Bogota

One of the main destinations in Colombia for tourists and for new residents is Bogota. As the country’s capital and largest city, Bogota Columbia has plenty to offer anyone. Below is an overview of some of the best reasons to visit the city.

Bogota Location & Population

Bogota Colombia has its own distinction: it’s the third highest capital city in the world. That’s because you’ll find it located on a high plateau in the Andes Mountains hovering more than 2,600 meters above sea level. Unlike many of the other primary destinations in Colombia, Bogota is not located near the ocean or the Caribbean. Instead, it is nestled in the middle of the country.

The city is also Colombia’s largest in terms of population, too. More than 8 million people called the city home in 2007.

Transportation in Bogota

If you want to explore Bogota, you could use the Transmilenio which is the city’s transportation system. This method is often crowded because of its safety and affordability, however. You’ll also find buses and colectivos which are smaller shuttle buses. Taxis can be one of the best ways to travel in the evening through Bogota. However, during the day, you might want to rent or buy a bicycle to help you see more of Bogota Colombia.

Exciting Things to Do in Bogota Colombia

Bogota Colombia, as a capital city, has a wide range of activities that you would enjoy. Every weekend, the Avenida Septima is closed to traffic. Instead of automobiles and buses, the street becomes packed with craft stalls, performers, and liver musicians. It’s a great way to enjoy a Friday or Saturday night in Bogota.

If you want to see Colombia at its most realistic, leave the tourist attractions behind. Instead head over to El Restrepo, a working class neighborhood in Bogota. You can find a nice bakery, buy a drink and some bread then spend the rest of the afternoon watching the people and enjoying the authentic Colombia neighborhood.

Exploring Museums

One of the top Bogota museums is the Gold Museum (El Museo del Oro). This museum’s renovation ended in October 2008 and now visitors can return to enjoy a gorgeous selection of pre-Colombia and gold artifacts. This is one of the most unique museums in the country and is a great place to explore if you are interested in Spanish art. Plus, you don’t have to pay a peso to get into the museum. The Museo Nacional is another one you should enjoy because it is the oldest in Colombia. More than 20,000 pieces are on display in the museum, including artwork, archeological discoveries, and more. If you’re a fan of art, you should visit Mambo (the Museum of Modern Art of Bogota). Many of the best artists from Colombia have their work housed in this Bogota museum.

Festive Locations in Bogota

Every city has amazing spots the locals know but that tourists often miss. One of the best places to visit, especially if you’re young, is an area called Usaquen. This part of Bogota has main square surrounded by some of the best restaurants and bars in the city. If you venture beyond the square, however, you’ll find tons of other great choices, too. For Bogota Colombia visitors looking to explore something more historic, visit La Candelaria. This is a historic neighborhood nestled in the city where you’ll find some great museums, as well as some of the city’s old Catholic churches which are beautiful to admire.

Don’t Miss Bogota Hot Spots

Every tourist city has some spectacular experiences you don’t want to miss out on. In Bogota, one of those locations is known as Torre Colpatria. This building located in El Centro is the tallest in Bogota and one of the tallest in all of South America. When you go to the top of the building on the weekend, you can step out on the deck and take in a beautiful view of the city. Considering the height of Bogota itself, you can get an amazing view from on top of the tower. Another good choice is Monserrate. This is panoramic ride which will provide you with a lovely view of Bogota Colombia. Food is served at the top of the trip.