A relative newcomer to the international travel scene, Bogotá is a vibrant and cosmopolitan metropolis waiting to be discovered. As clichéd as it might sound, the Colombian capital is truly a city of contrast. Bogotá is famous for its quaint colonial Old Town, impressive art museums and exciting nightlife, as well as for its up-and-coming fashion and restaurant scene. If you are looking for the best areas to stay in Bogotá, you have come to the right place.
Located in the heart of the country, and nestled 2,640 meters (8,660 feet) above sea level, among high Andean peaks, Bogotá is the largest and most populated city in Colombia and one of the leading business and transport hubs in Latin America. From a tourist’s standpoint, Bogotá is known for being home to the Botero and Gold museums, Monserrate Hill, and La Candelaria district. The Colombian capital is quickly becoming one of the most visited destinations in South America for luxury travelers and backpackers alike, with new boutique hotels, as well funky hostels constantly being opened all over town.
It doesn’t matter whether it’s your first time visiting Bogotá or if you’re an expert in all things South America, keep reading to find out more about our selection of the best areas to stay in Bogotá for every type of traveler. We’ve also included a safety section in each area for you to take into account when choosing where to stay in Bogota.
Accommodation Options in Bogotá
If you don’t have the time or the patience to read the full post, here is a quick summary of our recommended areas to stay in Bogotá. Read on to discover more information about each of these neighborhoods.
- Best areas for foreign tourists: Zona Rosa | Usaquén
- Best area for sightseeing & culture: La Candelaria (Old Town)
- Best areas for nightlife: Chapinero | Zona Rosa
- Best areas for business travelers: Usaquén | Centro Internacional
- Most exclusive areas in Bogotá: Chicó | Usaquén
- Best area for shopping: Zona Rosa
- Best area for families: Teusaquillo
- Cheap area to stay in Bogotá: La Candelaria (Old Town)
- Best area for LGBTQ+ travelers: Chapinero
What’s the Best Area to Stay in Bogotá?
The best area to stay in Bogotá is Zona Rosa, especially if you are a first-time visitor or a foreign tourist. Zona Rosa, also known as Zona T, is an upscale dining and shopping district home to several of Bogotá’s top shopping centers and hottest nightclubs. Although it’s not the cheapest area in town, this section of North Chapinero offers some of the best boutique and luxury hotels in the city while being relatively close to other must-see areas and attractions.
Find available accommodation in Bogota’s Zona Rosa.
Best Hotels in Zona Rosa
- Best five-star hotel: Sofitel Bogota Victoria Regia
- Best four-star hotel: GHL Hotel Hamilton
- Best three-star hotel: Hotel Saint Simon
- Best tourist apartments: Apartamentos Bogotá Zona Rosa
- Best hostel: 82Hostel
- What's the Best Area to Stay in Bogotá?
- The Safest Areas to Stay in Bogotá, Colombia
- The Best Areas for Tourists in Bogotá: District by District
- 1. Zona Rosa: Best Location in Bogotá for Nightlife & Shopping
- 2. Chicó: Safest Area to Stay in Bogotá
- 3. La Candelaria (Old Town): Best Location in Bogotá for Culture & Sightseeing
- 4. Chapinero: Best Area for Hipsters & LGBT Travelers
- 5. Usaquén: Great Location in North Bogota
- 6. Bogotá International Center: Best Location for Business Travelers
- 7. Teusaquillo & Corferias: Best Location in Bogotá With Kids
- 8. Near Bogotá El Dorado International Airport: Best Location for a Layover
- Where to stay in Bogotá: Useful Info
- Other Accommodation Guides
The Safest Areas to Stay in Bogotá, Colombia
While Bogotá is a safe city to visit for South American standards, personal safety is still a big concern among tourists, especially international travelers. As a rule of thumb, districts in the north are wealthier and safer than those in the south. Here are some of the safest areas for tourists in Bogotá:
- Chicó, located directly north of Zona Rosa, is one of the most exclusive residential areas in Bogotá. This barrio, one of the safest areas in Bogotá, offers attractions such as the Parque de la 93, Parque del Virrey & Museo del Chicó. Some of the best hotels in Chicó include Hotel Vintage, The Click Clack Hotel Bogotá, and Best Western Plus 93 Park Hotel.
- Usaquén is an upper-class district located in Bogota’s north end. Previously an independent township, it is now a major residential, commercial and financial area complete with business developments, upscale shopping centers and many of the best-rated luxury hotels in Bogotá. Some of the best places to stay in Usaquén include Sonesta Hotel Bogotá, Biohotel Organic Suites and NH Collection Bogotá Royal Teleport.
- Zona Rosa is, as mentioned above, the best area in Bogotá for foreigners and those looking for a centrally-located yet safe location in the Colombian capital. While Zona Rosa is famed as a nightlife district, the area is still very safe day and night.
The Best Areas for Tourists in Bogotá: District by District
1. Zona Rosa: Best Location in Bogotá for Nightlife & Shopping
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Why is this the best area to stay in Bogotá:
- Best area for nightlife
- Great food scene
- Safe area to stay
- Shopping streets & malls
- Luxury & boutique hotels
- Relatively central
Bogotá’s Zona Rosa, also known as Zona T, is the best place to stay in Bogotá for those seeking sophistication and fun. This vibrant nightlife and commercial district is home to some of the hottest nightclubs in the Colombian capital, as well as restaurants, shopping centers, and designer boutiques.
Located between calles 82th and 84th and carreras 11th and 15th, this area marks the beginning of what we can consider North Bogotá. Largely pedestrianized in recent years, Zona Rosa is connected to the rest of Bogotá via TransMilenio, buses, and taxis.
Some of Bogotá’s most famous malls, including the upscale Centro Comercial Andino, as well as many local and international clothing brands have their stores here.
Zona Rosa offers numerous accommodation options. While most properties in the area are boutique and luxury hotels, there’s also a handful of cheaper accommodations including backpacker hostels and tourist apartments.
Thanks to its attractions and relatively central location, Zona Rosa is one of the best areas to stay in Bogotá.
Is Zona Rosa a safe area to stay in Bogotá? Although caution is always recommended, Zona Rosa is a safe area to stay in Bogotá or to walk around both day and night.
Best Hotels in Zona Rosa
Sofitel Bogota Victoria Regia
Located just over a quarter mile from Bogota’s popular La Zona T area, Sofitel Bogota Victoria Regia features luxurious rooms with free Wi-Fi. This modern property also boasts a restaurant, bar, business center and gym.
GHL Hotel Hamilton
This hotel is located in the Zona Rosa area in Bogotá and is surrounded by shopping and business districts. It features modern accommodations and free Wi-Fi. Rooms at GHL Hotel Hamilton have a sophisticated design.
Hotel Saint Simon
Located in the Zona Rosa area, 2 blocks from Andino and Atlantis shopping centers, Hotel Saint Simon features a restaurant where guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast and provides free WiFi in Bogota city.
Apartamentos Bogotá Zona Rosa
Located in Bogotá, Apartamentos Bogotá Zona Rosa features mountain views and free WiFi. It features a seating area with a cable flat-screen TV and DVD player, as well as a fully equipped kitchen with a microwave and a dining area.
82Hostel
82Hostel is located in Bogotá, 0.6 mi from the city’s entertainment area. A continental breakfast is offered daily and the property runs bike tours throughout the city.
2. Chicó: Safest Area to Stay in Bogotá
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Why is this the best area to stay in Bogotá:
- Safe location
- Parque de la 93
- Luxury hotels
- Shopping centers
- Peaceful district
Chicó is located next to Zona Rosa in North Bogotá. It is a succession of upper-class neighborhoods dotted with parks and shopping centers.
Probably the nicest park in Bogotá, Parque de la 93 is surrounded by cafés, restaurants, and a great selection of upmarket hotels.
This area is a bit far from the Old Town, but there are direct connections by TransMilenio, and you can always take a taxi.
Chicó is the best area to stay for a luxury holiday and for those looking for a safe location. That said, upmarket and safe does not have to equal boring; this area is filled with shopping centers, boutiques, galleries, restaurants, and beautiful parks.
Is Chicó a safe area to stay in Bogotá? Chicó is probably the safest area to stay in Bogota, and taking a stroll at any time shouldn’t be a major problem.
Best Hotels in Chicó
EK Hotel
Located in the heart of Bogota’s financial district, EK Hotel offers a business center, gym, sauna and rooms with free Wi-Fi. La 93 Park is just a 5-minute walk away. Rooms at the EK Hotel include a mini-bar, safe and flat-screen TV with cable channels.
Hotel El Dorado Bogota
Set in Bogotá, Hotel El Dorado Bogota features a terrace and free WiFi. Guests can enjoy two of the on-site restaurants or enjoy a drink at the bars. Every room at this hotel is air-conditioned and is fitted with a flat-screen TV.
Selina Parque 93 Bogota
Featuring a bar and a terrace, Selina Parque 93 Bogota offers a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk, and a shared kitchen, along with free WiFi. The property provides evening entertainment and a shared lounge.
Casa Prada Bed & Breakfast
Featuring a shared lounge, Casa Prada Bed & Breakfast offers free WiFi and rooms with a flat-screen TV with satellite channels.
3. La Candelaria (Old Town): Best Location in Bogotá for Culture & Sightseeing
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Why is this the best area to stay in Bogotá:
- Central location
- Colonial architecture
- Cheap accommodation
- Bohemian vibe
- Botero & Gold museums
- Authentic Colombian experience
La Candelaria, also known as Centro Histórico is Bogotá’s Old Town.
Established by the Spanish in 1538, Bogotá’s quaint central district is home to the city’s best museums, beautiful churches, colonial homes, and gorgeous squares. It is also where most of the local and national administrative buildings are located.
At its heart, Plaza de Bolívar is Bogotás main public square. This massive plaza is flanked by some of the most important buildings in the city, including the colonial-era Cathedral, the National Capitol, the Independence Museum – Casa del Florero, and Museo de Santa Clara.
A few blocks away, on 11th street, lies one of South America’s most important cultural corridors, home to the most visited museums in Bogotá: Museo Botero, with works by Fernando Botero and other contemporary artists, the Gold Museum, featuring one of the most important collections of pre-Colombian goldsmithing in the world, and the Banco de la República Art Collection.
Nearby, the Chorro de Quevedo area is popular for its colonial architecture, urban art, small bars, and bohemian cafés.
Although La Candelaria can be a bit rough around the edges, especially when compared to the pristine neighborhoods of North Bogotá, this historic district offers an authentic Colombian experience.
Another great reason why La Candelaria is one of the best areas to stay in Bogotá is its sheer amount of accommodations. Here, you can find everything from boutique hotels set in refurbished colonial mansions and small family-run inns to cheap-and-cheerful backpacker hostels and budget tourist apartments.
Is La Candelaria a safe area to stay in Bogotá? Yes and no: La Candelaria is safe during the day, but caution is strongly recommended after the sun goes down.
Best Hotels in La Candelaria
Hotel De La Opera
Hotel De La Opera offers rooms with free Wi-Fi and cable TV. Facilities include an indoor pool. All rooms feature private bathrooms and some have a balcony with views of La Candelaria and stunning downtown views.
Hotel Casa de la Vega
Featuring free WiFi and a restaurant, Hotel Casa de la Vega offers colonial-style accommodations in the historical center of Bogota. Rooms have a flat-screen TV. Certain rooms have a seating area where you can relax.
Selina La Candelaria Bogotá
Selina La Candelaria Bogotá has a restaurant, bar, a shared lounge, a garden, a 24-hour front desk and a shared kitchen, along with free WiFi. The accommodation also features evening entertainment and a tour desk.
CGH Candelaria Boutique
Set in Bogotá, CGH Candelaria Boutique has a garden and terrace and offers free WiFi. Attractions in the area include Botero Museum and Gold Museum.
Magdalena Guest House
Located in La Candelaria, Magdalena Guest House features a shared lounge, a garden and a 24-hour front desk for your convenience. Free WiFi is available throughout the property.
A terrace is available for guests.
Granada Hostel
Featuring a bar, shared lounge, garden, and free WiFi, Granada Hostel is located in the Historic Center of Bogotá. The accommodation provides a 24-hour front desk, a shared kitchen and organizes tours for guests.
4. Chapinero: Best Area for Hipsters & LGBT Travelers
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Why is this the best area to stay in Bogotá:
- True center of the city
- Great nightlife
- Best restaurants in town
- Very well-connected
- Great range of accommodation options
- Young atmosphere
- Bogota’s gay district
Chapinero is a centrally-located district comprised of several smaller neighborhoods. It is one of the largest and most diverse localidades in town and is known for its English-style architecture, busy commercial roads, and nightlife areas.
Locally known as Chapigay, Chapinero is Bogotá’s gay neighborhood, with dozens of venues catering to the LGBT community, including the famous Theatron nightclub. The nightlife here also includes alternative bars and dozens of clubs where you can dance the night away to genres ranging from Latin rhythms to techno and electronic music.
Chapinero is also home to Zona G, known as the Soho of Bogota, this recently created area hosts high-end restaurants and bars.
Thanks to its perfect location halfway between the relatively humble Old Town and the exclusive northern neighborhoods, Chapinero is the most convenient district to stay without a car.
Like a miniature Bogotá, Chapinero has a strong north-south divide; while its southern portion (roughly between streets 40th and 72nd) has a down-to-earth vibe, its northernmost neighborhoods are some of the fanciest in Bogotá.
As a result, accommodation in Chapinero is extremely varied and includes a bit of everything, from cheap inns to luxury business-oriented hotels.
Is Chapinero a safe area to stay in Bogotá? Chapinero’s southern and central areas are safe during the day and its busiest streets are fine at any time. That said, lonely or dark areas should be avoided after sunset. North Chapinero and Zona Rosa are safe day and night.
Read more about Chapinero, Bogotá
Best Hotels in Chapinero
Casa Legado
Located in Chapinero, Casa Legado features a bar, free private parking, a garden, and free WiFi. All rooms come with a desk, a flat-screen TV, a private bathroom, bed linen, and towels. The rooms have a safety deposit box.
Hotel Rosales Plaza
Located in the financial district of Rosales, Hotel Rosales Plaza is a 10-minute walk from Centro Andino and offers modern rooms with a private balcony, LCD TV and free Wi-Fi. There’s free parking on site.
Selina Chapinero Bogota
Selina Chapinero Bogotá offers spacious accommodations with Wi-Fi. It is located next to Osaka Trade Center and features a sophisticated design. Dining options include an à la carte restaurant that serves a variety of regional and international dishes.
ibis budget Bogotá Marly
The ibis budget Bogotá Marly, in the heart of Bogotá and offers free WIFI, paid buffet breakfast, cafeteria service, 24-hour mini-market, covered parking, and modern rooms.
Hostel Trip Monkey Bogotá D.C.
Set in Bogotá, Hostel Trip Monkey Bogotá D.C has a number of amenities including a bar, a shared lounge and a garden. Featuring a concierge service, this property also provides guests with a terrace.
5. Usaquén: Great Location in North Bogota
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Why is this the best area to stay in Bogotá:
- Safe area to stay
- New financial district of the city
- Shopping centers & nightlife
- Usaquén Flea Market
- Luxury & business hotels
Previously an independent town, Usaquén stretches up from 100th street and occupies Bogotá’s north end and is an upper-class district home to some of the most exclusive neighborhoods in the city, business areas, and shopping centers.
Parque de Usaquén, the former town’s central square still retains some of the area’s old colonial charm. Around it, you’ll find the church of Santa Bárbara de Usaquén, the old Town Hall, and a bustling restaurant nightlife and shopping area.
Usaquén comes to life every Sunday with the popular Mercado de las Pulgas de Usaquén, a flea market with food stands and stalls selling handmade jewelry, artisanal produce, coffee beans, ornaments, furniture and featuring street musicians and shows.
Other than the park’s immediate area, Usaquén is by and large a modern part of town, with massive residential developments and several financial and business districts.
Most hotels in this area cater to an upmarket clientele. This area is home to several big-chain business-oriented hotels by local and international brands.
Is Usaquén a safe area to stay in Bogotá? Usaquén is one of the safest neighborhoods in Bogotá.
Best Hotels in Usaquén
W Bogota
Offering an indoor pool, a spa and a wellness center, W Bogota is located in Usaquén and features 2 on-site restaurants and bars. Rooms include a flat-screen TV, a seating area and a private bathroom with free toiletries.
Biohotel Organic Suites
Featuring a spa, a gym, a hot tub and a restaurant, Biohotel Organic Suites offers eco-friendly rooms with free WiFi in Bogota. Free parking is provided. All rooms are fitted with mini-bars and have private bathrooms.
Hotel Santa Barbara Real
Santa Barbara Real is located in the Usaquen district, next to Bogotá´s financial center, and provides comfortable rooms with LCD satellite TVs. Free WiFi is provided and guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant and bar.
Hotel Casona Usaquen
Offering à la carte restaurant, Hotel Casona Usaquén is located next to Usaquén main square. Free WiFi access is available in all areas. All rooms feature a TV and a private bathroom with a shower.
6. Bogotá International Center: Best Location for Business Travelers
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Why is this the best area to stay in Bogotá:
- Very central
- Financial District
- Museo Nacional
- Budget hotels
The Bogotá International Center is one of the most modern areas of the city. It is located north of La Candelaria and south of Chapinero and is Colombia’s leading finance hub.
Considered Bogota’s downtown district, Centro Internacional is characterized by its tall office buildings and is home to the Colombia Stock Exchange, several conference and business centers, and some residential developments.
Tourist attractions in this area include the National Museum of Colombia and the Plaza de Toros de Bogotá .
The Financial Center is the best location in Bogota for business travelers. It offers several modern hotels with business facilities and excellent restaurants. That said, there are also several budget accommodations in this area.
Centro Internacional is also home to the main TransMilenio hub station, so moving around the city is relatively easy.
Is Centro Internacional a safe area to stay in Bogotá? Although it’s not as unsafe as La Candelaria, caution is recommended at night in this area.
Best Hotels in Centro Internacional de Bogotá
GHL Hotel Tequendama Bogotá
Located in Bogotá, GHL Hotel Tequendama Bogotá provides accommodation with a restaurant, private parking, a fitness center and a bar. All rooms feature a flat-screen TV with cable channels and a private bathroom.
ibis Bogota Museo
Hotel Ibis Bogota Museo offers rooms with free Wi-Fi and cable TV in Bogota. It features a restaurant and a bar. All rooms feature air conditioning and private bathrooms, parquet floors and large windows, which make them very bright.
Hotel City Bog Expo Museo
Expo Suites Parque Central Bavaria is located in Bogotá´s financial district. It offers trendy purple interiors decorated with white orchids and rooms with free WiFi, LCD and cable TV, and contemporary spa-style bathrooms.
7. Teusaquillo & Corferias: Best Location in Bogotá With Kids
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Why is this the best area to stay in Bogotá:
- Centrally-located district
- Family-friendly attractions
- Peaceful district
- Great for business travelers
Teusaquillo is located west of Chapinero and is a quiet district with lovely parks, Tudor-style houses, and historical monuments. It is mostly known for hosting the main campus of the National University of Colombia.
This somewhat unknown corner of Bogotá offers several family-friendly attractions including Parque Metropolitano Simón Bolívar, an extensive central park with bike lanes, a lake, and several playgrounds, the Salitre Mágico amusement park, and Museo de los Niños, with exhibits and interactive activities designed for children.
Other attractions in Teusaquillo include Movistar Arena, El Campín stadium and shopping centers like Gran Estación and El Salitre.
On Teusaquillo’s southern end, you’ll find Corferias, Bogotá’s largest events and conference center. This is also where you’ll find most of the accommodation options in the district.
Is Teusaquillo a safe area to stay in Bogotá? Teusaquillo is a quiet area during the day, but caution is advised at night in lonely or dark areas.
Best Hotels in Teusaquillo
Hilton Bogota Corferias
Located within Corferias International Exhibition Center, Hilton Bogota Corferias Convention Center offers 5-star accommodation in Bogotá and features a fitness center, a terrace and a shared lounge.
AZ Hotel
Located in Bogotá, near the Corferias International Exhibition Center and the American Embassy, AZ Hotel features a restaurant and free WiFi throughout the property. Every room has a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom.
Hotel 5 Elementos Apartasuites
Set very close to Corferias International Exhibition Center, Hotel 5 Elementos Apartasuites offers accommodation with a fitness center, a shared lounge and a 24-hour front desk for your convenience.
Casa Hotel Boyaca Real
Featuring a garden and a sun terrace, this guest house offers a daily breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and free parking in Bogotá. There is a bus station 1 block away. The rooms feature a private bathroom with a shower, LCD cable TV, and a mini-bar.
Hostel Bandido
Hostel Bandido in Bogotá provides adults-only accommodations with a bar, a shared lounge and a garden. Among the facilities at this property are a shared kitchen and a tour desk, along with free WiFi throughout the property.
8. Near Bogotá El Dorado International Airport: Best Location for a Layover
El Dorado International Airport is the most important airport in Colombia and one of the busiest in South America.
It is located in Fontibón, about 12km (7.5 mi) west of the city center and is the main hub for Colombian flag carrier Avianca, offering hundreds of connections to Colombian, North American, and European destinations.
Best Hotels Around Bogotá Airport
Movich Buró 26
Movich Buró 26 is located just 5-minutes away from El Dorado International Airport in Bogotá. It offers free Wi-Fi access and is ideal for business meetings and social gatherings.
Courtyard by Marriott Bogota Airport
Courtyard by Marriott Bogota Airport offers accommodation and daily breakfast. Guests can enjoy the on-site bar. All rooms have a flat-screen TV and include a private bathroom. The property offers a free airport shuttle service.
City Express Junior Bogota Aeropuerto
City Express Junior Bogota Aeropuerto features rooms with city views and free WiFi. All rooms have a desk, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with a shower. Buffet and American breakfast options are available each morning.
Where to stay in Bogotá: Useful Info
Bold and exciting, Bogotá is one of the Latin American cities that has the most to offer. The capital of Colombia and the department of Cundinamarca is an interesting destination for lovers of history, fashion, and art as well as for those seeking to discover its vibrant nightlife and gastronomy.
Bogotá is the third-highest South American capital behind Quito and La Paz since it is approximately 2625 meters above sea level. As such, it has a temperate mountain climate with average temperatures hovering between 5 and 19 ºC (41 – 66 ºF) year-round. The best times to visit Bogotá go from January to February and from June to August, as they usually come with clear skies and warmer temperatures.
Despite being a huge city, Bogotá does not have a metro network. The main mean of transport in the city is the TransMilenio, a rapid transit bus system with designated lanes that travels through most major streets and avenues. Other transportation options in Bogotá are taxis, buses, and mobile applications.
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|ES| Dónde dormir en Bogotá – Mejores zonas y hoteles.
|IT| Dove alloggiare a Bogotá – Le migliori zone e hotel.
