What is the best thing to do in Bogota?

Bogota is the bustling capital of Colombia, home to world-class museums, colonial architecture, and vibrant nightlife. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend break or a long-term stay, the city has plenty of activities and attractions to keep you entertained and enthralled. Here we will share with you some of the best things to do in Bogota.

Explore the Historic Center of La Candelaria

The Historic Center of La Candelaria is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Bogota, full of colonial-era buildings, cobblestone streets, and picturesque plazas. A walk around the area is like taking a step back in time; it’s easy to imagine the wealthy residents of centuries past strolling these same streets. Today, La Candelaria is home to many of Bogota’s best museums and cultural sites, such as the Botero Museum, the National Museum, the Casa de Moneda (Mint House), and the imposing Catedral de Sal (Salt Cathedral). There are also plenty of cafes and atmospheric bars to explore.

Visit Monserrate Hill

Visible from practically anywhere in Bogota, Monserrate Hill soars 3152 meters above sea level, offering 360-degree views of the city. Whether you take a funicular or hike up the hill, at the summit you’ll find magnificent churches and outdoor markets. As well as from up here, as down at street level, there are plentiful traditional eateries serving Colombian dishes. To top it off, after dark, illuminated Monserrate Hill is an amazing sight.

Take a Tour at Cerro de Monserrate

Cerro de Monserrate is home to the popular Pub Crawl Tour La Candelaria. A night out in this area of the city will introduce you to its intoxicating nature, perched atop hilltops that lend themselves to stunning night views of the city. You will get to experience everything from jazz bars to terrace discotheques while exploring secret backstreets and main squares from one bar to the next. The tour includes entry to three bars/discos/clubs plus discounts on drinks and shots throughout the night. Plus there is transport to and from your hotel included! All this for just $35 USD per person

Climb “El Peñón” of Guatavita

Located about an hour by car from Bogota – you can find the township of Guatavita; a popular spot for visitors looking to get back to nature and enjoy a dose of culture in one go. It’s here you’ll find “El Peñón’ – a mountaintop lake surrounded with lush vegetation and inviting views. Boats are available for rent and there’s an observation platform at the far side of the lake – offering panoramic views over Guatavita. You can enjoy a picnic on its shores or simply bask in its tranquil beauty. The waters are also renowned for having healing properties – so take a dip if you dare!

Make your way to Plaza de Bolivar

Plaza de Bolivar (or Plaza Bolívar) is one of Bogota’s main squares – located within reach of most attractions. It is framed by Baroque-style colonial buildings painted in bright colors, with facades crafted from “piedra en bozié,” a unique but fragile type of stone carved from volcanic tufa brought from Colombia’s snowy mountains up north. Along with vibrant street performers, you can observe an impressive equestrian monument of Simón Bolívar – the leader responsible for liberating much of South America from Spanish rule. During certain times of the year, such as civic celebrations or holidays, Plaza de Bolivar plays host to special events such as concerts, fireworks displays, and traditional music concerts— providing every reason to appreciate Bogota’s special way of life!

Visit Simon Bolivar Park

Simon Bolivar Park is a large urban park named after Simon Bolivar – liberator of Colombia and several other South American nations. Stretching across 3 hectares and filled with lakes, gardens, and vibrant lawns – it’s an oasis within bustling Bogota; providing a venue for locals looking to spend leisurely afternoons enjoying lazy strolls or taking partin other recreational sports like running and bike riding. The park plays host to several tents during weekends – serving up a variety of Colombian dishes like cazuelas and ajuacos. Letting out loud laughter and easy smiles all around!

Check out the 92nd Street

Also known as Zona Rosa (Pink Zone), Carrera 92 is home to some of Bogotá’s best nightlife places. Nightclubs, bars and restaurants are ablaze with light all evenings in this area – making it the perfect starting point for any traveler looking for a Colombian night out! Try some of the delicious street food or stick around at one of the beer gardens until late in the evening. The area around Carrera 92 offers both high-end and budget options; catering to every taste under one lively roof!

After all that action-packed sightseeing, singing and dancing around Bogota it’s time for some relaxation. Wrap up your adventure in Bogota by joining a Bogota Pub Crawl Tour La Candelaria. It’s a great way to witness Colombia’s tumultuous yet sophisticated nightlife while enjoying drinks with friends and even strangers in different spots around La Candelaria’s winding streets. With great music playing everywhere and low prices on drinks and food, you can make sure you can experience Bogota to its fullest!

So that’s our round up of some of the best things to do in Bogota – Colombia’s vibrant characterful capital city. As you can tell from our guide – there’s lots going on in this typical South American city which should have something for everyone! Throughout your visit you’ll be able to discover a variety of flavors, sights and sounds that are sure to stay with you for years to come!