Bogotá is a pulsating South American metropolis where well-preserved colonial-era neighborhoods mix with 21st-century glass and steel. While its impressive museums and architecture rank high on the list of things to see, the best experiences will be your own exploration of historic neighborhoods on bike or foot. Let this guide direct you toward the best Bogotá has to offer.
## A Deep Dive into the Wonders of Bogotá: Exploring Colombia’s High-Altitude Capital
**Overview**
Bogotá, a sprawling metropolis nestled high in the Andes Mountains, presents a captivating study in contrasts. This dynamic city is where modern redevelopment projects rise alongside time-honored colonial-era neighborhoods, where the echoes of history resonate from the well-preserved cobblestone streets and the solemn beauty of 17th-century churches. The older neighborhoods, with La Candelaria taking center stage, serve as the vibrant heart of the city, boasting a concentration of the most compelling highlights and attractions that Bogotá has to offer. Navigating between these distinct areas is made convenient by Bogotá’s commitment to sustainable transport, offering an excellent network of dedicated bike routes and efficient car-free bus lanes, allowing visitors to explore the city at their own pace.
The city’s contrasting neighborhoods are not only visually distinct, but also represent a fascinating cultural tapestry. Here, smartly-dressed office workers, representing the city’s economic engine, share bus stops with hipsters, artists, and musicians, all contributing to the city’s unique atmosphere. To gain deeper insight into the city’s thriving bohemian culture, a captivating graffiti tour is an absolute must. This immersive experience offers a window into the creative spirit that permeates Bogotá’s streets. The following detailed guide will explore the very best of Bogotá, highlighting the must-see attractions and experiences that will undoubtedly enrich your visit to this unforgettable city.
**Unveiling the Artistic Soul: See Bogotá’s Best Graffiti**
Bogotá has firmly established itself as one of South America’s preeminent graffiti-art cities, rivaling the vibrant scenes found in Rio de Janeiro or Buenos Aires. This recognition is well-deserved, as local artists have transformed the exteriors of buildings in Centro and La Candelaria into vast canvases for their artistic expression. These urban murals serve as powerful statements, addressing a wide range of themes, from the vital importance of indigenous rights and impassioned anti-war sentiments to the profound social and emotional fallout of Colombia’s decades-long civil war. Other works explore themes of love and passion, or transport viewers to fantastical comic book adventure scenarios. The artistic styles on display are equally diverse, ranging from flawless airbrushing techniques to meticulously crafted stencils that evoke the style of the renowned street artist Banksy.
The local government, or municipality, of Bogotá, holds a complex and ever-evolving relationship with the city’s graffiti scene. Over time, some mayors have recognized and actively promoted graffiti as a form of art, while others have introduced laws designed to curb its proliferation. Despite these shifting policies, Bogotá’s street art has undeniably flourished over the years, becoming an integral part of the city’s cultural identity. As mentioned previously, there are several options available to enjoy the city’s graffiti art, with opportunities to explore on foot or by bike. However, opting for a dedicated walking tour allows for a more in-depth experience, providing ample time to fully appreciate the intricate details and powerful messages conveyed in the various artworks on display. Additionally, the tour guides are often artists themselves, offering invaluable insights into the creative process and the stories behind the murals.
Bogotá’s street art scene transcends local boundaries, attracting global attention. Word has spread far and wide, drawing guerilla artists from all corners of the globe to descend upon the capital city. These artists are eager to leave their mark, adding their unique perspectives and artistic styles to the ever-evolving tapestry of Bogotá’s urban landscape. This phenomenon has become so deeply ingrained in the city’s fabric that it seems unlikely that any future government initiatives will be able to completely extinguish Bogotá’s vibrant and celebrated graffiti culture.
**Where:** Graffiti tours typically commence from Parque de los Periodistas, conveniently located in La Candelaria.
**When:** Most agencies commonly offer two tours per day, with one scheduled in the morning and the other in the early afternoon.
**Duration:** The average tour typically spans approximately 2.5 hours.
**Experience the City on Two Wheels: Take a Cycling Tour**
Bogotá has invested heavily in developing an outstanding network of bike paths. Consequently, exploring the city on two wheels presents an invigorating and rewarding experience, allowing visitors to quickly gain a comprehensive understanding of the city’s layout and atmosphere. The majority of cycling tours will begin in the historic southeastern neighborhood of La Candelaria, and then gracefully pass through Plaza Bolívar, the heart of the city’s historical and political significance. From there, the route often veers north towards the charming barrio La Merced, which showcases homes inspired by British architectural styles. The tour may then continue further northwest, culminating at the expansive Parque Metropolitano Simón Bolívar, offering a refreshing dose of nature within the urban landscape. Notably, several agencies also provide specialized graffiti art tours on bicycle, combining the exploration of street art with the freedom of cycling. For those who prefer a more traditional experience, the walking tour option offers an alternative means to explore the graffiti art scene on foot.
Those seeking to explore Bogotá independently can take advantage of the famed Ciclovía. This popular event is held every Sunday and on public holidays, and it sees over 100 km of city streets being closed off to all vehicle traffic. This creates a safe and enjoyable environment for cyclists, pedestrians, and other recreational activities.
**Where:** Cycling tours generally start in the La Candelaria neighborhood, with major ciclovía routes including the primary north-south thoroughfare of Carerra 7 and the east-west calle 26.
**When:** Most agencies offer two tours each day, usually scheduling one in the morning and one in the early afternoon.
**Duration:** Bike tours usually take between 3-5 hours, enabling riders to discover numerous districts and locations.
**Delve into History and Culture: Explore La Candelaria on Foot**
Bogotá’s colonial heart, the enchanting neighborhood of La Candelaria, beckons visitors to explore its rich history and captivating culture on foot. To simplify the experience, visitors can initiate their walking tour from the same location where most cycling and street art tours begin: Parque de los Periodistas. This park is located on the northern edge of La Candelaria, and a short walk from here will lead you to Bogotá’s famed Gold Museum. From the park, travel south and begin climbing Carrerra 2. This street gradually narrows, eventually transforming into a charming, cobbled walkway called Calle del Embudo (translated as “funnel street”). This street is famously flanked by chicha bars, offering a chance to sample this traditional fermented corn liquor. Chicha originated in the rural areas of Colombia and remains a popular drink among farmers. To say that it is an acquired taste is certainly an understatement, and it is often recommended to hold your nose while you drink it!
Carrera 2 eventually leads to the Plazoleta Chorro de Quevado. According to local legend, this is where the city was founded in 1538. Today, the small plaza serves as a bohemian center, teeming with funky little restaurants, charming cafes, and lively bars. Continuing south on Carrera 2 to Calle 10, you’ll pass a string of old colonial homes. These homes are recognizable by their iconic wooden balconies. Turn left and head east down the hill, and you’ll pass the Museo Botero, a museum dedicated to the works of Fernando Botero, who is arguably Colombia’s most famous sculptor and painter.
Further down the hill, you’ll also pass the Centro Cultural Gabriel García Márquez. This cultural center hosts an annual Feria de Libro (book fair), though the dates of this event may vary from year to year. Inside the center, you’ll find a small English literature section, which is well-stocked with works from the eponymous literary lion, Gabriel García Márquez, who is one of Colombia’s most beloved literary figures.
Continue heading down the hill, and just before you reach Plaza Bolívar, you’ll find a row of eateries that specialize in ajiaco, one of the most ubiquitous and beloved dishes in the Andean region. One of these restaurants, La Puerta Falsa, has been serving traditional Colombian cuisine for over 200 years. Its popularity has grown over the years, and today it draws a substantial tourist crowd. Fortifying yourself at one of these eateries is highly recommended if you want to continue hiking back up into the hills and admire the beautiful colonial buildings. The high altitude in Bogotá can make even the shortest of city strolls a strenuous activity. On the bright side, at least you’ll burn a few calories!
**Where:** The La Candelaria neighborhood is located in southeastern Bogotá, specifically south of Avenida Jiménez and east of Carrera 10.
**When:** Daytime hours are highly recommended, as security can sometimes be an issue after dark, particularly on the quieter streets.
**Duration:** To fully appreciate the various museums, cultural centers, churches, and landmarks in La Candelaria, it is recommended to set aside at least half a day for exploration.
**Step Back in Time: Tour Plaza Bolívar**
Plaza Bolívar, situated in the southeastern section of Bogotá, represents the historic and symbolic heart of both the city and the entire nation. Originally founded in 1539 under the name “Plaza Mayor,” this central square has been remarkably well-preserved throughout the centuries, retaining its historical character and significance. At the center of the expansive plaza stands a striking statue of Simón Bolívar, the revered liberator. The statue was sculpted by Pietro Tenerani.
Each of the four sides of the square are steeped in history. On the east side, you’ll find El Catedral, Bogotá’s most famous church. Construction of the church took place between 1807 and 1823. On the west side is the Alcaldia (city hall). This is a French-inspired building distinguished by a long arcade. To the northeast lies the Museo de la Independencia (also known as Casa del Florero), which features interactive exhibits that delve into Colombia’s rich and complex history. Also on the north side is the imposing Palacio de Justicia, a fortress-like structure that bears a tragic past. In 1985, M-19 guerillas stormed the building, resulting in the deaths of 12 judges.
**Where:** Plaza Bolívar is located at the intersection of Calle 11 and Carerra 7.
**When:** It is possible to visit Plaza Bolívar at any time of day. However, it is important to be aware that security can be a concern at night.
**Duration:** A leisurely stroll through the plaza can be completed in just a few minutes. However, if you want to visit the various museums, cultural centers, and colonial churches located in and around the plaza, you should plan to spend a few hours exploring the area.
**A Glimpse into Ancient Civilizations: Visit The Gold Museum**
Colombia boasts a rich and diverse indigenous history, with a multitude of Native American tribes inhabiting the country long before the arrival of Europeans. Among these groups, the Muisca people, an Andean tribe, lived and continue to live in and around the Bogotá area. The ancient Muisca were renowned for their skilled gold work, and they extracted vast quantities of the precious metal from the earth.
Today, the impressive results of their labor can be witnessed at the Gold Museum, which is widely considered to be the most famous museum in Colombia, and perhaps even on the entire continent of South America. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in a series of captivating exhibits showcasing stunning examples of gold and silver craftsmanship. The exceptional quality of the craftsmanship is evident in the array of ceremonial dressings, including elaborate headpieces and breastplates, as well as in the various pieces of intricate jewelry and remarkable sculptures.
The earliest gold artifacts in the museum date back to 500 BC. The most impressive piece isn’t the largest. On the third floor, you’ll discover the Balsa de Eldorado, a small golden sculpture of a raft carrying a Muisca chieftain. The sculpture depicts the ceremonial offering of gold to the water goddess of Lago Guatavita. The intricacy and detail displayed in this miniature masterpiece are truly remarkable.
**Where:** The Gold Museum is located inside the Banco de la República Building at Carerra 6 #15-88.
**When:** The Gold Museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday, 9am-7pm, and on Sundays from 10am-4pm.
**Duration:** To fully appreciate the museum’s myriad exhibits spread across multiple floors, it is recommended to allocate at least a couple of hours for your visit.
**Experience the Nightlife: Enjoy a Night on the Town**
When the sun sets in Bogotá, do as the locals do: enjoy good food, good music and good times. For dining, no experience beats Andres Carne de Res, a local institution. The food here is parilla criollo: rustic fare like grilled meats. But the cuisine is secondary to the dining experience. Andres is a party.
The original location is a light-strewn hacienda set on a couple miles of property in the town of Chía, about 45 minutes north of Bogotá. It boasts 11 dining rooms, two dance floors, and five kitchens. The other more central location is in the Zona T (the famed “Zona Rosa” nightlife area of Bogotá). It has been built over five floors, each with its own theme: the top is heaven, while the red-lit bottom floor is infierno (I’m sure you can decipher the meaning). Regardless of the location, the party remains the same: live music, good food, and shameless revelry.
Although the country is home to many styles, the musical pulse of the nation is salsa. Locals grow up dancing to salsa and any beat will get them moving. Like many things considered “Colombian,” their version of salsa is a mish-mash of various influences. Colombians took the salsa popularized in New York and Cuba in the ’50s and made it their own, adding Caribbean rhythms, speeding up the tempo and creating a sexy three-step dance that celebrates, as one tango teacher puts it, “the madness of love and lust.”
To really experience Colombian culture means you have to dance, even if you’ve never shaken those hips before. Beginners can head to La Villa, a club in Bogota’s nightlife area, the Zona T. La Villa offers salsa dancing lessons, and foreigners rave about the experience.
**Where:** Andres Carne de Res has many locations, but the two most popular are in the town of Chía, and in Bogota’s Zona Rosa. La Villa is located here as well.
**When:** Thursday through Sunday are good nights to hit the town; La Villa hosts salsa classes on Tuesdays from 5-9pm (after their English/Spanish language-exchange meet-ups).
**Duration:** Colombians typically eat dinner around eight or nine, and bars and nightclubs will stay open until between 2-4am.
**Savor Local Flavors: Eat Local Meals at Mercado Paloquemao**
Bogotá is fast becoming known as a destination for foodies. Classic local dishes plus international fare and fusion cuisine can be sampled all over the city, although the best restaurants tend to be found in the neighborhoods of La Macarena and the Zona G. If you really want to get to the beating heart of the food scene in Bogotá, you’ll come to the Mercado de Paloquemao.
This municipal market is one of the best in Latin America. It’s so big (the property takes up half a city block) you likely won’t be able to see all of it in a single afternoon. Upon entering you’ll find some of the most exotic fruits from throughout the country, such as feijoa (a cucumber-like fruit that tastes similar to guava), guanabana (a large spiky fruit with white flesh that resembles an alien egg) and carambola, a deliciously tart and sweet star-shaped fruit.
Head to the rear of the market and have lunch at one of the tiny food stalls. Here you can sample some home-cooked local dishes such as ajiaco (a rich chicken stew with maiz and cream) and, if you’re brave enough, caldo de raíz, a soup made from both bull penis and testicles. Not surprisingly, locals rave about its aphrodisiac qualities. You be the judge.
**Where:** Mercado de Paloquemao is located at Calle 19 #25-04.
**When:** The market is open from Monday to Saturday, 4:30am-4:30pm, and on Sundays from 5am-4:30pm.
**Duration:** Plan to come for lunch and spend an hour or so browsing the stalls.
**Reach for the Sky: Hike Cerro Monserrate**
No visit to Bogotá would be complete without hopping in a cable car or funicular elevator and climbing 3,152 meters above sea level to the top of Cerro Monserrate. Once atop this Andean lookout, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the entire city of Bogotá, and indeed the green valleys that stretch out beyond it. After Machu Picchu in Peru and Cristo Redentor in Río de Janeiro, Cerro Monserrate offers some of the most stunning views on the continent. It’s also possible to walk to the top: the 1500 steps take about 90 minutes to climb.
**Where:** Cerro Monserrate is a kilometer or so northeast of the La Candelaria neighborhood, at the foot of the Andes.
**When:** Cerro Monserrate is open daily. The cable car runs as late as midnight.
**Duration:** Plan for an hour or longer. Aside from the sweeping views, there’s an interesting church here (on the site of a former monastery), as well as a couple very good restaurants.
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