Where to Stay in Bogota: 5 Best Neighborhoods in Colombia’s Capital

Are you wondering about the best place to stay when you’re in Bogotá? It’s a big city with numerous neighborhoods, each one being different. Read on to find out where to stay in Bogotá to make the most of your Colombian sojourn. 

This article provides detailed information that may help you decide where to stay in Bogotá and enjoy your trip to the max. 

We will also highlight what defines the different neighborhoods so you can select which fits you most. There are a lot of hostels and hotels around Bogota to choose from. Whether you’re looking for cheap hotels, luxury hotels, or deluxe lodges with special offers, you can get a heads-up here.

You will also find helpful insights about safety in Bogotá to consider where to go to stay safe during your trip. 

Navigating Colombia’s Capital 

When you enter Colombia’s high-altitude capital city, Bogotá, you may be surprised by the sheer size of the ever-sprawling metropolis. Located more than 2,500 meters above sea level, Bogotá takes many tourists by surprise. 

While you may find the city overwhelming and wonder what is there to explore, be prepared to be blown away by Bogotá’s wondrous sights and views. From walking around in the historic neighborhood of La Candelaria to exploring the beauty of Cerro de Monserrate, Bogotá has a lot to offer. 

If you are visiting Bogotá for the first time, you might find it difficult, like any other tourist, to choose where to stay. 

Since your experience largely depends on where you book your stay, it is important that you select the best accommodations to maximize your trip. This article aims to help you narrow down your choices. 

Is Staying in Bogotá Safe? 

From a tourism point of view, Bogotá is a very safe city. It is, in fact, one of the safest cities in South America, contrary to what many people think. While the crime rate in Bogotá may be lower than in some US cities, it goes without saying that, as a tourist, you must exercise caution and stay safe. 

Bogotá is quite expansive and has various neighborhoods. All of which are not equal in terms of safety. Some areas are quite safe for tourists and others, not so much. 

Like other parts of the world, tourists may sometimes face petty crimes like pickpocketing. There are also few incidents of robbery or extortion despite the tourists’ areas being heavily patrolled by the police. 

Some neighborhoods in Bogotá are not recommended for staying as they are not safe. 

For instance, the neighborhoods south of the city are deemed unsafe for tourists. These include the Ciudad Bolivar, a southern Bogotá residential area notorious for petty crimes. Similarly, you may also want to avoid Calle 9 and San Cristobal as they are also not considered safe for tourists. 

Important Things to Consider When Finding a Place in Bogotá

Bogotá is a culturally diverse and lively city with lots of sightseeing opportunities. Since the city is huge, it can be overwhelming to decide where to stay. 

The various neighborhoods differ in terms of accommodation costs, attractions, and safety. So, before you decide where to stay, you must research the various areas to choose the place which suits your preference. 

If you are a history buff, you may like to explore La Candelaria. If you are fascinated by architecture, you may like to stay in Teusaquillo. Do you want a taste of a Bohemian vibe, enjoy fine dining, and experience modernism? You may like Chapinero. Alternatively, if you enjoy peace and want to enjoy a small-town vibe, areas like Usaquen may be more up your alley. 

Moreover, the area you choose to stay in must suit your budget and have easy access through various forms of transport, including taxis and buses. Since the city is huge, make sure you stay in a place where all the places on your go-to list are close. 

5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Bogotá Colombia 

Here are our top 5 picks for staying in Bogotá, Colombia. We have highlighted some of the main attractions in these areas and your options in terms of accommodations. 

1. Teusaquillo

Teusaquillo is popular with tourists visiting with families. The neighborhood is a great place to stay as it is safe and peaceful and has a lot of parks. Moreover, it is also centrally located and allows easy access to other places within the city, serving as the perfect base to enjoy exploring the rest of the city. 

The Transmilenio, Bogotá’s public transport system, is within walking distance, while La Candelaria and the airport are nearby. 

Teusaquillo is home to Simon Bolivar Park, the biggest park in Bogotá and one of the top things to do in Bogota. It also has a beautiful botanical garden and the National University of Colombia campus. Moreover, it also features various museums and the El Campin football stadium. 

So, you have plenty to explore within the neighborhood and can go to other parts of the city without needing to travel much. 

Where to Stay in Teusaquillo

As suggested earlier, Teusaquillo is more suited for tourists traveling with families, while solo travelers or those looking to enjoy the Bogotá nightlife might not find it very appealing. 

Another reason solo travelers may not want to stay here is that it does not have hostels, hence few options for budget accommodations. 

Here are some of the best hotel accommodation options if you want to stay in Teusaquillo. 

Budget Hotel: Hotel Teusaquillo in downtown Bogotá is a good option if you are on a budget. It offers various clean, comfortable hotel rooms and is close to National Park. 

Luxury Hotel: If you want to go all out and enjoy the luxury experience, we recommend booking your accommodations at the Grand Hyatt Bogotá. It is one of the best five-star hotels in Bogotá. 

2. Zona Rosa 

The Zona Rosa, or the Zona T region in Bogotá, is best known for its exciting Colombian nightlife. The neighborhood features plenty of nightclubs, bars, and restaurants that are the best in the city and offer a great dining experience with music and dance. 

So, Zona Rosa is highly recommended if you want to enjoy the nightlife experience in Bogotá. It is also quite safe, being a popular tourist hangout that will find you dancing away the night, particularly on the weekends. 

Zona Rosa also features two of the biggest malls in Colombia, the Atlantis and Andino malls. But, it can be quite crowded and noisy at night. Moreover, it is located quite a distance from La Candelaria and is more expensive than other neighborhoods. 

Where to Stay in Zona Rosa

Airbnb-Style Rentals: The best Airbnb-style stays in Zona Rosa is Parque el Virrey (one bedroom good for two).

Budget Hotel: If on a budget, check out the GHL Hamilton. Affordable yet luxurious, you couldn’t ask for more. 

Luxury Hotel: If you feel like splurging and enjoying the luxury experience, we recommend Sofitel Bogotá. It is centrally located in Zona Rosa. 

3. Chapinero 

Chapinero is one of the finest neighborhoods in Bogotá. Not only is it centrally located, but it is also very safe and has a trendy and diverse vibe that many tourists find appealing. You will find an amazing mix of people and feel right at home as it is a popular accommodation choice for expats. 

The area also features fine dining restaurants, trendy cafes, theaters, clubs, and shops, where you can shop to your heart’s content. Since it is close to La Candelaria and the airport, staying here may be convenient. 

Where to Stay in Chapinero

Hostel: Hostal CQ Chapinero is a good option if you need budget accommodation. 

Hotel: The Bs Rosales Hotel and Suites is one of the best-value hotels in Bogotá. 

4. La Candelaria 

La Candelaria is perhaps, the most popular neighborhood of Bogotá, known for its historical sites. You will find plenty of museums, historical landmarks, and intriguing street art in the area. Walking around the neighborhood is one of the most popular tourist activities, and if you want to learn about Colombian art, culture, and history, you may want to do the same. 

Walking on the cobbled streets, you will be mesmerized by all the sights and architecture while the buzzing ambiance draws you in. The area features some of the most popular tourist sites, including Plaza de Bolivar, the Primary Cathedral, Gold Museum, the Palace of Justice, etc. 

All these sites are within walking distance of La Candelaria. You can plan a hike to Cerro Monserrate to enjoy a panoramic view of Bogotá. The area also features excellent restaurants. However, while the place is quite lit during the day, it seems sketchy at night, so there is safety in numbers. 

Where to Stay in La Candelaria

Hostel: The best rated hostel in La Candelaria is Aparta Estudios la Candelaria. 

Budget Hotel: If you are looking for economical accommodation options, check out the Hotel Ayenda Casa Candilejas. 

Luxury Hotel: The Hotel Casa de la Vega is a good option if you are willing to pay a higher price for accommodation. 

5. Chico and Parque 93 

Lastly, we recommend Chico and Parque 93 as good options for your stay in Bogotá. These are considered one of Bogotá’s safest and wealthiest areas and feature amazing nightclubs, shopping malls, cafes, and restaurants. You will also find plenty of green spaces if you want to relax. 

The neighborhood is located above Zona Rosa, so if you stay here, you can easily slide in to enjoy the nightlife in Zona Rosa. 

Where to Stay in Chico and Parque 93

Hostel: The Selina Bogotá Parque de la 93 is one of the finest and most comfortable hostel options in Bogotá. 

Budget Hotel: If on a budget, consider the NH Bogotá Pavillon Royal, located in Parque 93. 

Luxury Hotel: If you are vying for the royal experience, check out the 93 Luxury Suites. 

For more accommodation options, you may click on the map.

Frequently Asked Questions – Where to Stay in Bogotá 

Is Bogotá, Colombia Worth Visiting? 

Bogotá is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Colombia. The city receives more than half of the total number of tourists visiting Colombia. It is popular for historical landmarks, architecture, and exciting nightlife. 

What Is the Safest Area in Bogotá, Colombia? 

Chico is one of Bogotá’s most exclusive and wealthiest neighborhoods and likely the safest area. Other safe areas are Parque 93, Zona Rosa, Usaquen, Chapinero and La Candelaria. 

Where Should I Live in Bogotá, Colombia? 

If you plan to stay in Bogotá, some of the safest and ideal neighborhoods for long-term accommodations are Teusoquillo, Zona Rosa, La Candelaria, Chapinero, and Parque 93. These areas offer a lot of tourist attractions.

What Areas In Bogotá Should I Avoid? 

From a safety point of view, it is best to avoid the areas of Ciudad Bolivar, Calle 9, and San Cristobal. Petty thefts and other crimes are common in such areas, and tourists are advised to avoid going there. 

How To Stay Safe In Bogotá?

When in Bogotá, Colombia, prioritize safety by staying in well-reputed neighborhoods and keeping valuables secure while exploring. Stay informed about local safety conditions and heed any travel advisories to ensure a smooth and secure visit to the city.

Additionally, consider protecting yourself with travel insurance such as SafetyWing, which can cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen incidents during your stay. Use the widget below to snag the perfect policy for your needs and travel with peace of mind knowing you’ve got your back covered, no matter what adventures come your way!

Conclusion – Where to Stay in Bogotá?

Whether you’re staying for a spell or long-term and what your preferences are, Bogotá has the best places to book. Neighborhoods such as Parque 93, Zona Rosa, Usaquen, Chapinero, La Candelaria, and Teusoquillo offer safety and numerous tourist must-sees.

If you crave a break from the cityscape, you can always go on a day trip from Bogotá or explore other cities in Colombia. Whichever destination you choose, be mindful of the basic precautions and enjoy yourself. Cheers!

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