10 Best Things to Do in Bogotá, Colombia

Last Updated: October 2026

I’m not going to lie. When we booked a week in Bogotá, we weren’t expecting much. Colombia’s capital isn’t always at the top of travellers’ wish lists. Many visitors spend just a day or two here, while others skip it altogether. After all, it’s just another big city, right?

Well, Bogotá certainly is a big city! With millions of residents, sprawling neighbourhoods and some pretty horrendous rush-hour traffic, it can feel a little overwhelming at first. But look beyond the chaos, and you’ll discover a fascinating city filled with colourful street art, historic architecture, excellent museums, delicious food and beautiful mountain scenery.

To be honest, Bogotá was probably the destination in Colombia we were least excited about. We decided to spend an entire week here, not because we thought there were loads of things to do, but because we desperately needed to catch up on our growing backlog of blog posts! We also wanted a few days to relax before continuing our journey into Peru.

Well, that plan didn’t quite work out! As it turned out, we enjoyed Bogotá far more than we expected. Instead of spending our days glued to our laptops, we found ourselves out exploring, discovering new neighbourhoods and soaking up the atmosphere. We ended up doing a lot more playing than working and could easily have stayed a few extra days!

So, if you’re wondering whether Bogotá is worth visiting, our answer is a definite yes! Give Colombia’s capital a chance, and it might just surprise you too.

Here are 10 of the best things to do in Bogotá, along with some practical tips to help you make the most of your visit.

1- Take a street art tour

Bogota is rated one of the top ten cities in the world for street art. It’s not surprising why, because everywhere you look in the city, you’ll find street art.

The best thing to do in Bogota is to take a free street art tour with Bogota Graffiti Tour. Hopefully, like us, you’ll get Jay as your guide because he was awesome. He took us around parts of the new town and the Candelaria district and showed us some awesome pieces of street art. He gave us background information on the artists behind those pieces and the meaning behind the murals themselves.

We enjoyed learning about the background of each mural (some have strong political messages) and about the history of the street art scene in Bogota. There’s even a story involving Justin Bieber that forms a key part of that history but I won’t spoil it for you. Just sign up for the tour!

The Bogota Graffiti Tour departs twice daily from the Parque de Los Periodistas and is funded only by your donations. The money raised during the tour is reinvested into future community art projects, so it goes towards a great cause too!

Tip: Make sure you look for their logo as many imposters pretend to be them due to their huge success.

2- Take a free walking tour of the city

Bogota is not just about street art; the history of the city itself is very interesting too. Make sure you take the free walking tour with Beyond Colombia to learn more about the city’s history, the best place to visit and where to eat.

This tour is a great introduction to the city. We even learnt how Bogota’s city centre was destroyed by rioters in the 1940s following the assassination of a beloved politician. That was one part of Colombian history that even after 6 weeks in the country we had heard nothing about! 

Note: Make sure to tip your guide.

3- Visit la Candelaria

La Candelaria is the historic part of Bogota, its “old town”. As always, older means more beautiful! La Candelaria is a mix of Spanish colonial, Baroque and Art Deco buildings. It is colourful, photogenic and its narrow cobblestone streets are a great place to wander around for at least a couple of hours.

La Candelaria is also packed with cafes and bars where you can try Chicha, an indigenous alcoholic drink made with corn and Chúcula, a warm drink made from a mix of spices, grains, cacao, and cinnamon.

The Candelaria is also home to some important sights and museums, such as the Botero Museum, the Gold Museum, Santuario Nuestra Señora del Carmen and Plaza Bolivar.

4- Hike up Monserrate 

The hill of Monserrate dominates the town of Bogota. Once at the top of it, you will be at 3200 metres above sea level, giving you the best views of the city. But the mountain is not just a viewpoint. It has also been a pilgrimage destination since the 1600s on top of it is an active church and a shrine.

You can reach the top of Monserrate by funicular or cable car but we think it’s more fun to hike the pilgrimage trail!

If you have the time and energy, the hike involves climbing up 1605 steps. It took us an hour but you can do it at your own pace. It’s tough but it’s doable.

Note: The altitude may affect your ability to hike so you should first acclimatise yourself. If you are only in Bogota for a couple of days, don’t bother with the hike; just take the funicular or cable car. 

Planning to climb Monserrate? Read our complete guide to hiking Cerro de Monserrate for trail information, difficulty, opening hours and tips to help you prepare for the climb.

5- Visit the Gold Museum 

If you visit one museum in Bogota, this has to be the one, especially if you plan on visiting the Laguna de Guatavita as well (see below). Visiting the museum will compliment your trip to the lake.

The Gold Museum is the most visited sight in Bogota, attracting 500,000 tourists per year and it holds the largest collection of Pre-Hispanic gold work in the world. Admission is free on Sundays (so expect queues!) and costs 21,000 Pesos otherwise.

6- Visit the Botero Museum

I didn’t know anything about Fernando Botero before I visited Medellin but I have to say, I like the guy. All we’ve heard about him has been good things. Plus, his art is not bad either. It’s very “different” to what we’ve been used to.

One example of a good thing Botero did is that he donated hundreds of his artworks to the Banco de la República de Colombia. What did he want in return? He made them promise that his art would be displayed in a free museum for everyone to enjoy.

So, now you can marvel at Botero’s work for free! Not only that, but he also donated some of his personal art collection to the museum, with pieces from Monet, Picasso, and other world-famous artists. As I said, you can see them all for free. So make sure you go and check it out! 

7- Check out Plaza Bolivar

Surrounded by the imposing Cathedral of Bogotá, the Palace of Justice, the mayor’s office and the Capitol Building, Plaza Bolivar is stunning. This plaza is one of Bogotá’s most iconic sites and is a favourite with locals (and therefore very busy on Sundays) and tourists alike. However, the pigeons are its most popular visitors!

8- Take a trip to the Laguna de Guatavita

If you need some time away from the big city, take a day trip to the Laguna de Guatavita. This lake is just over an hour outside of Bogotá, depending on the traffic and is a beautiful place to visit. The lake is a sacred indigenous site for the Muisca people and it is where the legend of El Dorado was born. According to the legend, tons of gold was thrown into this lake during indigenous ceremonies. Some of it was recovered and now sits on display in the Gold Museum. 

Read more about our day trip to the Laguna de Guatavita here.

9- Go beer tasting!

I enjoy wine more than beer but there was one brand of beer in Colombia that I LOVED! That was BBC. It turns out that it stands for the Bogota Beer Company. While in Bogota, you can go beer tasting at their brewery. If you’re a beer drinker, make sure you visit and sample some of this local brew, especially my favourite, the BBC Cajicá Honey Ale. 

10- Try some local food

Each Colombian city has its own special dish. In Medellin, it’s Bandeja Paisa. But in Bogota, it’s Ajiaco. What’s Ajiaco? It’s a soup made from chicken, two or three different types of potatoes, corn, capers, avocado, and sour cream. If you’re thinking of ordering it for a light dinner, think again; it’s certainly not light!

This dish is huge and it’s bound to leave you very full and satisfied! My advice, try it for lunch; you’ll save on dinner! The best places to try it are La Puerta Falsa and La Puerta de la Catedral. 

If you’re continuing your Colombian adventure, don’t miss colourful Cartagena on the Caribbean coast! With its beautiful colonial architecture, lively streets and tropical atmosphere, it’s a completely different experience from Bogotá. Check out our guide to the best things to do in Cartagena for inspiration.

Is Bogotá Safe to Travel To?

Bogotá has a reputation for crime, and although the city has plenty to offer visitors, it’s important to be a little more street-smart here than in some other destinations. Pickpocketing, bag snatching and armed robberies do occur, including in tourist areas, so it’s worth taking a few extra precautions.

That said, we never felt unsafe during our week in Bogotá. We avoided areas that locals advised us against, didn’t wander around after dark and were particularly careful with our new camera. If you remember, I had my previous camera stolen in Pasto on our very first day in Colombia, so we certainly weren’t taking any chances!

We also used Uber rather than hailing taxis on the street. If you’re visiting Bogotá, I’d recommend booking transport through a reputable app or asking your hotel to arrange a trusted taxi, particularly at night. A few simple precautions can help reduce your risk. Avoid displaying expensive jewellery, cameras or phones unnecessarily, carry only the cash you need and stay alert in crowded areas. Be particularly careful after dark, even in popular tourist neighbourhoods such as La Candelaria.

Another thing to be aware of is drink spiking and scams targeting tourists. Never leave your drink unattended or accept food and drinks from strangers.

We spent a fantastic week exploring Bogotá without any problems, and I certainly wouldn’t suggest skipping the city simply because of its reputation. However, being cautious doesn’t guarantee that nothing will happen, so always trust your instincts and check current safety advice before travelling.

And one final piece of advice: if you are ever threatened or mugged, don’t try to be a smart arse! Hand over your belongings rather than resisting. Cameras, phones and money can all be replaced. You can’t!

Best Time to Visit Bogotá

Bogotá can be visited year-round, but December to February and July to August are generally the driest periods, making them ideal for sightseeing and exploring the city on foot.

Because Bogotá sits at an altitude of around 2,600 metres, temperatures remain relatively cool throughout the year, typically hovering around 18–20°C during the day. Evenings can be chilly, so bring a jacket!

The rainiest periods are generally April–May and October–November, although showers are possible at any time of year. Whatever the season, pack layers and a waterproof jacket.

How Many Days Do You Need in Bogotá?

I’d recommend spending at least 2–3 days in Bogotá to explore its main attractions, including La Candelaria, Monserrate, the Gold Museum and its colourful street art.

Where to Stay in Bogotá

Bogotá is a huge city, so choosing the right neighbourhood can make a big difference to your stay. Fortunately, there are plenty of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from affordable hotels and guesthouses to beautiful boutique properties and luxury hotels.

La Candelaria is a great choice if you want to be close to Bogotá’s historic attractions. With its colourful colonial streets, museums and lively atmosphere during the day, it’s particularly popular with first-time visitors and budget travellers. However, it’s worth being cautious after dark.

Chapinero is another excellent option, especially if you enjoy good restaurants, cafés and a more modern atmosphere. Meanwhile, Zona Rosa and Parque 93 are popular for their shopping, dining and upscale hotels, although they’re further from the historic centre.

If you prefer somewhere quieter, Usaquén is also worth considering, with its charming streets, relaxed atmosphere and lovely restaurants.

Here are three recommended hotels in Bogotá to suit different budgets.

Budget – Hotel Dann Av. 19

If you’re looking for affordable accommodation in central Bogotá, Hotel Dann Av. 19 is a good option. It offers comfortable rooms, breakfast and a convenient location for exploring the city’s historic attractions, including the Gold Museum and La Candelaria. It’s also a practical base for visiting Monserrate without spending a fortune on accommodation.

Check prices and availability on Agoda.

Mid-Range – Novotel Bogotá Parque 93

If you prefer staying in a more modern part of Bogotá, Novotel Bogotá Parque 93 is an excellent choice. Located near Parque de la 93, the hotel offers contemporary rooms, a restaurant and easy access to some of the city’s best cafés and dining options. It’s a little further from Monserrate, but a comfortable base for exploring the capital.

Check prices and availability on Agoda.

Luxury – Hotel de la Ópera

For something a little special, Hotel de la Ópera is a beautiful hotel in La Candelaria, housed in historic buildings full of character. With elegant rooms, a spa, an indoor swimming pool and an excellent location near Plaza Bolívar, it’s a lovely place to relax after a day exploring Bogotá or hiking Monserrate.

Check prices and availability on Agoda.

If none of those are available or take your fancy, try using the search box below:

Where to eat in Bogota? 

Try La Puerta Falsa and La Puerta de la Catedral for traditional food 

Sant Just: A Colombian/French fusion with beautifully presented dishes. It’s always packed at lunchtime, so visit early.

Dos Gatos y Simone: The street art in this restaurant is going to intrigue you, especially if you are a cat lover. So walk in, sit down and indulge in great Mexican food!

Andres Carne de Res: This dining institution is HUGE! It has 11 dining areas, two dance floors, more than five kitchens, and a climbing wall. It’s all about the meat and the party! It’s a great place to hang out at for some entertainment with your steak.

How to Get Around Bogotá

Bogotá is a huge city, and traffic can be terrible, especially during rush hour. Fortunately, there are several ways to get around.

On Foot

If you’re staying in La Candelaria, you can easily walk to many of Bogotá’s main attractions, including Plaza Bolívar, the Gold Museum and the Botero Museum. Walking is generally fine in busy tourist areas during the day, but avoid quiet streets and unfamiliar areas after dark.

By Uber or Taxi

We mainly used Uber during our stay in Bogotá, following the advice of our Airbnb host, who recommended avoiding taxis hailed directly from the street.

We found Uber convenient, affordable and easy to use, with much shorter waiting times than we’d experienced in Medellín! The cars weren’t always the nicest, but they did the job.

Ride-hailing apps are widely used in Bogotá, although their legal status remains complicated. Alternatively, ask your hotel to arrange a trusted taxi.

By Bus

Bogotá’s TransMilenio is a rapid bus system with dedicated lanes along major roads, helping passengers avoid some of the city’s notorious traffic. Regular SITP buses also connect neighbourhoods throughout the city.

You’ll generally need a rechargeable TuLlave card to use public transport. Buses are affordable but can get extremely crowded during peak hours, so keep an eye on your belongings.

Check the official TransMilenio website for current fares and routes.

How to Get to and From Bogotá Airport

El Dorado International Airport is approximately 15 kilometres from central Bogotá. Depending on traffic and your destination, the journey can take anywhere from 30 minutes to over an hour.

By Taxi

An official airport taxi is one of the easiest ways to reach your accommodation. Use the authorised taxi service at the airport rather than accepting offers from unofficial drivers in the arrivals area. Confirm the fare or how it will be calculated before setting off.

Uber is another option, although arranging a pickup at the airport can sometimes be more hassle than it’s worth!

By Private Transfer

Many hotels and accommodation providers can arrange an airport transfer. We organised one through our Airbnb, and it cost about the same as a taxi. It’s worth asking, especially if you’re arriving late at night.

By Bus

Public transport is the cheapest option. The free TransMilenio feeder bus connects the airport with Portal El Dorado, where you can transfer to other bus routes.

You’ll need a rechargeable TuLlave card for the paid services. This option is best if you’re travelling light and arriving during the day, particularly if you’re unfamiliar with Bogotá.

Explore More of Colombia

Colombia is one of South America’s most diverse countries, with everything from colourful colonial towns and lush coffee plantations to spectacular national parks and Caribbean beaches. If you’re planning to explore beyond Bogotá, check out some of our other travel guides:

• Hiking Cerro de Monserrate – Everything you need to know about climbing Bogotá’s famous mountain.
• Things to Do in Cartagena – Explore the colourful streets and historic charm of Colombia’s Caribbean gem.
• Visiting Tayrona National Park – Discover beautiful beaches, jungle hikes and incredible coastal scenery.
• Salento and the Cocora Valley – Explore Colombia’s coffee region and hike among the world’s tallest palm trees.

Read More

Cartagena Through My Lens: A Photo Essay

Medellín: A Guide to the Most Innovative City in the World