In recent years, Colombia’s capital city has shed its bad-boy drug-ridden reputation and has gradually become a sought-after destination among many world travelers. There are many who sing its praises, and rightfully so. Bogota has quietly become an overnight sensation: a bustling haven of towering skyscrapers, innovative cuisine, and glitzy nightlife, all while still preserving its rich history and dazzling culture.
At the same time, I would be lying if I identified Bogota as the highlight of a Colombian trip. Sure, the city has come a long way, as it truly is a fascinating city of contrasts. But it’s by no means Colombia’s gem. Not by a long shot.
Bogota is a great place to spend a day or two (chances are, if you flying in from an international destination, Bogota will probably be your first point of entry). There is more than enough to do, see, and eat here, but if at all possible, please don’t let it be your only exposure to Colombia.
Cartagena is arguably the sparkling gem of Colombia’s crown. A gorgeous blend of Spanish-colonial charm and vibrant Caribbean vibes, the enchanting old town of Cartagena is oozing of sophistication, splendor and sultriness.
Cartagena is known for its vivid bright colors.
To read more about our wonderful experience in Cartagena, read here.
Below is how to make the most of your time in Bogota: a complete guide to 36 hours in Colombia’s capital city.
Graffiti Walking Tour
Hands-down the highlight of our time here. Bogota is a city steeped in art, self-expression, and political advocacy, with graffiti being a prominent feature that is actively promoted and revered across the city.
The city didn’t always love and respect this medium of art, however. In 2011, a graffiti artist was shot dead by a policeman while painting the wall of an underpass. That ignited a public uproar and protests erupted throughout the city. The mayor took action to bring justice to the slain artist, including legalizing graffiti and street art in designated areas and certain walls around the city.
We joined the Bogota Graffiti Tour for a 2.5 hour walking tour and learned all about Bogota’s vibrant street art culture, including the artists themselves, history, significance, and influences of the dynamic art form. Tours are run by the artists and are offered twice a day. This a donation-based tour, so be sure to have cash on hand, as you pay at the end.
Such a unique and fascinating way to explore the city, all while learning about its incredible art scene. Highly recommend!
Plaza Bolivar
Like most Latin American capital cities, the heart of Bogota beats in its central square, Plaza Bolivar. The square is essentially just a square, so no need to linger here all that long. At the same time, its central location in Bogota’s historical La Candelaria neighborhood lends itself to the perfect spot to orient yourself to the city, and take a few moments to bask in the wide open space and its historical significance.
The plaza is inundated with pigeons, and the city is tirelessly urging pedestrians not to feed the large flocks that overrun the square each day. I’m pretty sure this woman did not get the memo.
Explore the La Candelabra Neighborhood
The pedestrian-only cobblestoned streets of this colonial neighborhood is a delight to wander through. Cozy restaurants and cafes dot the streets, local artists and vendors line the sidewalks selling everything from jewelry to paintings, and charming churches seamlessly co-exist alongside lavish mansions.
Iglesia de La Candelaria
There are numerous surrounding eateries and coffee shops to satisfy your sweet tooth
Two hundred Year Old La Puerta Falsa, just steps from the plaza, is a great spot for lunch and a Bogota institution.
Where To Stay
The Orchids Hotel’s stunning Oscar Wilde Library
We absolutely loved our stay at the exquisite Orchids Hotel, a lovely and grand boutique hotel ideally situated in the center of the Candelaria’s old city area. The entire hotel oozes of Old World charm from their meticulous attention to design to preservation of historical artifacts and detailed woodwork. Rooms are enormous, and are beautifully adorned with sumptuous antiques and period-piece furnishings. Staff is attentive and friendly and delicious breakfast is served in an intimate and ornate dining room.
The Orchids has managed to strike a remarkable balance of being a high-end accommodation without being pretentious, while remaining cozy, warm, and inviting. It is ideally located and just steps away from the Plaza and numerous restaurants and cafes. Highly recommend staying here!
Our opulent room
Monserrate
Standing over 3,000 feet above sea level, Monserrate Mountain towers over the capital city, providing unparalleled panoramic views of the metropolis. The looming mountain dominates Bogota’s skyline, providing a breathtaking backdrop.
Historically, the mountain served as a pilgrim destination in the early 1600s, with a religious retreat built at the very top mid-century. It was considered an important sacred place since before the arrival of the Spanish.
There are three ways to get to the top of the mountain: hiking, which takes about an hour, funicular railway, and cable car. The funicular operates in the morning, whereas the cable car runs in the afternoon. We traveled by cable car; given the city’s high altitude of 8,660 feet above sea level, we had zero desire to make the arduous trek.
Gold Museum (Museo del Oro)
Often regarded as Bogota’s most important museum, and one of South America’s best, the Gold Museum houses more than 55,000 pieces of gold and other materials from all of Colombia’s
major pre-Hispanic cultures.
The museum is undoubtedly impressive and its attention to detail and design is evident throughout, although I can’t say that T and I were blown away by any means. Sure, it’s a fine way to spend an hour or so and it’s conveniently located, but I wouldn’t allocate too much time here.
Dine at Leo
Considered one of the top restaurants in all of South America, eating at Restaurant Leo is a delicious party for your palette. The eponymous restaurant is female-owned (just another bonus and reason to dine here) and treats its diners to local, unique and sophisticated ingredients and flavors. While it’s certainly a high-end restaurant with all of the bells and whistles you’d expect of a top-notch eatery, it’s anything but ostentatious or intimidating. Another plus? It’s a bargain compared to many other restaurants of similar caliber. If you can score a reservation here (I emailed about a month in advance), absolutely go!
For too long Colombia has been a destination that many travelers have either glossed over in exchange for its more popular neighbors, like Brazil and Peru, or avoided entirely due to its pervasive crime and dangerous reputation. It’s time to abandon this outdated way of thinking once and for all and fully embrace this forward-thinking and dynamic country. A trip to Colombia will undoubtedly leave you enamored and fulfilled, and quite possibly even wishing for many many more return visits.
Happy Traveling, All!
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