​The capital of a country that suffers from a negative image because of guerrillas and drug trafficking, Bogotá surprises you with its tranquility and hospitality. With 7 million inhabitants, the city offers various cultural attractions, in addition to a historical downtown and magnificent museums. The Gold Museum and Botero Museum are not to be missed for those who want to get to know Colombian art.

What's there to do in Bogotá?

A visit to Monserrate Hill, where you'll have beautiful, panoramic views of the region, should definitely be on your to-do list. At the foot of the hill, you'll find bars and restaurants and might want to try a traditional Colombian coffee. You also won't want to miss a stroll through the old La Canelaria neighborhood in the vicinity of Plaza de Bolívar, which is home to the main monuments that mark Colombia's political history. This area is reminiscent of the Pelourinho neighborhood in Salvador, Brazil, because of its colorful houses.

Bogotá's Climate

For a good part of the year, Bogotá has a steady temperature of around 14°C and tourists frequently see the light sprinkle that falls during the afternoon. Because of its high elevation (the city is at 2,640 meters (8,660 feet)), you might feel uncomfortable during the first few days of your visit. To help you feel better, it's recommended that you drink the coca tea sold in health food stores and certain handcraft fairs in the city.

Trips by car

The surrounding area offers various attractions to see by car, such as the Salt Cathedral in Zipaquirá and the Andrés Carne de Res bar and restaurant in the neighboring town of Chía. To enjoy your trip with greater comfort and safety, rent a car from Localiza in Bogotá. There are two locations – one at the airport and the other one downtown.