Welcome to Bogota, the vibrant capital city of Colombia! This city of contrasts is a tourist destination not to be missed. With a rich and diverse history, vibrant culture, delicious gastronomy and breathtaking landscapes, Bogota is one of the cities that captivates its visitors.
From its charming historic center, where you can explore its streets with the majestic colonial architecture, to its modern neighborhoods full of life and movement, Bogota is one of the cities that you must visit in Colombia, because it has something to offer for everyone. It is also the ideal starting point to explore the surrounding natural wonders, from the salt cathedral of Zipaquira to the nature trails of the Chingaza National Natural Park.
In this blog we want to give you a comprehensive guide to know the majesty of the capital and so you know what to do in Bogota, to enjoy its best places and you get to have the experience of knowing a little piece of Colombia.
Don't miss the opportunity to discover all that Bogota has to offer. Join us on this exciting journey through the Colombian capital and discover everything you need to know to plan your next adventure in this enchanting city.
Tour the historic center of Bogota
After arriving in the Capital you will start your adventure. One of the things to do in Bogota is to visit the Historic Center, where the colonial architecture, rich history and culture of the capital of Colombia are mixed. We will take a tour through the cobblestone streets and historic buildings of the city center.
We will start our tour at the Plaza de Bolivar, which is the epicenter of the city and one of the most important places in the history of Colombia. Here you will find the entire National Capitol with the Casa de Nariño, which is the residence of the president of the country, the Palace of Justice and the Mayor's Office of Bogota. Nearby you will also see the Sagrario Chapel and the Primada Cathedral of Colombia recognized as a national monument.
Afterwards, we will head to La Candelaria neighborhood, a bohemian and colorful neighborhood known for its murals, street artists and colonial buildings. Here you will find the famous Casa de la Moneda, where gold coins were minted during colonial times. You can also visit the Gold Museum, which exhibits a large collection of pre-Columbian gold objects, and the Casa Museo Quinta de Bolívar, which was the home of the liberator Simón Bolívar.
Another of the things to do in Bogota that you can not miss is to visit the Colon Theater, which is considered one of the most important theaters in Latin America, with beautiful neoclassical construction and rich cultural history. You can also visit the Palace of San Francisco, which is a historic building and cultural heritage of the city, and the National Museum of Colombia, which houses a large collection of pre-Columbian and colonial objects.
Finally, I recommend you visit the Plazoleta del Chorro de Quevedo, a place full of history and legends. It is believed that the city of Bogota was founded here in 1538. Today, it is a very popular place among young people and street artists, with bars, food stalls and craft stores. Where you can enjoy urban art and a fun atmosphere.
Museums and galleries
In this city, the art scene is vibrant and diverse, and there are plenty of museums and galleries to explore, so you can start your day in any of these beautiful places that we will name below:
Gold Museum
This is one of the most famous museums in Bogota and is one of the most visited in all of Colombia. The gold museum has an impressive collection of pre-Hispanic gold pieces, as well as ceramic and textile artifacts. In total, the museum has more than 55,000 objects, and is a true cultural jewel of the city.
Botero Museum
The Botero Museum is another must-see for art lovers. The collection features more than 120 works by Colombian artist Fernando Botero, including sculptures, paintings and drawings. In addition, the museum also houses works by other international artists, such as Picasso, Monet and Dalí. The best thing about it is that admission is free for those who wish to appreciate his works.
National Museum of Colombia
The National Museum of Colombia is one of the largest and oldest in Latin America. What is most striking is its collection of more than 20,000 pieces of art and historical artifacts, ranging from pre-Hispanic times to the present day. The building itself is also a magnificent work, as it was built in 1823 and has been restored and renovated over the years.
Bogota Museum of Modern Art
If you prefer contemporary art, one of the best things to do in Bogota is to visit this museum. It has a large collection of modern and contemporary art by Colombian and international artists. In addition, the museum also organizes temporary exhibitions and cultural events.
La Cometa Gallery
La Cometa Gallery is one of the most recognized galleries in the city. The gallery features a wide variety of works by Colombian artists and also exhibits works by international artists. The gallery focuses primarily on contemporary art and has been a key site in the development of modern art in Colombia.
Casa Cuadrada Gallery
The Casa Cuadrada Gallery is another important gallery in Bogotá. The gallery is located in a historic house in the Quinta Camacho neighborhood, and its collection includes works by Colombian and Latin American artists. The gallery is also known for its commitment to the local community, and has worked on community projects in the surrounding neighborhoods.
Climb the Cerro de Monserrate
After your artistic tour of the city, you can visit the wonderful Monserrate Hill, one of the best things to do in Bogota. It is one of the most visited and emblematic places in Bogota, measuring 3,152 meters high. From the top, you can enjoy the breathtaking panoramic view of the city and the surrounding landscapes.
To reach the top of the hill, there are two options: take the funicular or walk up the path that zigzags up the mountain. The hike can be quite demanding due to the altitude and the slope, but it is a unique experience worth living. For the less adventurous, the funicular is another more comfortable and faster option.
Upon reaching the top, you can visit the Basilica of the Lord of Monserrate, a site of pilgrimage and religious devotion, where there is an image of the crucified Christ. In addition, at the top there are also several food stalls and cafes where you can taste typical dishes of Colombian cuisine, such as ajiaco or bandeja paisa. Monserrate has become one of the best viewpoints in Bogota, to be impressed with the surrounding landscape of the city.
In addition to enjoying the view and the gastronomy, Monserrate also offers a variety of tourist activities, such as guided tours of the area, hiking and biking. It is also possible to attend cultural events and open-air concerts.
In short, a visit to Monserrate Hill is an essential experience for any tourist visiting Bogota, whether for the panoramic view, for the religious devotion or for the gastronomy and tourist activities it offers. It is a place full of history and tradition that represents the very essence of the capital.
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What to do in Bogota: Go on a gastronomic tour
If there is something that characterizes Bogota is its rich and varied gastronomy. A fusion of flavors and cultures that is reflected in the wide range of restaurants and markets found in the city. In this tourist blog we propose a gastronomic tour through the most emblematic places of the Colombian capital.
The tour can start in the Candelaria neighborhood, where some of the most traditional neighborhoods of Bogota are located. There, you can taste typical dishes of Colombian gastronomy, such as ajiaco, a thick soup of potato, chicken and corn, or tamale, a corn dough stuffed with meat and vegetables.
Another destination not to be missed on this tour is the market at Paloquemaoone of the largest and most famous in the city. There, you can find all kinds of fresh produce, from fruits and vegetables to meat and fish. It is ideal to get to know the local culture and taste some of the most typical dishes of the region.
You can also go and visit some of the most famous ones in the city, such as Andrés Carne de ResThis is possibly the most recognized restaurant in Bogota, it is a chain with several locations, although we suggest that if possible, visit the one in Chia, north of the city. There you can enjoy delicious food, with a constant show and even dance.. The False Door and El Cielo.
The gastronomic tour can also include a visit to the Usaquén neighborhoodA place full of food stalls and bars with a wide gastronomic offer. There, you can find from traditional Colombian dishes to high quality international cuisine.
Another of the places that we cannot fail to mention is the market of PerseveranceA place full of history and tradition that offers a wide variety of typical Colombian food. It is an ideal place to try some of the most authentic and representative dishes of the local gastronomy.
You can't miss a visit to the Bogotá Beer Company either. It is one of the most emblematic and popular branches of this renowned chain of craft breweries in Bogota, Colombia. Strategically located in the heart of the city's financial and tourist district, this brewery has become a popular meeting point for locals and visitors from all over the world.
From the moment you set foot in this place, a cozy and vibrant atmosphere surrounds you. The rustic and modern decor, with wood and industrial elements, creates a relaxed and perfect space to enjoy a unique beer experience.
In short, a gastronomic tour of Bogota is a unique and unmissable experience for any tourist visiting the city. An opportunity to get to know the local culture, try new flavors and enjoy the wide gastronomic offer that the Colombian capital has to offer.
Get to know the impressive Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá
The Zipaquirá Salt Cathedral is one of Colombia's most popular tourist attractions, and for very good reason. Located just an hour from Bogotá, in the municipality of Zipaquirá, this subway cathedral built inside a salt mine is a masterpiece of engineering.
Construction of the cathedral began in 1951 and was inaugurated in 1954. However, the salt mine had been used since pre-Columbian times by the Muisca Indians, who extracted salt for consumption and as a commercial product. Today, the Cathedral is one of the most visited places in Colombia, attracting national and international tourists every year.
The visit to the cathedral begins at the Plaza de la Sal, where the main entrance is located. Tourists can choose between the guided tour or the self-guided tour, which includes an audio that provides information about the cathedral. In both cases, visitors walk through a series of tunnels and subway passages carved into the salt. Along the tour, there are several chapels and altars carved into the salt rock, representing different moments in the life of Jesus Christ.
One of the most impressive attractions of the cathedral is the cross of light, a huge cross of light that hangs from the ceiling of the cathedral. The effect is achieved thanks to a set of lights that illuminates the structure from below, creating an amazing image that seems to float in the air.
In addition to the visit to the cathedral itself, tourists can enjoy other activities at the salt mine resort. For example, there is a tour of the mine where you can learn about the history of mining in the region and how salt is extracted from the mine.
As for gastronomy, the area offers different typical dishes of the region, such as "sopa de mondongo" and "ajiaco". In addition, you can buy souvenirs and products made from salt in the stores located in the plaza de la sal.
Take a nature tour in and around Bogota
Meet the Chingaza National Natural Park
One of the best things to visit in Bogota is Chingaza National Natural Park, since it is one of the most impressive natural areas in Colombia and an ideal tourist destination for those seeking adventures in contact with nature. Located just a few hours from the Colombian capital, Bogota, this park is a jewel that offers a unique experience to its visitors.
The park covers an area of more than 76,000 hectares and is home to a great variety of flora and fauna. Here, you can enjoy impressive landscapes of mountains, valleys, forests and rivers. In addition, you can find different animals such as deer, bears, pumas, condors, among others. The beauty of the park is impressive, especially in the rainy season when the rivers and waterfalls are in full splendor.
One of the things to do in Chingaza National Natural Park is hiking. There are several trails that you can hike, from short hikes to longer expeditions. One of the most popular trails is the Laguna de Buitrago trail, which is a 12 km hike that will take you to the impressive Laguna de Buitrago. The trail is well marked and is a moderate hike, which can take around 5 hours.
Another popular activity in the park is bird watching. Chingaza is home to a great variety of birds, including endemic species such as the páramo hummingbird and the white-eared hummingbird. If you are a bird lover, this park is perfect for you.
The Chingaza National Natural Park also has several archaeological and cultural sites that you can visit. One of the most outstanding is the Piedra del Elefante, this large rock has a shape similar to an elephant and has a great importance for the pre-Columbian culture.
If you plan to visit the Chingaza National Natural Park, we recommend you to wear appropriate clothing for the activity you want to do, bring enough water and food, since there are no stores inside the park. It is also important that you inform yourself about the rules of the park, such as the prohibition of campfires and the need to leave garbage in the established places.
Enjoy the Botanical Garden of Bogota
One of the things to do and visit in Bogota is the Botanical Garden, an oasis of biodiversity in the middle of the city. This place is one of the most important spaces for the conservation of Colombian flora, with a collection of more than 19,000 plants.
The Botanical Garden of Bogota was founded in 1955 and since then has been a space dedicated to research, education and conservation. It is home to many endemic and native species of Colombia, some of which are in danger of extinction.
Upon entering, you will be greeted by different varieties of plants and trees. One of the highlights is the Garden of the Senses, a place that stimulates the five senses and where you can discover the smells, textures and flavors of the plants.
Another of the most popular places is the Japanese Garden, a space designed in honor of Japanese culture and traditions. In this garden, you can admire the beauty of the plants and enjoy the tranquility of the place.
It also has a beautiful orchideorama, where hundreds of orchid species are exhibited. This is one of the most visited places by tourists, since Colombia is known for its great variety of orchids.
In addition, the Garden is also a space dedicated to environmental education. There are programs and workshops for children and adults, and it is also possible to take guided tours to learn more about the flora and fauna of Colombia.
If you visit this garden you cannot miss the opportunity to visit its greenhouse, a glass structure that houses different species of tropical and subtropical plants. You can also enjoy a pleasant walk through the garden's paths, where you can observe the diversity of Colombia's flora and fauna.
Get to know Simon Bolivar Metropolitan Park
One of the places you must visit in Bogota is undoubtedly the Simon Bolivar Metropolitan Park, also known as "El Parque de la 93", is one of the main green lungs of the city of Bogota. With an extension of more than 360 hectares, it is one of the largest urban parks in Latin America.
Located in the heart of the city, it is an ideal place to enjoy a day outdoors with friends, family or alone. The park has a wide variety of recreational, sports and cultural spaces, making it an ideal option for any type of visitor.
One of the most outstanding features of the park is its large artificial lake, which offers activities such as boating and kayaking. In addition, it has a large number of trails and paths that allow visitors to explore the different ecosystems present in the park.
In the park you can also find numerous picnic areas and barbecue grills, ideal for enjoying a day with family or friends. In addition, there are several gastronomic options.
The park is also an important venue for culture and music, with frequent events and concerts in its large open-air auditorium. It also has a sports museum, which celebrates the sporting achievements of Colombia and the world.
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Visit the Gabriel García Márquez Cultural Center
One of the best things to do in the city is to visit the Gabriel Garcia Marquez Cultural Center (CCGGM), a cultural space in the heart of Bogota, dedicated to the promotion of Colombian and Latin American culture. This cultural center is named after the famous Colombian writer, who is considered one of the most important Spanish-language writers of the 20th century.
The CCGGM is a modern 6-story building with 5 movie theaters, a theater, an exhibition hall, a library, a book and souvenir store, a café and a restaurant. This cultural center is a place where you can enjoy a wide variety of cultural events, from film screenings and plays to live music performances.
One of the main attractions of the CCGGM is its library, which has a large collection of books by Colombian and Latin American authors, as well as a very pleasant reading and study space. The library is free and open to the general public.
Another of the CCGGM's main attractions is its cultural program, which includes a wide variety of events and activities for all types of audiences. For example, creative writing workshops, book presentations, round tables and debates, independent film screenings, and much more are offered.
In addition, the CCGGM is a meeting place for the cultural community of Bogota and Latin America, as it hosts numerous festivals and important events in the field of culture. For example, the CCGGM hosts the Bogota Film Festival and the Bogota International Book Fair, two events of great importance for Colombian and Latin American culture.
In short, this place is a must to visit if you are interested in Colombian and Latin American culture. Its cultural programming, modern spaces and cozy atmosphere make it an ideal place to enjoy the culture of Bogota and Colombia in general.
Take a walk through the Parque de los Periodistas (Journalists' Park)
The Parque de Los Periodistas is one of the most iconic green spaces in the city of Bogotá, Colombia. This park is a meeting place for the community, as it has large green areas, trails, rest areas and a series of sculptures that pay homage to journalists and freedom of the press.
The park was inaugurated in 1942 and is located in the historic center of the city, near the Plaza de Bolivar and other important historic buildings. Throughout the years, Los Periodistas Park has witnessed important historical and political events, becoming an emblematic space for the citizens.
One of the main characteristics of Parque de Los Periodistas is its architectural and landscape design. The park has ample green areas, trees and gardens that give it the appearance of an oasis in the midst of the hustle and bustle of the city. In addition, it has a series of trails and paths that allow visitors to walk through the park and enjoy its different spaces.
The park also features a number of monuments and sculptures that pay tribute to journalists and freedom of the press. One of the most emblematic monuments in the park is the sculpture of the Greek goddess Athena, who symbolizes wisdom and justice. This sculpture was donated by the Greek government in 1949 and is located in the center of the park.
Another important monument in the park is the sculpture of journalist Guillermo Cano, who was director of the newspaper El Espectador and was assassinated in 1986 by illegal groups. The sculpture, created by Colombian artist Rodrigo Arenas Betancourt, shows Cano sitting on a bench and reading a newspaper.
In addition to these monuments, Los Periodistas Park has a series of small squares, rest areas and areas to practice sports. In the park it is common to see people exercising, riding bicycles or simply enjoying the sun and the scenery.
Another activity that can be done in Los Periodistas Park is to attend cultural and artistic events. The park has an outdoor amphitheater where concerts, plays and other cultural activities are held.
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Shopping in Bogota's T Zone
One of the best things to do is to visit La Zona T. This famous shopping area stretches along 82nd and 85th streets between Carreras 11 and 15, in the Chicó neighborhood. The area has a wide variety of stores, boutiques and malls that offer a great selection of high quality products, from fashion to gastronomy.
To begin our shopping tour in Zona T, we can visit one of the largest malls in the area, the Centro Andino. This mall has a wide variety of fashion and accessory stores, from the most exclusive brands to the most popular ones. It also has a wide gastronomic offer.
Another must-see mall is the Atlantis Plaza, which has a wide variety of fashion, accessories and gastronomic stores. In addition, this mall has a movie theater and a wide range of entertainment.
For those looking for high quality products and design, Zona T has a wide variety of stores and fashion boutiques. Some of the most exclusive brands are found in this area, such as Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Carolina Herrera, among others. In addition, there are Colombian design stores that offer unique and authentic products.
Zona T is also known for its wide gastronomic offer. In the area you can find a lot of variety, with international and local cuisine. There are options for all tastes and budgets, from fast food restaurants to haute cuisine restaurants. Some of the most popular restaurants are El Cielo, Harry Sasson and El Corral.
Finally, if you are looking for something more authentic, you can visit the handicraft and souvenir stores located in the area. In these stores you can find typical Colombian products, such as vueltiaos hats, leather crafts, emerald products, among others.
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Get to know the beautiful Guatavita Lagoon
One of the best things to do north of Bogota is to visit the Guatavita Lagoon, located in the heart of a stunning nature reserve, surrounded by lush mountains and lush forests that attract nature lovers and adventurers alike. Its scenic beauty is indescribable, with emerald waters that sparkle in the sun and reflect the majesty of the surrounding landscape.
The highlight of this destination is its rich historical and cultural past. According to legend, this lagoon was the place where the Muiscas, an ancient pre-Columbian civilization, performed religious ceremonies and ritual offerings. It is believed that the lagoon was the center of an investiture ritual for the new cacique, who was covered with gold dust before being submerged in its waters, symbolizing a kind of rebirth.
Visitors can explore the fascinating history of the Muisca and the legend of El Dorado through expert local guides, who tell the story with passion and enthusiasm. There is also a nearby museum that displays artifacts and objects that have been recovered from the lagoon, further enriching the cultural experience.
In addition to its historical importance, the Guatavita Lagoon offers recreational activities for tourists. Visitors can enjoy walks and trails around the lagoon, which provide panoramic views and allow direct contact with nature. Water activities such as kayaking or boat rides are also available to experience the serenity of its waters.
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Hotels to stay in Bogota
Bogota is a city with a wide variety of accommodation options, from luxurious and exclusive hotels to hostels and more economical apartments. In this tourist blog, I will introduce you to some of the best hotels to stay in Bogota, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs and budget.
Sofitel Bogotá Victoria Regia
This luxury hotel is located in the exclusive Zona Rosa neighborhood, close to stores and bars. It features elegant, well-appointed rooms, a first-class spa and several restaurants.
Opera Hotel
It is housed in a historic 18th-century building in La Candelaria, near Bogotá Cathedral and the Teatro Colón. It features spacious and elegant rooms with high ceilings and original architectural details, a spa and a restaurant serving gourmet Colombian cuisine.
Selina La Candelaria
This hostel is located in La Candelaria, in a restored historic building. It offers private and shared rooms with modern and colorful décor, as well as a variety of social and cultural activities.
Morrison 84 Hotel
It is located in the Chico neighborhood. It features modern and elegant rooms, a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of the city and a fitness center.
NH Bogotá Boheme Royal:
It is located in the Chapinero neighborhood. It has spacious and well-equipped rooms, a gourmet restaurant and a rooftop bar with panoramic views of the city.
How do I get around Bogotá?
Getting around Bogota depends on the means of transportation you choose to reach your destination, so here we recommend some of them so you can choose the one that best suits your needs:
Public transportation: Bogota's public transportation system is extensive and consists of buses, trolleybuses, subways and streetcars. TransMilenio is one of the most used means of transportation in the city and has several lines connecting different areas of the city. In addition, there is a bus network that complements the coverage of TransMilenio.
Transmilenio fare: $2,950 Trunk and $2,750 Zonal
Cab: Taking a cab is a safe and convenient way to get around Bogotá, especially if you are new to the city. It is advisable to use safe cab services such as Uber or Cabify, as they are more reliable and safer than informal cabs.
Bicycle: Bogota has an extensive network of bicycle paths that cover a large part of the city. You can rent a bicycle at one of the stations of the public bicycle system called "BiciBogótá", or at one of the many bicycle stores in the city.
Car rental: If you rent a car in the city, you can get around Bogotá by means of its main roads. It is important to keep in mind that the city can have heavy traffic during rush hour.
It is important to take into account that in Colombia there is a law known as "Pico y Placa", which must be taken into account in case of renting a vehicle in the city. This law establishes that vehicles with license plates ending in an even number may not circulate in the city on even numbered days, while those with license plates ending in an odd number may not circulate on odd numbered days.
The restriction is applicable only from Monday through Friday, from 6 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. and from 3 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. It is important to note that the fine for driving on a day that does not correspond to the registration is significantly high.
Tips for traveling to Bogota
Weather and appropriate clothing: Bogota has a mild climate, but it can be unpredictable, so it is advisable to bring layered clothing and an umbrella or raincoat. Even on sunny days, evenings can be cool, so bring some warm clothing.
Altitude: Bogota is at a high altitude (approximately 2,640 meters above sea level). If you are coming from a lower altitude region, you may need time to acclimatize. Drink plenty of water to avoid altitude sickness and avoid excessive physical exertion in your first few days.
Transportation: The city has a decent public transportation system, including buses and Transmilenio (a rapid bus system). However, avoid using public transportation during rush hour, as there can be heavy traffic. Cabs and transportation apps such as Uber are also a safe and convenient option.
Security: Bogota has improved significantly in terms of security in recent years, but it is important to take precautions as in any big city. Avoid displaying valuables in an ostentatious manner, especially in crowded areas. As the Colombian saying goes "it is better not to give papaya" Check with your accommodation about safe areas and take normal precautions as in any tourist destination.
Gastronomy: Don't miss the opportunity to taste the delicious Colombian gastronomy, such as bandeja paisa, ajiaco, arepas, empanadas and the famous Colombian coffee. Bogota has a wide variety of restaurants and cafes to enjoy these delicacies.
Cultural events: Find out about cultural events and festivals that may be taking place during your visit. Bogotá is known for its vibrant arts and cultural scene.
Language: Although many Colombians speak English, especially in tourist areas, it is useful to have some basic notions of Spanish to communicate easily.
We hope this blog has been helpful to learn more about what Bogota has to offer. Don't miss out on visiting this emblematic city, pack your bags and get to know the beautiful capital of Colombia!
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