Bogotá
Bogotá is Colombia’s capital and with 7,4 million people the biggest city of the country. The city is surrounded by a hilly landscape which makes the climate rainy and cool.
The cultural center of the city is La Candelaria, known for its colonial buildings and graffiti.
Most people enter the country by plane arriving in Bogotá. If you don’t have much time in Colombia, don’t waste your time here, there are many more interesting things to see in the country!
Nearby places to visit are Salento, 8 hours by bus and Medellín, 10 hours by bus.
What to do
La Candelaria is the city’s cultural and colonial center. The historic center houses many restaurants, hotels and bars. Most tourists stay in this area. It is lively and safe!
Plaza de Bolívar is the main square in the historic heart of Bogotá. In the middle of the square stands the statue of Simón Bolivar, the first public monument in the city.
Located on the square is the Palace of justice. The building was destroyed in 1985 by the army during the attack of the rebel group M-19. This fight is a big part of the Netflix series Narcos.
The other main building is the Primatial Cathedral of Bogotá. If you walk down the street on your left of the Cathedral, you’ll enter the shopping district of the city!
The city is known for its many graffiti, some of the art works are known all over the world. Ask for a free tour in your hotel or hostel. The tours are free, but the guide expects you to pay a fee by the end of the tour.
Cerro de Monserrate - didn’t do this, but I heard it’s worth paying a visit!
Monserrate is a high mountain at the border of the city. There is a white church on the top of the 3.152 meters high mountain. You can easily go check out the wonderful view, go up by cable car!
Where to stay
La Candelaria has many good hostels. I can recommend Botanico Hostel. Good vibe, nice rooftop overviewing the city and close to Plaza de Bolívar!