Nearly everyone who backpacks around Latin America has either been to Colombia or has plans to go there. It’s a popular spot for travellers – and with good reason. These 13 things to do in Bogotá are a prime example.
The landscape is jaw-dropping, the weather is great, the cost is backpacker-friendly, and the people are open, friendly and love to have fun.
For some reason though, Bogotá often gets skipped on the Colombia travel itinerary. Some people say it’s dangerous, some say there’s nothing to do, and some say it’s just not very nice.
If you’ve talked to people who have been to Colombia or have done some research ahead of time, you’ve probably heard about how amazing Medellín is. Medellín is cool, no doubt, but I wouldn’t remove Bogotá from the conversation of best Colombian city.
It took a long time to come to this conclusion but upon further review, I’m giving the nod to Bogotá. There are so many cool areas of the city, the weather is perfect (even a tad chilly in the evening which I love), the view of the mountains perched right on top of the city is awesome, and the amount of beautiful towns in short driving distance makes for easy and fantastic weekend getaways.
So, when you’re thinking to yourself, is Bogotá worth visiting? The answer is absolutely. And here are 13 unmissable things to do in Bogotá, Colombia.
Stay safe while on the road. Follow my 21 basic travel safety guidelines.
Monserrate
If you want to really see just how big Bogotá is, you need to see it from above.
Close to La Candelaria is Monserrate. You can walk up the mountain using the easy-to-follow path in about an hour, or you can take the cable car or funicular up to the top for a much smoother and quicker ascent.
The walking trail isn’t always open though. I went with the hopes of getting some exercise but was told that the trail closes on Tuesdays – bummer. The Colombia Travel website has more detailed information on hours and prices.
There are some additional areas to explore once you hit the top. There are restaurants, markets, and more walking trails. Budget some extra time to take in the views and have a bite to eat.
Plaza de Bolívar
Located on the outskirts of La Candelaria is the most renowned square in Bogotá, Plaza de Bolívar. A massive plaza where you will find a gathering of people any day of the week and vendors selling all sorts of snacks, drinks, and souvenirs.
On the perimeter of the plaza sit some of the most important buildings in the country. The Capitolio Nacional building sits on one side of the square, housing Colombia’s Congress. Opposite of this is the Palacio de Justicia, or the Palace of Justice. On the east side you’ll find the Catedral Basílica Metropolitana, the most prestigious basilica in Colombia.
The centre of the square is home to a statue of Simón Bolívar, the leader of independence from Spanish rule for Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, and Panama. What a busy life that must’ve been.
At the northeast corner of the square is the beginning of Bogotá’s famous pedestrian street, Carrera 7.
La Candelaria
Head east from Plaza de Bolívar and you’ll be walking through the colourful, picturesque neighbourhood of La Candelaria. Most travellers to Bogotá stay in this area and it’s no wonder why.
Close access to Plaza de Bolívar, Monserrate, Carrera 7, Museo del Oro, and Chorro de Quevedo make it an ideal home base for Bogotá.
Besides its great location, La Candelaria is a beautiful neighbourhood in which to get lost walking the streets while taking in the colonial architecture and vibrant colours of Bogotá.
Carrera 7
One of the most exciting walks you can do is to head from Plaza de Bolívar to Calle 19 along Carrera 7. This stretch of road has no vehicular traffic and is only open to pedestrians, cyclists, rollerbladers, skateboarders, and other manual forms of transport.
You’ll find plenty of street performers and vendors set up along the street. Take in the atmosphere on the weekend when the street swells with tourists, locals, performers, and vendors. Every day of the week is good for a stroll down Carrera 7, but there’s added atmosphere on the weekends.
Take part in any of the fun carnival-style games that you’ll find lining the street. It’s a great place to spend a half-day just wandering slowly along the avenue. Practice ahead of time to hit a pool ball so that it removes the coin from the circle. (The trick is to hit it very softly so that the coin stays on top of the white ball as it rolls away).
Museo del Oro
If you like gold, this is the place to be. Colombia’s gold museum is home to the world’s largest collection of gold artifacts.
It’s likely an easy walk from your lodging, close to Monserrate and La Candelaria. I’m not always crazy about museums but this is an impressive exhibit that’s worth an afternoon.
Nightlife
Colombia is known for having vibrant nightlife. Bogotá probably has the best nightlife in the country, and there are so many different areas where you can experience it. Whatever your taste in music you’re going to find it in Bogotá.
Anywhere you go you’re bound to find pounding speakers on the weekend nights.
The granddaddy of them all, Theatron, has 13 different rooms playing different styles of music. You can find thousands of people here on prime discotheque nights. It’s known as a gay bar but there is something for everybody.
Some of my favourite areas for nightlife in Bogotá are:
- Usaquen
- Chapinero
- Zona T
- Zona Rosa Modelia
Chorro de Quevedo
A cute little square in Bogotá’s La Candelaria neighbourhood is a popular gathering spot for locals. Grab a beer at one of the tiendas and find a seat in the square with your mates. There are some great restaurants in the area and don’t forget to head down the graffiti-filled side street to try some chicha (fermented corn and cane sugar available in many flavours).
Through that little side street you’ll find the market square and plenty more food options.
Andrés Carne de Res
This is the most famous restaurant in Bogotá. Andrés Carne de Res is located just a bit outside the city but is worth the trip. It’s a touch pricier than other restaurants in Bogotá but you’ll get your money’s worth.
The restaurant is a fiesta. The food is fantastic but the whole show and atmosphere is what people go for. Eat, drink, dance, and vibe the evening away with family and friends at the most spectacular dining experience in Bogotá.
Plaza de Mercado de Paloquemao
If you like markets, this is the place to go. Not too far from the Museo del Oro is Bogotá’s premier food and flower market. If you were searching for a specific ingredient or wanted to try a traditional dish, Plaza de Mercado de Paloquemao is your best bet to find it.
It’s pretty busy every day, with a slight lull on Mondays if you wanted to skip some of the crowds. For the full experience though head there on Saturday with the rest of the town’s shoppers to find your ingredients for the week.
Parque Metropolitano Simón Bolívar
Get away from the hustle and bustle of close to 10 million people and find your urban solitude in Parque Metropolitano Simón Bolívar.
Covering 113 hectares in the center of the city you can find a quiet place to relax, go for a jog or cycle, or just enjoy the birds frolicking about the lake. When you need some respite from the pace of the city, find yourself some space in Parque Simón Bolívar.
Santuario Nuestra Señora del Carmen
In the heart of La Candelaria is the candy-striped Santuario Nuestra Señora del Carmen. Construction finished in 1938 and it’s quite an eye-popping sight in the historic district.
It doesn’t need to take up too much of your time but it’s worth strolling by as you explore La Candelaria.
Museo de Botero
He is the most famous artist in Colombia and a name you’re sure to hear repeatedly on your journey through this country. Sculptures by Fernando Botero can be found throughout the country. He is loved in Colombia.
You may have seen some of his art before. He sculpts humans and animals with unproportioned body parts. Usually his subjects are quite chubby. His art is fun and engaging to look at, even for a non-artsy person like myself.
Check out the Museo de Botero to satisfy your creative side.
Parque de la 93
The park itself is a nice area to relax, but the area surrounding the greenspace is one of the city’s best areas for restaurants, nightlife, and shopping. Unsure what to do with your day? Head to Parque de la 93 and you’ll find something to occupy your time.
Is Bogotá Worth Visiting?
Yes, yes, yes. If it doesn’t fit in your schedule then don’t sweat it but if you are wondering if you should visit Bogotá while in Colombia, stop thinking and lock it in. You won’t regret it.
With so much to do and see you’re gonna find something that you like in this sprawling metropolis.
Where to go after Bogotá? Try the magic of Salento or the Tatacoa Desert
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