7 days in Bogota, Colombia: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Bogota, the capital of Colombia, is an extraordinary mix of old and new, with a rich history and energetic urban vibe. Here, you’ll find beautiful colonial-era architecture mingling with skyscrapers and graffiti-covered streets. With its top-notch coffee shops, diverse cuisine, and lively nightlife, Bogota will charm both travelers and locals alike. And on top of all that, it’s surrounded by enchanting mountains perfect for hikes and day trips.
Things to Consider Before Arriving in Bogota
- Affordable: Your money goes far in Bogota, making it easy to enjoy the city without breaking the bank.
- Cultural Experiences: The city is brimming with incredible museums, art galleries, and street art.
- Altitude: Bogota’s elevation, at 8,660 feet (2,640 meters), can cause altitude sickness for some visitors. Give yourself time to acclimate before starting any strenuous activities.
- Who will like Bogota: If you’re a fan of arts, culture, and history combined with a bustling city scene, you’ll fall in love with Bogota.
What to Bring With You
Pack layers, as Bogota experiences cool weather and prides itself on being a “city of all seasons.” Don’t forget comfortable walking shoes, sunblock, and an umbrella for those unexpected rain showers. Moreover, consider packing a reusable water bottle for staying hydrated during your adventures in the city.
Best Time of the Year to Visit
Bogota has a pleasant climate year-round, but the best time to visit is from December to February when the weather is dry, making it ideal for exploring the city and participating in outdoor activities. Keep in mind that this is also the peak season, so prices may be slightly higher.
How to Get into Bogota
- By Air: Fly into El Dorado International Airport (BOG), located approximately 9 miles (15 kilometers) from downtown Bogota. From there, taxis and reliable ride-sharing services are available to get you to your destination.
- By Bus: If you’re traveling within Colombia, you can catch a bus from other cities to Bogota’s main bus terminal, Terminal de Transporte. Popular routes include Medellin, Cali, and Cartagena.
- By Car: Renting a car and driving into Bogota is an option, though traffic can be challenging for first-time visitors. Choose a reputable rental agency and ensure you have a good GPS system for navigation.
7 day city guide trip in Bogota, Colombia
Day 1: Immerse in the culture
Start the day with a walk through the historic neighborhood of La Candelaria, stopping at Plaza Bolivar to see the impressive Capitol and Cathedral. Visit the Gold Museum to learn about the history of pre-Columbian art in Colombia and stop by the Botero Museum to admire the famous artist’s work. Don’t miss trying the typical dish of ajiaco for lunch at La Puerta Falsa and finish the day at the lively Plaza del Chorro de Quevedo for some street performances and a cold beer.
Day 2: Discover the street art scene
Get to know Bogota’s street art scene by taking a graffiti tour in the neighborhoods of La Candelaria and San Felipe, where local artists can be seen leaving their mark on the walls. Stop by the Paloquemao Market to taste some exotic fruits and then head over to one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, Monserrate Hill. End the day by catching a show at the historic Teatro Colón.
Day 3: Visit Usaquen and its surroundings
Take a trip to the charming neighborhood of Usaquen, home to the best Sunday flea market in the city, where you can find everything from artisanal crafts to second-hand treasures. Enjoy a delicious brunch at one of the many trendy restaurants in the area and then head over to the lush Botanical Garden for a relaxing afternoon surrounded by nature.
Day 4: Take a day trip to Zipaquira
Venture outside the city to visit the famous Salt Cathedral of Zipaquira, a stunning underground church built inside an old salt mine. Afterward, explore the quaint colonial town of Zipaquira and try some of the delicious local delicacies.
Day 5: Indulge in the local cuisine
Spend the morning taking a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Colombian dishes such as arepas, empanadas, and bandeja paisa. Enjoy your creations for lunch and then head over to the Zona G neighborhood to indulge in some of the best cuisine the city has to offer.
Day 6: Explore the coffee region
Take a day trip to the gorgeous coffee region of Colombia to see the beautiful rolling hills of coffee plants and learn about the coffee-making process. Don’t miss out on visiting the charming town of Salento and hiking the stunning Cocora Valley.
Day 7: Relax in nature
Spend your last day in Bogota taking a relaxing stroll through the peaceful Simon Bolivar Park or the beautiful Botanical Garden of Bogota, where you can admire exotic plants and birds. End the day by enjoying the sunset from the top of the Torre Colpatria skyscraper.
How to continue your travel after you have spent 7 days in Bogota
Head over to the charming colonial town of Villa de Leyva, where you can marvel at the largest plaza in South America and explore the nearby Iguaque National Park. If you’re interested in seeing stunning ancient ruins, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the archaeological site of San Agustín, located in the southern region of the country.
