Bogotá, a city that brings together the historical and the modern

You won't need much time in Bogotá to discover that Colombia's capital is made of contrasts. In just a few blocks, the colonial past that characterizes the historic center meets the modernity of tall buildings in the international center and the rest of the city.  

To fully experience this unique contrast in a city that is 2,600 meters closer to the stars, we recommend heading to the historic center, where the traditional neighborhood of La Candelaria is located. This area features cobblestone streets and colonial-style houses that preserve the essence of centuries past.

In fact, La Candelaria is home to the legendary Chorro de Quevedo, the square where Gonzalo Jiménez de Quesada founded the city in 1539, and which currently demonstrates the vibrant life that can be felt in the historic center.

Today, this square is surrounded by cafés, bars, and restaurants that respect the spirit of the place, filling it with a bohemian air that makes it a favorite spot for both locals and tourists.

While La Candelaria retains the charm of the past with its colonial houses, cobblestone streets, and monuments, the neighborhood is also characterized by its vibrant cultural life day and night. In the area, you'll find sites like the Gold Museum and the Luis Ángel Arango Library, as well as universities that add youth and movement to the city center. This is where the contrasts begin.

The experience becomes even broader if you take the iconic Carrera Séptima north, as you will see how the international center of Bogotá begins right at Calle 26. This area features modern buildings and skyscrapers that showcase that this is also a modern, cosmopolitan city with a dynamic economy moving in rhythm with the 21st century.

One of the symbols of this other Bogotá is undoubtedly the Torre Colpatria, a building that stands over 171 meters tall and has become a true landmark of the city. This is not only due to its impressive height (offering one of the best viewpoints in Bogotá), but also because of its lighting, which allows it to be visible from various points in the capital at night and changes colors and designs to celebrate important events.

If you continue north through the city, you'll find iconic areas that represent the modern face of the capital. One of these is Zona G, located in Chapinero, where you can find the best gastronomic offerings in the city. Further north is Zona T, known for its cosmopolitan vibe and stores featuring world-renowned brands. If you go a bit farther, you'll reach Zona Rosa, with Parque de la 93 at its center, surrounded by a wide array of bars and clubs for a night out to enjoy Bogotá's nightlife to the fullest.

But Bogotá is also synonymous with green spaces. The most important is, of course, the eastern hills, which are visible from any point in the city. At the main of these hills is the sanctuary of Monserrate, another must-visit place in the city. You can ascend on foot, by cable car, or funicular to visit the traditional Basilica of the Lord of Monserrate and to take in the panoramic view of this great city, whose impressive contrasts you will always want to keep discovering.

Other important green areas, where you can exercise and enjoy nature peacefully, include Simón Bolívar Park, National Park, El Virrey Park, and El Country Park. 

Many of these parks are venues for significant international events that reveal the modern face of Bogotá, such as the Festivals in the Park, which attract thousands of spectators with rock, hip-hop, jazz, salsa, Colombian music, and all kinds of rhythms. Additionally, for several years now, the important Estéreo Picnic Festival has been held in the capital, gathering major figures from the music scene.

Among the cultural offerings are the Book Fair, attended by recognized authors, and the Ibero-American Theater Festival, held every two years, which turns the city into a huge stage where imagination and art reign.

So visit Bogotá and marvel at this unique place that brings together the traditional and the modern in one space. We look forward to welcoming you!