The Colombian capital, Bogota, is a city with a lot to offer. While you take a walk through its streets, you will notice how the past and the modern are combined.
The whole country knows Bogota as “La Nevera” (The freezer) because of the weather: it is cold and cloudy throughout the year.
If you happen to travel here and you are looking for what to do in Bogota, here you will find plans for all tastes, whether you have half a day, a day or the entire weekend available. Here are some recommendations for you to take advantage of your stay:
Must Do
Simon Bolivar was the liberator of several South American countries, including Colombia. That is why in Bogota there is a place in his honor.
The Bolivar Square or “Plaza de Bolivar” is right in the heart of the city. It is always full of pigeons and it is the perfect place to observe the people.
It is surrounded by some important buildings, such as The National Capitol (Capitolio Nacional), Justice Palace (Palacio de Justicia), Bogota’s Cathedral (Catedral de Bogota) and the Mayor’s Office.
This place is a must not only because of its beauty, but also its surroundings. Starting there, you can go all over Bogota’s downtown and dive into the city’s culture.
What do you like the best about Bogota?
Bogota is popular for a bunch of reasons. However, the best thing about the city is its habitants.
Wherever you go, you can feel the warmth of the people. Do not hesitate to ask questions, there will always be someone willing to answer them.
Best Walk in Bogota
With an altitude of 3,152 meters, Cerro de Monserrate offers an incredible view of the capital. At its top is the Sanctuary of Monserrate, a church with a figure of Christ from the 17th century that attracts pilgrims and tourists from all over the world throughout the year.
There you will also find several souvenir shops and snacks.
One of the most popular things to do in Bogota is to climb to the top of the hill.
If exercise is your thing, venture out and hike up the mountain. The journey lasts about an hour and a half, and trust me, it is the best walk to take in Bogota.
If you do not want to walk all the way up, you can also take the funicular or the cable car. A round trip ticket is worth approximately $ 16,400 Colombian pesos.
Best Restaurants in Bogota
Bogota is the most diverse city in the country. This means you will find lots of themed restaurants with lots of options. However, if you want to try out the best of Colombian food, you need to take a walk around Bogota’s most diverse neighbourhood: Chapinero.
As of the moment, the best rated restaurant in the whole city is La Provence de Andrei. If you come, you should give it a try.
Best Music/Festival
Now, if music is what you are looking for, Bogota is not going to let you down.
Just walk by the streets on downtown and enjoy all kinds of Colombian and Caribbean music.
And if you want to live a festival experience in Bogota, we have the right one for you: Estereo Picnic.
Estereo Picnic brings a bunch of all star musicians from all over the world to play for the people in Bogota. This festival usually occurs between March and May. However, if you want to be there, make sure to check their official website for dates and line-ups.
Best Nightlife
Bogota has a really big discotheque district.
If you are looking for party, in Chapinero you will find lots of discos to dance all night. The vast majority of them play caribbean music such as Salsa, Merengue and Reggaeton. However, there are some discotheques with themed spaces according to the music you are into or your mood for the night.
Some of the best places are:
-Armando Records: Carrera 13 # 96 – 11 – Chapinero.
-Casa San Isidro: Right on top of Monserrate. You can take a walk during the day and spend the night there, closer to the stars.
Best Day Trip Out Of The City
If you are into parapenting, Sopo is the best choice for a day trip outside Bogota.
Sopo is only 36.7 kilometers away from Bogota. This small town offers you the chance to do some parapenting and the opportunity to visit the Pionono Ecological Park.
Something that not many travellers would know about Bogota:
The narrowest street in the city measures 20 centimeters.
That is right. This street is located in front of the ancient Olimpia theater, between 25th and 26th streets, and between 9th and 10th races. Worthy of a Guinness record, it is worth the visit, take a picture for your social media and say “I was there”.
Some advices and things to take into consideration:
People in Bogota are early risers, so life in the city begins at 6:00 am, or earlier in some sectors. If you are going to leave early, do it in advance to avoid setbacks.
Bogota is 2,644 meters (8,675 feet) above sea level, which makes it one of the highest cities in South America. If you are not used to high altitude, you may feel tired and fatigued during your visit.
It is very common to rain in Bogota. If you are going out, make sure to take an umbrella with you.
If you are going to take a taxi, it is better to do so through the phone numbers and mobile applications of recognized companies such as Easy Taxi or Taxis Libres. Likewise, applications such as Uber, Beat, Didi and Cabify are used in the city, which will allow you to move without complications and make the most of your visit to Bogotá.
Bogota is ready to meet you and, these recommendations prepare you to have a great experience in the beautiful capital of Colombia, a city so high it almost touches the stars.
