Nestled between Andean Peaks, Bogota is Colombia’s beautifully chaotic and exciting capital city. A diverse and multicultural hub, the high-altitude city packs so much of what Colombia offers within its limits. Surrounded by tall green mountains and filled with modern buildings, colourful local neighbourhoods and authentic colonial roof tiles, Bogota is the best of both worlds. From eclectic local districts and sumptuous dining spots to stunning natural wonders and plenty of historical attractions, this is the ideal destination for a first-time visit or a shorter trip to experience a taste of Colombia.
Hike up Mount Monserrate
Perched on the peak of Mount Monserrate, some 10,000 feet above sea level, is a charming hilltop sanctuary with showstopping panoramic views of Bogota, Colombia. A local pilgrimage site and one of the most popular things to do in Bogota, it’s well worth a visit. You can hike, take the funicular or get in a cable car to reach the top, the hike is 1.5 miles long and a fun choice for those after a little adventure. We also recommend taking the cable car to get the best views of Bogota on your way up. At the top, you’ll find an impressive 17th-century sanctuary that overlooks the city, a basilica and even a cafe and an open-air market selling crafts and souvenirs. With views of Bogota’s endless skyline on one side and sweeping mountains and forests on the other, you won’t regret taking half a day to explore this dreamy spot.
Browse handmade treasures in Pasaje Rivas Craft Market
For the last 126 years, this crafts market has been the largest artisan exhibition in the city and is now recognised as one of the oldest markets in Bogota and even the whole of Colombia. Surrounded by remarkable architecture, you’ll find charming narrow streets filled with artisans, farmers and artists selling all sorts of handmade crafts and souvenirs representative of Colombian culture. From traditional musical instruments and handmade jewellery to Arhuaca backpacks and blowguns, you’ll be browsing the stalls in curiosity for hours. Exploring this cultural jewel is a fantastic thing to do in Bogota and allows you to immerse yourself in an authentic cultural environment and even pick up some handmade souvenirs native to this region of the world.
Get lost in La Candelaria
The ‘Old City’ is Bogota’s oldest neighbourhood and is believed to be the site of the city’s first settlement, dating back to the early 1500s. Get lost in the cobblestoned streets admiring the vibrant graffiti murals adorning the walls, marvel at the contrasting Spanish colonial architecture or visit one of the many museums in the area, losing yourself in these streets is wonderful. However, if you’d prefer a little more guidance than that, you can opt for a tour. History buffs can discover the area’s fascinating past on a historical tour and art enthusiasts can check out the wildly-popular street art tours. Some must-sees in this vibrant neighbourhood include Bogota’s famous art museum, Botero Museum, and The Church Museum of Santa Clara. Finally, for a genuine taste of Bogota, sample Colombia’s flavours at one of the oldest restaurants in the city – La Puerta Falsa.
Check out the Gold Museum
Located within La Candelaria, this well-known museum definitely deserves its own mention. How could it not when it houses the biggest collection of gold artefacts on the planet? One of Colombia’s most spectacular museums, the Gold Museum contains 55,000 pieces of gold and a collection of other materials from pre-Hispanic culture including pottery, textiles and ceramics. It’s an attraction you cannot skip over when searching for things to do in Bogota, even Colombians travel from far and wide to visit. It’s a great attraction for any history or culture lover wanting to witness South America’s glittering history displayed in numerous exhibitions. Tours are available in English or Spanish and entry is free on Sundays.
Take a day trip to the Salt Cathedral
Located approximately 40 km from Bogota, Colombia’s city of Zipaquira offers a jaw-dropping and slightly more alternative experience. Nestled more than 650 feet underground, you’ll find an old salt mine that’s been transformed into a cathedral, complete with a 50-foot-high glowing cross! Originally a small altar created by 19th-century miners to pray for their safety, the Salt Cathedral is now a vast, majestic underground chapel that can seat around 8,000 people for Sunday mass. You can choose from one of the many tours on offer or just make your own way there. Whilst this is certainly a quirkier attraction, we’re sure it’s something you’ve never quite experienced before. So if you have the time, we recommend trying to fit this into your itinerary for something to do in Bogota that’s a little different.
If you’re planning your first trip or want to get a full all-around experience of Colombia, Bogota should be next on your list!
For a stress-free arrival, you can pre-book your airport transfer with a world-renowned company such as Welcome Pickups. The second you touch down in Bogota, Welcome’s dedicated, English-speaking drivers will be waiting to whisk you off to your hotel or accommodation, so you can get your vacation off to the most relaxing start.
