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Where to Stay in Bogotá: Best Areas and Safest Neighborhoods

Wondering where to stay in Bogotá? From upscale Zona Rosa to funky La Candelaria and vibrant Chapinero, these are the best districts and hotels in the city.

Best Areas to Stay in Bogotá, Colombia
Best Areas to Stay in Bogotá, Colombia

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
Where to Stay in Bogotá, Colombia: A Summary

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.


What’s the Best Area to Stay in Bogotá?

Zona Rosa, located between Chapinero and the North is the best area to stay in Bogotá
Zona Rosa, located between Chapinero and the North is the best area to stay in Bogotá. Our absolute favorite hotel in this district is Sofitel Bogota Victoria Regia

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



The Safest Areas to Stay in Bogotá, Colombia

Usaquén is located in the North End of the city and is considered the safest district for tourists in Bogotá
Usaquén is located in the North End of the city and is considered the safest district for tourists in Bogotá. The best hotel in the area is hands down Sonesta Hotel Bogotá.

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:


The Best Areas for Tourists in Bogotá: District by District

1. Zona Rosa: Best Location in Bogotá for Nightlife & Shopping

Bogota's Zona Rosa is great for shopping & a favorite among foreign tourists to Bogotá
Bogota’s Zona Rosa is great for shopping & a favorite among foreign tourists to Bogotá
    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

Best 5-star hotel
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.

Best 4-star hotel
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.

Best 3-star hotel
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.

Best tourist apartments
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.

Best hostel
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

    Why is this the best area to stay in Bogotá:
  • Safe location
  • Parque de la 93
  • Luxury hotels
  • Shopping centers
  • Peaceful district
Chicó is an upscale residential and commercial area in North Bogotá
Chicó is an upscale residential and commercial area in North Bogotá

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

Best 5-star hotel
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.

Best 4-star hotel
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.

Best 3-star hotel
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.

Best budget hotel
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

La Candelaria, Bogotá's Old Town, is home to most historical and cultural attractions in the Colombian capital
La Candelaria, Bogotá’s Old Town, is home to most historical and cultural attractions in the Colombian capital
    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

Best 5-star hotel
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.

Best 4-star hotel
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.

Best 3-star hotel
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.

Best budget hotel
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.

Best inn
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.

Best hostel
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

Chapinero, halfway between the Old Town and Zona T is an excellent area to stay in Bogotá for nightlife
Chapinero, halfway between the Old Town and Zona T is an excellent area to stay in Bogotá for nightlife
    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

Best 5-star hotel
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.

Best 4-star hotel
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.

Best 3-star hotel
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.

Best budget hotel
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.

Best hostel
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

Usaquén is a safe, pedestrian-friendly area to stay in North Bogotá
Usaquén is a safe, pedestrian-friendly area to stay in North Bogotá
    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

Best 5-star hotel
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.

Best 4-star hotel
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.

Best 3-star hotel
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.

Best budget hotel
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

Bogotá's International Business Center is home to some of the tallest buildings in South America
Bogotá’s International Business Center is home to some of the tallest buildings in South America
    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

Best 5-star hotel
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.

Best 3-star hotel
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.

Best budget hotel
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

Teusaquillo is a quiet area west of Chapinero
Teusaquillo is a quiet area west of Chapinero
    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

Best 5-star hotel
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.

Best 4-star hotel
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.

Best 3-star hotel
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.

Best budget hotel
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.

Best hostel
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 Airport is one of the most important hubs in South America
El Dorado Airport is one of the most important hubs in South America

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

Best 5-star hotel
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.

Best 4-star hotel
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.

Best 3-star hotel
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.