Fear not, financially challenged traveler, Bogotá has a bounty of free and economical things to do if you know where to look. Public transportation is cheap, and much of the art and entertainment requires neither a ticket nor a tuxedo – it’s played out on the street.
There’s also a wide network of funky, reasonably priced hostels, many of which offer private rooms. The downtown Candelaria neighborhood – an ideal location due to its proximity to most of the city’s historic sights and nightlife – has an excellent selection housed in buildings with shady patios, wooden balconies, and a few shoots of greenery.
Here are some top things to do for free in the Colombian capital.
1. Be just looking and not buying at Mercado de las Pulgas
Among Bogotá’s numerous flea markets, this Sunday affair in the northern neighborhood of Usaquén is undoubtedly the best. “Flea market” is a bit of a misnomer. Not everything sold at Las Pulgas’ various stalls is secondhand; it includes handmade jewelry, figurines, and more. Even if you’re not buying, it’s worth dropping by to savor the bustling weekend atmosphere amplified by the Ciclovia, where many locals gather for Sunday brunch.
Planning tip: The market is adjacent to the Plaza Central de Usaquén and runs every Sunday between 9am and 5pm.
2. Rent two wheels at the Ciclovia
The Ciclovia, a genius idea that first hatched in 1974, transforms Bogotá from a snarling knot of traffic jams into a biker’s paradise every Sunday. Between 7am and 2pm, 127km (79 miles) of the city’s streets are given over exclusively to cyclists, runners, walkers, rollerbladers, and any other car-less wanderer.
Over 1.5 million people regularly partake, meaning the atmosphere is festive with streetside stalls, free outdoor exercise classes, bike repair stations, and spontaneous entertainment.
Planning tip: Participating will cost you the price of a bike rental or absolutely nothing if you bring your own. Rentals are available in Candelaria.
3. Listen to storytellers in Plazoleta del Chorro de Quevedo
Bogotá’s most atmospheric square is smaller, grittier, and more charismatic than the more monumental Plaza de Bolívar. Relax on the steps of the whitewashed San Miguel del Príncipe hermitage or at a local café, where entertainment is sure to find you: be it a circle of hacky-sack players, musicians, or local students showcasing their talent. Fridays at 5pm feature Spanish storytelling sessions outside the church.
Planning tip: Come back in the evening when the bars nearby fill up with young people.
4. Absorb street art found everywhere
Bogotá is one of the most graffitied cities in the Americas, with art found on nearly every street. The city has created an official “Distrito Graffiti” near Puente Aranda where local artists have showcased their talents.
Explore on your own to absorb the murals, with Candelaria’s Plazoleta del Chorro de Quevedo as a great starting point. However, joining a free graffiti tour provides a deeper understanding of the best works and artists.
Planning tip: Tours set off twice daily, and tips for guides are appreciated.
5. Climb the steep path to Cerro de Monserrate
Ascend Cerro de Monserrate on a steep paved path to experience Bogotá’s breathtaking views at no cost. The winding path is 2.5km (1.5 miles) long, climbing 500 vertical meters to a summit complex boasting a basilica and various trails.
Planning tip: The path is open from 5am until 1pm; locals often start early. The cable car operates until 11:30pm on weekdays and 5:30pm on Sundays.
6. Dip into the churches of La Séptima
Bogotá’s main drag, Carrera 7 (La Séptima), features a series of free-to-enter churches that hide treasures behind their austere facades. Notable among them is the Catedral Primada on Plaza de Bolívar and the stunning Iglesia de San Francisco, known for its elaborate interior.
Planning tip: Visit La Séptima on Sundays for a chance to participate in Mass and explore the flea market that follows.
7. View rotund figures at the Museo Botero
The Museo Botero, part of a complex of art museums, showcases the distinctive works of Fernando Botero, along with items from his collection. The admission is free, making it one of the finest art museums in South America.
Planning tip: Allocate time for the adjacent Museo de Arte Miguel Urrutia, also free to visit.
8. See gold for free on Sundays at the Museo del Oro
Bogotá’s Museo del Oro, regarded as one of the finest gold museums globally, offers free admission on Sundays. Nevertheless, long lines are common as locals are aware of this opportunity, so plan your visit accordingly.
Planning tip: Arriving at 10am on Sundays can help you dodge the longest queues.
9. Spend an afternoon wandering the San Felipe Art District
San Felipe is Bogotá’s evolving art district, formerly automotive shops and residences, now a vibrant hub filled with galleries, workshops, cafes, and colorful murals. It’s a perfect place to immerse yourself in the local art scene.
Planning tip: Many galleries are free to enter and allow space for interactions with local artists.
