How to Plan Your Bogotá: Monserrate, La Candelaria and City Walking Tour
Are you planning a trip to Bogotá? One of the best ways to experience the city’s diverse culture and history is by taking a city tour. This immersive tour takes you to the most iconic and historical landmarks in the downtown area, where you can learn about the local Indigenous history at the Gold Museum, taste a traditional alcoholic beverage, and admire the eclectic array of architecture.
Highlights of the Tour
The Bogotá city tour is an immersive experience with several attractions, including the following:
Visit Monserrate
The Monserrate viewpoint offers the most breathtaking views of Bogotá. The entire length of the valley is visible from this vantage point. The tour includes a cable car two-way ticket to get up the mountain and enjoy the view.
Explore La Candelaria
The most historical part of Bogotá is La Candelaria, where you can explore the streets and buildings that date back to the Colonial times. Along with the buildings and streets, you can uncover the history of the national drug trade through street art.
Taste Traditional Alcoholic Beverages and Food
During the tour, you can try traditional Colombian alcohol known as chicha, fruit and juice, and coffee for free. You can also try Colombian food and see what makes it unique.
Learn at the Gold Museum
Located in Bogotá’s historical center, the Gold Museum houses over 55,000 pieces of gold, ceramic, and textiles from pre-Columbian heritage. You can explore the museum’s collection with an entry ticket included in the tour.
Admire Architecture
Discover Bogotá’s eclectic array of architecture, including Baroque and Art Deco styles, as you walk through the streets of downtown.
Tour Inclusions
The tour includes the following:
- Hotel Pickup and Drop-off
- Tour Guide
- Cable Car Two-way Ticket to Monserrate (if chosen)
- Entry to the Gold Museum and Botero Museum (if chosen)
- Chicha and Coffee Tasting
- Fruit and Juice Tasting
- All-risks Insurance
- Lunch (you can choose from a selection of restaurants in the area)
Who Can Take This Tour
The Bogotá city tour is suitable for anyone who wants to learn about the city’s diverse culture and history. However, it’s not recommended for people with limited mobility, as the tour involves walking and climbing stairs.
How to Book the Tour
You can book the Bogotá city tour by visiting the tour’s page on GetYourGuide. There, you can select the date you want to take the tour and make the payment. Make sure to check the tour’s availability before booking.
Conclusion
If you’re planning a trip to Bogotá and want to explore the city’s culture and history, a city tour is a great option. The Bogotá: Monserrate, La Candelaria and City Walking Tour is an immersive experience that takes you through the most iconic and historical landmarks, while also introducing you to traditional Colombian food, drinks, and architecture. Book your tour today and explore the vibrant city of Bogotá.
An Insider’s Guide to Bogotá: Monserrate, La Candelaria and City Walking Tour
Bogotá, the vibrant and colorful capital of Colombia, is a city that has undergone a cultural and economic renaissance in recent years. With its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, fascinating history, and delicious cuisine, it’s no wonder that Bogotá is quickly becoming one of the top tourist destinations in South America. If you are planning a trip to this beautiful city, this insider’s guide will help you make the most of your visit.
Monserrate
Monserrate is the iconic symbol of Bogotá and one of the most popular attractions in the city. Located at an altitude of 3,152 meters above sea level, Monserrate offers stunning panoramic views of the sprawling city below. You can reach the top of the mountain by riding the funicular or the cable car. The funicular is an old-fashioned train that ascends the mountain at a leisurely pace, while the cable car is a faster and more thrilling option. At the top of the mountain, you can visit the iconic church, have a meal at one of the restaurants, or buy souvenirs from the local vendors.
La Candelaria
La Candelaria is the historic heart of Bogotá, and one of the most charming neighborhoods in South America. The cobblestone streets are lined with colorful colonial buildings, art galleries, museums, and cafes. Here you can visit the Gold Museum, which houses the largest collection of pre-Colombian gold artifacts in the world, or the Botero Museum, which houses the works of Colombia’s most famous artist. Take a walking tour of the neighborhood, and stop by the Plaza Bolivar, the central square and the heart of the city.
City Walking Tour
Bogotá is a city that begs to be explored on foot. We recommend hiring a local guide, who can take you on a walking tour of the city and show you the best hidden gems. You can start the tour in La Candelaria and make your way to the neighborhood of Chapinero, which is known for its trendy cafes and restaurants. Along the way, you can stop by street art murals, graffiti, and local street food vendors. The city walking tour is a perfect way to immerse yourself in the local culture and explore the city’s many hidden corners.
Dining Spots
Bogotá is a food lover’s paradise, with a cuisine that blends the flavors of indigenous, African, and Spanish influences. Here are some of the best dining spots in the city. For a taste of traditional Colombian cuisine, head to La Puerta Falsa, which is famous for its hot chocolate and cheese-stuffed pastries. For a more high-end dining experience, try El Cielo, which serves modern Colombian cuisine with a molecular gastronomy twist. For a vegan and vegetarian-friendly option, try Quinua y Amaranto, which serves locally sourced, organic ingredients in a cozy ambiance.
Cultural Experiences
Bogotá is a city that offers a wealth of cultural experiences. Here are some of the best things to do. One must-visit the Teatro Mayor Julio Mario, which is the largest concert hall in South America. The theater hosts a variety of performances throughout the year, including classical music, opera, ballet, and contemporary dance. For a taste of Colombian folk music and dance, head to the Casa en el Aire, which is a traditional music center that hosts live performances every Friday evening. For something a bit more unusual, you can check out the Museo de los Espejos, which is a museum dedicated to mirrors and optical illusions.
Local History
Bogotá has a rich and fascinating history, which can be traced back to the pre-Columbian era. You can learn about the city’s past by visiting the Museo del Oro, which houses the largest collection of pre-Columbian gold artifacts in the world. You can also visit the Casa de Moneda, which is the old mint of Bogotá and now serves as a museum of numismatics. Another must-visit destination is La Quinta de Bolivar, which is a beautiful colonial villa that served as the residence of the liberator Simon Bolivar.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions
If you have some extra time in Bogotá, here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions. Head to the Paloquemao Market, which is the largest fresh produce market in the city. Here you can find a vast array of exotic fruits, vegetables, and spices. You can also take a day trip to the tiny colonial town of Villa de Leyva, which is about two hours away from Bogotá. The town is known for its picturesque cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and artisanal crafts. Finally, for an adventure, you can go paragliding in the nearby town of Sopo. You’ll get a bird’s-eye view of Bogotá and the surrounding mountains.
In conclusion, Bogotá is a city that offers something for everyone. With its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, fascinating history, and delicious cuisine, it’s a city that you must visit at least once in your lifetime. I hope this insider’s guide has been helpful, and that you have a fantastic time exploring all that Bogotá has to offer!
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