The Top 5 Neighborhoods to Stay in Bogota, Colombia

This image features the iconic Bogota sign in front of the beautiful mountains that surround Bogota on a particularly cloudy and rainy day. Tostao, a famous coffee shop located around Colombia is shown in the back.

Bogotá is arguably a lot less popular than most of the other big cities in Colombia but it still has a lot to offer and has a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best areas to stay in Bogotá:

La Candelaria

La Candelaria is the historic district of Bogotá, and it’s known for its charming colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and museums. It’s a great place to stay if you’re interested in exploring the city’s history and culture. Some of the best things to do in La Candelaria include:

Visit the Gold Museum: This museum is home to an impressive collection of pre-Columbian gold artifacts.
Walk around Plaza Bolivar: This plaza is the heart of the city and is surrounded by important government buildings, including the Capitolio Nacional and the Palace of Justice.
Take a street art tour: La Candelaria is home to a vibrant street art scene, and taking a tour is a great way to discover some of the city’s hidden gems.

Some of the best restaurants and bars in La Candelaria include:

La Puerta Falsa: This popular restaurant is known for its traditional Colombian dishes, including tamales and hot chocolate.
El Gato Gris: This bar is located in a beautiful colonial building and serves a variety of craft beers and cocktails.
Cafe del Sol: This cafe is a great place to grab a coffee or a light lunch, and it’s located in a charming courtyard.

Chapinero

This image shows the beautiful brick architecture blended in with the new modern glass buildings that surround the mountainscape of Bogota. Highlighted is the area of Chapinero on a particularly cloudy and rainy day.

Chapinero is a trendy neighborhood that’s popular with young professionals and artists. It’s known for its lively nightlife scene, eclectic restaurants, and street art. Some of the best things to do in Chapinero include:

Explore the street art: Chapinero is home to some of the city’s best street art, and you can discover it on your own or take a guided tour.
Visit Mercado de las Pulgas de Usaquen: This flea market is held on Sundays and offers a variety of vintage and artisanal goods.
Go out at night: Chapinero is home to a variety of bars and clubs, including the popular Latino Power and Video Club.

Some of the best restaurants and bars in Chapinero include:

Bruto: This trendy restaurant serves a variety of international dishes, including sushi and ceviche.
El Mono Bandido: This bar is known for its craft beer selection and laid-back atmosphere.
El Chato: This cocktail bar serves some of the best cocktails in the city, and it’s located in a charming courtyard.

Zona Rosa

Zona Rosa is an upscale neighborhood that’s known for its luxury shopping, high-end restaurants, and nightlife. It’s a great place to stay if you’re looking for a more luxurious experience. Some of the best things to do in Zona Rosa include:

Go shopping: Zona Rosa is home to some of the city’s best luxury shopping, including the popular Andino and El Retiro shopping centers.
Visit the Museo del Chicó: This museum is located in a beautiful colonial mansion and features a variety of exhibits on Colombian history and culture.
Go out at night: Zona Rosa is known for its upscale nightlife scene, including popular clubs like Armando Records and Baum.

Some of the best restaurants and bars in Zona Rosa include:

Criterion: This upscale restaurant serves a variety of international dishes, including steak and seafood.
Andrés DC: This popular bar and restaurant is known for its lively atmosphere and delicious cocktails.
Primi: This Italian restaurant is a great place to grab a pizza or pasta, and it’s located in a charming courtyard.

Usaquén

Usaquén is a charming neighborhood located in the northern part of Bogotá. It features picturesque cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and a vibrant cultural scene. Here are some of the best things to do in Usaquén:

Explore the Sunday Flea Market: Usaquén hosts a popular flea market every Sunday, where you can browse through a wide range of handicrafts, antiques, and artisanal products.
Visit the Hacienda Santa Bárbara: This historic house has been transformed into a shopping center, featuring boutique shops, restaurants, and cafes. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the atmosphere.
Enjoy the parks: Usaquén has several parks where you can take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply unwind. Parque de Usaquén is a beautiful green space perfect for a relaxing afternoon.

Some of the best restaurants and bars in Usaquén include:

Andres Carne de Res: This iconic restaurant is known for its lively atmosphere, delicious Colombian dishes, and vibrant nightlife. It’s a must-visit spot for a unique dining experience.
La Mar Cebichería: This renowned seafood restaurant offers a variety of ceviche dishes and other Peruvian specialties in a stylish setting.
Abasto: This trendy restaurant features an eclectic menu combining Colombian and international flavors, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients.

El Chico

El Chico is an upscale neighborhood situated in the northern part of Bogotá, known for its elegant residential streets, upscale dining options, and proximity to Parque de la 93. Here are some of the best things to do in El Chico:

Explore Parque de la 93: This bustling park is surrounded by a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars. It’s a popular spot for dining, socializing, and enjoying outdoor activities.
Visit the Museo del Chicó: Located in a beautiful mansion, this museum showcases Colombian art and history, featuring a collection of paintings, sculptures, and artifacts.
Take a walk along Calle 92: This street is lined with elegant homes, boutique shops, and upscale dining establishments, making it a pleasant area for a leisurely stroll.

Some of the best restaurants and bars in El Chico include:

Harry Sasson: This renowned restaurant offers a fine dining experience with a menu highlighting Colombian ingredients and flavors, crafted into innovative and exquisite dishes.
Andrés DC: A branch of the famous Andrés Carne de Res, this lively bar and restaurant features an energetic atmosphere, live music, and a vast selection of drinks and cocktails.
Di Lucca: This Italian restaurant is known for its authentic Italian cuisine, including handmade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and a selection of fine wines.