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A city of contrasts—and one of South America’s most exciting capitals—Bogotá is a sprawling metropolis steeped in history and cosmopolitan cool. Hit the old town of La Candelaria for world-class museums and street art. Further north, the neighborhoods of Chapinero and Zona Rosa are centers for nightlife and fashion, while the Usaquén district is the go-to destination for food lovers. Walking tours and guided bike rides are a great way to see and feel the many atmospheres around, as well as to create an appetite for local food and nightlife. For farther-flung Colombia highlights, day trips take travelers to Zipaquira Salt Cathedral, coffee plantations, the sacred ground of the pre-Colombian Muisca people at Guatavita Lake, and La Chorrera and El Chiflón waterfalls.
Because of its high altitude, Bogota remains refreshingly cool year-round, but it can be prone to downpours—visit December through March to reduce your chance of rain. Highlights of the Colombian capital’s calendar include Festival Centro, a celebration of Latin music in April, and free Festivales al Parque, which sees open-air concerts of different musical genres in the city’s parks throughout the year.
Bogota doesn’t have a subway, but the TransMilenio Bus Rapid Transit is the quickest and most cost-effective way to get around outside of rush hour, when it’s best to avoid hitting the road altogether. Historic areas such as La Candelaria and La Plaza de Bolivar are best explored on foot, while cycling is also a great option—the capital boasts more than 300 kilometers (190 miles) of dedicated cycle lanes.
Colombia’s capital is rife with hidden gems, if you know where to look. The arty and bohemian barrio of La Macarena is a creative hub with quaint parks and a planetarium, and it’s far less crowded than La Candelaria. While Zona G is an off-the-beaten path spot that’s considered Bogota’s premier dining destination. A visit to this ritzy enclave might even result in you rubbing shoulders with a Colombian celebrity.
Yes, Colombia’s vibrant capital city is certainly worth visiting. Highlights include the cobblestone historic center of La Candelaria and its street art, world-class museums such as the Gold Museum and the Botero Museum, and some of Colombia’s best nightlife, fueled by the rich rhythms of salsa music.
...MoreBogota is famous for the grand architecture in the historic center of La Candelaria and for its vibrant street art scene, which is present in all parts of Colombia’s sprawling capital. It's also renowned for its salsa-dancing nightlife and coffee culture—Colombian coffee is held in high regard worldwide.
...MoreYes, with three days in Bogota you can cover the highlights, including La Candelaria, home to Plaza de Bolívar and Teatro Colón; Mt. Monserrate, topped by a 17th-century church; and the Gold Museum. You could also take a day trip to Villa de Leya or Zipaquira's Salt Cathedral.
...MoreBogota is much larger than Medellin, and therefore it has much more to see and do—top picks include the Gold Museum and the historic center of La Candaleria. However, Medellin is considered safer and offers a warmer climate—it's known as the city of eternal spring.
...MoreYes, Bogota is a party city. Indeed, Colombia’s capital is famous throughout Latin America for its nightlife. The best places are Zona Rosa, with plenty of places to salsa dance and drink cocktails, and Zona T, with its nightclubs. La Candelaria sees backpackers enjoying a beer or two.
...MoreBecause of its elevation at 8,800 feet (2,700 meters) above sea level, Bogota can be chilly and rainy regardless of when you visit. However, you’re least likely to experience downpours and icy winds in the South American summer months of Dec.–Feb.
...MoreNumber of Attractions | 30 |
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Number of Tours | 731 |
Number of Reviews | 11,278 |
Currency | COP |