing and adventure-sports operators are located at the entrance to the rocks, a fifteen-minute walk from the town centre.

The most popular day-trip from Bogotá is a visit to the salt cathedral of ZIPAQUIRÁ, some 50km north of the city. Inaugurated in 1995 to great fanfare – having replaced an earlier one that closed because of collapse – the cathedral lies completely underground, topped by a hill that was mined by local Indians even before the Spanish arrived in the seventeenth century. As you descend 180m into the earth, you’ll pass fourteen minimalist chapels built entirely of salt that glow like marble in the soft light, each a different combination of colours. The main nave is a feat of modern engineering, complete with the world’s largest subterranean cross, and the vast salty cavern is impressive, though the changing lighting is very gimmicky.

Above ground, there’s a museum explaining the history of salt extraction; more expensive ticket combinations include museum entry. You must enter the salt cathedral with a guided tour that’s included in the entrance fee, but once inside, you’re free to escape.

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Where to Stay in Bogota – A Neighbourhood Guide

Last Updated August 23, 2022 William Tang

You are here: Home » Accommodations » Where to Stay in Bogota – A Neighbourhood Guide

Full of fashion, history, and culture, Bogota is a Latin American capital city that should rise to the top of everyone’s travel list. For nature lovers, there are many scenic views and hiking opportunities. The food is fantastic. If you love to party, you will adore the nightlife in this city. A comfortable temperature year-round allows special events to happen frequently.

Go ahead and book your flights now because you can find a variety of places to stay in Bogota. Since there are so many different options available, ranging from high-end boutique hotels in Bogota to hotels in Bogota for backpackers, you should use this guide to help you choose places to stay in Bogota.

Read more about South America

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Where to stay in Bogota?

  • For the best prices on accommodations and the most choices,  Booking.com  has been my go-to choice especially once you reach Genius tier and you can find an additional 10-15% off places to stay.

Table of Contents

Looking for something specific in this Bogota neighbourhood guide?  Jump to the section that you’re interested in.

Here's what we're covering:

The Main Bogota Neighborhoods

How to get around, neighborhood map, plan your trip, #1. chapinero, #2. la candelaria, #3. teusaquillo, #4. monserrate, #5. usaquen, frequently asked questions, where to stay in bogota.

There are neighborhoods that you will want to stay in based on your travel style, budget, and your needs.

sky scrapers and apartments buildings in the distance in this where to stay in bogota guide

  • Chapinero – This trendy neighborhood is filled with lots of restaurants and nightclubs to explore.
  • La Candelaria – This neighborhood has plenty of attractions to see, and it also has outstanding restaurants.
  • Teusaquillo – If you love street art, then make sure to spend time looking at the street murals in this neighborhood.
  • Monserrate – While you need to be safety conscious in this neighborhood, it is filled with beautiful scenery and history.
  • Usaquen – This cute neighborhood offers bargain shoppers lots of finds worth hunting for while staying in a Bogota hotel.

Bogota Quick Tips

TransMilenio is the public bus system that runs throughout the city, with most routes having bus service from 5 AM to 11:15 PM. Many residential neighborhoods are serviced by smaller feeder buses that connect to the main TransMilenio lines. You have the option of buying a single-use ticket or getting a Frequent User Card. If you are going to use the bus while staying in the best hotels in Bogota, then the Frequent User Card usually makes sense. Be careful when reading their maps because the east is at the top where north is normally located.

Public buses are another option for getting around the city. While the TransMilenio buses run in their dedicated lane in the middle of the road, these buses use the lanes designed for regular cars. These buses, however, serve many smaller neighborhoods where TransMilenio buses may not be available.

Taxis are also a great way to get from luxury hotels in Bogota to the places that you want to see. Be sure to phone the taxi company to arrange transportation. They will give you the license plate number of the car that is picking you up along with a code. Make sure that the license plate number matches, and that the driver knows the code to help ensure your safety. You will pay for the mileage that the driver takes you, so be sure that the driver correctly sets the meter is set when you get in the taxi. You need to know what type of cab you want because there are regular-car taxis, but many taxis in Bogota are motorbikes.

There is no train or subway system in Bogota, and Uber has an on-again-off-again relationship with this city, so you may want to consider renting a car. Be forewarned that drivers like to go fast in this city.

Get an idea of where the different Bogota neighborhoods lay by studying this map.

There are of course many more neighbourhoods than the ones we’re focusing on but this gives you an idea of how expansive the city is.

bogota colombia neighbourhoods map

Data Roaming – Unless you have an international roaming plan, you may want to consider getting a cheap phone to use in the country. Plug adapters – Just like the United States, Bogota has 110-volt electricity, so an adapter is not necessary. It can be a good idea, however, to pack a three-to-two prong adapter as many sockets only have two-prong options. Currency – Peso Colombiano is used throughout Columbia. Consider exchanging your money at an exchange house located away from the airport for the best rates. Buying a travel guide – Especially if your Spanish needs some work, a good travel guidebook can help you navigate through this city of 8 million people. What to pack – Bogota is a city where you want to dress in layers because the weather can change rapidly. Leave your flip flops at home and bring your most sophisticated clothes.

a delicious dinner of fries, greens, and fried meat in bogota

What’s There and Why Visit

This is a neighborhood full of outstanding restaurants and nightclubs, so foodies will want to make sure to visit. This neighborhood is particularly a great place to start your day as there are many quaint coffeeshops with very knowledgeable staff that you will want to visit on your Bogota vacation, and it can be a great place to end it at one of its nightclubs, including many clubs dedicated to alternative lifestyles. If you are looking for a place to find some solitude, then this neighborhood offers many outstanding opportunities, like following the steep Quebrada La Vieja path or heading to Virrey Park during the migration season, which lasts from October to April.

Suggested Hotels Near Chapinero

hotel scala 68

You’ll find a great restaurant and a gym at this hotel which is located only 5 minutes away from main financial district. If you enjoy group activities then you can join their Sunday City Bike Days. Your stay includes basic amenities such as a flat-screen TV, private bathroom, hairdryer and towels.

CONDO HOTEL

cassa luxury homes

Cassa Luxury Homes

What guests love about this hotel: “Everything. This was our first stop in Colombia and couldn’t have loved this place more. They took care of every need. The facilities were excellent. Everyone from the cleaning staff, the front desk, the breakfast chef, and the management were exceptional in every single way. We will return at the end of our trip. Couldn’t recommend this hotel more! 5 thumbs up!”

bogota tourist tips

Ayenda 1073 Suites Real 97

Get choices when you stay with Ayenda. Choose between their apartments that include a robust amount of amenities like a sofa bed and dining area or choose their hotel rooms that feature a TV, mini-bar, and a desk. Many restaurants and cafes are located within 500 metres.

hotel city flats

Hotel City Flats

This hotel is modern and provides self-catering accommodations with a bar. Each apartment features of beautiful city view and includes laundry facilities, private bathrooms, and shuttle services to the airport.

Things to See Near Chapinero

Parque 93 – This green square is often home to fashion and design expos along with concerts. Virrey Park – See tanagers, hummingbirds, and falcons while jogging at this park. Quebrada La Vieja – This mountain path takes you to the summit of Cerros Orientales, and you need to make reservations at least 24 hours ahead of hiking it. Casa Libreria Wilborada 1047 – This combination bookstore and coffeehouse is set in a 300-year-old building. Museo del Chico – This museum of decorative arts sits in one of the oldest houses in the neighborhood. Iglesia de la Veracruz – Approximately 80 heroes of Columbia’s independence fight are in a vault at this chapel, which has a very ornate interior.

Getting There

Parque 93 – Take the bus to 044A00 and then walk east until reaching Calle 93, turn right and walk to Carrera 12, turn left, and the park will be on your right. Virrey Park – Take the bus to AK15- CL91, and then walk northeast to Carrera 16, turn right and walk until you get to the park on your right. Quebrada La Vieja – Take the bus to AK7-CL3, and the start of the trail will be to your south. Casa Libreria Wilborada 1047 – Walk about five minutes south from the AK 15 – Cl 91 bus stop. Museo del Chico – Take the bus to CL94-KR14 and walk southeast on Calle 94 until you reach Carrera 14, look up because your destination will be on your right after you turn the corner. Iglesia de la Veracruz – Take the bus to Museo del Oro A – 1 and walk about five minutes to the east.

Suggested Activities in Chapinero

Chapinero: Drinks & Coolture Route -Accompany locals as they take you on a cultural tour of the cool places where locals hang out in Chapinero. Layover City Tour in Bogota (Private tour) – This private tour is a perfect way to explore Chapinero if you have a layover at the airport.

looking down a street in bogota with graffiti walls and people walking on cobblestone

This is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Bogota, and it has many historical sites to explore. The amount of history available for viewing makes this a popular neighborhood for visitors to explore, and you may wish that the buildings could talk so that they could tell you their stories.

Along the narrow, colorful streets, you can find many things to do, but one of the best is to start walking and explore the area on foot. The people in this neighborhood are amiable, and they will tell you where to visit, and the amazing places in this neighborhood to eat.

Suggested Hotels Near La Candelaria

hotel casa de la vega

Hotel Casa de la Vega

This classy hotel offers colonial-style accommodations in the historical center of Bogota. Some of the rooms offers a balcony or patio and all rooms include a private bathroom with a shower. Located 300m from Chorro de Quezedo and Luis Angel Arango Library.

bogota tourist tips

Selina La Candelaria Bogotá

Expect a full-service stay at this hotel that includes a restaurant, bar, shared lune and garden. Evenings include some fun entertainment or you can consult their tour desk for other activities to enjoy in the area. The hotel also has Billards, a bike hire and car hire.

Casa Quinta Hostel

Casa Quinta Hostel

“Perfect location: in the middle of la Candelaria, but very quiet. Staff friendly and helpful. They also cleaned and tidied our room thoroughly, even when we just stayed for 2 nights. Breakfast good and we liked the variety. ”

Lloyds Apartasuites Parque 93

Lloyds Apartasuites Parque 93

Find modern furnishings and decor in these spacious apartments that include kitchens and a dining area. All of the apartments include Wi-Fi, complimentary parking and a lovely seating area and fully-equipped kitchen area. Your stay also includes a daily American breakfast with croissants, jams, and fresh fruit.

Things to See Near La Candelaria

Museo Botero – See the works of Fernando Botero, who is one of Columbia’s most famous artists along with other artwork from around the world. Centro Cultural Gabriel García Márquez – This space designed by architect Rogelio Salmona holds numerous cultural events monthly. La Puerta Falsa – This restaurant has been run by the same family since 1816, and they are extremely well known for their tamales. Espacio Odeón – This contemporary art space holds one of the largest alternative art fairs in Latin America every October, but they host many exhibits throughout the year. Museo del Oro – See over 55,000 gold objects from Columbia’s pre-Hispanic cultures. Museo Iglesia Santa Clara – This church that is one of the oldest in Bogota contains artwork from some of Colombia’s most revered Baroque artists. Teatro Colón Bogotá – Opening in 1892, this richly marbled theater is the national theater of Columbia, and performances are often held there. La Casa de Poesía Silva – The former home of writer José Asunción Silva , this house contains many of his works along with his furniture and processions.

Museo Botero – Ride the bus to the Museo del Oro A – 1 stop and walk about nine minutes south. Centro Cultural Gabriel García Márquez – Take the bus to Musco del Oro A – 1, walk along Carrera 6a to Calle 12, then follow Calle 12 to reach your destination in about five minutes. La Puerta Falsa – Get off at the Musco del Oro A-1 bus stop and walk northwest on Avenue Jimenez De Quesada, then turn left on Carrerra 7 and walk until you get to Calle 11. Espacio Odeón – Get off at Musco del Oro A-1 and walk around the block to reach this venue on Carrera 6. Museo del Oro – Get off at San Victorino A – 3 or 6 bus stop and walk southeast until you come to this museum. Museo Iglesia Santa Clara – From Musco del Oro A-1, walk northwest on Avenue Jimenez De Quesada, turn left and walk about 10 minutes to get to this museum. Teatro Colón Bogotá – Head southeast on Carrera 6a, turn left toward Calle 12c, turn left again on Calle 10 to reach this destination in about 14 minutes. La Casa de Poesía Silva – Head southwest on Carrera 6a, and turn left on Calle 12 to reach this house on your left in about six minutes.

Suggested Activities In La Candelaria

Shared Graffiti Tour in La Candelaria Bogotá – This two-hour walking tour shows you the street art in this neighborhood and offers local insights. La Candelaria + Monserrate + Museums Bogotá City Tour 7H – This seven-hour tour features museums, local food tastings, and coffee sampling.

street cart convenience store on residential street of bogota

If you are a sports fan, then you will want to visit the Teusaquillo neighborhood of Bogota as it is home to many infamous sports facilities, including the Olympic swimming facility and the largest soccer stadium. There are opportunities to hear concerts in some of these stadiums throughout the year.

This neighborhood is also home to many cultural attractions and events, with many focusing on Bogota’s wonderful food, like ajiaco, tamales, changua, and arepas. This capital city is known for its great food, and you can find it in many different places within the Teusaquillo neighborhood.

Suggested Hotels Near Teusaquillo

TRYP By Wyndham Bogota Embajada

TRYP By Wyndham Bogota Embajada

“Our stay here was perfect! The staff is absolutely wonderful – they went above and beyond to accommodate us in a room better suited to three people, than the one we had booked. The free breakfast is a large buffet that’s delicious, and their free airport shuttle is a great perk. The rooms were very clean and spacious, and we would all stay here again in a heartbeat!”

Wyndham Bogota

Wyndham Bogota

Each room is air-conditioned and features modern decor and includes a TV, mini-bar, and private bathroom with shower. Take advantage of their fitness center and free Wi-Fi. You will find an on-site bar and a restaurant with international cuisine. There are many choices for delicious restaurants within a short 5 minute walk of the hotel.

Apartamentos 5 Elementos

Apartamentos 5 Elementos

“I loved the location, it is half a block from the 26 transmilenium station. It is then very close to corferias and a 5 minute drive to the shopping center of large station, it also has parking, the reception staff was very friendly, the common areas are nice and the apartment is really very nice, it had a TV, microwave, large fridge. The comfortable bed and the pillows too. in general very well, I would go back without hesitation.”

grand hyatt bogota

Grand Hyatt Bogota

This hotel has many features such as free private parking, a fitness center, and a bar. Take in their gorgeous gardens or enjoy their tasty breakfast buffet. Relax and unwind at their 4-star accommodations that include a sauna and a terrace, or visit their on-site pool, hairdresser, or business center.

Things to See Near Teusaquillo

Estadio el Campín – Since 1938, fans have been enjoying soccer matches at this stadium along with concerts given by top-name entertainers. Biblioteca Virgilio Barco – This circular library that contains more than 150,000 books was designed by Rogelio Salmona to set naturally into the area. Parque Simón Bolívar – Rent paddleboats, listen to concerts, ride the rides at the amusement park, visit the children’s museum, go for a swim in the three swimming pools, and do many other activities at this 400-hectare park. Ciudad Universitaria – Seventeen buildings on this college campus, which is the largest in Columbia, have been declared national monuments, including buildings designed by Leopold Rother, Erik Lange, and Ernesto Blumenthal. Teatro Ditirambo – Watch theatrical performances or join in the fun of educational workshops at this theater.

Estadio el Campín – Take the bus to AC 53 – Kr 28 bus station, then walk north about 650 meters to this stadium. Biblioteca Virgilio Barco – From the AC53 – Kr 28 bus station walk southwest to Carrera 27, turn left onto Calle 53, turn right on Carrera 28, turn left on Carrera 53b bis, turn right on Avenue Cdad. de Quito, and the library will be on your right. Parque Simón Bolívar – Ride the bus to the AC 53 Kr 28 bus stop, and you are at the southeast corner of this park. Ciudad Universitaria – Take the bus to the AK 50 – AC 26 bus stop and walk two minutes to the northwest. Teatro Ditirambo – Take the bus to the Avinda Calle 45 bus stop and walk one minute to the northeast.

Suggested Activities In Teusaquillo

Private Architecture Tour in Bogotá – Tickets, snacks, transportation, and guide- Learn more about this city’s architecture on this four-to-six-hour tour with a private guide. Tourebikes: Taste the city flavors on electric bikes – This three-hour tour on electric bikes allows you to sample pandebonos and salpicón.

beautiful mansion building in monserrate

What’s There And Why Visit

Even in pre-Columbian times, many tourists made a pilgrimage to this mountain that they considered sacred. Today, tourists can still hike up the mountain, or they can take the aerial tramway or funicular. The top of this mountain is a trendy spot to watch the sunset, and you can dine in restaurants. Pilgrims created the sanctuary at the top of the mountain, with each carrying a brick to the top of the mountain, and it contains the effigy of the fallen Christ, but the effigy is carried down the mountain in troubled times.

Suggested Hotels Near Monserrate

Hotel bh Bicentenario

Hotel bh Bicentenario

Located very close to the La Candelaria historic area and the financial center. This hotel offers free Wi-Fi, a restaurant on-site, a business center, and laundry services for your convenience. Free parking is a great perk as well as how close it is to El Dorado airport.

mika suites

Mika Suites

“Amazing place! Relaxed atmosphere, very kind, friendly and attentive staff, nice buffet breakfast including eggs to order. The rooms are spotless and the bed is very comfortable (love the 2 pillows per person!!!). Very easy to take a taxi or Uber wherever you need to go. We didn’t use the public transportation, but I’m sure that is fine too. They seem to go everywhere. We liked Mika Suites so much, we are staying there again when we go back to Bogota before we fly home.”

bogota tourist tips

GHL Hotel Tequendama Bogotá

This mid-range hotel feels luxurious with it’s spa facilities, indoor swimming pool, and a great selection of gourmet food options. The decor is beautiful and you can enjoy a buffet breakfast each morning. There is also an on-site cafe that serves pastries and hot beverages.

JW Marriott Hotel Bogotá

JW Marriott Hotel Bogotá

Take in the celebrity style treatment with this hotel’s deluxe rooms, four restaurants, a bar, fitness center, AND a spa! Each room features bedding fit for a king with down feather mattresses a 300-thread count linen. You can take in Asian fusion food or choose fresh ingredients and build your own dishes at The Market Restaurant.

Things to See Near Monserrate

Monserrate Sanctuary – Built between 1650 and 1657, mass is celebrated at this Catholic shrine three times daily. Monserrate Aerial Tramway – This tramway takes four minutes to go 2,690 feet in the air to the mountain’s summit. Monserrate Funicular – Since 1923, people have been riding the funicular up and down the mountain. Monserrate Hike – This hike to the mountain top gains 1,968 feet in elevation over the course of 1.5 miles.

Monserrate Sanctuary – You can take the aerial tramway, the funicular or hike up the mountain. Monserrate Aerial Tramway – Take the bus to the Taquilla Monserrate Teleférico bus stop and walk southwest until you reach your destination in about two minutes. Monserrate Funicular – Take the bus to the Taquilla Monserrate Teleférico and walk southwest until you reach your destination in about two minutes. Monserrate Hike – Take the bus to the Taquila Monserate Teleferico, and you will see the beginning of the paved path to the southwest in about two minutes.

Suggested Activities in Monserrate

Shared Monserrate Tour – Sample many traditional Colombian foods and learn the important role that Catholicism plays in Columbia’s culture while touring the Monserrate Sanctuary. Horseback Riding from Guadalupe to Monserrate – Join this horseback tour on the Guadalupe Mountain and ride through the forest to Monserrate.

white and green old train station with a train out from and hanging flowers in usaquen

This upper-middle-class neighborhood is one of the oldest in Bogota, and while you may not find any cheap hotels in Bogota there, it boasts many old buildings that have been given a new purpose, like shopping, restaurants, and nightclubs. You can also ride a historic train, visit a flea market and shop at antique stores.

There are many fun things to do in this neighborhood, including playing golf, listening to storytellers, and watching street performers, so it is definitely one to consider when looking for where to stay in Bogota. Still, the neighborhood also has large green spaces that make this a great place to escape from the hustle of other parts of the city.

Suggested Hotels Near Usaquen

Hotel Le Manoir Bogotá

Hotel Le Manoir Bogotá

“The breakfast buffet was nice and always fresh, staff very diligent and welcoming, clean and tidy always, very close to lots of nice places for dinner and shopping. Easy access and very nice location. Will recommend to any fellow traveller who visits Bogota”

ECO-FRIENDLY

Biohotel Organic Suites

Biohotel Organic Suites

You won’t be surprised to find delicious organic foot at the Green Peace Restaurant in this hotel. Take the time to unwind in their gardens or unwind at their in-house spa. This hotel is only 701m from the Unicentro Shopping Mall and roughly 45 minutes from El Dorado Airport.

bogota tourist tips

Apartaestudios Los Andes

These apartments feel like home, but better, with their self-catering accommodations, free Wi-Fi, and a delicious American breakfast. The rooms feature a private bathroom, cable, maid service and some rooms have kitchens. Laundry and dry cleaning services can be arranged.

Dann Carlton Bogota

Dann Carlton Bogota

Located in a formidable, and beautiful, building in upscale northern Bogota. This hotel features a fitness center, and restaurants. Each room is elegantly decorated with wood accents and stylish furniture. You can request a massage session and guests love the hotel sauna.

Usaquén Flea Market – This flea market that is only open on Sundays consists of two flea markets that are set up next to each other with vendors selling arts, crafts, and local produce. Hacienda Santa Barbara – This shopping plaza is built around a casona home that was originally constructed in 1847. Cinema Paraiso – See independent and foreign films at this small theater. Tren de la Sabana – Take a historical train pulled by a steam or diesel locomotive on the weekends to see Zipaquira`s Salt Cathedral, The Nemocon`s Mine of Salt and Cajica. Church of Santa Bárbara de Usaquén – See the artwork of XVII Century School of Colombian art movement painted on the walls of this Catholic church. Country Club De Bogota – This 36-hole, private golf course is home to the Professional Golf Association’s Bogota Championship.

Usaquén Flea Market – Take the bus to the AK7 –Cl123 bus stop, and then walk southwest for about six minutes along Carrera 7. Hacienda Santa Barbara – Take the bus to the AK 7 – Cl 117 bus stop and walk south until you reach Carrera 6, turn left and walk a short distance to this location on your right. Cinema Paraiso – Take the bus to the OAK 7-Cl 123 bus stop, then walk along Carrera 7 until you reach Calle 120a, turn left and the theater will be on your right. Tren de la Sabana – Take the bus to AK 7 – Cl 110 bus station, and then walk northwest along Calle 110 until you reach your destination in about 10 minutes. Church of Santa Bárbara de Usaquén – Take the bus to the AK 7 – Cl 123 bus stop, then walk along Carrera 7, turn left on Calle 120a and right on Carrera 6 to reach your destination in about seven minutes. Country Club De Bogota – Take the bus to the Cl 114 and CRA 14 bus stop, walk west to AK 15, then walk north about 11 minutes until you reach the country club.

Suggested Activities in Usaquén

3 Amazing Destinations in Bogota – You choose up to three locations in Bogota to visit, and your driver takes you there, serves as your tour guide, and stops along the way for photo opportunities. Colombian Handicrafts Private Shopping Tour in Bogota – Learn about arts and crafts in Columbia with a personal guide who will help you make selections and offers discounts in some shops.

It’s one of the colder climates in Colombia with temperatures ranging between 12 °C and 17 °C.

The Colombian peso is the country’s legal tender. It is generally identified with the abbreviation COP, and you’ll find that the official peso symbol ($) is used locally.

Since 2010, the National Network has been managed by the National Tourism Fund (Fontur) and has facilities in a wide range of regions across the country. The main cities like Bogotá and Medellín have multiple  Tourist Information Points (TIPS)  dotted throughout their districts.

What you should read next

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  • Where To Stay In Vienna, Austria – A Guide To The Best Hotels and Neighborhoods
  • Best Hotels In Hong Kong To Stay – A Guide To Hotels and Neighbourhoods

About William Tang

William Tang is the Chief of Awesome behind the award-winning Going Awesome Places which is focused on outdoor adventure, and experiential travel. His true passion lies in telling stories, inspiring photography and videos, and writing detailed itineraries and travel guides. He is a member of Travel Media Association of Canada (TMAC), Society of American Travel Writers (SATW), Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), and Travel Massive. He has also been featured in publications such as Reader's Digest, Entrepreneur, Men's Journal, and Haute Living. Make sure to learn more about William Tang to find out his story and how Going Awesome Places started.

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I've been a tour guide in Rome for 16 years. Here are 9 of the biggest mistakes tourists make.

  • Tourists visiting Rome often make mistakes that detract from their experience in the city.
  • I've worked as a tour guide here for 16 years, and many people forget to plan their trip in advance.
  • Disregarding dress codes, ignoring local customs, and booking short trips can also be mistakes.

Insider Today

My husband and I have 25 and 16 years, respectively, of guiding experience in Rome. He's a licensed guide who leads cultural, archeological, and art tours, and I am a certified sommelier who leads food and wine tours.

When visiting Rome , tourists often make several common mistakes that can detract from their experience in the Eternal City — ranging from simple cultural misunderstandings to more serious breaches of etiquette.

My husband and I often discuss some of the more frustrating things we wish guests knew before they visited. Here are the top mistakes we've seen.

Disregarding dress codes

Tourists often fail to adhere to dress codes when visiting religious sites, such as St. Peter's Basilica or the Sistine Chapel.

Wearing revealing clothing can be seen as disrespectful in these sacred spaces, so make sure to look up guidelines beforehand.

Typically, at least the knees and shoulders must be covered.

Ignoring local customs  

Many visitors overlook the importance of local customs , such as greeting people with a polite "Buongiorno" in the morning and "Buonasera" in the evening.

Small gestures like this can go a long way in showing respect for Roman culture.

Not tipping their servers

Tipping is less customary in Italy than in some other countries, and it's not expected or mandatory. But leaving a few euros per person on top of the bill is considered polite in Rome.

I don't know why so many guidebooks and articles state that the "coperto" is a service charge that goes to the server. This is untrue — it covers things like the bread, olive oil, and vinegar for the restaurant.

But if you see the word "servizio" on the receipt, that money goes to the server.

Booking too short of a trip

Rome is more than just the Colosseum, Sistine Chapel, and Trevi Fountain — it deserves time. It's the Eternal City with over 2 millennia of history to get through, after all.

Confining yourself to the most heavily touristed areas usually means missing out on some authentic local experiences off the beaten path.

Many tourists are only in Rome for two or three days, which doesn't give them much time to visit lesser-known sites like Ostia Antia or contemporary museums like Galleria Nazionale d'Arte Moderna.

As we say in Rome, "Roma, non basta una vita" ("In Rome, a lifetime is not enough"). I know people's holidays are limited, but instead of trying to visit four Italian cities in a week , maybe slow down and give Rome at least five days.

Relying solely on English

English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but learning some basic Italian phrases or using a translation app can significantly enhance your interactions with locals.

It's also a way to demonstrate respect for the host culture.

Not planning ahead

Visitors often need to pay more attention to the time and effort required to visit Rome's most popular attractions if they want to avoid long lines and frustration.

Tours of the Colosseum or Vatican often sell out months in advance.

One of my favorite websites for up-to-date advice for travelers planning trips to Rome is Rome Wise . You can find information on anything from the best cocktail bars and hotels to art exhibits and even general helpful information.

Visiting at the wrong time

If you're deciding when to come, most guidebooks and travel sites advise people to skip Rome in August.

But I think July is more unbearably hot and crowded — August is much cooler. Since more Italian people tend to be on holiday in August, it can also be less crowded.

Disrespecting art and architecture

Tourists occasionally disregard the rules against touching artwork, leaning on ancient structures, or sitting on historic fountains, which can damage these important cultural treasures.

You don't want to end up on the local news as a tourist who took a piece of marble from the Roman Forum or left graffiti on the Colosseum.

Missing out on the local cuisine

Tourists often stick to familiar dishes or opt for restaurants in high-traffic areas — missing out on the incredible diversity of Roman cuisine and the charm of neighborhood trattorias (small restaurants).

Italian food is seasonal. Rome might be famous for artichokes, but if you're eating them in June, they probably aren't local (the vegetable is only in season from February until April).

I recommend following advice from the local food experts at Casa Mia . They have excellent information on seasonal cuisine, and they offer food and wine tours.

Watch: See Rome at its best — through the eyes of a local

bogota tourist tips

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Travel Advisers: When to Let a Professional Plan Your Trip

An illustration of a person sitting on a folded-out map with books, papers and coffee laid out around the area. That person is inside the head of a beige-colored person wearing a teal telephone headset, and drawings of the Eiffel Tower, a compass, a signpost, a jet plane, mountains and other travel imagery are all around the head.

By Julie Weed

Decades ago, your vacation most likely began with a visit to a travel agent, who relied on a combination of expertise and connections to find the best deals on plane tickets, hotels, tours and more. Since then, the internet has turned most of us into our own travel agents, and artificial intelligence software is making research and self-booking even easier. But for some trips, that special insider knowledge can still make a big difference.

So when should you hire a professional, and how does it all work? Here are some tips.

Why should I consider a travel adviser?

It’s easy for a traveler to do the research for a standard trip, said Chris Anderson, a professor at the Cornell University School of Hotel Administration, “so they should look for a specialist for the type of tour they are looking for, say a bike trip in Ireland, who can really add value.”

The insider knowledge offered by a travel adviser can add the most value to trips that have multicity itineraries, involve a wide age range of travelers , are very significant (like an anniversary vacation) or are to destinations you are unfamiliar with, said Gary R. Johnson, who has run the travel agency Woodside Travel in Seattle for nearly 30 years. An adviser could help you decide, for instance, in which order to visit European cities based on local events and transportation options.

What can an adviser give me that a booking site can’t?

Travel advisers can help you research the best destinations, lodging, or activities for your particular group and travel goals, offering up specific advice that might be hard or time-consuming to find yourself. Those specializing in cruises might know which cabin to choose if you are prone to seasickness, while a safari planner could help you decide which park would be best for bird-watching or seeing specific animals, like rhinos.

Travel advisers typically have relationships with tour companies, hotels and cruise lines, sometimes through networks. Those connections can allow advisers to offer extra perks such as late checkout, free breakfast, airport transfers, a welcome basket or a credit to spend on a cruise ship.

“A good travel agent will be a better steward of your travel budget than you are,” said Guy Rubin, managing director of Imperial Tours , which arranges travel in China.

When bad weather or other circumstances disrupt your itinerary, travel advisers often have direct lines of communication with providers and can do the work of rebooking and changing plans, saving you time and stress.

OK, let’s say I need help. How do I find an adviser?

Networks like the American Society of Travel Advisors and Travel Leaders have websites that can help you start your search for a travel adviser by answering a few questions about your desired trip. Once you have a handful to choose from, get on the phone with them to talk about what they might do for you, how they charge and the level of service you can expect. Special trips can cost thousands of dollars, so it’s worth investing time up front, Mr. Rubin said.

Make sure to read over the travel agent’s reviews and any user-generated social content that mentions them, Dr. Anderson said. “If there is no external validation, that’s a red flag.”

How do advisers get paid, and how much will it cost me?

Advisers receive commission from suppliers, typically 10 to 15 percent of the price, when selling cruises, lodging and tours. They also sometimes charge travelers a planning fee, from a few hundred dollars, which may be credited to the final bill if the booking is completed, all the way up to tens of thousands of dollars annually for a luxury concierge travel planner they can call on all year. Mr. Johnson said that he charges a planning fee the first time he works with customers. If they return for other trips, he waives the fee.

Advisers may be tempted to sell you something that will earn them a higher commission, Dr. Anderson said. But, he points out, the same is true for the large online services, which promote hotels that pay them larger commissions. Travelers can ask advisers about specific commissions they receive or how they are affiliated with the products they are recommending, he said.

Sometimes a local tour company will package transportation, lodging and experiences for an adviser, who tacks on a percentage before passing it along to a client. But a bill that is not itemized can make it harder to make trade-offs — between a more expensive hotel and a special experience, for example. If pricing transparency is important to you, discuss it with the adviser up front.

How are A.I. and other technologies affecting travel advisers?

While new technologies are allowing do-it-yourselfers to create their own itineraries online based on individual preferences, and to type questions directly into travel websites, advisers are also taking advantage of those technologies to improve their services. Joan Roca, chief executive of the upscale travel planning company Essentialist said his team “uses technology to enhance the human touch,” employing artificial intelligence to choose options from a database of travel offerings selected by a human team. If a couple wants to take an after-dinner stroll, for example, Essentialist’s app will offer up ideas of where to go, based on what part of the city the travelers are in and conversations they’ve had with their travel adviser.

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

Italy :  Spend 36 hours in Florence , seeking out its lesser-known pockets.

Southern California :  Skip the freeways to explore the back roads between Los Angeles and Los Olivos , a 100-mile route that meanders through mountains, canyons and star-studded enclaves.

Mongolia : Some young people, searching for less curated travel experiences, are flocking to the open spaces of this East Asian nation .

Romania :  Timisoara  may be the most noteworthy city you’ve probably never heard of , offering just enough for visitors to fill two or three days.

India: A writer fulfilled a lifelong dream of visiting Darjeeling, in the Himalayan foothills , taking in the tea gardens and riding a train through the hills.

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

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Guardian reporter Richard Luscombe at the News Cafe in Miami Beach, Florida.

A local’s guide to Miami: What to eat, see and do in three days

The best spots for shopping, sightseeing and exploring the art deco facades of South Beach – plus an Everglades excursion (and ‘gator bites’ snack)

S ure, you can come to Miami just to look at it. There’s plenty of eye candy, from the art deco facades of South Beach to the colorful murals of Wynwood and the natural beauty of the Florida Everglades. And how could we forget the travel brochure-blue warm waters of the Atlantic.

But if there’s one thing I’ve learned from two decades living in what locals call the Magic City, it’s that Miami is a place that needs to be lived in. It wants to be heard. It craves to be experienced. Thanks to the Latin American culture and cuisine that courses through its veins, Miami pulses with a vibrancy like no other city in North America.

Whether you’re an early bird or a night owl won’t affect your enjoyment – there’s plenty for all. What really matters is that you’re open to soaking in the vibe, ready for your senses to be stoked and your mood to be mellowed. Without further ado, my itinerary for friends and strangers alike.

Day 1: Dominoes and downtown

A giant-sized rooster in the colors of the Cuban flag on Calle Ocho in Miami’s Little Havana.

We’re starting our day with a stroll through the Cuban neighborhood of Little Havana, along Calle Ocho. This is where the first refugees from Fidel Castro’s 1959 communist revolution in Cuba made their home. We’ll grab a breakfast pastelito (a sweet or savory Cuban puff pastry) and a cafecito (espresso coffee) from a street kiosk as we amble towards Máximo Gómez Park , where we’ll find elderly Cuban exiles engaged in friendly banter over a game or three of dominoes. For lunch, there’s nothing to beat a roasted pork, cheese and pickle Cuban sandwich from the iconic Cafe Versailles .

The newly gentrified Wynwood district, about 15 miles north of downtown, is on tap for the afternoon. Until recently, the area was a sprawl of rundown warehouses. Investment in the strongly Puerto Rican neighborhood has sparked a transformation into a corner of Miami where craft breweries, fashion houses, art galleries and dance halls abound. At its heart is Wynwood Walls , billed as Miami’s original street art museum, with a plethora of giant murals painted by world-famous artists.

Murals in the Wynwood neighborhood in Miami.

But we’re saving some money for shopping at the waterfront Bayside Marketplace , and a sunset cruise to millionaire’s row aboard the Island Queen. We might not share the wealth of Miami’s celebrated glitterati, but we can lord it above them with panoramic views of the city from the Skyviews ferris wheel , before cocktails and supper with live entertainment at Pier 5, Bayside’s new live music venue.

Brickell, Miami’s financial center, on the Biscayne Bay.

Day 2: Outdoor yoga and opulent architecture

We partied hard and late, so we’re recharging this morning with some outdoor yoga on the scenic grounds of one of Miami’s most magnificent and historic buildings, the Vizcaya mansion . More than a century old, the Mediterranean revival-style building and its beautiful gardens were crafted for James Deering, an agricultural visionary whose descendants sold the estate to Miami-Dade county in the 1950s.

The Fairchild tropical botanic garden in Coral Gables, Florida.

As beautiful as Vizcaya’s gardens are, they can’t hold a torch to the majesty of the nearby Fairchild tropical botanic garden in Coral Gables, where we’re walking this afternoon. A full 83 acres of tropical lushness, nowhere else in the city showcases its range of flora and fauna, and with special events most weekends from chocolate celebrations to mango festivals, chances are you’ll find something to nourish your roots.

It was only a matter of time. We’re finally heading for South Beach. It’s the art deco capital of the world, and you can bag an educational walking tour with the knowledgeable guides from the Miami Design Preservation League.

Afterwards, you’ll find us people-watching at the News Cafe , one of the best street-side eateries on Ocean Drive, where the clientele is as diverse and eclectic as its location. A plate of truffle fries makes for tasty light pickings, or grab some mahi-mahi tacos if you’re hungry.

The art deco district in Miami Beach.

If you’re wondering where we’re staying, you’ll find us at the historic Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables, a national historic landmark dating to 1926, where the opulent grand pool was a favorite of numerous Hollywood movie stars of the mid-20th century, alongside quintessential personifications of American wealth such as the Roosevelts and Vanderbilts.

Day 3: Taste of the wetlands

You’ve seen airboats skimming the swamps of the Florida Everglades in the opening credits of CSI Miami . Today we’re going out searching for alligators. It’s a short drive west along US41 to where multiple airboat operators ply their trade, with Coopertown proclaiming itself the original. It’s Florida’s smallest town, with a population of eight, but it’s large in hospitality, and Coopertown Airboats’ fleet of seven vessels will take groups small and large on a quest for critters deep into the wetlands.

The Coopertown Everglades airboat tour.

Yes, it can get cheesy. They’ll try to sell you a photo with a baby alligator, and you can chow down on “gator bites”, nuggets of alligator tail, when you’re back on dry land. But there’s no more signature experience or more fitting way to mark a short stay in Miami than venturing into the wilderness known as one of the world’s last wild frontiers.

And with that, you’ll be leaving the Magic City with tired feet, a host of rich memories and a yearning to see much more. You’ll be coming back for another look before long.

Richard Luscombe is a general assignment reporter for the Guardian US, based in Miami. A certified python trapper (with zero catches to his name), he enjoys spending time in the Florida Everglades and watching big space rockets launch from Cape Canaveral

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Airbnb bans indoor security cameras in rentals

Outdoor security cameras will still be allowed in some cases.

bogota tourist tips

Airbnb announced Monday that it’s banning the use of security cameras inside rentals.

Before this change, the platform allowed owners to have cameras in common areas, such as living rooms, kitchens and hallways, as long as they were disclosed on the listing. Security cameras were not allowed in areas such as bedrooms or bathrooms.

The change will go into effect April 30, Airbnb said in a blog post. The company said the majority of rentals on its platform do not report having a security camera, and the change is expected to affect a small number of rentals.

“Our goal was to create new, clear rules that provide our community with greater clarity about what to expect on Airbnb. These changes were made in consultation with our guests, Hosts and privacy experts, and we’ll continue to seek feedback to help ensure our policies work for our global community,” Juniper Downs, Airbnb’s head of community policy and partnerships, said in the post.

Airbnb will continue to allow hosts to use security cameras and devices in outdoor spaces, such as ring cameras or noise decibel monitors, “to monitor security for their home and get ahead of issues like unauthorized parties,” the company said. Outdoor cameras will continue to be prohibited in outdoor spaces where there’s an expectation of privacy, such as outdoor showers or saunas.

Hosts must disclose the use of decibel monitors, and they will only be allowed in common areas, the company said.

Short-term rental competitor Vrbo said in a statement Monday that it has prohibited indoor cameras in rentals since 2022, but does allow outdoor cameras in common spaces if they are disclosed. The company said it requires additional disclosures if the outdoor cameras also capture pools.

“We are glad to see our competitor on board with what we consider a base level of privacy for customers,” Vrbo said in a statement.

Travelers have reported horrifying incidents of hidden cameras in short-term rentals over the years, and social media content creators have gone viral with tips on how to find them.

Airbnb settled a civil suit in 2015 with a customer who found hidden cameras in a California rental. In 2019, police in South Korea discovered cameras inside TV boxes, wall outlets and hair-dryer stands that had live-streamed approximately 1,600 guests in their hotel rooms. Later that year, a couple filed a lawsuit against a San Diego Airbnb owner who allegedly hid cameras inside small holes of the bathroom and the bedroom ceiling. Last year, a Texas couple sued their Maryland host after finding cameras in the bedroom during their stay in 2022.

Joe LaSorsa, chief executive of LaSorsa and Associates, a security firm, said Airbnb’s new rule is clear and straightforward, with no exceptions or loopholes.

He said the rule could possibly lead to an uptick in damage caused by guests. Since hosts will no longer be able to keep on eye on their visitors, they might strip their properties of valuables and amenities at risk of being broken or stolen.

For guests, the rule should allay their privacy concerns. However, LaSorsa said if guests are suspicious of hidden cameras, they should look for a WiFi signal being emitted from objects not normally associated with the Internet, such as alarm clocks and smoke detectors.

He also recommends shining a flashlight around the space. The light will pick up a camera lens. “Usually you can see some type of aperture or lens opening where you can actually see the lens itself. And, obviously that’s indicative of a camera,” he said.

Natalie Compton and Andrea Sachs contributed to this report.

More travel news

How we travel now: More people are taking booze-free trips — and airlines and hotels are taking note. Some couples are ditching the traditional honeymoon for a “buddymoon” with their pals. Interested? Here are the best tools for making a group trip work.

Bad behavior: Entitled tourists are running amok, defacing the Colosseum , getting rowdy in Bali and messing with wild animals in national parks. Some destinations are fighting back with public awareness campaigns — or just by telling out-of-control visitors to stay away .

Safety concerns: A door blew off an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9 jet, leaving passengers traumatized — but without serious injuries. The ordeal led to widespread flight cancellations after the jet was grounded, and some travelers have taken steps to avoid the plane in the future. The incident has also sparked a fresh discussion about whether it’s safe to fly with a baby on your lap .

bogota tourist tips

Delta Air reaffirms first-quarter profit forecast

Delta Air Lines passenger planes parked in Birmingham

Reporting by Shivansh Tiwary in Bengaluru; Editing by Shinjini Ganguli

Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. , opens new tab

A paramedic walks onboard after an incident on a LATAM Airlines Boeing 787, in Auckland

Tesla arson case shows need to protect power grid, says Germany's Westenergie

German policymakers should team up with power grid operators to improve the response to incidents such as the arson attack near Tesla's gigafactory, said the head of regional utility Westenergie .

The logo of Anhui Jianghuai Automobile Co (JAC Motors) is pictured at its booth during the Auto China 2016 auto show in Beijing

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COMMENTS

  1. Bogotá Travel Guide: Tips and Things to Do in Colombia's Capital

    It's one of the top things to do in this Bogotá travel guide. 3. Discover Bogotá's historic center (La Candelaria) While the Gold Museum has a lot of artifacts from pre-Colombian times, the historic center of town, La Candelaria, is an open-air museum that brings you back to the colonial era.

  2. Bogotá Travel Guide (Updated 2024)

    Bogotá Travel Costs. Hostels - A bed in a hostel dorm with 4-6 beds costs 20,000-35,000 COP per night, while a bed in an 8-10 -ed dorm costs between 15,000-25,000 COP. A private double room costs around 60,000-70,000 COP per night, though they can be found for as little as 30,000 COP.

  3. 15 Things To Do in Bogota, Colombia (Complete Travel Guide)

    Entry fee: Best of all, the botanical gardens are a cheap activity in Bogota, costing just 1 USD. 5. La Candelaria. La Candelaria is the most beautiful and historic district in Bogota, a place you can come to escape the modern buzz of the city and visit the colonial streets and houses.

  4. 25 Best Things to Do in Bogotá (Colombia)

    In the summer, bands and performers take the stage, and a popular event called Rock in the Park attracts famous performers and tons of fans. Pack a picnic or grab a bite at the cheap cafeterías nearby for lunch on a bench, in the grass, or on the sand by the lake. 15. Play Tejo.

  5. A Complete Guide to Bogota, Colombia

    A Complete Guide to Bogota, Colombia. Bogota, the capital city of Colombia, is a place that every traveler will eventually visit when traveling around this South American country. Our Bogota travel guide includes practical tips on how to get there, safety, when to go, the best things to do in Bogota, top attractions, and must-visit places.

  6. Bogotá travel

    Beyond Bogotá you'll find a wide variety of easy day trips that get you out into nature - with hiking, rock climbing and a surprising theme park. Activities. The 13 best things to do in Bogotá. Aug 17, 2023 • 11 min read. Activities. 9 of the best free things to do in Bogotá, Colombia's vibrant capital. Aug 17, 2023 • 6 min read.

  7. The Ultimate Guide To Bogotá, Colombia (2024): Top Attractions, Tips

    Getting Around Bogota - Travel Tips & Transport Options. Navigating a sprawling city like Bogotá with its estimated population of 8 million inhabitants can be a daunting task, especially for first-time visitors. And particularly when you factor in Bogota's notorious traffic.

  8. 30 Things to Do in Bogota: Travel Guide & Itinerary

    Start with coffee at Azahar, Cafe Cultor, Colo Coffee or any other choice among the best cafes in Bogota. Get out and join a city biking tour. Experience an assortment of Bogota's neighborhoods to feel out all their personalities. Visit Bogota's famous set of cultural and historical museums.

  9. The 20 Best Things to Do in Bogotá, Colombia

    5. Visit the Museo del Oro (The Gold Museum) This is the most interesting museum in the entire country and sees over half a million tourists every year. Opened in 1939, the Gold Museum documents the importance and use of gold in pre-Hispanic civilizations in Colombia and is home to over 55,000 gold items.

  10. The Essential Bogota Travel Guide 2024

    Traveling to Bogota Colombia | The Essential Guide 2024. High in the Colombian Andes sits the city of Bogotá, Colombia one of Latin America's best-kept secrets. Though once deemed unsafe due to Colombia's decades-old internal conflict, Bogotá has slowly, but surely, transcended to become a thriving regional hub for culture and the arts.

  11. Bogota Travel Guide

    A busy metropolis that's one part bustling city, one part natural wonderland, Bogota has long been regarded as Colombia's beating heart. But Bogota is evolving — towering skyscrapers sit next to sprawling barrios, hipster shops and restaurants are slowly moving into the city's grittier neighborhoods and the once-soaring crime rate is ...

  12. Ultimate City Guide To Bogota, Colombia

    The city combined the old historic centre of downtown or La Candelaria with the modern skyscrapers in Calle 100. This makes Bogotá a truly unique and exciting city to visit. When To Visit Bogotá. Bogotá is located high in the Andes mountain range in central Colombia, the city sits at an altitude of 2,640m (8,660ft).

  13. Bogotá Travel Guide

    Get information on Bogotá Travel Guide - Expert Picks for your Vacation hotels, restaurants, entertainment, shopping, sightseeing, and activities. Read the Fodor's reviews, or post your own.

  14. Bogota Travel Tips: A Complete Guide to Visiting Bogota, Colombia

    Crime Related Bogota Travel Tips. Follow the 'no dar papaya' rule, which means don't make yourself a target for crime.; Hailing down taxis is not recommended as some drivers can take you on a 'Millionaire's Ride', or in worst case scenarios sprinkle a drug known as burundanga somewhere on the back seats, which sedates you and makes it easier for them to access all your money.

  15. 10 Unmissable Things to Do in Bogota: Beyond the Beaten Path

    Flora Goodwin, your travel guide for today, has been down the cobbled streets and up the mountain trails to curate the best for you. TL;DR: Bogota received a staggering 2.5 million foreign visitors in 2019. Home to the largest collection of pre-Hispanic gold work in the world. Street art, markets, museums - a cultural trove awaits.

  16. Discover Bogotá, the capital of Colombia

    The capital of Colombia is located in one of the six regions of the country, the Andean Region, which is located throughout the center of the Colombian territory. In the Cundiboyacense plateau and on the savanna that bears its name at an altitude or elevation of 2,600 meters above the sea level. Bogotá is the melting pot of Colombia.

  17. The 20 Best Things to Do in Bogota, Colombia

    Monserrate is a mountain that sits over 10,000 feet high (3,000 meters) in Bogotá's city center. In addition to being a significant tourist attraction, this site is also a pilgrimage destination. In fact, you can visit an important 17th-century church with a shrine devoted to El Señor Caído ("The Fallen Lord") at its summit.

  18. Official tourism website of Bogotá

    Blog. Museums. Urban-Social. Music-Art. Visit, get to know, and explore the city of Bogotá: what to do, where to go, where to stay in Bogotá, Colombia.

  19. Bogota Colombia

    In this Bogota travel guide we will explore some of the best things to do in Bogota Colombia. I will show you some of the top things to see in Bogota Colombi...

  20. Bogota Travel Guide: Your Perfect 4-Day Itinerary 2024

    Explore the vibrant and diverse city of Bogotá, Colombia, with our 4-day itinerary on Exploring Our Earth! From the historic heart of Plaza de Bolívar to the...

  21. Bogotá Travel Guide

    Bogota is a party town, and a town with an appetite too. Flagged by those in the know as one of the world's rising foodie destinations, Bogota is the epicenter for the Nuevo Colombiano movement, which makes fabulous use of local fruit, coffee, and chocolate. ... Bogotá Travel Guide - View the KAYAK Bogotá city guide for the best Bogotá ...

  22. Bogotá Travel Guide

    Bogotá - plan your visit to Colombia with Rough Guides and get travel tips, recommendations and advice for where to go and what to do. Tailor-made Travel. Destinations. Blog. Shop. Bogotá and around Travel Guide. ... Accommodation in Bogota. Most budget accommodation is concentrated in La Candelaria; all accommodation reviewed apart from one ...

  23. Where to Stay in Bogota

    Getting There. Museo Botero - Ride the bus to the Museo del Oro A - 1 stop and walk about nine minutes south. Centro Cultural Gabriel García Márquez - Take the bus to Musco del Oro A - 1, walk along Carrera 6a to Calle 12, then follow Calle 12 to reach your destination in about five minutes.

  24. Mistakes Tourists Make in Rome, From a Tour Guide of 16 Years

    Tourists visiting Rome often make mistakes that detract from their experience in the city. I've worked as a tour guide here for 16 years, and many people forget to plan their trip in advance ...

  25. Colombia's Special Word for 'You'

    In most of the Spanish-speaking world, the principal ways to say "you" are the casual "tú," and the formal "usted.". But in Colombia there is another "you" — "su merced ...

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    March 12, 2024, 5:03 a.m. ET. Before the fire, Lytton, British Columbia, was the kind of tiny town visitors alighted upon mid-road trip, pulling off the Trans-Canada Highway to get a drink, or ...

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    The newly gentrified Wynwood district, about 15 miles north of downtown, is on tap for the afternoon. Until recently, the area was a sprawl of rundown warehouses. Investment in the strongly Puerto ...

  29. Airbnb bans indoor security cameras in rentals

    March 11, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. EDT. (Washington Post Illustration; iStock) 2 min. Airbnb announced Monday that it's banning the use of security cameras inside rentals. Before this change, the ...

  30. Delta Air reaffirms first-quarter profit forecast

    March 12 (Reuters) - Delta Air Lines (DAL.N), opens new tab reaffirmed its first-quarter profit forecast on Tuesday on resilient international travel demand. Major U.S. airlines with international ...