Bogota Colombia 5 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of La Candelaria

Morning

  • Arrive at El Dorado International Airport (BOG) and take a taxi or Uber to your accommodation in La Candelaria, the historic center of Bogota.
  • Check-in to your hotel, such as Hotel de la Opera or La Macarena Casa Hotel.

Afternoon

  • Visit the Plaza de Bolivar, the main square of the city, surrounded by important landmarks like the Catedral Primada de Colombia and the Capitolio Nacional.
  • Explore the nearby Calle 10, a pedestrian street filled with cafes, shops, and street performers.

Evening

  • Head to La Macarena, a trendy neighborhood known for its restaurants, bars, and nightlife. Try El Cielo for dinner, which offers contemporary Colombian cuisine.
  • End the night with a visit to Theatron, a popular bar with live music and a lively atmosphere.

Things to Know

  • La Candelaria is a vibrant but also busy area, be prepared for crowds and street vendors.
  • Try to avoid traveling alone at night and use reputable taxi services or ride-hailing apps.

Transportation

  • Taxi: Use yellow taxis or ride-hailing apps like Uber or Didi Chuxing.
  • TransMilenio: A bus rapid transit system that connects the city. Buy a card (Tullave) for COP 2,500 (~USD 0.80).

Tips

  • Learn some basic Spanish phrases to interact with locals.
  • Be prepared for altitude sickness, Bogota is at 2,640 meters above sea level.

Day 2: Monserrate and Zona Rosa

Morning

  • Take a funicular or cable car ride to Monserrate, a mountain that offers stunning views of the city. You can also hike up if you’re feeling adventurous.
  • Visit the Santuario del Señor Caído church at the top, which is an important pilgrimage site.

Afternoon

  • Head to Zona Rosa, a modern neighborhood known for its upscale restaurants, bars, and shopping centers.
  • Visit the Parque 93, a popular park with plenty of green space and street food vendors.

Evening

  • Dine at Andrés DC, a trendy restaurant serving international cuisine.
  • Explore the nightlife in Zona Rosa, which offers everything from bars to dance clubs.

Things to Know

  • Monserrate is a popular tourist destination, be prepared for crowds and long lines.
  • Zona Rosa is a safe area, but still take necessary precautions at night.

Transportation

  • Funicular or Cable Car: COP 10,000 (~USD 3.30) round-trip to Monserrate.
  • Taxi or Uber: Available throughout the city.

Tips

  • Dress in layers for your visit to Monserrate, as the temperature can drop significantly at high altitude.
  • Try some street food in Parque 93, such as empanadas or churros.

Day 3: Gold Museum and La Quinta de Bolivar

Morning

  • Visit the Gold Museum (Museo del Oro), which showcases an impressive collection of pre-Columbian gold artifacts.
  • Explore the nearby Parque de la Independencia, a beautiful green space with walking trails.

Afternoon

  • Head to La Quinta de Bolivar, a historic house museum that was once the residence of Simón Bolívar.
  • Take a stroll through the surrounding neighborhood, which offers picturesque views and colonial architecture.

Evening

  • Enjoy traditional Colombian cuisine at La Castilla, located in La Macarena.
  • Explore the local art scene in La Macarena, with numerous galleries and street artists.

Things to Know

  • The Gold Museum is a must-visit for history buffs, but be prepared for crowds.
  • La Quinta de Bolivar offers guided tours, which are highly recommended.

Transportation

  • Taxi or Uber: Available throughout the city.
  • Bus: Take bus 14 or 18 from the city center to La Quinta de Bolivar.

Tips

  • Buy a combined ticket (COP 25,000 ~USD 8.20) for both the Gold Museum and La Quinta de Bolivar.
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions when visiting historic sites.

Day 4: Paloquemao Market and Teusaquillo

Morning

  • Visit the Paloquemao Market, a bustling marketplace offering fresh produce, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Try some local fruits or snacks.
  • Explore the nearby Parque de los Novios, a charming park with walking trails and street performers.

Afternoon

  • Head to Teusaquillo, a trendy neighborhood known for its street art, independent shops, and cafes.
  • Visit the Museo de Arte Moderno de Bogotá (MAMBO), which features an impressive collection of modern and contemporary Colombian art.

Evening

  • Dine at El Poblado, a popular restaurant serving innovative Colombian cuisine.
  • Explore the nightlife in Teusaquillo, with numerous bars and clubs.

Things to Know

  • Paloquemao Market can be overwhelming, but it’s a great place to experience local culture.
  • Teusaquillo is a safe area, but still take necessary precautions at night.

Transportation

  • Taxi or Uber: Available throughout the city.
  • Bus: Take bus 14 or 18 from the city center to Paloquemao Market.

Tips

  • Try some local street food at Paloquemao Market, such as arepas or empanadas.
  • Explore Teusaquillo’s street art scene, with numerous murals and graffiti.

Day 5: Departure

Morning

  • Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring a local neighborhood you haven’t visited yet.
  • Head back to El Dorado International Airport (BOG) for your departure flight.

Things to Know

  • Check-in for your flight at least 2 hours prior to departure.
  • Be prepared for potential traffic congestion on the way to the airport.

Transportation

  • Taxi or Uber: Available throughout the city.
  • Bus: Take bus 14 or 18 from the city center to the airport (COP 2,500 ~USD 0.80).

Tips

  • Exchange your Colombian pesos back to your local currency at the airport.
  • Leave some extra time for security checks and potential delays.

This itinerary should give you a good taste of Bogota’s vibrant culture, history, and natural beauty. Enjoy your trip!