Bogota, Columbia-6-day-itinerary

Bogota, Colombia 6-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of La Candelaria

  • Morning: Arrive in Bogota and take a taxi or Uber to your hotel in La Candelaria, the historic center of the city.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Plaza de Bolívar, the main square of the city, surrounded by important buildings like the Cathedral of Bogotá and the Capitolio Nacional. Explore the nearby streets and alleys, filled with colonial architecture and street art.
  • Evening: Head to Calle 7 (Seventh Street) for dinner and drinks at one of the many restaurants and bars in this lively area. Try La Macarena, a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

Day 2: Gold Museum and Monserrate

  • Morning: Visit the Gold Museum (Museo del Oro), which showcases an impressive collection of pre-Columbian gold artifacts.
  • Afternoon: Take a funicular or cable car to the top of Monserrate, a mountain that offers stunning views of the city. You can also hike up if you’re feeling adventurous!
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at El Cielo, a restaurant serving modern Colombian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.

Day 3: Paloquemao Market and La Macarena

  • Morning: Visit the Paloquemao Market, one of the largest and most vibrant markets in the city. Try some street food and shop for souvenirs.
  • Afternoon: Explore the trendy neighborhood of La Macarena, known for its boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants. Stop by Parque de la Independencia for a relaxing stroll.
  • Evening: Dine at Andrés DC, a popular spot for burgers and craft beer.

Day 4: Zipaquirá and the Salt Cathedral

  • Morning: Take a day trip to Zipaquirá, a town located about an hour north of Bogotá. Visit the stunning Salt Cathedral (Catedral de Sal), a massive underground church built within a salt mine.
  • Afternoon: Explore the charming town of Zipaquirá and try some local cuisine, such as ajiaco or tamales.
  • Evening: Return to Bogotá and enjoy dinner at La Castilla, serving traditional Colombian dishes.

Day 5: Jardín Botánico and Zona T

  • Morning: Visit the Jardín Botánico José María Córdova (Botanical Garden), a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.
  • Afternoon: Head to Zona T, a popular area for shopping, dining, and nightlife. Stop by Parque 93, a vibrant park surrounded by trendy restaurants and bars.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at La Cabrera, an Argentine-inspired steakhouse.

Day 6: Museo de Arte Moderno and El Poblado

  • Morning: Visit the Museo de Arte Moderno de Bogotá (Modern Art Museum), which features a collection of contemporary Colombian art.
  • Afternoon: Explore the trendy neighborhood of El Poblado, known for its vibrant nightlife, restaurants, and bars. Stop by Parque Lleras, a popular spot for people-watching.
  • Evening: Farewell dinner at La Hamburguesera, a popular burger joint.

Accommodation

  • Hotel de la Ópera: A historic hotel located in the heart of La Candelaria, offering comfortable rooms and a rooftop bar with great views.
  • Airbnb: Consider staying in an apartment in La Macarena or El Poblado for a more local experience.

Transportation

  • Taxis: Available everywhere, but make sure to use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps like Uber or Didi.
  • TransMilenio: A efficient bus system that covers most areas of the city.
  • Walking: Bogotá is a walkable city, and exploring on foot is a great way to discover its hidden gems.

Tips and Essentials

  • Altitude sickness: Bogotá is at 2,640 meters above sea level, so take it easy for the first few days and stay hydrated.
  • Language: While many locals speak some English, learning basic Spanish phrases will go a long way in making your trip more enjoyable.
  • Safety: As with any city, be mindful of your belongings and avoid traveling alone at night. Stick to well-lit areas and use licensed transportation.
  • Currency: The Colombian peso is the local currency, but USD and credit cards are widely accepted.
  • Weather: Bogotá’s climate is mild year-round, with average temperatures ranging from 12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F).

Other Things of Interest

  • Ciclovía: Every Sunday, many streets in Bogotá are closed to cars and open to cyclists, joggers, and pedestrians.
  • Feria de las Flores: A flower festival held every August, featuring stunning arrangements and cultural performances.
  • Fútbol: Catch a soccer match at the Estadio Nemesio Camacho El Campín, home of the Colombia national team.

Enjoy your trip to Bogotá!