7 Unmissable Things To Do In Bogotá

With a rich history and plenty of colonial-era architecture to explore, Colombia’s capital city is a sprawling city high in the Andes mountains. It’s a vibrant city, and there’s plenty of things to do in Bogotá.

A trip to Bogotá is the perfect way to begin any journey through Colombia, as it offers a great starting point for learning about and immersing yourself in Colombian culture.

Ready to plan your trip? Here are seven unmissable things to do in Bogotá.

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1. Take in the views at Monseratte 

For the best views of Bogotá, you have to make it up to Cerro Monserrate, or Monserrate Mountain. 

This overlook provides you with some of the most stunning backdrops for your photographic memories of Colombia as it rises a whopping 3,152 meters above sea level.

Head up for a sunset drink and arrive easily by cable car. Or, hike the traditional 1,500-step route that religious people take each year to arrive at the church atop the hill.

Monserrate Mountain in Bogotá

2. Go on a Grafitti Walking Tour

Perhaps one of the most striking aspects of Bogotá is the graffiti art that adorns all of the nooks and crannies of the city.

If you’re trying to up your Instagram game or want the famous shot in front of one of the city’s famous murals, then you’re going to want to schedule a spot on a graffiti tour.

The guides are incredibly knowledgable and will provide you with helpful insight into unique aspects of the art, culture, and history of the city.

graffiti art in Bogotá

3. Visit the Gold Museum

Back in the golden days (pun intended), archaeologists were able to excavate large amounts of gold artefacts all over Colombia.

Today, they’re housed in the famous Gold Museum, which is located conveniently next to the famous Spanish-colonial neighbourhood La Candelaria. Both are worth exploring, but you’ll need more than a few hours for each one.

A ticket to this museum buys you entry to gawk over 55,000 pieces of historical gold artefacts in what is one of the most amazing exhibits of pre-Hispanic art in the world.

Gold Museum

4. Visit the Salt Mines of Zipaquirá 

Bogotá is filled with plenty of tourist attractions, but to witness one of the most spectacular sights, you’ll need to head a bit north outside of the city to the small town of Zipaquirá.

Here, you’ll find the famous salt mines and the even more famous Salt Cathedral. The salt deposit was formed 70 million years ago and today it’s one of the most popular attractions in Colombia.

The town itself is quaint and holds a lot of historical value for Colombia as well. It’s where the famous author Gabriel García Márquez went to school as a small child, and it’s also where the 2019 Tour de France winner Egan Bernal is from. 

Salt Mines of Zipaquirá

5. Spend the Evening at Andrés Carne de Res

Bogotá is home to some of the best restaurants in Colombia, but if you’re looking for the best restaurant in Bogotá, you’re going to need to head over to Andrés Carne de Res.

Eclectic, unique, and expansive are three words that describe this iconic restaurant. It seats up to 2,000 people at a time and the walls are covered in unique art and decorations.

If you go during the weekend, expect for there to be some sort of party or event going on. Do yourself a favour and order the hamburger. You won’t regret it. 

Andrés Carne de Res

6. Explore La Candelaria Neighbourhood

If you’re a fan of Spanish colonial architecture then La Candelaria is one of the most unmissable things to do in Bogotá.

The neighbourhood features elaborate doorways and brightly-coloured balconies that are sure to satiate your desire for authentic colonial culture.

The best part about La Candelaria is that it’s also home to some of Bogotá’s top museums, libraries, and restaurants. Be sure to pay a visit to the Botero Museum while you’re there.

La Candelaria Neighbourhood

7. Eat Ajiaco

You wouldn’t visit New York without trying the world-famous NYC pizza, would you? No! So, why would you visit Bogotá without trying their local dish, Ajiaco?

Ajiaco bogotano is a creamy soup that doubles as an entree for how absolutely packed full of flavour it is.

The dish itself is simple but hearty and includes chicken, a variety of potatoes, and corn.

Depending on where you get your Ajiaco, they might serve it with different spices, but usually always with cream, capers, and some sort of local salsa.

things to do in Bogotá

Elizabeth Thorn

Elizabeth has lived and worked in North America, South America, Europe, and Asia, all of which have contributed to her passion for travel writing. When she's not writing, you can find her exploring little hideouts in Colombia or watching photography tutorials on YouTube.

Contact: [email protected]

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