Things to do in Bogota

Filled with outdoor space and lush scenery, there are lots of things to do in Bogota, and they're often free or cheaply priced. But if you'd rather take some time to experience a bit of culture, then lose yourself in one of the museums or discover something delicious in the many restaurants on offer.

Go outdoors

Bogota is perfect for hiking being 2640 meters above sea level, with lush greenery and a a subtropical highland climate. For a more sedate pace of life there are plenty of outdoor parks to explore too. Two of the largest parks are the Simón Bolívar Metropolitan Park, which plays hosts to concerts such as the the annual Rock al Parque, and Parque Nacional, a public park full of activities for all ages. From ponds to open spaces and bicycle paths, you can spend a lot of your free time outdoors, whatever the weather.

Botanical gardens

You can find Colombia's largest botanical garden, José Celestino Mutis botanical garden, right here in Bogota. Take a look at the artificial waterfall or the beautiful Andean species of flowers that it cultivates. Founded in 1955, the municipally owned park is also home to a library and tourist information desk, especially helpful for you to plan more and get the most out of your holiday.

Historical Sights

When you are in the city of Bogota it would criminal not to stroll down the cobbled streets of La Candelaria, where the two historical styles of Spanish Colonial and Baroque styles clash together, offering a rare glimpse of history. You can view perfectly houses, museums, restaurants and hotels from the colonial age, to give you a glimpse of the past 300 years ago. Bogata houses other visually stunning buildings such as, the houses of Congress and the Supreme Court of Justice. You can easily find these also located in the city's historical quarter, La Candelaria.

The area is close to all of the more traditional attractions such as the Plaza de Bolivar, which is home to administration buildings, the Cathedral of Bogota and the National Columbian Museum.

Cultural venues

Boasting 58 museums and 62 art galleries there is always something to do in Bogota. The Columbian National Museum dates back to 1823 and is one of the oldest in the Americas. While the Luis Angel Arango library is popular with locals and tourists alike, receiving around 6 million visitors a year.

Must see places

Why not visit the oldest permanent structure in the Americas, the observatory of Bogota, Columbia. It was founded in 1803 and designed for the use of a fixed telescope where you could look in greater detail at the surrounding vistas and night sky.
Another fabulous way to take in the sights is by using the cable car which visits the peak of Bogota. Cerro Monserrate, the little church on top of the mountain stands at 3,152 above sea level and offers spectacular views of the city below. Here, you can take advantage of one of the fabulous mountain-top restaurants, such as the Restaurante Casa de Santa Clara where only the finest Columbian coffee is served. Don't forget to visit Usaquen either, this attraction combines a colonial landmark with a flea market on Sundays and has become quite the tradition to visit weekly amongst the locals.

Nightlife

Celebrated for its welcoming cultural heritage, Bogota has plenty of after-dark entertainment on offer. There are a multitude of bars and clubs where you can choose to stay up and watch the sunrise, such as Radio Berlin or Bar Fonica. But if you would prefer a quieter night there are cafés and bars along every street, offering stunning views and great coffee - make sure you leave time to discover these gems.