What to see in Bogota | Discover the capital of Colombia

Welcome to the Athens of South America! Bogota is known for its many universities, museums, theaters and cultural riches. The gargantuan capital of Colombia can be a fascinating cosmopolitan center where many of the cultures of the country and the Americas come together.

Bogota is a city with almost 10 million inhabitants, making it the largest in the country, as well as the economic, political and industrial center. If you want to experience a unique journey through an incomparable city, check out this list of what to see in Bogota. Enjoy being 2600 meters closer to the stars.

A colonial city, discover its history

The Plaza de Bolivar

This square is the center of everything that happens in Colombia. All branches of public power converge here and it is the center of all artistic, cultural and social manifestations. It is a huge square, very typical of colonial cities in Latin America.

Around it you can visit very important buildings of Colombian history. The Primate Cathedral of Colombia (Catedral Primada de Colombia), the Palace of Justice, the Bogota City Hall and the Capitol surround the square. A few meters from the square is also the Palacio de Nariño, the residence of the President of the Republic.

The Candelaria district

Colombia is a country of colonial sites, coffee plantations and the Caribbean. Bogota belongs to the first group as far as this is concerned. Without a doubt, the La Candelaria neighborhood should be on your list of things to do in Bogota when you visit. It is the historical center of the city, with small houses that reflect the colonial past. This place is highly appreciated by travelers for its narrow streets full of art. Don’t miss the area’s graffiti either.

El Chorro de Quevedo

In the heart of the La Candelaria district is El Chorro de Quevedo, the place where historians say the city of Bogota began. Around the square there was a church and 12 small houses.

Monster rate

When visiting the Colombian capital, Monserrate is surely one of the places most mentioned by travelers when it comes to what to see in Bogota. It is a mountain to the east of the city where the Church of the Fallen Lord of Monserrate is located. It is 3,100 meters high and can be reached via a well-signposted path or various cable cars. Once at the top you have the best view of the city. Only from here can you grasp the immensity of Bogota.

Parks and museums

The Botero Museum

Bogotá is known for its museums. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Botero Museum. Located near La Castellana, exhibitions are held in a beautiful colonial house. It is a large collection of artworks by Fernando Botero, one of the most famous Colombian artists in the world. Admission is free so don’t miss it.

The Gold Museum

You’ve probably heard of the legend of El Dorado. In this museum you will be able to understand why it is believed that this golden city existed very close to Bogota. This legendary museum houses a collection of more than 30,000 gold pieces from the Bank of the Republic.

Enjoy a Sunday on the bike paths

Bogota is known for its extensive network of bike paths. In addition, the main streets are closed on Sundays, much to the delight of the main townspeople, who take to the streets on their bikes, inline skates or whatever to exercise.

The Simon Bolivar Park

Known as the lungs of the city, it is one of the largest city parks in the world, with countless pathways, lakes, sports facilities and much more. Visit the Salitre Mágico amusement park.

Restaurants, bars and nightlife

The list of places to visit in Bogotá is practically endless. This city offers a fascinating nightlife. You can dance the rumba in the T-Zone, party through the bars in Park 93 and try the best restaurants in the G-Zone.

Andrés Carne de Res

This restaurant has become a symbol of Bogota’s gastronomy and culture. What happened here is indescribable. That’s why we recommend you to come to this place and have one of the best experiences of your trip. Once you’ve been here, you’ll always want to come back.

The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira

On the outskirts of Bogota, you can experience what Colombians call the first of seven wonders. In the municipality of Zipaquirá, 40 minutes from the city, there is a unique Catholic cathedral. To get there you have to descend a mountain to see this beautiful construction in a salt mine.