Best things to do in Bogotá: top attractions and hidden gems

With its blend of colonial charm, modern energy, and stunning Andean backdrops, Colombia’s capital offers an experience that’s both dynamic and deeply rooted in history. Whether you're wandering through colorful markets, exploring world-class museums, or enjoying the city’s buzzing nightlife, there’s no shortage of things to do in Bogotá.

Often called the "Athens of South America," the city is a cultural powerhouse, boasting impressive architecture, thought-provoking street art, and a thriving literary scene. In this article, we’ll talk about the unmissable spots in the city, hidden gems and interesting destinations in its surroundings.

You might also like to read:

• The ultimate guide to backpacking Colombia
• Is it safe to travel to Colombia? 

The best things to do in Bogotá

Cerro de Monserrate

Cerro de Monserrate is one of Bogotá’s most iconic landmarks, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city. At the summit, you'll find the Basílica Santuário del Señor Caído de Monserrate, which was established in 1640. From there, you can take in the sprawling cityscape and the surrounding mountains that frame Bogotá.

To reach the top, you can challenge yourself with a 2 km stairway climb that gains 470 meters in elevation—a real workout! If that sounds a bit too strenuous, there's also a cable car available for a smooth ride to the top. Prices for the cable car vary based on the day of the week, holidays, age, and whether you're buying a one-way or round-trip ticket.

In addition to the basilica, you'll find various small shops, an artisan market, restaurants, and cafés, offering plenty to explore at the peak.

Chorro de Quevedo and Callejón del Embudo

Chorro de Quevedo is a charming and vibrant square nestled at the top of La Candelaria, one of Bogotá’s most iconic neighborhoods. The square is a lively mix of cafés, restaurants, shops, and street art, creating a perfect fusion of Bogotá’s pre-Hispanic roots, colonial history, and modern-day energy.

Long before the Spanish arrived, the area was a sacred site for the Muisca people, who performed rituals dedicated to the mountains and the sun. Later, it became the very spot where Bogotá was founded.

Just around the corner, you’ll find Callejón del Embudo, a narrow alleyway renowned for its graffiti murals. While Bogotá is known for its street art, this particular area stands out with a rich collection of ever-evolving murals that often tackle social and political issues.

Plaza Simón Bolívar and surroundings

Plaza Simón Bolívar is one of Bogotá’s most picturesque squares, surrounded by several key historic landmarks, including the stunning Catedral Primada de Bogotá, a neoclassical gem, as well as the Palace of Justice and the National Capitol. 

In the center of the square stands a statue of Simón Bolívar, often surrounded by street vendors and locals feeding the pigeons that eagerly flock to tossed corn.

From the square, you can stroll down Peatonal Carrera 7, a bustling pedestrian street filled with restaurants, cafés, and shops. While it may feel chaotic, that’s all part of its charm—it captures the vibrant energy of a Latin American capital.

On Sundays, the area truly comes alive, with live music, chess tables, street theater, dance performances, and an even greater number of vendors lining the streets. It’s a perfect spot for those looking to experience Bogotá’s lively atmosphere beyond tourist attractions.

Museo del Oro

The Museo del Oro is one of Colombia’s most renowned museums, offering an in-depth look into the region’s rich goldsmithing traditions. It showcases the indigenous cultures who meticulously crafted beautiful artifacts using precious metals, not for trade or currency, but to establish a spiritual connection.

For many of these civilizations, gold symbolized the sun’s presence on Earth. This belief led to the creation of golden earrings, necklaces, nose piercings, and other jewelry meant to honor the Sun God, Inti.

The museum spans four floors, each filled with fascinating exhibits about the myths, rituals, metalworking practices, gods, and indigenous views on life and death.

Museo Botero

Fernando Botero was a celebrated Colombian painter and sculptor. His distinctive style is instantly recognizable. Figures with exaggerated proportions—small eyes, chubby fingers, and oversized bodies that give his subjects a unique quality.

All the artwork in the museum was donated by Botero to Colombia. He gave over 200 pieces, including his own creations and works by renowned artists like Picasso, Salvador Dalí, Claude Monet, and Joan Miró.

Usaquén

Bogotá was already a city before the arrival of the Spanish. The Muisca people, who worshiped the sun, occupied much of the region, and were primarily concentrated on what is now Usaquén.

Today, the square has become a bustling commercial center with businesses and restaurants, but it still retains the charm of a small-town plaza, complete with a picturesque church.

An indigenous market, which sells artifacts from various ethnic groups across Colombia, is open all week. On weekends, a large flea market takes place there too.

Plaza de Mercado La Perseverancia

Most big cities have their go-to market where you can sample authentic, local flavors, and in Bogotá, La Perseverancia is the place to be. While not the largest market in size, its culinary offerings are some of the best in the city. 

The vibrant food stalls here bring together the rich and diverse flavors of Colombia, from the coastal cuisine of the Caribbean to the hearty dishes of the Amazon and the Andean highlands.

La Macarena

This artsy, laid-back neighborhood is a hidden gem for food lovers, creatives, and those looking for an alternative vibe. Wander through its colorful streets, visit independent art galleries, and enjoy top-notch international cuisine at restaurants like El Patio or La Juguetería.

Play Tejo at a traditional club

Tejo is Colombia’s national sport, and it’s an experience you can’t miss. Think of it as a mix of bowling and cornhole—with explosions! The goal is to throw a metal puck at a clay board with gunpowder-filled targets. Head to a local tejo club like Club de Tejo La 76 or Tejo Turmequé for a true local experience, often accompanied by a cold beer and friendly competition.

Quebrada La Vieja

If you enjoy outdoor activities, this hiking trail is a fantastic way to see Bogotá from a different perspective. Located near Chapinero, Quebrada La Vieja is a trail that takes you through lush Andean forests to a viewpoint with a panorama of the city. The trail is only open in the mornings, so plan accordingly.

Ciclovía Sundays

Every Sunday and public holiday, Bogotá closes over 120 km of streets to cars, allowing cyclists, runners, and skaters to take over. Ciclovía is one of the city's best traditions, giving you the chance to explore different neighborhoods in a fun and active way. Don’t forget to stop by one of the fresh juice stalls along the route for a quick energy boost.

Keep reading:

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What to Do in Bogotá at Night

If you enjoy nightlife and are wondering what to do in Bogotá, Zona Rosa and Parque de la 93 are the ideal places for you. Both areas are considered safe.

Zona Rosa is located further from the historic center and is known for its restaurants (such as the famous Andrés Carne de Res) and bars. Within Zona Rosa, you’ll find Zona T (located between Carrera 12a and Calle 83), which consists of pedestrian streets lined with shops, bars, and restaurants. The neighborhood is also packed with salsa, reggaeton, and electronic music clubs.

Parque de la 93 is located in the upscale El Chicó neighborhood. While it doesn’t have the same wild party scene as Zona Rosa, Parque de la 93 is great for a more low-key night out, with nice restaurants and bars.

If you're in the mood for a casual night out and just want to enjoy a cold beer, Beer Company (BBC) is a popular chain with several locations across the city. Known for its wide selection of local brews, it’s a great option for a laid-back evening.

What to eat in Bogotá

Bogotá’s food scene is a mix of indigenous traditions, Spanish influences, and regional Colombian flavors. Here are some iconic Bogotá specialties you shouldn’t miss:

Ajiaco

A hearty and comforting chicken and potato soup that’s a Bogotá staple. Made with three types of potatoes, corn on the cob, and guascas (a local herb), it’s typically served with capers, cream, and avocado on the side.

Chocolate Santafereño

A true Bogotá classic, this is no ordinary hot chocolate. Served with cheese, almojábanas (cheese bread), and buttered breadsticks, the cheese is meant to be dropped into the chocolate until it melts—creating a unique flavor combination.

Chicha

An ancient, fermented corn-based drink with deep indigenous roots. It has a slightly sweet and tangy taste and is often enjoyed in rustic bars in La Candelaria. Ask around for small vendors still making it the traditional way.

Tamal Santafereño

This Colombian version of tamale is a must for anyone visiting Bogotá. It's made of corn dough stuffed with ingredients like chicken, pork, potatoes, carrots, and peas, all wrapped in a banana leaf and steamed.

Fritanga

For meat lovers, Fritanga is an essential dish to try. It's a plate filled with various fried meats such as pork belly, chorizo, and ribs, often accompanied by fried potatoes and plantains.

Puchero Santafereño

Puchero is a hearty, flavorful dish made with a mix of meats (usually beef, chicken, and pork) and a variety of vegetables like yuca, potatoes, corn, and carrots. It's a dish meant to bring comfort during colder weather, and it often comes with a side of rice.

Arepas

A beloved Colombian staple, Arepas are versatile cornmeal cakes that can be eaten at any time of the day. In Bogotá, you’ll find them served as a side dish or as the main event, filled with cheese, eggs, or even meat. You can try a variety of fillings from street vendors near La Candelaria.

Obleas

Obleas are thin wafers filled with a variety of sweet ingredients, such as arequipe (a caramel-like spread), chocolate, or jam. Sometimes fruit or coconut is added for extra flavor. These delicious treats are a favorite snack in Bogotá, often enjoyed as a quick bite while walking around the city. You can find oblea vendors throughout La Candelaria or near major plazas.

Day trips from Bogotá

If you have extra time and want to explore beyond Bogotá, here are some great day trip options:

• Embalse de Tominé – For those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, Embalse de Tominé offers a serene setting. Located near the town of Guatavita, this vast reservoir is great for a relaxing day surrounded by nature.
• Suesca – If you’re a rock-climbing enthusiast, Suesca should be at the top of your list. This town is surrounded by towering cliffs which offer a lot of fun for climbers. Even if you’re not into climbing, the surrounding natural landscape and the quaint village provide plenty to explore.
• Villa de Leyva – Nestled between the mountains, Villa de Leyva is a beautifully preserved colonial town known for its cobblestone streets and historic architecture. It’s also a great base for hiking.
• Zipaquirá – This town is home to the famous Salt Cathedral, a stunning underground church built inside a salt mine. You can visit on a round-trip tour from Bogotá.

Volunteering in Bogotá

Looking for a unique way to explore Bogotá? Volunteering through Worldpackers is the perfect solution. This platform connects travelers with hosts offering a work exchange—where you contribute a few hours of work each week in exchange for free accommodation, and sometimes other benefits like meals and tours.

Volunteering through Worldpackers isn't just a budget-friendly option; it’s also an opportunity to dive deeper into the local culture. It’s ideal for those eager to make international connections, practice Spanish, and discover Bogotá beyond its typical tourist attractions.

The Colombian capital offers dozens of volunteer opportunities—from working at a hostel’s reception or bar, to assisting with painting and decorating, supporting digital marketing, or helping in the kitchen. Check out all the positions currently available for volunteering in Bogotá and read our guide on how Worldpackers works.

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