Everyone wants to be in Bogotá. A stunning subtropical destination, the Colombian capital is home to 8 million people, and has in recent years raised its global profile on the back of its unbeatable arts and culture scene. Museums, street art, delicious cusine—you name it, Bogotá’s got it. And it’s no surprise. The city is founded on a proud mix of Indigenous, Afro-Caribbean, Spanish and European peoples. And our partners at Air Canada and Avianca provide multiple daily flights out of Toronto Pearson. Here, a round-up of fun things to experience in Bogotá next time you’re there for work or play.
Visit museums worth their wait in gold
Start with the Candelaria district—the historic and cultural centre of Bogotá, right in the heart of downtown. Visitors are often taken by the neighbourhood’s cobblestone streets, technicolour rowhouses and mountain vistas. It’s also home to two of the city’s most celebrated museums: the sparkling Gold Museum (home to the largest collection of prehispanic goldwork in the world) and the Botero Museum (the foremost gallery for the art of Colombian master Fernando Botero), disguised within a verdant colonial mansion.
Get inspired by street art
But if pristine galleries aren’t your thing, you can also get your creative fix en plein air. Bogotá might just be the street art capital of the world, with vibrant paintings in every neighbourhood, some of them stretching seven stories. From El Dorado airport to Candelaria to Distrito Graffiti in the city’s industrial Puente Aranda district—it’s a buffet of murals to blow your mind. Sign up for a street art tour to see it all, and make sure to enjoy some fresh juice and salsa music along the way.
See architecture worthy of a revolution
Like many of Latin America’s great metropolises, Bogotá boasts a skyline known for its sculptural glass skyscrapers. But you’ll want to explore the city streets to experience architecture that touches the soul. Also in the Candelaria district is Plaza de Bolívar, named after the Venezuelan revolutionary who led the independence movements against Spain in Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Panama and Bolivia. The square comes with breathtaking access to Liévano Palace and the Capitol building, both neoclassical in style, plus the high gothic Primada Cathedral.
Get sky high in a cable car
No vacation would be complete without a charming trip up something very tall. Enter Monserrate mountain, the city’s premier spot to admire the skyline at sunrise and sunset, and to better connect with nature. You’ll want to take the floating cable car above the trees before paying respects at the Basilica of Monserrate, lined with art brought over from Italy in the 19th century. There are restaurants offering both traditional Colombian and modern fare throughout. And why not reserve a spot on the El Paramuno Trail to birdwatch the forest’s more than 115 species?
Discover Colombia’s incredible variety of fruit
“Fruit in Colombia,” said the late Anthony Bourdain, “is excellent,” thanks to the country’s year-round warm climate, rich fertile soil and diverse ecosystems that lack defined seasons. All of it results in more than 400 species of fruit that put your local grocery store to shame. The indoor skylit Paloquemao Market (a five-minute cab ride from la Candelaria) is a delightful place to take in the fragrance and freshness of the bounty. Shoppers will also find vendors for flowers, veggies, herbs, meat and fish. It’s best to arrive first-thing in the morning to see the market come alive as you enjoy your breakfast.