If you only have one day to explore Bogota, or are looking for what to see in Bogota on your first day- this is the blog for you! Bogota’s main tourist attractions are located in the city center. This itinerary is designed to help you maximize your time in the city and navigate Bogota efficiently by visiting all of them the same day. From breathtaking views to rich history and unique cultural experiences, this guide covers the best spots in Bogota for a memorable day.
Start your day at Monserrate
Kick off the morning early with a visit to Monserrate, one of Bogotá’s most iconic landmarks. Sitting at 3,152 meters above sea level, this mountain offers sweeping views of the sprawling city below.
Santa Clara restaurant, on the top of the mountain, offers a great view of the city and is the perfect place to enjoy Bogota’s famous hot chocolate with cheese.
Tips for visiting Monserrate:
- Arrive between 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM to avoid long lines, especially on weekends and holidays.
- Weekdays are less crowded, making the experience more pleasant. If you only have the weekend to visit Monserrate we encourage you to get the ‘Fast Pass’
- Avoid using the taxis waiting outside Monserrate, as they often charge significantly more than the regular fare—sometimes 5 to 10 times the actual cost.
Visitors can take a funicular train or cable car up to the top. For the more active traveler, there’s also a hiking path. At the summit, you’ll find a church with a revered statue of the “Fallen Jesus,” local food vendors, and stunning viewpoints perfect for photos.
Explore Bogota’s historic heart: La Candelaria
Next, head down to La Candelaria, Bogota’s historic neighborhood. This area is known for its colorful colonial buildings, cobblestone streets, and vibrant street art. A short walk from Monserrate will bring you to the Botero Museum, which showcases works by Fernando Botero and other renowned artists like Picasso and Monet.
What to know about the Botero Museum:
- The museum is open every day except Tuesdays, and admission is free.
- It features 123 pieces by Botero and 85 works by international artists.
After the museum, take some time to wander through the Bolívar Square. This is the city’s main square, surrounded by historical buildings such as:
- The Primary Cathedral of Bogota
- The Congress Building
- The Palace of Justice
- The City Hall of Bogota (Palacio de Liévano)
Bolívar Square is a lively area where you’ll often find street performers and vendors selling local snacks.
Visit the Gold Museum
From Bolívar Square, walk along the pedestrian-only Seventh Street to reach the Gold Museum. This museum houses one of the largest collections of pre-Hispanic gold artifacts in the world, with over 34,000 pieces on display.
What makes the Gold Museum special?
The museum celebrates Colombia’s indigenous heritage, highlighting the spiritual significance of gold rather than its monetary value. It’s an incredible way to understand the deep history and culture of the region.
- The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, Sunday admission is free.
Enjoy a traditional lunch in Bogota
No Bogota experience is complete without trying local cuisine and La Candelaria has the best restaurants for it!
Some of our favorite restaurants to taste traditional food are:
- Origen Bistro: https://g.co/kgs/xaeGKWv
- Casa Mamá Luz: https://g.co/kgs/xJZ845s
- El Testigo: https://g.co/kgs/y6cg3go
- Maria Candela Vegan: https://g.co/kgs/SsQdVh8
And the two dishes you cannot miss while in Bogota are:
- Ajiaco, A hearty soup made with chicken, potatoes, corn, and a touch of guascas (an herb).
- Empanadas: Perfectly crispy and filled with meat, potatoes, or cheese.
End your day with coffee and emeralds
No visit to La Candelaria is complete without savoring a cup of Colombian coffee. This historic neighborhood is home to several specialty coffee shops where you can enjoy freshly brewed coffee paired with a delicious cake or a traditional sweet treat. It’s also the perfect opportunity to pick up some locally roasted coffee beans to take back home, a reminder of Bogota’s world-renowned coffee culture.
End your day at Rosario Square, located in the heart of the city’s emerald district. This area is known for its informal emerald trading, where you can observe local dealers in action. For a closer and more professional look, visit the Emerald Trade Center, which offers a range of options for purchasing these precious stones. If you’re considering buying an emerald, it’s always best to choose a reputable store to ensure authenticity and quality.
Practical Tips for One Day in Bogota
- Transportation: Use apps like Uber or Cabify for safe and reliable travel between destinations.
- Weather: Bogota’s weather can be unpredictable. Bring layers to stay comfortable throughout the day.
- Altitude: Bogota is one of the highest capitals in the world. Drink plenty of water and take it slow to avoid altitude sickness.
See Bogota through local eyes
This itinerary highlights the best of Bogota in one day, but the city has so much more to offer. Whether it’s exploring hidden gems, enjoying its diverse gastronomy, or diving deeper into its history, Bogota always leaves visitors wanting more.
For a deeper, more personal experience, join Zebra Fisgona Tours. Explore Bogota with knowledgeable local guides who can show you the city’s hidden gems and share its fascinating stories. Visit our website zebrafisgona.com to book your tour today!
