Bogota is a vibrant and bustling city, full of culture, history, and excitement. With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan your trip. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to the top things to do in Bogota. Whether you’re interested in history, food, or adventure, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy in Colombia’s capital city.
Explore the Historic District of La Candelaria If you’re interested in history, then you won’t want to miss the historic district of La Candelaria. This neighborhood is home to some of the oldest and most beautiful buildings in Bogota. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time as you walk along the cobbled streets, admiring the colorful colonial-style buildings.
One of the highlights of La Candelaria is the Gold Museum, which boasts an impressive collection of pre-Columbian gold artifacts. The museum is housed in a beautiful colonial building and offers visitors an in-depth look at the history of gold in Colombia. You’ll learn about the techniques used by ancient artisans to create these intricate works of art, and you’ll see some truly stunning pieces.
Another must-visit museum in La Candelaria is the Botero Museum, which is dedicated to the works of renowned Colombian artist Fernando Botero. Botero is famous for his paintings and sculptures of exaggerated figures, which he uses to comment on social and political issues. The museum houses a large collection of his work, as well as pieces by other artists that Botero collected throughout his life.
Take a Cable Car up to Monserrate For a truly breathtaking view of Bogota, you’ll want to take a cable car up to Monserrate. This mountain looms over the city and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The cable car ride itself is an experience, as you soar above the city and take in the sights below.
Once you reach the top, you’ll find a beautiful church and a bustling market. You can sample some traditional Colombian food, buy souvenirs, and take in the views. Make sure to bring a camera, as the views from Monserrate are truly stunning.
Visit the District of Zona Rosa If you’re looking for a taste of modern Bogota, then you’ll want to visit the district of Zona Rosa. This neighborhood is full of high-end shops, trendy restaurants, and a buzzing nightlife. It’s the perfect place to go if you want to let your hair down and dance the night away.
One of the highlights of Zona Rosa is the Andres Carne de Res restaurant, which is a must-visit for foodies. This massive restaurant is like a cross between a nightclub and a steakhouse, with a menu full of delicious Colombian cuisine. The atmosphere is lively and fun, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into another world.
For a more relaxed dining experience, head to El Cielo, which is one of the best restaurants in Bogota. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers a unique take on Colombian cuisine, with dishes that are as beautiful as they are delicious. Make sure to book a table in advance, as this restaurant is incredibly popular.
Sample Delicious Colombian Food Speaking of food, one of the best things about Bogota is the incredible street food. You’ll find vendors selling all kinds of delicious snacks, from empanadas to arepas to churros. Make sure to try a traditional Colombian breakfast of eggs, arepas, and hot chocolate – it’s the perfect way to start your day.
If you’re looking for a more upscale dining experience, there are plenty of great restaurants in Bogota
that offer a taste of Colombian cuisine with a modern twist. One of the best is Leo Cocina y Cava, which is led by renowned chef Leonor Espinosa. Her menu features locally-sourced ingredients and unique flavor combinations that are sure to delight your taste buds.
Another must-visit restaurant is Harry Sasson, which is one of the most popular fine dining spots in Bogota. This restaurant has been serving up delicious food for over 20 years and has earned a reputation as one of the best restaurants in the city. Their menu features a mix of Colombian and international cuisine, all made with the freshest ingredients.
Go on a Street Art Tour Bogota is a haven for street art, with colorful murals and graffiti covering buildings all over the city. If you’re interested in art, then you’ll want to take a street art tour to explore some of the best works in the city.
One of the most popular tours is led by the Bogota Graffiti Tour, which is run by local artists. They’ll take you on a walking tour of some of the most famous street art spots in the city, giving you insight into the history and meaning behind each piece.
Another great option is the Street Art Tour of La Candelaria, which focuses on the murals and graffiti in the historic district. You’ll see some stunning works of art and learn about the artists behind them.
Visit the Usaquen Flea Market If you’re looking for a unique shopping experience, then you’ll want to head to the Usaquen Flea Market. This market takes place every Sunday and is a bustling hub of activity. You’ll find vendors selling everything from artisanal crafts to vintage clothing to fresh produce.
The market is located in the Usaquen neighborhood, which is a charming and picturesque area full of colonial-style buildings and tree-lined streets. Make sure to arrive early to beat the crowds and enjoy a leisurely stroll through the market.
Go on a Coffee Tour Colombia is famous for its coffee, and no trip to Bogota is complete without sampling some of the local brew. You can go on a coffee tour to learn about the process of growing and roasting coffee, as well as sample some of the best coffee in the country.
One of the best coffee tours is led by the Hacienda Coloma Coffee Farm, which is located just outside of Bogota. They offer tours of their plantation, where you can see the coffee plants growing and learn about the history of coffee in Colombia. You’ll also get to sample their delicious coffee and take some home with you.
Another great option is the Coffee Tasting Tour at Catación Pública, which is a coffee shop in Bogota that specializes in high-quality, locally-sourced coffee. They offer tastings where you can try different types of coffee and learn about the differences in flavor and aroma.
Conclusion Bogota is a city that has something for everyone, from history buffs to foodies to adventure seekers. With so many things to see and do, it’s easy to see why it’s become one of the most popular tourist destinations in South America. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or a few weeks, make sure to check out these top things to do in Bogota – you won’t be disappointed!
