Bogotá, the capital of Colombia, is a vibrant city that offers a unique combination of culture, history, art, gastronomy and nature. Located at more than 2,600 meters above sea level, Bogotá is a city in constant evolution that offers experiences for all types of travelers. Below, we present the best things to do in Bogotá, so you can make the most of your visit to this fascinating city.
1. Visit the Gold Museum
One of the main attractions of Bogotá is the Gold Museum, a must-see for lovers of pre-Columbian history and culture. This museum houses an impressive collection of gold and other precious metal pieces from the indigenous cultures that inhabited Colombian territory. With more than 34,000 pieces, the museum offers a deep insight into the importance of gold in pre-Hispanic society, both economically and spiritually.
The tour of the Gold Museum will not only allow you to appreciate artifacts of great historical value, but you will also be able to understand the traditions and beliefs of the civilizations that inhabited what is now Colombia. In addition, the architecture of the museum is modern and attractive, making it a pleasant space to enjoy for several hours.
2. Climb the Monserrate Hill
One of the most traditional and recommended things to do in Bogotá is to climb the Cerro Monserrate. This hill, which rises to 3,152 meters above sea level, is one of the highest points in the city and offers a spectacular panoramic view of Bogotá and its surroundings.
You can reach the hill by cable car, funicular or on foot if you dare to take a steep hike. At the top you will find a historic church dedicated to the Virgin of Monserrate, which is a place of pilgrimage for many Colombians. Additionally, at the top there are restaurants and souvenir shops where you can enjoy a typical meal while enjoying the view.
3. Visit La Candelaria
La Candelaria is the historical and cultural heart of Bogotá. This colonial neighborhood is full of cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and buildings with typical colonial-era architecture. In La Candelaria you can find some of the most important museums in the city, such as the Botero Museum and the Casa de la Moneda, as well as the impressive Plaza de Bolívar, surrounded by emblematic buildings such as the Primada Cathedral, the Nariño Palace, and the National Capitol.
Walking around La Candelaria is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in Bogotá's history. You can also try the local cuisine in the neighborhood's small restaurants and cafes, which serve traditional dishes such as ajiaco, tamal, or arepa.
4. Explore the National Park
Bogotá National Park is a green space located in the city center, ideal for escaping the urban hustle and bustle and enjoying nature. The park offers large grassy areas, walking and cycling trails, and children's play areas, making it a perfect place to spend a relaxing afternoon.
The park is also home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, making it a great place for nature lovers. If you are a hiking enthusiast, you can hike its various trails while enjoying the tranquility and fresh air. In addition, the park is surrounded by several cafes and restaurants where you can rest and enjoy a drink.
5. Enjoy Bogotá's gastronomy
The gastronomy in Bogotá is diverse and delicious, and you can't miss out on trying some of the city's most representative dishes. One of the most famous is ajiaco, a thick soup made from chicken, potatoes and corn, typical of the Andean region. You can also enjoy the famous "bandeja paisa", a dish that includes rice, beans, ground beef, pork rind, fried egg, arepa and avocado.
If you are a fan of desserts, you cannot miss empanadas and arequipeñas, traditional sweets that you can find in local bakeries. Bogotá also has a great offer of international restaurants, from Asian to Italian food, for all tastes and budgets.
6. Visit the Gold Museum and the Botero Museum
In addition to the Gold Museum, another must-see is the Botero Museum, dedicated to the famous Colombian painter and sculptor Fernando Botero. The museum houses a vast collection of his most notable works, both in painting and sculpture, as well as a collection of international art. Botero's works are easily recognizable by their voluminous and exaggerated forms, which have given him worldwide fame.
The Botero Museum also has a significant collection of Latin American art, making it a great place to delve deeper into the art and culture of the region. The museum is free, making it a great option if you're looking for affordable cultural plans.
7. Visit the Usaquén Flea Market
If you love antiques, crafts, and flea markets, the Usaquén Flea Market is the perfect place for you. Held on Sundays in the Usaquén neighborhood, this market offers a wide variety of products, from antique furniture and collectibles to clothing, accessories, and art.
In addition to the shops and stalls, Usaquén Market has a number of restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy local food while strolling through the market. The Usaquén neighborhood is also known for its colonial architecture and charming streets full of life.
8. Walk through the 93rd Park
Parque de la 93 is one of the most popular places in Bogotá, especially in the evenings and at night. This park is surrounded by bars, restaurants and cafes, making it a great place to enjoy a good meal or have a drink while taking in the atmosphere. It is common to see groups of friends, couples and families enjoying an afternoon in the park, which has large green areas where you can do outdoor activities.
Parque de la 93 also hosts cultural events and concerts throughout the year, making it a dynamic and energetic place.
9. Take a bike tour of the city
If you love cycling and want to explore Bogotá in a different way, taking a bike tour is a great option. Bogotá has an extensive and well-designed cycle path infrastructure, allowing cyclists to move around the city safely. There are different guided tours that will take you through the main tourist spots in the city, such as La Candelaria, Simon Bolivar Park and Monserrate Hill.
These tours not only allow you to get some exercise while enjoying the sights, but they also give you a local view of the city through the eyes of the guides, who will tell you stories and anecdotes about the places you visit.
10. Explore the Botanical Garden of Bogotá
The Bogotá Botanical Garden is another great place to enjoy nature in the heart of the city. This garden is home to a wide variety of plants native to Colombia, as well as species from other regions of the world. The garden also features different themed areas, such as a tropical greenhouse and an area dedicated to medicinal plants.
It's a great place to take a leisurely stroll, take photos and learn about Colombia's biodiversity. Plus, the Botanical Garden hosts educational activities and cultural events, so there's always something interesting to do or see.