Welcome to Bogotá, the high-altitude capital of Colombia that pulses with art, politics, street life and centuries of layered history. Nestled high in the Andes at over 2,600 metres, Bogotá isn’t just a stopover, it’s a vibrant, often misunderstood city that rewards the curious traveller. It is also one where you do need a bit of a guard up so make sure to read our safety blog if you are visting it diverse and bustling city. 

A City of Contrasts

Bogotá is a city of bold contrasts. It’s home to Colombia’s most important political institutions and its most rebellious street art. You’ll find colonial churches just a block from gleaming glass towers. Chic cafés meet grungy dive bars. Luxury boutiques share neighbourhoods with vibrant local markets.

This city is gritty, sprawling, and at times chaotic; but for travellers who dig deep, it’s wildly rewarding.

A Crash Course in History

Founded by the Spanish in 1538 on the site of a Muisca settlement, Bogotá (then known as Santa Fe de Bogotá) has long been Colombia’s political and intellectual heart. From colonial rule to independence, through civil wars and cartel-era chaos, Bogotá has always been at the centre of the nation’s story.

Today, it’s the capital of a country on the rise, still wrestling with its past but full of creativity and forward motion.

Architecture Highlights

Bogotá’s architecture is as layered as its history but the most important areas you need to know about are:

La Candelaria: The historic heart of the city. Expect cobblestone streets, colourful colonial facades, clay-tiled roofs and the grand Plaza Bolívar. Don’t miss the Catedral Primada and Palacio de Justicia you will also find one of the most beautiful trees on planet earth here, but I will let you find that 😉.

Modern Bogotá: Head north for modernist gems, glass-fronted office towers, and sleek apartment buildings. Check out the BD Bacatá Tower, now one of Colombia’s tallest buildings.

University Districts: Buildings here reflect mid-century educational architecture, often with Brutalist undertones. Institutions like Universidad Nacional are architecturally fascinating.

Bogotá also embraces its artistic side, from eccentric private houses to politically-charged murals covering entire buildings.

Culture & Museums

Bogotá is arguably Colombia’s cultural capital with a plethora of museums for you to stick your curious head into. Its a bit of a win win as the museums are often cited in pretty beautiful architecture where you can also grab a coffee and a bite to eat. They are like cultural retreats from the busy streets:

Museo del Oro: The Gold Museum houses one of the most stunning pre-Columbian collections in the world.

Museo Botero: Get up close with the iconic works of Fernando Botero, Colombia’s most famous artist.

Casa de la Moneda, National Museum, and countless smaller galleries fill the city.

Street art is a huge part of the city's identity. Take a Bogotá Graffiti Tour to get the context behind the powerful visuals that cover city walls,  from indigenous symbolism to political protests.

Neighbourhood Vibes

La Candelaria – The old town, buzzing with students, travellers, and cafés. It’s where most hostels are and where much of the history lives. (watch your pockets)

Chapinero – Bogotá’s cool alternative district. Home to nightlife, hipster bars, LGBTQ+ culture and indie bookstores.

Zona G – For gourmet food lovers. Fine dining and chic cafés.

Zona Rosa / Zona T – Fancy shops, stylish people and booming nightlife. The city’s upmarket party zone.

Nightlife & Food Scene

Bogotá comes alive at night, especially in Chapinero and Zona T where is what you can explect:

Salsa clubs and traditional Colombian bars

Electro nights and warehouse raves

Craft cocktail lounges and rooftop venues

Food-wise, Bogotá has exploded with options. From street arepas and empanadas to cutting-edge fusion in Zona G, there’s something for every budget. Don’t leave without trying:

Ajiaco – a warming Andean soup

Tamales – wrapped in banana leaves

Chicha – a traditional fermented corn drink, still found in La Candelaria

Nature & Escapes

Despite being a dense urban jungle, Bogotá has its green sides, if you want some escapes from that density then make sure to add the following to the list:

Cerro de Monserrate – A pilgrimage site with epic views of the city. Take the funicular or hike up if you're feeling brave.

Parque Simón Bolívar – (on the map) Bogotá’s Central Park-style lungs.

Botanical Garden – A peaceful retreat showcasing Colombia’s biodiversity.

And from Bogotá, it’s easy to do day trips to places like:

• Zipaquirá’s Salt Cathedral

• Laguna de Guatavita

• Villa de Leyva for colonial charm

Travel Tips

Bogotá is high,  give yourself time to adjust to the altitude.

Weather can change quickly, it’s chilly in the mornings and often rains in the afternoons

Public transport is dominated by the TransMilenio bus system. It’s fast but crowded

Ride apps are your best bet after dark

Why Bogotá for Explorers?

Bogotá isn’t designed to impress you at first glance, it’s gritty and edgey but with some spots of flare and joy. Its is a capital rich in history, defiant in culture, and full of creative energy. Its a city where you feel at the peak a lot of the time, the peak of fun, the peak of culture, the peak of danger so make sure to treat it with respect and in turn it will reward you with some unforgettable memories.