With over 7 million inhabits and 1200 neighborhoods, of which not all are safe, deciding where to stay in Bogotá can be overwhelming. Combine this with Colombia’s capital’s cooler weather and spread-out nature, lots of travelers tend to skip the city. But I’m here to tell you that would be a shame!
Bogotá was my first ever city in Colombia, and I completely fell in love with it. From its street art to its food and mountain views: there’s just so much to see and do, you must spend at least a couple of days here.
Choosing the right area to stay in for your travel plans and style is thus very important. And while you might think it’s easiest to skip the research and book a stay in Bogotá’s historical center La Candelaria, that’s not the best idea. But more on that below!
In this guide, you’ll find out exactly what area in Bogotá best fits you as a traveler. Below, I’ll be covering all of my favorite places to stay in Bogotá, including budget, mid-range and luxury hotel recommendations for each area. So, whether you’re a first-time visitor, a foodie or a slow traveler, you’ll find something you like here.
Don’t have time to read it all? Then skip to my quick where to stay in Bogotá guide.
In a hurry? These are my three favorite hotels in Bogotá 🛏️
HAB Hotel Bogotá in Chapinero – check rates & availability here
Sofitel Bogota Victoria Regia in Zona Rosa – check rates & availability here
Four Seasons Casa Medina in Zona G – check rates & availability here
Quick Where to Stay in Bogotá Guide
As I mentioned, La Candelaria is not the best place to stay in Bogotá, especially for first-time travelers. While the capital’s historical center is a must-see during the day, at night it can get unsafe. What’s more, chances of petty crimes and muggings increase.
If you’re a street-smart traveler, you can still stay in La Candelaria. Just don’t walk anywhere at night and always call a taxi through your hotel or Uber.
Zona Rosa, however, is the best place to stay for first timers. This neighborhood is Bogotá’s safest area (although caution is still advised anywhere you travel in the world) and has endless hotel, restaurant, bar, club and boutique options. It’s also the best place for nightlife!
The general rule is: the farther north you go, the safer the areas get, like Zona Rosa. Still in doubt, though? Here’s my full list of the best places to stay in Bogotá, including my favorite hotels:
- Zona Rosa – first-timers, nightlife and one of the safest neighborhoods – Four Seasons Hotel Bogotá
- Chapinero – best for artists and trendy visitors – HAB Hotel Bogotá
- Parque 93 and Chico – chique and family-friendly – Cassa Luxury Homes
- Zona G – foodies will love this area! – Four Seasons Casa Medina
- Usaquen – village within the city perfect for slow travelers – W Bogota
- Teusaquillo – people looking for tranquility and nature – Grand Hyatt Bogota
- La Candelaria – best for history buffs and street-smart people, also affordable – Delgadillo Boutique Hotel by Socialtel
- Santa Fe – best for backpackers and budget travelers – Hotel bh Bicentenario
8 Best Neighborhoods & Hotels in Bogotá
Zona Rosa/Zona T – Best for First Timers
Zona Rosa, also known as Zona T, is Bogotá’s bustling nightlife and entertainment area. Both tourists and residents love to hang out at its many bars and restaurants or go shopping at its sleek boutiques. As it’s also one of Bogotá’s safest districts, it’s the best place to stay for first time visitors. Especially if you’re looking to be entertained!
Here, you can sample Colombia’s finest coffee at multiple roasteries and enjoy the view from fancy rooftop bars like Astoria. There are also plenty of local designer shops around, like St. Dom. The only con about Zona Rosa, is that you won’t find any main sights here. For that you’ll have to travel for 30 minutes by cab to La Candelaria.
Best Hotels in Zona Rosa
Because Zona Rosa is one of the best places to stay in Bogotá, there are plenty of hotel options for every budget.
In the luxury department we’ve got two tiers, both containing 5-star hotels. Both the Four Seasons Hotel Bogotá and the Sofitel Bogota Victoria Regia are within walking distance of Zona Rosa’s most vibrant area. Travelers looking to splurge big time will want to stay at the Four Seasons Hotel Bogotá. They offer minimalist and contemporary rooms, complemented by hot stone massages at their spa and Colombian cooking classes.
The Sofitel Bogota Victoria Regia, on the other hand, is at least half the price and hosts some of the city’s best restaurants. And although it doesn’t have a spa, you can get massages here.
Travelers looking for mid-range options will want to stay at the industrial-looking Avani Royal. As it’s located next to the El Retiro shopping center, you’ll be at the heart of the action. On a budget, though? Then stay at Hotel Saint Simon just down the street. Its cute rooms are perfectly comfortable and affordable.
Chapinero – Best for Artists LGBTQI+ and Trendy Visitors
Chapinero is the best place to stay for artists, LGBTQI+ travelers and trendy visitors. While Chapinero is a larger district, containing Zona T, Zona G and Parque 93 y Chico, I’m referring to the area around the La Salle University and Hippies Park. Being one of Bogotá’s safest neighborhoods, it’s also a great spot for first time visitors looking for a quieter area.
Chapinero is known to be very laid-back and calm, with lots of street art, markets and quaint coffee shops around. Its home to upscale boutiques, the beautiful Church of Our Lady of Lourdes, and a strong LGBTQI+ community. So, if you’re looking for a more residential experience, this is the place to be.
Best Hotels in Chapinero
While it’s an upscale area of the city, there aren’t lots of luxury hotels in this part of Chapinero. There is one fabulous mid-range option though: HAB Hotel Bogotá. This boutique hotel is the coziest place to stay in Bogotá. Located in a red-brick building that looks like it belongs in London, offers homey rooms, a classic café with a great restaurant and massages.
Chapinero also offers plenty budget hotel options, like Urban Heights Bogota. This hotel is on walking distance of the Hippies Park as well and offers comfortable rooms with everything you need. You can even book a small apartment here, if you value making your own breakfast and pot of newly bought Colombian coffee.
Parque de la 93 and Chico – Best for Families and Tranquility
Parque de la 93 and Chico are Bogotá’s greenest, and probably most peaceful, neighborhoods, making it perfect for families and travelers looking for a restful stay. Its green streets are lined with both historical homes and sleek modern designs, and you’ll find lots of cute coffee shops, boutiques and restaurants. And while caution is still advised, it is generally safe to walk around at night.
But even though Parque de la 93 and Chico are a lot quieter than the neighboring Zona Rosa, there’s plenty to do here. Parque 93 is great for a picnic and often hosts festivals, while the nearby Parque el Virrey is popular among runners and dog-owners. And if you’re looking for an idyllic photo backdrop, you can visit an old hacienda turned museum at the Museo del Chicó.
Best Hotels in Parque de la 93 y Chico
Looking for something special? Then Parque de la 93 and Chico both have some fine luxury options. Travelers wanting more space, or looking to stay longer, will want to rent an apartment at Cassa Luxury Homes. Even though I love eating out while traveling, I often miss cooking myself. Booking one of their apartments with fully equipped kitchens would thus be my number one choice. Especially their penthouse, which has a rooftop terrace with incredible views of the city.
In the mid-range category, the NH Bogota Pavillon Royal is your best bet. This hotel is still luxurious, with a sauna and japandi style rooms, but it won’t break the bank. Include their extensive breakfast in your stay for the ultimate comfort.
Parque de la 93 and Chico do have fewer budget options, partly due to its chic nature. But there are still some good options at the higher end of this price range, like Exe Bacata 95. This hotel is known for its big breakfast and classic rooms. It’s thus a great option if you’re looking for comfort, but want to save money as well.
Zona G – Best for Foodies & Couples
Zona G is Bogotá’s famous gastronomic zone and one of the city’s safest areas. Of all the neighborhoods in this guide, Zona G is the most centrally located. Combine this with its pretty architecture and diverse hotel scene, and you’ve got yourself one of the best places to stay in Bogotá.
While its romantic nature makes it ideal for couples, its food scene makes it foodie heaven. Unsurprisingly, the best thing to do in Zona G is to eat out. You can get Italian food at the cozy Olivia, or hearty ramen at LLŌ. And although I love Italian and Japanese food, you can’t leave Zona G without trying some Colombian food. Head to the extraordinary Elcielo, which celebrates Colombian heritage through its creative dishes.
Best Hotels in Zona G
Zona G is home to Bogotá’s most luxurious and most beautiful hotel: the Four Seasons Casa Medina. This hotel was built and designed by Colombian architect Santiago Medina Mejia, and his love for Colombian craftsmanship is visible in every space. Think hand-carved cabinets and intricately tiled floors, combined with plush beds and a tranquil garden. Its Spanish restaurant Castanyoles blends well with the rest of Zona G and makes it the ultimate stay in the area. This one’s on my bucket list!
But Zona G’s mid-range options are also incredibly stylish. Hotel Coco would be my top pick. Its moody rooms with corniced green walls and great views of the city are perfectly comfortable. A stay at Hotel Coco also includes an extensive breakfast, which makes it the perfect base for exploration.
Budget travelers will want to stay at the colorful Mika Suites. Albeit simple, the hotel is known for its good breakfast and clean rooms. If you want quality while saving some bucks, this is the place to be.
Teusaquillo – Best for Nature Lovers
Teusaquillo is a great place to stay if you love tranquility and nature. This large neighborhood lies to the west of Chapinero and is home to two of Bogotá’s major green spaces: the Simon de Bolívar Park and the botanical gardens. The rest of the neighborhood is full of pretty middle-class homes, and is well-connected to the rest of the city with public transport.
However, as it’s primarily a residential neighborhood, it’s a lot quieter than its neighbor. This can be great if that’s exactly what you’re looking for, but it also means there’s not a lot to do here. While you could be lucky enough to catch a soccer match or live concert at the Nemesio Camacho El Campín football stadium, chances are you’re better off in Zona T or Chapinero if you want to be at the center of the action.
Best Hotels in Teusaquillo
Because Teusaquillo is such a large area, it offers plenty of hotels in all price ranges. The best by far, though, is the luxurious Grand Hyatt Bogota. With a large indoor pool, silky sheets, and epic corner suites offering sweeping views of Bogotá, you’ll have a hotel to write home about. Book your room with breakfast to make your stay as comfortable as possible.
Want similar views for half the price? Then stay at Hilton Bogota Corferias instead. They offer modern, yet cozy rooms and are praised by guests for their breakfast buffet. And while the pool may not be as big as Grand Hyatt’s, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring.
And if you’re traveling Colombia on a budget though, then you don’t have to settle for less. The Hotel City Bog Corferias offers both simple double rooms, and rooms with a jacuzzi. And since they include breakfast, it’s one of Teusaqillo’s hotels with the best price-quality ratio.
Usaquen – Best for Slow Travelers
Usaquen is one of Bogotá’s northernmost areas and a former colonial town. It’s past, which resulted in cobblestoned streets and historical buildings, still makes it feel like a small village. Add in the Sunday flea market, where local artisans sell their craftwork, and cozy, yet trendy cafés and restaurants, boutiques and concept stores, and you’ve found Bogotá’s cutest neighborhood.
But, while Usaquen is the place to be for Sunday brunch and souvenir shopping, it’s far removed from the rest of Bogotá. I thus wouldn’t recommend staying here if you just have one or two days in the city. Instead visit the area on a Sunday day trip. But, if you’re a slow traveler, this neighborhood is the place for you.
Best Hotels in Usaquen
Because Usaquen is so out of the way, there aren’t many hotels in the area. But the ones it does have, are pretty solid. Like the W Bogota, Usaquen’s finest luxury option. Besides its well-designed rooms, the hotel sports a golden reception, space-age indoor pool and cozy Nespresso bar. Its Supreme Junior King Suite even has a standing tub in the bedroom, making the hotel a high-end experience.
When looking for something mid-range, you can’t go wrong with the Hampton by Hilton Bogota Usaquen. While a Hampton hotel will never be your most iconic stay, it is always comfortable. A stay here includes breakfast and they offer airport shuttles.
The Zana Hotel Boutique, on the other hand, is the best option for budget travelers. This hotel looks and feels more like a homestay, as it’s located in an old Usaquen home and known for its hospitality. The rooms are simple but cozy, and the hotel is close to lots of markets and cute restaurants.
La Candelaria – Best for History Buffs and Street-Smart People
La Candelaria is Bogotá’s old town. The area itself has been inhabited by the Muisca for centuries, but most of the homes you see date back to the 16th century, when the Spaniards arrived. Needless to say, this is thus the place to stay for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.
In Candelaria, you’ll find the Plaza de Bolivar, the Botero Museum and the beautiful Nuestra Señora del Carmen cathedral. However, La Candelaria is not Bogotá’s safest area. During the day, tourists crowd the streets to take pictures and see most of the sights. But when night falls, the streets become more prone to criminal activity like robberies.
I stayed on the border of Santa Fe and La Candelaria, and once the sun had set, I could feel the atmosphere turning on the quieter streets leading to our hotel. While nothing happened, the lack of light and few people about made it feel sketchy. So, only stay here if your incredibly street smart, and try to minimize walking around at night (take a cab instead!).
Best Hotels in La Candelaria
Even though it might not be the safest choice, La Candelaria is full of gorgeous hotels in all price ranges. Luxury travelers looking for something special, will want to book one of The Orchids’ six rooms. This four-star hotel first opened its doors in 1892 and although it’s been modernized since, still carries its 19th-century classical charm.
Got a mid-range budget but luxury taste? Then stay at the Delgadillo Boutique Hotel by Socialtel. Once a 19th-century manor, it now offers well-designed rooms with an industrial feel and two classic Colombian restaurants. Breakfast is also included, so you won’t get hungry here.
For those traveling on a budget and those on a quest to make new friends, I’d recommend the Botanico Hostel. This place offers both dorms and private rooms adorned with colorful windows. And with its sunny terrace and bar, you won’t have to leave the hostel’s safety for a couple of beers with your new pals.
Santa Fe – Best for Budget Travelers & Backpackers
Stay in Santa Fe if you want to stay close to the main sights. I stayed here on my short 2026 visit and found this location ideal for sightseeing with limited time! It’s home to the famous Gold Museum and National Museum, two of the top things to do in Bogotá, and you’ll be in La Candelaria in no-time.
And because it’s just outside the historical center, you’ll find many budget hotels as well. This makes Santa Fe great for budget travelers and backpackers as well! Do note that there are some very sketchy parts in Santa Fe where gangs roam: caution is advised at night.
Important 👉 Santa Fe wraps around the north, west and south side of La Candelaria. I stayed to the North of la Candelaria, right on its border. While this was fine during the day, I’d recommend staying in its safer pockets: the bohemian La Macarena La Merced, and Bogotá’s business district: Centro Internacional.
Best Hotels in Santa Fe
As Santa Fe is Bogotá’s most budget-friendly neighborhood, you won’t find any luxury hotels here. But the mid-range options are top-notch! I stayed at the Hotel bh Bicentenario, which was incredibly comfortable and well-located during the day. While the breakfast wasn’t anything to write home about, I sincerely enjoyed my time here.
Travelers looking for a bigger breakfast buffet and Santa Fe’s safer areas, will want to stay at the ibis Bogota Museo instead. And if you really need to safe some money, stay at the cute and well-designed Sereno Hostels.
Areas to Avoid in Bogotá
In Bogotá, the general rule of thumb is the farther north you go, the safer it is. But of course, like everything on this planet, it’s more nuanced than that.
Still, these are the areas you must avoid at all times: Ciudad Bolívar, San Cristóbal, Bosa and Soacha. Crime rates are sky high and criminal gangs are active in these southern neighborhoods. There’s really no reason to be here as a tourist.
As mentioned above, don’t stick around La Candelaria at night. But there are some places you shouldn’t visit in Bogotá’s center during the day as well. Don’t go further west than Carrera 10 or further south than calle 9, which is around Plaza de Bolívar. The Santuario Nuestra Señora del Carmen and the Plaza de Armas are the exceptions though.
But even in northern neighborhoods like Chapinero, one street can be safe, while everything changes when you turn a corner. You can’t just go wandering around in Colombia without a plan, especially at night. This was something I had to get used to, as I love strolling aimlessly and opening myself up to surprise. But some surprises aren’t worthwhile.
This is why I recommend going on either a guided walking tour, or a cycling tour of the city. During a tour, you get to meet a local guide who can tell you everything about safety in the city, as well as Bogotá’s history and culture. A walking tour like this one shows you the city’s main sights in La Candelaria and takes you up to Monserrate.
I preferred a cycling tour on my trip though, as we got to cover a lot of ground in just one morning. On our tour, similar to this one, we got to see La Candelaria, Teusaquillo, numerous markets, and a coffee roastery.
But if you’re a curious traveler, and you must visit Bogotá’s southern areas, then book a tour like this one. The guide will show you around El Paraiso, introduce you to its residents, and even share his best culinary stops.
How to Get Around Bogotá
The best way to get around Bogotá is by taxi via a ride-sharing app like Uber. These types of apps are usually reliable, as taxi drivers have a record of reviews and can be traced.
Why is that important? Regular taxis are occasionally used to mug tourists. Sometimes drivers kidnap tourists and take them to an ATM where they’re forced to withdraw money. While they usually release the tourist after, it can get fatal. So: never hail a cab from the streets. And if you don’t want to use an app, let your hotel call one for you.
If you want to use public transport, though, you can use the TransMilenio rapid bus system, or the slower neighborhood SITP buses. For both, you must buy a rechargeable TuLlave smart card at a bus station. Just be mindful of your stuff when riding the bus, as they are hotspots for pickpocketing and petty theft.
💡 Tip: Memorize the route and your stop beforehand to avoid using your phone or other valuables on the bus. Otherwise, it might get grabbed from your hands at bus stops.
And then there’s walking, which in some neighborhoods is safe during the day. Avoid walking around at night though, unless you’re in Zona Rosa or Chapinero, for example.
Best Things to Do in Bogotá
There are so many amazing things to do in Bogotá, that I’ve gone ahead and written a complete things to do guide. But, if you want to have the quick rundown, here are my three favorite things to do in Colombia’s capital:
- See La Candelaria and do a street art tour. There are just so many gorgeous sights in La Candelaria, from the Plaza de Bolívar to the Santuario Nuestra Señora del Carmen. But what impressed me most was the street art recounting the Indigenous cultures and politics of Colombia.
- Visit the Botéro Museum. Fernando Botéro is Colombia’s most famous artist and is known for his playful approach to proportions. The Botéro Museum showcases his own work and a large part of his private collection, which he donated to the municipality, with one condition: that admission would be free.
- Cycling the Ciclovia. Every Sunday, Bogotá’s main streets are closed for cars and become a cycling, roller-skating and outdoor exercise highway. Food vendors line the streets, and you can even join free aerobics classes. The atmosphere is incredibly energetic and a must-do when you’re in Bogotá!
👉 Read my complete Things to Do in Bogotá Guide Next
How Many Days You Need in Bogotá
Bogotá is a massive city with many amazing things to do. While travelers often skip Colombia’s capital, I think you should spend at least 3 days here. This will give you enough time to explore La Candelaria, head up to Monserrate, wander around Chapinero and even do less touristy things like visiting Usaquen’s Sunday market.
I just had one day in Bogotá, and it was not enough. There were so many things on my list that I wanted to see and do, but I only got around to 20% of them. It was also my first stop in Colombia, so the jetlag didn’t help. If you’re limited on time, 2 days is the minimum amount to spend in the city.
Best Time to Visit Bogotá
The best time to visit Bogotá is from December to March. This entails Colombia’s first dry season of the year, which is when skies are clear and the temperature is comfortable. This is also Colombia’s high season, so you’ll see lots of other tourists.
Another great time to visit Bogotá is during Colombia’s second dry season, which runs from June to August. If you’re also heading to the Caribbean coast though, this will be the worst period to visit. Cartagena will be hot, incredibly humid, and busy, making a stay here uncomfortable.
My number one best time to visit is something regular travel blogs discourage, though. Which is one of the two rainy seasons, which run from September to November and from April to May. The second season is the driest, with an occasional downpour during the night. I was there in May, and I found the temperature very pleasant, but the lack of crowds was even better!
How to Get to Bogotá
Whether you’re traveling internationally or domestically, the best way to get to Bogotá is by plane. Colombia is huge, which means distances between destinations are vast as well. Plane travel is also the most common mode of transport when going long distances, so every major city has an airport.
Moreover, the borders with Panama and Venezuela are dangerous due to conflicts, and the impenetrable Amazon Rainforest covers large parts of Colombia and Brazil. This makes it very hard to enter Colombia overland.
Unless you’re traveling from a nearby town, I’d thus recommend finding a cheap flight via Skyscanner. Head to their website, or get started with the widget below.
