WHERE TO STAY IN BOGOTA: THE BEST NEIGHBOURHOODS
Does anyone still believe the tired, rugged stereotypes about Colombia? From the shadows of its drug-fuelled and brutal past, Colombia has undergone an incredible transformation over the past decade.
Emerging as one of the fastest-growing tourist destinations in the world, whether you’re stopping by for a few days, weeks or months, you’d be crazy to pass up a few nights in the culturally diverse and eclectic capital city of Bogotà.
What I loved most about Bogotà is that each area had its own distinct and unique flavor. From the historic charm of La Candelaria to the more upbeat vibes of Chapinero, choosing the best neighbourhood to stay in Bogotà can be really overwhelming.
Colombia’s perceptions are not unwarranted, there are definitely certain areas you’ll want to exercise more precautions or even avoid at night.
Bogotà street door art
One thing's for sure though, whether you’re looking for the best budget accommodation options or going for chic boutique hotels you’re spoiled with an assortment of cosy and contemporary accommodation options.
I hope this post provides you with some helpful tips onwhere to stay in Bogotà. For a city that has a somewhat bi-polar weather forecast (always carry a brolly!), you might find that as you criss-cross from one neighbourhood to the next, you’ll be switching it up from cool summer sunshine to becoming rapidly drenched in a downpour.
Read on for your very own neighbourhood guide to the energetic, artistic and rapidly growing cosmopolitan hub that is Bogotà.
The Best Neighbourhoods to stay in Bogotà
Creatives and artists reinventing Bogotà
Use this post to navigate your way through Bogotà’s neighbourhoods. I’ll be taking you through what it’s like to stay in each part of town, some of the best things to do in Bogotà, and what it’s like from a safety perspective. Here we go!
La Candelaria
Chapinero
La Zona Rosa
Teusaquillo
Parque 93
Where to stay in La Candelaria, Bogotà
The oldest and founding district of Colombia’s bustling metropolis, in many ways La Candelaria is Bogotà’s beating heart. Brimming with creative energy with artistic picturesque cobble-stoned streets winding through back roads, its magnetic charm makes La Candelaria one of the best areas to stay in Bogotàfor close proximity to all the popular museums, restaurants and art galleries.
Whether you’re looking to do astreet art tour during the morning, followed by an afternoon at the famous Museo del Oro (Gold Museum) or Museo Botero, La Candelaria is the best neighbourhood in Bogotà for anyone short on time and wanting to explore the highlights of the city.
For a gorgeous sunset, head to the top of Cerro de Monserrate where you’ll be greeted by stunning panoramic views of the city.
La Candelaria is where I stayed and it was the perfect neighbourhood for exploring the historical charms of Bogotà.
With everything from Teatro Colón and Plaza Bolívar at your doorsteps, one of the most fun ways to traverse the neighborhood is to hop on a bike and take a tour down the winding roads, maybe even stopping by to peruse some of the world-famous jewelry and emerald stores.
If you’re a foodie lover like me, a trip to Bogotà wouldn’t be complete without getting a taste of Colombia’s ajiaco soup! You’re absolutely spoilt for choice for bars and restaurants in La Candelaria. I highly recommend lunch at Puerta de la Catedral and devouring their house special!
Safety-wise, exercise caution if you’re going out in the evenings and it’s always better to be in a group than wandering alone.
La Candelaria is one of the most popular destinations for tourists but it has a bad rap for muggings and petty theft. Always stay vigilant.
If you’re a solo female traveler like me, round up a few people from your hostel and head to the Bogotà Beer Company for a couple of drinks. If you’re a little far in walking distance, take an Uber home.
I was really nervous about staying in La Candelaria, but it turned out to be one of the best places to stay in Bogotà for first-time visitors, art and history lovers and getting a taste of the city’s lively nightlife.
With plenty of public buses to other districts, it’s a great starting point for anyone looking to get a taste of the eclectic, vibrant and cultural mix that is Bogotà.
Cerro de Monserrate
The best hotels in La Candelaria
Hotel Casa Deco: Located near to the Museo del Oro, it’s a great choice for travellers who prefer to explore the old town. Cute, hip and trendy, it’s rooftop terrace is a great place to chill out with an afternoon beer on a sunny day.
Check out prices and availability here.
The Candelaria House Boutique: I have two words for this place. Sooooooo cute! This Boutique hotel exudes charm with beautifully decorated antique furniture. The location is perfect for exploring La Candelaria. Rooms start from $60 a night.
Check outprices and availability here.
The Orchids: Elaborate with luxurious décor in a beautiful colonial building, The Orchids is a cosy hotel located close to many of the neighbourhoods top attractions. Full of charm, this hotel books out quickly!
Check out prices and availability here.
The best budget accommodation in La Candelaria
Selina Candelaria:The rooms are spacious, clean and well equipped. For a hostel, it’s slightly on the pricier end but worth it if you’re looking for a place with a great vibe.
Check out prices and availability here.
Hostal La Candelaria:In a quiet location, and located with a few minutes walking to the Museo del Oro. Private rooms start from $20 a night.
Check out prices and availability here.
Masaya Hostel Bogotá: With a fully equipped kitchen, this hostel is perfect for those on a budget and looking to meet people whilst travelling.
Trying a traditional Colombian drink - Chicha
The Chapinero Neighbourhood
Affluent, upmarket and home to some of Bogotà’s richest residents, Chapinero is one of the coolest places to stay in Bogotà.
The neighbourhood is perfect for you if you’re looking for chic boutiques and cute cafes to chill out in. What Chapinero may lack in history and culture, it more than makes up for as a haven for foodies looking to wine and dine in some of the city’s most high-end restaurants or go out to some of the best nightclubs.
At the heart of Bogotà’s financial hub, Chapinero might be the neighbourhood for you if you’re looking for a more modern vibe and stay at some of the city’s most elegant upscale boutique hotels.
Engaging and action-packed, it’s the perfect neighbourhood to explore on foot; wander over to the beautiful Church of Our Lady of Lourdes or browse a more commercialized area with malls and larger stores including the Centro Comercial Andino.
Chapinero is a much safer neighbourhood than La Candelaria, but it’s still best to exercise caution, especially if you’re walking around at night. Avoid taking unnecessary valuables with you and leave whatever you don’t need in your hotel.
Graffiti murals in Bogota's neighbourhood of La Candelaria
Caught in the act!
The best hotels in Chapinero
The Artisan D.C. Hotel, Autograph Collection: The decor is stylish and modern and rooms are comfortable. Prices start from $119 a night.
Check out prices and availability here.
Hotel bh La Quinta: Surrounded by restaurants and coffee shops, it’s in a great location. Rooms start at $58 a night for a private.
Check out prices and availability here.
Hotel Estelar Suites Jones: Located in Chapinero Alto, the area is fancier and quieter. It’s a great hotel to come back to after a day in the hustle and bustle of a big city.
Check out prices and availability here.
The best budget accommodation in Chapinero
GHL Hotel Hamiltonis in a superb location and staff are helpful in assisting with your stay. It’s close to many restaurants, bars and necessities.
Check out prices and availability here.
Hobu Hostel: For a hostel vibe if you're looking to meet people, Hobu is a good option with cosy rooms and breakfast included.
Check out prices and availability here.
Where to stay in La Zona Rosa
With easy access to bars, restaurants and clubs, La Zona Rosa also known as Zona T, is one of the best neighbourhoods to stay in Bogotà for nightlife. With tourists and gregarious Bogotanos mingling after work, this is the place to be if you’re looking to have an incredible, action-packed evening.
Unlike Chapinero, La Zona Rosa is not a geographic barrio but rather a really cool place to hang out and have fun.
Expect to pay a little more in this area as it is also one of the safest neighbourhoods in Bogotà. There are a number of higher-end boutique hotels and also some great options for those looking to stay on a budget.
I really loved the culturally diverse cuisine in this area, there’s a little of something for everyone.
The best hotels in La Zona Rosa
BOG Hotel: In a fantastic location, the hotel is exceptionally clean and beautiful. With gorgeous panoramic city and mountain views, this hotel is located La Zona Rosa. Rooms start at $120 and it’s perfect for those who want to make the most of an effervescent nightlife.
Check out prices and availability here.
EK Hotel: If you’re looking for somewhere stylish and comfortable to stay, the EK Hotel might be right up your alley. Polished and clean, it’s perfect for anyone looking for a cozy abode in Bogotà.
Check out prices and availability here.
Sofitel Bogota Victoria Regia: Located 550 yards from La Zona Rosa, you really can’t beat the location. A cozy hotel, for anyone suffering from altitude sickness in Bogotà, they provide complimentary coca tea.
Getting my dose of Colombia coffee at the Azahar cafe
The best budget accommodation in La Zona Rosa
Hotel Retiro 84 by MIJ Hotels:A boutique hotel rooms start at $50 a night for a double room. In a quiet area, it’s located 5-minutes walking distance from La Zona Rosa.
Check out prices and availability here.
Hotel 84 DC: A modern and chic hotel, prices start at $60 a night for a double room. Close to where all the restaurants and shops are located, rooms are comfortable to stay in.
Check out prices and availability here.
Hotel Excelsior: This hotel provides great value for anyone on a budget. With rooms starting at $40 a night, the hotel is well located in a safe neighbourhood.
Check out prices and availability here.
The Teusaquillo Neighbourhood
The quieter and largely middle-class neighbourhood, filled with wide green spaces is perfect for those looking to escape the limelight of La Zona Rosa.
With access to the largest park in Bogotà, Simon Bolivar, this can be a major pro in a chaotic city. Teusaquillo is ideal for those looking for a more chilled out vibe, and a safer neighbourhood in Bogotà.
It’s not the most action-packed place to stay in Bogotà and it can be pretty dead in the evenings. It’s well connected to public transport and better suited to those who are looking to visit the neighbouring districts during the day and come back to a quiet retreat.
The best hotels in Teusaquillo
Casa Jota: Clean and comfortable the accommodation is a 5-minute walk from El Campin Stadium.
Check out prices and availability here.
The best budget accommodation in Teusaquillo
Maité Hostel: A lovely friendly and welcoming hostel and perfect for those on a budget trip. Prices at this quaint abode start from $6 a night for a dorm bed and $20 for a double private room. Friendly and accommodating, it’s in a safe residential neighbourhood.
Check out prices and availability here.
Ayenda 1032 Titas House:Relaxed and homely, it’s close by to public transport for a smooth visit to all the different neighbourhoods in Bogotà.
La Candalaria neighbourhood in Bogota
Where to stay in Parque 93 / Chico
One of the most upscale neighbourhoods, day or night it feels very safe walking around making it one of the best places to stay in Bogotà.
Within walking distance of La Zona Rosa, Parque 93 is more easygoing, it’s close to trendy cafes, shopping malls, and chic restaurants. There are plenty of green spaces to enjoy including the Parque de la 93 and Parque del Chico.
If you’re looking for budget accommodation, you might be hard-pressed. The area is known for its fine dining and luxury hotels.
The best hotels in Parque 93
Salvio Parque 93: Modern and chic this hotel is right in front of Parque 93 and in close proximity to the Andino shopping mall.
Check out prices and availability here.
Hotel bh Parque 93: In the upscale Parque 93 neighbourhood, rooms are contemporary and colourful.
Check out prices and availability here.
The best budget accommodation in Parque 93
Suites Casa 95: With a junior suite starting at $40 a night, this hotel is in a great location.
I hope you enjoyed this packed post of where to stay in Bogotà! Let me know where you end up staying in the comments below! Happy travels!
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