Top 25 Must-Experience Activities in Bogotá, Colombia

Do not let the vast and lively city of Bogotá overwhelm you. The capital of Colombia is rich in history and offers numerous tourist attractions, alongside a vibrant and modern atmosphere. From its weekly Ciclovía bike route through the city streets to its upscale neighborhoods that boast excellent restaurants, parks, and a lively nightlife, Bogotá is truly a cosmopolitan hub.

Simultaneously, you will appreciate the authentic culture, markets, and street art that envelop you daily. After traversing La Candelaria up through Zona Rosa, consider taking day trips to nearby colonial villages, picturesque lakes, and breathtaking waterfalls.

Here are the top things to do in Bogotá:

1. Stroll Through La Candelaria

This area is likely the first destination for tourists, as La Candelaria serves as the historic center of the city.

The vibrant, artistic streets are conveniently close to several attractions; however, be mindful that the neighborhood may present some safety concerns, particularly at night, due to potential pickpockets.

Wander along the cobblestone streets past colorful Spanish colonial architecture and university buildings, admire the street art, and visit several cathedrals.

Enjoy refreshments at various bars, cafes, and restaurants while engaging in people-watching; you will often encounter artists and musicians in this neighborhood.

2. The Gold Museum

The Museo del Oro in Bogotá is the most acclaimed and arguably the most fascinating museum in the city, housing over 30,000 gold artifacts.

The museum spans three floors with exhibits showcasing artifacts from Colombia’s pre-Hispanic cultures, organized around differing themes.

Visitors will learn about the discovery, extraction, and crafting of metals into jewelry, masks, bowls, offerings, and armor.

The museum reveals the cultural symbolism and spiritual significance of gold in everyday life.

Overall, the museum is exceptionally curated and visually remarkable, offering an impressive historical overview at a minimal entrance fee.

3. Climb Monserrate

Make your way up the steep steps to this stunning vantage point overlooking the expanse of Bogotá, or opt for the funicular if preferred.

The small white church at the summit is charming, but the primary draw is the panoramic view of the city; ensure you remain hydrated and mindful of the altitude. While there are upscale restaurants at the top, a snack bar provides refreshments as you take in the scenery (coca tea is available for those feeling the effects of the climb). Take note of the local superstition which suggests that couples who visit Monserrate together will never marry.

4. Plaza Bolívar

Visit the heart of the capital to observe government activities in action.

This expansive plaza, often filled with pigeons, houses Colombia’s Palace of Justice, Capitol Building, Cathedral of Bogotá, and the mayor’s office.

The presence of law enforcement enhances security as the Presidential Palace, the Palacio de Narino, is also nearby.

Acquire insight into Colombia’s rich history, covering its fight for independence and notable events, such as Pablo Escobar’s siege of the Palace of Justice, to enrich your visit.

5. The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá

The Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá, located approximately an hour outside Bogotá, is among the most sought-after day trips from the city.

This cathedral has been intricately carved underground within a salt mine and features alcoves for worship and beautifully illuminated crosses.

It is extensive, akin to a small town situated 590 feet (180 meters) below ground, and includes dining areas and souvenir shops.

Consider arriving early to avoid crowds, and join one of the regular tours while you explore the charming nearby colonial town afterward.

6. Andrés Carne de Res

This venue is more than just a dining establishment; it offers a unique experience.

The original Andrés Carne de Res is located in Chía, a small town outside Bogotá, with a second location now situated in Zona Rosa.

Ideal for a lively night out, gather a large group or arrange transportation with a hotel or hostel that offers a fun night out with fellow adventurers. What was initially a restaurant has evolved into a nightclub turned festival atmosphere, serving authentic Colombian cuisine along with ample merengue and salsa dancing opportunities.

Through the various themed environments, the atmosphere resembles that of a vibrant carnival with abundant decorations, cocktails, confetti, and even parades.

7. The Botero Museum

Fernando Botero, Colombia’s most renowned artist, whose works prominently feature voluminous figures, hails from Medellín.

The Botero Museum in Bogotá showcases numerous pieces from this artist, notably featuring his interpretations of individuals, animals, and objects.

Housed in a beautifully renovated colonial building with a central courtyard, entry to this culturally significant collection of art is complimentary.

Additionally, the museum includes several works by other illustrious artists such as Picasso, Monet, and Renoir.

8. Street Art Tour

While it is possible to wander through Bogotá and discover captivating street art, consider joining a guided tour led by professionals. These graffiti tours have gained immense popularity and provide an insightful glimpse of the city’s best artworks.

Local guides will share the stories behind the artists and the societal movements represented in the artworks, as well as the political messages they convey.

This offers a profound understanding of both Bogotá’s complex history and optimistic future.

9. Mercado de las Pulgas de Usaquén

This vibrant street market occurs each Sunday in Usaquén, a neighborhood situated in northern Bogotá.

Vendors establish stalls and tents within the park and along the streets, featuring a variety of handicrafts, trinkets, and unique items distinct from typical Colombian souvenirs.

Shoppers can find high-quality handmade products such as bags, shoes, and jewelry.

The area boasts an array of upscale restaurants and cafes; however, on market days, numerous budget-friendly food options, including cupcakes, sausages, fresh juices, and cheesecakes, will be available. The Bogotá Beer Company also has a location here for post-shopping refreshments.

10. Take a Bicycle Tour of the City

Although cycling in a bustling metropolis may seem counterintuitive, bike tours in Bogotá are quite popular.

These tours provide an excellent means to explore various neighborhoods that are spread out and may not warrant a visit on their own.

From fruit markets to tejo gaming venues, the Plaza de Toros, and café stops, you will have the opportunity to experience diverse aspects of the city (sometimes in a culinary sense).

The guides are adept at storytelling and ensuring safety; navigating through the city’s heavy traffic via bicycle is far more manageable than one might initially believe.

Bogotá Bike Tours offers daily tours departing from La Candelaria.

11. Take a Day Trip to Villa de Leyva

Escape the city for a visit to one of Colombia’s most picturesque colonial towns.

This charming village features an expansive central square, cobblestone streets, and well-preserved Spanish architecture.

During your visit, explore unique attractions such as Casa Terracotta, an entire functioning home constructed from clay, claimed by many to be the largest pottery piece globally.

Additional highlights include a fossil museum and a vineyard.

There is a growing selection of boutique hotels if you wish to extend your stay; however, it is advisable to avoid weekends, as tourists flock to Villa de Leyva, resulting in overcrowding.

12. Zona Rosa

This sophisticated Bogotá district is fashionable and renowned for its nightlife.

It also serves as a convenient base if you prefer to be near the chic amenities rather than the typical tourist hotspots in the city.

Home to a plethora of restaurants, boutiques, malls, bars, and the lovely Parque 93, Zona Rosa is bustling with vibrant dining options.

You can find a variety of evening entertainment, from laid-back pubs serving craft beers to lively nightclubs. The party restaurant, Andres D.C., and “Zona T” offer an excellent pedestrian area with outdoor seating and plenty of dancing opportunities when night falls.

Additionally, El Chapinero is a welcoming space within Zona Rosa featuring numerous LGBTQ+ bars.

13. Laguna de Guatavita

If you’re looking for a nature escape from the urban setting, head north of Bogotá to discover Lake Guatavita, the legendary site where the El Dorado myth originated and an area of spiritual significance to local indigenous communities.

Hike through the lush, biodiverse Paramo to reach the lake’s rim for breathtaking views of the water below.

Consider hiring a guide to facilitate transportation, and provide deeper insights into the Muisca people, the myth of the golden kingdom, and the local flora and fauna.

14. Parque Central Simón Bolívar

Despite being a large capital city, Bogotá is replete with green spaces where citizens gather, exercise, and enjoy family time.

Simón Bolívar Park acts as the city’s Central Park, a vast public space that fills with visitors on weekends.

The park features a lake inhabited by ducks, where visitors can rent small boats, and various walking, jogging, and cycling paths.

Live performances occur during the summer, with a notable event named Rock in the Park attracting renowned performers and music enthusiasts.

Pack a picnic or grab a meal from the affordable cafes nearby to enjoy lunch by the water or under the trees.

15. Play Tejo

Tejo is Colombia’s national sport, involving elements of gunpowder, targets, and explosive reactions.

This activity typically accompanies a few beers, making it a fun option to try during your time in Bogotá.

Players hurl heavy metal disks toward gunpowder-filled targets embedded in clay, resulting in an exhilarating loud explosion and points for successful hits.

For an enjoyable experience, consider visiting Club de Tejo La 76, where beginners can try their hand at “mini tejo,” allowing for easier target hits.

Some bike tours of Bogotá may also include a stop at a tejo site.

16. Try Ajiaco and Chocolate Completo at La Puerta Falsa

While visiting Bogotá, indulge in traditional local cuisine, beginning with ajiaco—a hearty chicken stew accompanied by potatoes and corn, garnished with capers, avocado, and cream—at La Puerta Falsa.

This historic establishment, founded in 1816 and situated near Plaza Bolívar, is renowned for serving traditional dishes.

Be sure to also order the chocolate completo—a combination of hot chocolate, cheese, and fresh bread—a customary mid-morning snack in Colombia.

While this may seem an unusual pairing, dipping cheese into hot chocolate as it melts is a delightful experience.

Alternative restaurants in the vicinity also offer similar culinary delights if La Puerta Falsa is particularly busy.

17. Plaza de Mercado de Paloquemao

Explore an authentic local market while in Bogotá to experience a wide array of fresh food offerings and observe locals in their grocery shopping routines.

Plaza Paloquemao boasts an impressive collection of vendors selling fruits, vegetables, flowers, spices, eggs, seafood, and freshly butchered meats.

Additionally, numerous stalls serve cooked dishes such as ajiaco, tamales, fried fish, and soups along the market’s periphery.

Arrive early, be prepared for limited English proficiency, and immerse yourself in an incredible sensory experience.

Consider having breakfast at the market before exploring and sampling a selection of exotic fruits.

18. Teatro Colón

Constructed in the late 1800s and designed by an Italian architect, Teatro Colón was named after Christopher Columbus, serving as Colombia’s national theater.

This magnificent structure showcases neoclassical architecture, featuring exquisite interiors adorned with frescoes.

The seating arrangement is fashioned in a horseshoe shape similar to the Palais Garnier in Paris, albeit at half the size.

Check the schedule for performances and purchase tickets at the venue or participate in a guided tour to explore the theater.

The lineup includes operas, concerts, and contemporary plays, all contributing to a magical and romantic atmosphere.

19. Zona G

Situated just south of Zona Rosa is another upscale neighborhood characterized by trendy restaurants, cafes, bars, elegant hotels, and picturesque tree-lined streets.

Zona G, with “G” standing for “gourmet,” offers a wide variety of culinary options; despite being somewhat pricier, it is an enjoyable destination for an evening out.

Diverse cuisines from steak to Mexican, Peruvian, Lebanese, and Colombian are available, complemented by coffee shops and breweries.

In addition to dining and beverages, wander to Plaza de Lourdes to witness its remarkable church and indulge in budget-friendly eats such as churros and fried arepas.

20. Museo Nacional de Colombia

This expansive museum, established in 1823, is the largest and oldest in Colombia, originally constructed as a prison built in a fortress style.

It houses an impressive collection of over 20,000 artifacts illustrating Colombian history, displayed in 17 permanent galleries formerly serving as prison cells.

The exhibits encompass pre-Columbian artifacts as well as collections reflecting the colonial period under Spanish dominance.

Guests can explore artwork, furniture, and Afro-Caribbean collections while noting any temporary exhibits on view during their visit.

The museum frequently hosts special exhibitions, seminars, and musical events that draw in considerable audiences.

21. Biblioteca Público Virgilio Barco

Avid readers and architecture enthusiasts will appreciate this vast library in Bogotá.

Situated adjacent to Parque Simón Bolívar amidst beautiful gardens and serene reading areas, it has been designed by one of Colombia’s foremost architects, Rogelio Salmona.

The circular structure is surrounded by reflective water features, creating a tranquil ambiance.

The library offers free Wi-Fi and frequently features art exhibitions, in addition to its extensive book collection.

On-site cafes provide snacks and beverages, and an open-air theater on the rooftop offers splendid views when sunny.

22. Jardín Botánico de Bogotá

This tranquil and often uncrowded space is always lush and peaceful.

Entry to the botanical gardens is affordable (less than 1 USD), giving you access to 19.5 hectares of gardens for an idyllic day surrounded by nature.

You will find ample space for a leisurely stroll or may choose to search for lizards, turtles, ducks, peacocks, and various other wildlife.

With nearly 12 hours of daily sunlight, the diverse range of flora here is remarkable, featuring exotic flowers alongside a rose garden.

Consider enjoying a snack from nearby food stalls or taking a guided tour to learn more about the botanical diversity present.

23. Eat More Colombian Food

Colombia boasts a diverse culinary landscape.

Be sure to sample sancocho—a hearty, meat-laden stew encompassing potatoes and corn—and the delicious slow-roasted pork known as lechona.

Accompany your meal with an Aguila or Club Colombia beer and delicious cheese-filled arepas.

Do not miss the chance to taste exquisite Colombian coffee, refreshing fruit juices, and the anise-flavored liquor known as aguardiente.

Alternatively, consider enlisting the services of an experienced guide and embark on a Food Safari with Bogotá Foodie.

This adventure will take you through traditional markets to sample exotic fruits and savor dishes such as fish stew, lechona, pastries, cheesy breads, coffee, and empanadas.

24. Hike to La Chorrera and El Chiflón Waterfalls

These two striking waterfalls can be found outside Bogotá, requiring a moderate three-hour round-trip hike through vibrant, green flora.

The journey to the falls allows for stunning views of the Andean landscape, characterized by charming colonial villages, imposing cliffs, and dense forest.

You may either take your own transport and pay the entrance fee or arrange an organized excursion with a local hostel or tour company, which covers transportation, guides, and meals.

While the trails may be challenging and somewhat muddy, they are well-signposted, and the stunning waterfalls are well worth the trek (perfect for a refreshing swim after your hike).

25. Ciclovía Sundays

Should you find yourself in Bogotá on a Sunday, take notice of the extraordinary event known as Ciclovía, where over 100 kilometers of streets are closed to vehicular traffic.

This weekly celebration invites families and friends to partake in biking, skateboarding, rollerblading, or walking through the city.

Consider renting a bike and joining in on the festivities, experiencing daily life in Bogotá while engaging in some enjoyable exercise.

Along the cycling routes, you will discover roadside food stalls offering fresh juices or arepas as you explore.

If you wish to participate in an exercise or dance class, many parks along the cycling route offer free recreational activities known as Recreovía.