Bogotá, Colombia

Where to Stay

Top end: The swanky Hotel Charleston located in northern Bogotá, is one of the city’s best sleeps. It has 64 modern, luxurious rooms, complete with queen-sized beds, marble bathrooms and all mod-cons.

Mid-range: The Hotel Casa Deco is within walking distance of all the main sights. Housed in an art deco building, the decor has artistic touches. The 21 rooms are spacious, the staff delightful and there’s a roof terrace with lovely views.

Budget: Rooms at the homely Hostal Bogotá Real are basic but comfy. It’s situated in a quiet and leafy neighbourhood just 15 minutes from the airport.

Stay or Go

With so much on offer elsewhere in Colombia, it’s tempting to rush away – but give Bogotá a day or two at least.

Beyond the obvious sights, discover the secret sides to Bogotá on one of its more unusual tours. For example, tour the sites of north Bogota by bike or get the inside track on the city’s dynamic and thought-provoking street art with Bogotá Graffiti Tours.

Also, take a day trip to Zipaquirá, 40km away, to see the striking underground salt cathedral, constructed in the 1930s within old mining tunnels, 200m below.

Then the real fun begins. Bogotá’s central location makes it the perfect gateway to explore more of Colombia – domestic flights serve all corners of the country. Head north to the colonial Caribbean city of Cartagena, south to the Amazon or west to the whales and jungles of the Pacific coast.