What to Do in Bogotá, Colombia: 4 Must-Do Experiences

Bogotá is a vibrant city full of contrasts, where modernity meets Colombia’s rich history and culture. We visited Bogotá as our last destination in Colombia during our second trip around the world in 2024, after exploring incredible places like Salento, Medellín, Santa Marta, Tayrona, Palomino, Minca, and Cartagena, before heading to Peru. If you’re looking for a travel guide on what to do in Bogotá, you’re in the right place!

From the colonial architecture of La Candelaria to fascinating museums, stunning views from Cerro Monserrate, and delicious gastronomy, Bogotá offers a wealth of unforgettable experiences.

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Is Bogotá Safe?

The most direct answer: Bogotá is not the safest place in Colombia, but we never felt in danger. You just need to follow some basic safety rules that we’ve included below. There are areas in the city that aren’t recommended, but it’s unlikely you’ll be interested in visiting them. For getting around, we recommend using authorized taxis or Uber.

Bogotá is more dangerous at night, so when in doubt, always check with your accommodation to see if it’s safe to visit a specific area or do an activity. A false sense of security might arise from seeing locals with their phones and wallets in hand, but don’t do the same. For example, if you’re calling an Uber, stay inside the hotel until the car arrives, avoiding being out in the street with your phone visible, as this can attract unwanted attention.

How Many Days to Stay in Bogotá?

The amount of time you’ll want to spend in Bogotá depends on what you plan to do. We stayed 3 nights, which gave us two full days to explore the city. During our stay, we realized we could have stayed an extra day or two, as there were more interesting things to do than we initially imagined.

Best Time to Visit Bogotá

The best time to visit Bogotá is between December and March, during the dry season, when rain is less frequent, and temperatures are milder. However, we visited Bogotá in September and enjoyed sunny days with pleasant temperatures around 20°C during the day and cooler mornings and evenings at around 12°C. Even during the dry season, it’s good to be prepared for quick weather changes, including occasional showers in the late afternoon.

How to Get to Bogotá

We arrived in Bogotá by plane from Pereira after our visit to Salento. El Dorado Airport is relatively close to the city center. The best way to get to your accommodation is by authorized taxi or Uber. Since we arrived at night, we opted for Uber as it was safer, and we ended up using this service to get around the city throughout our stay.

Where to Stay in Bogotá

When researching the best areas to stay in Bogotá, we found that the further north you go, the better, especially in terms of safety. We chose the area between Chicó and Usaquén, although Chapinero was also on our list. The downside of staying in the north is that trips to the center are longer, whether by taxi, Uber, or bus. Still, it was worth it for the peace and quiet.

We stayed at the Bogotá Plaza Hotel, a luxurious yet affordable hotel, perfect for digital nomads, with great coworking spaces, spacious rooms with desks, and an excellent breakfast buffet. The hotel also offers a spa and a fully equipped gym, perfect for recharging or burning off energy. On your next trip to Bogotá, be sure to consider the Bogotá Plaza Hotel and book your stay here.

What to Do in Bogotá?

Enjoy Parque 93

A pleasant area to explore in Bogotá is around Parque de la 93, where you’ll find several restaurants and shops. If you’re looking for things to do in the city, having lunch at Crepes and Waffles is an excellent choice, and we highly recommend it. Then, you can grab a coffee at Ay Mi Amor, where the cookies are a must-try. This relaxed atmosphere is perfect for unwinding and enjoying what the city has to offer.

Explore the Historic Center

Bogotá’s historic center offers a true trip back in time, with its narrow streets and colorful colonial buildings reminiscent of the colonial era. If you’re looking for things to do in Bogotá, starting here is essential. You can admire iconic squares like Plaza de Bolívar and visit historic landmarks such as the National Capitol and the Primatial Cathedral. The atmosphere is vibrant and full of life, with street vendors, musicians, and artists adding a special charm to this heart of the city. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll and to soak in Bogotá’s rich cultural heritage.

Visit Candelaria

The La Candelaria neighborhood is a must-visit for anyone looking for things to do in Bogotá. This charming district is known for its colonial buildings, museums, and vibrant cultural life. As you walk its streets, you’ll find art galleries, theaters, and cozy cafés, perfect for soaking in the area’s artistic atmosphere. La Candelaria also houses important museums, such as the Botero Museum and the Mint Museum, making it an ideal destination for those who want to immerse themselves in the city’s culture and history.

Explore Libros Merlin

Libros Merlin is a must-visit for book lovers looking for things to do in Bogotá. With a vast collection of literary works, ranging from classics to rare finds, and a cozy atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to get lost among shelves full of stories. The space invites discovery and offers a peaceful retreat amid the city’s hustle and bustle.

Take a Food Tour

We did a food tour that took us to try local delicacies such as empanadas, pandebono, capybara, and the famous Santafereño hot chocolate with cheese. The tour is tip-based, and the food is paid separately.

Stroll through Monserrate Hill

Although we didn’t visit, Monserrate Hill is often mentioned as one of the best things to do in Bogotá. It was highly recommended by locals, both for its stunning panoramic view of the city and the peaceful atmosphere it offers. It’s an ideal spot to escape the city’s hustle and enjoy a moment of tranquility while admiring the breathtaking landscapes.

Try Modern Restaurants

We had dinner at Sauvage, a modern restaurant that fuses Colombian cuisine with other influences. The food was delicious, the atmosphere welcoming, and the cocktails were fantastic.

General and Safety Tips

• Travel Insurance: When visiting Colombia, we recommend travel insurance like Heymondo, which covers medical emergencies, flight cancellations, and lost luggage. Essential for destinations like Bogotá.
• Mobile Data: Use an international SIM card, like MobiMatter, to ensure mobile data access during your trip. With the code TWOBYTHEWORLD, you can get up to 50% cashback.
• “Don’t Give Papaya”: This Colombian phrase means “don’t make it easy.” Avoid displaying valuables and keep your belongings secure to avoid attracting unwanted attention.
• Transportation: Use authorized taxis or Uber and avoid unknown or deserted areas, especially at night. Always follow the recommendations of your accommodation.
• Avoid unknown areas: If you’re not familiar with the area, it’s always safer to avoid it, especially at night. Bogotá is a large city with neighborhoods that vary greatly in terms of safety. Stick to tourist-friendly and well-populated areas.
• More dangerous or deserted areas: Some parts of Bogotá may be less safe, particularly those less frequented by tourists. Avoid walking alone in deserted areas, such as isolated parks or empty streets, and always use reliable transportation to get around.
• Ask and follow your accommodation’s recommendations on activities or safe areas: Your hotel or accommodation is an excellent source of up-to-date information about the city. Always ask staff about safe areas to visit, how to get around, and recommended activities, especially at night or in less-known areas.