10 Hidden Gems in Bogotá

The artsy, bohemian neighborhood of La Macarena is one of Bogotá’s best-kept secrets for a number of reasons: Centrally located, though less crowded than the iconic La Candelaria area,  La Macarena draws the city’s cool kids and creatives to its galleries, parks, and global restaurants. Spend a relaxed day strolling along the quaint streets, exploring the century-old green oasis, Parque La Independencia, and perhaps visiting the impressive Planetarium of Bogotá, while you’re at it. 

If an eatery has been serving the same type of food for over 200 years, it’s safe to assume you’re in for something seriously special. As a tourist, it’s incredibly easy to overlook this tiny restaurant that seats barely 20 patrons, but La Puerta Falsa is the best place in the city to try traditional Colombian cuisine and recipes that haven’t changed for centuries. If you find yourself seated for lunch in this iconic spot, be sure to try the famous tamales and a bowl of ajiaco – a hearty, flavorful soup made from chicken and potatoes.

In 2000, celebrated Colombian artist Fernando Botero donated 208 art pieces – 123 of his own and 85 created by international artists, including Picasso, Monet, Matisse and Klimt – to the Bank of the Republic. Today, free of charge, visitors can marvel at these spectacular pieces housed in a colonial mansion in the heart of historic La Candelaria. Essentially curated by Botero himself, the museum is a must-visit for any art-lover – or simply someone who wants to experience Colombia’s creativity first-hand. 

The “G” in “Zona G” stands for “gourmet,” and that tells you everything you need to know about this gastronomic hub. This premier dining destination is heavily concentrated with incredible restaurants and ritzy hotels frequented by the city’s rich and famous. Fine dining is the pastime of choice in Zona G, and you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. No matter what you feel inclined to feast on, whether brunch, crepes, or burgers, there’s a restaurant that specializes in it. Dress up and get ready for a dinner to remember at this hidden gem in Bogotá.

Once a week in Bogotá, outdoor vendors gather in the small but bohemian Usaquén neighborhood, setting up stalls to sell arts and crafts, gifts, food, and provide entertainment to visitors. You could easily spend a Sunday afternoon meandering through this local gem, listening to the live music and stocking up on souvenirs. Join local families jostling from one stall to the next and be sure to try some of the homemade delicacies when you start feeling peckish. This is one of those hidden gems in Bogotá that give you a true taste of the local lifestyle.

This is a bit of a cheat because it lies just under two hours outside of the city center, but it’s still a must-visit when you find yourself in Bogotá. Lake Guatavita is a sacred site from centuries ago, where the Muisca people dropped gold into its depths and the well-known legend of El Dorado was born. This hidden gem of Bogotá is well and truly hidden, lying within a crater fringed by dense forest. Follow a path up 150 steps to the top of the crater and see a piece of ancient South American history.

Indie cinema fans from around the world will find something to love about Cine Tonalá, Bogotá’s only independent cinema (set in a renovated 1930s mansion) that treats its guests to Latin American films and international cult classics. But this location is more than a movie theater – it’s also a live music venue and an excellent restaurant. It’s a different side to Colombian culture that’s well worth experiencing on a trip to Bogotá.

The Andean mountains boast some of the most beautiful nature on earth, and the best place to appreciate it is Quebrada La Vieja, a secluded hiking trail leading up the mountain to spectacular views of the city. Walk along a babbling stream, through dense forest and lush greenery (and keep an eye out for the birdlife) to the apex of the mountain. The harmony between city life and natural scenery is so effortless here, it looks like they were meant to be together.