14 Must-See Tourist Spots in Bogotá, Colombia | Graffiti, Churches, and Skyscrapers

When people think of Bogotá, the capital of Colombia, many tourists may imagine coffee, gold, and the city's reputation for poor safety. However, safety has significantly improved, and today, Bogotá has become a popular tourist destination for many Europeans and Americans.
Colombia is a country with a variety of attractions, including beautiful Caribbean beaches, tropical rainforests in the Amazon basin, and many cities with unique charm. The capital, Bogotá, serves as a gateway to all these destinations.
Bogotá is a city full of attractions with many different faces. In this article, we'll introduce both well-known tourist spots and more niche ones in Bogotá. We hope you find this useful.

1. Old Town

A large part of Bogotá's tourist attractions are located in the city's Old Town, the La Candelaria district. This area is home to Bolívar Square, a popular gathering place for tourists and locals, as well as numerous museums that are unique to the region.
These attractions are essential for understanding Colombia, but one particularly notable feature is the graffiti found on walls in an area known for its budget accommodations. While it may technically be considered graffiti, the quality of the artwork is so high that it could easily be mistaken for art. The walls are adorned with beautiful, intricate designs that are worth admiring.
While the area is beautiful during the day, it becomes even more stunning after dark when the artwork is lit up against the cool night air. However, caution is advised in the narrow streets, as there are many drug dealers, sex workers, and potential thieves. It is important to keep your belongings to a minimum and ensure your safety.

2. New Town

Another side of Bogotá’s tourism is found in the city's New Town. This area, located a bit further from the Old Town, has a completely different vibe, similar to other South American capitals.
The city is filled with international brand shops and restaurants, and the people walking around, even their dogs, all seem to exude a fashionable atmosphere. The area is more upscale than the Old Town, with luxurious hotels catering to business tourists rather than backpackers.
One notable feature of Bogotá's New Town is a Starbucks, which caused a stir when it opened in a country known for coffee production. It is always bustling with both locals and tourists. The Colombian version of the famous Starbucks mug, a classic souvenir, is also available, making for a fun and memorable purchase.

3. El Dorado International Airport

For tourists visiting Colombia, the first point of contact is likely to be El Dorado International Airport in Bogotá. As the hub for Colombia’s Avianca Airlines, El Dorado is a major transit point for flights to various destinations across South America.
The airport is filled with brand shops, duty-free stores, and restaurants, ensuring that visitors won't get bored during their time here. You can enjoy delicious Colombian coffee at "Juan Valdez Café," often referred to as Colombia's version of Starbucks, or buy some tasty chocolate at "República del Cacao," a South American chocolate shop originating from neighboring Ecuador. El Dorado is a great place to relax and enjoy a leisurely moment while experiencing South American flavors.

4. Bolívar Square

In many South American countries, the central square is called Plaza de Armas, but in Bogotá, Colombia's capital, this role is fulfilled by Bolívar Square. Most of Bogotá’s main attractions are concentrated around this square, making it an ideal starting point for sightseeing. Surrounding the square are landmarks such as the Cathedral, the Congress building, and the City Hall, all of which are must-see attractions in Bogotá.
If you head to the street on the left side of the Cathedral, you will find more attractions like the Botero Museum. Along the way to the museum, you can also stop by many restaurants serving Colombian specialties like Ajiaco, a hearty potato soup.
Visiting Bolívar Square allows you to easily explore museums and attractions as well as enjoy delicious Colombian dishes at local restaurants. It's highly recommended to start your Bogotá sightseeing at Bolívar Square.

5. Cathedral

Adjacent to Bolívar Square is the large Cathedral. The original church was built after the Spanish conquest, but it was destroyed in an earthquake in 1785. The current cathedral was completed in 1823. The building features beautiful Neoclassical architecture, and inside, visitors can admire old religious paintings and other artworks.
Bolívar Square, in front of the Cathedral, is a gathering spot for both locals and tourists, who enjoy their time in the area. Many pigeons gather there, and vendors sell food to feed them, making it a perfect opportunity to relax and soak in the atmosphere of Bogotá. It's a great way to experience the city at a leisurely pace.

6. Gold Museum

When visiting Bogotá, exploring its many museums is one of the highlights of the trip. Among them, the Gold Museum is a must-see. While there are other Gold Museums in Latin America, such as in Lima, Peru, and San José, Costa Rica, the Bogotá museum is the largest in the region.
Located in a modern building facing Santander Park in the Old Town, the museum is filled with gold artifacts. The exhibits include finely crafted gold pieces, as well as unique items shaped like animals and birds. You can take your time enjoying the displays, as there is so much to explore.
The museum's first-floor shop offers books and photo collections about Colombia, which make great souvenirs. Additionally, there are souvenir stalls around the park outside the museum. The Gold Museum is an essential stop for anyone touring Bogotá.

7. Emerald Museum

Colombia is famous for its gold and coffee, but did you know it is also renowned for its emeralds? In fact, Colombia produces 50% of the world’s emeralds. Bogotá is home to the world’s only Emerald Museum, making it a popular tourist destination.
The museum is located on the 23rd floor of the Avianca building, near Santander Park in Bogotá’s Old Town, right next to the Gold Museum. Inside, you can learn about Colombia’s rich emerald deposits and the extraction process of these precious stones. Please note that photography is prohibited inside the museum.

8. Botero Museum and Coin Museum

Bogotá boasts many museums, but one of the most unique is the Botero Museum. Fernando Botero, a world-renowned painter from Medellín, Colombia, has a museum dedicated to his works. The museum features not only Botero's sculptures and paintings but also works by other famous artists such as Picasso, Monet, and Chagall, which were personally owned by Botero.
Botero’s signature style is characterized by exaggerated, rounded forms. Even the famous Mona Lisa is depicted with Botero's signature plump proportions, creating a unique and playful interpretation. This Mona Lisa, along with many other sculptures and paintings by Botero, can only be seen in this museum in Bogotá.
Adjacent to the Botero Museum is the Coin Museum, where you can explore Colombian paper currency and coins from various periods. The museum is free to enter, making it a must-visit attraction in Bogotá.

9. National Museum

For tourists interested in learning about Colombia's history and culture, the National Museum is a must-visit. This fortress-like stone building was originally used as a prison before being converted into a museum in 1948. Inside, you'll find a wide range of exhibits, from prehistoric pottery and stone sculptures to religious paintings from the Spanish colonial era and contemporary art.
Like the Botero Museum, the National Museum is free to enter, making it a great place to visit without spending extra money. Bogotá offers several such free attractions, making it easy to incorporate them into your sightseeing itinerary, especially when you need a break from walking. Despite being free, the museum offers rich and fascinating exhibits that shouldn't be missed.

10. San Francisco Church

Another significant religious site in Bogotá is the San Francisco Church. Built between 1557 and 1595, the church was severely damaged in an earthquake in 1785 but was reconstructed in 1794. The exterior is relatively modest, but the interior is impressive, featuring a lavish altar adorned in gold and many religious paintings.
Located near Santander Park, where the Gold and Emerald Museums are also found, San Francisco Church is a perfect addition to your sightseeing route. The area around the church also offers plenty of souvenir shops and restaurants, making it convenient for tourists. However, be cautious during the evening, as there may be homeless individuals, and the area can feel less secure at night.

11. Bolívar House

One of the popular spots for tourists to get a panoramic view of Bogotá is Monserrate Hill. At its base, hidden away, is Bolívar House. Simón Bolívar was a military leader who played a key role in the independence of the Grand Colombia Republic. This house was granted to him after the independence war in recognition of his achievements.
The interior retains many original decorations, and displays of items personally used by Bolívar are preserved as they were at the time. The well-maintained gardens surrounding the house offer a peaceful retreat, making it an ideal place to relax after exploring the bustling streets of Bogotá. It is about a 30-minute walk from Bolívar Square, so it's recommended to visit along with a trip to Monserrate Hill.

12. Monserrate Hill

Monserrate Hill is a popular spot for tourists to get a stunning view of Bogotá. You can reach the top by walking, taking a cable car, or using the funicular. For those who are physically fit, walking is recommended. However, be aware that Bogotá itself is at an altitude of over 2,600 meters, so take it slow when climbing.
From the summit, you can see all of Bogotá's tourist spots, from the old town to the new. At the top, you'll also find the Monserrate Basilica, which many of the city's residents visit for worship. There are souvenir shops and restaurants as well, offering a chance to enjoy a meal while taking in the views of the city.

13. Torre Colpatria

After exploring Bogotá during the day, make sure to enjoy the stunning night views of the city as well. One of the best places to experience this is Torre Colpatria, the tallest skyscraper in South America. When arriving in Bogotá by plane at night, you can see the breathtaking city lights from above, but you can also enjoy this beautiful view right in the heart of Bogotá.
Constructed between 1973 and 1979, Torre Colpatria stands at 196 meters tall. The 49th floor, which is the top level, features an observation deck offering a 360-degree view, making it an ideal spot to take in Bogotá's nightscape.
The warm glow of the lights illuminating Latin America's night views creates a uniquely beautiful ambiance. If you're visiting Bogotá, this remarkable night view will definitely become one of your cherished memories. Be sure to visit Torre Colpatria and enjoy the stunning city lights.

14. Salt Cathedral

The last attraction to mention is the Salt Cathedral located in Zipaquirá, a town about an hour and a half by bus or car from Bogotá. The Salt Cathedral was built within an old salt mine, and the entire church is illuminated with vibrant LED lights, creating a mysterious and captivating atmosphere.
The highlight is the large cathedral area at the far end of the church, where you'll find a massive cross carved into the high walls, as well as giant sculptures of angels and other religious figures carved into the rock. The lighted displays of these sculptures are truly breathtaking. Nearby, you'll also find a "salt waterfall," where you can observe rugged salt crystals that appear to flow, adding to the enchanting atmosphere.
If you're looking for a unique and mystical experience, this is a must-visit spot during your Bogotá trip.

Summary

What do you think of the 14 recommended tourist spots in Bogotá, the capital of Colombia? Many people who have visited the city have found that it is much safer than they had imagined.
As long as you are mentally prepared for potential risks, such as theft, you can enjoy a type of tourism in Latin America that is not available in many European or North American countries. With its bright streets and lively people, why not start your journey through Colombia in the vibrant capital of Bogotá?