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Activity Bogotá, Colombia

La Candelaria : The Best Tour of the Historic Center

4.9 (121 reviews) 3 hours Free cancellation
Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

La Candelaria : The Best Tour of the Historic Center

About this activity

This tour is the perfect way to discover the heart and soul of Bogota

We will tour the vibrant neighborhoods of La Candelaria, La Concordia and Las Aguas, where you will learn about the origins of the city, the history of its indigenous peoples, the legend of El Dorado and key moments such as the independence of Colombia and Bogotazo

You’ll enjoy incredible views of Bogota’s most iconic squares and buildings — from the outside — such as Congress, the Mayor’s Office, the Supreme Court, the Presidential House, the Casa de Bolívar, the Botero Museum, the Church of La Candelaria, the Chorro de Quevedo, a traditional market square, the Parque de los Periodistas and much more.

You will meet cultural figures such as Fernando Botero and Gabriel García Márquez, as we discover the daily life of Bogotá: art, gastronomy, traditions and local advice that will make your experience unforgettable. The tour lasts approximately three hours and is designed to be fun, informative and full of photo opportunities

Half-day Tours Cultural Tours Historical Tours Walking Tours DSA non-compliant Short term availability Weather Dependent - Low
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At a glance

Duration
3 hours
Confirmation
Instant confirmation
Ticket
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group
Up to 30 people
People per booking
1–15
Guide
Spanish
Operated by
Free Tour Bogota - Agencia de viajes Oaca Colombia

Ages: Adults (18–60 years)

What is included

Included

  • Included: Tourist guide
  • Included: Tour of the areas of interest in the center

Not included

  • Not included: Snacks: Drinks, meals or purchases that clients want to make.

Itinerary

  1. Plaza de Bolivar de Bogota

    30 min

    In this iconic square, the historical and political heart of Bogotá, you will discover some of the most important buildings in the city. We will see from the outside: the Congress of Colombia, the Primate Cathedral of Bogotá, the Mayor’s Office, and the imposing Palace of Justice.

    During the visit, we will tell you the story of the seizure of the Palace of Justice, a momentous event that marked the recent history of the country, and its impact on Colombian society. This stop combines history, politics and architecture, giving you a complete view of historic and modern Bogotá, while enjoying the unique energy of the square.

  2. Plaza Ruffino de Cuervo

    20 min

    In this emblematic square, we will tell you the fascinating legend of El Dorado, which gave world fame to the region and marked the history of the indigenous peoples of Colombia.

    We’ll also explore the key events of Colombia’s independence, and learn about the story of Antonio Mariño, a pivotal character who helped fuel the revolution in our country.

    This stop combines history, legend and heroism, offering an enriching journey that connects Colombia’s past with the Bogotá we know today.

  3. Teatro Colon Bogota

    20 min

    At this stop you will learn about the history of one of the most important and emblematic theaters in Bogotá: the Teatro Colón, an icon of the city's architecture and culture.

    We will also visit the Casa de Bolívar, a key place to understand the life and legacy of Simon Bolívar. Here we will explore the formation of Gran Colombia and how its subsequent division occurred, connecting these historical facts with the development of Colombia as we know it today.

    This stop combines culture, history and architecture, offering an educational and fascinating experience in the historic heart of Bogotá.

  4. Centro Cultural Gabriel Garcia Marquez

    10 min

    At this stop you will discover the Gabriel García Márquez Cultural Center and learn more about the life and legacy of one of the most important writers in Colombia and the world.

    We will also talk about the most famous restaurant in Bogotá and explore the richness of typical Colombian food, sharing curiosities and recommendations to enjoy it to the fullest.

    This stop combines culture, literature and gastronomy, offering a complete experience that connects the history, art and flavors of Bogotá.

  5. Museos del Banco de la Republica

    20 min

    In this stop you will discover the life and work of Fernando Botero, one of the most renowned artists in Colombia and the world. In addition, we will show you the museums that are located in the Apple of the Bank of the Republic, a unique cultural space in Bogotá.

    We’ll give you practical tips for visiting museums, making the most of the experience and enjoying the most representative works of art in the city. This stop combines art, culture and learning, offering an enriching and visually stunning experience.

  6. Plaza Del Chorro Del Quevedo

    10 min

    In this stop you will discover the founding place of Bogotá and learn how the city started during the time of colonization.

    You will also learn about important historical figures like Policarpa Salavarrieta, and learn about unique cultural traditions, including Chicha, an indigenous ancestral drink that is part of the history of our region.

    This stop combines history, culture and traditions, offering you an authentic and fascinating experience in the heart of La Candelaria.

  7. Plaza De Mercado La Concordia

    20 min

    At this stop you will enjoy a panoramic view of the city and you can observe the tallest building in Bogotá, an icon of urban modernity.

    We will take advantage of this space to talk about essential aspects of life in Bogota, including transport and mobility, the education system, organization by social strata and other cultural details that will help you better understand the city and its people.

  8. Eje Ambiental

    15 min

    At this stop we will tour the Gabriel García Márquez Journalists Park and enjoy an environment full of culture and urban life.

    We will also talk about Monserrate, one of the most representative icons of Bogota: we will tell you its history, the myths and legends that surround it, and we will give you recommendations to visit it and make the most of the experience.

  9. Jorge Eliecer Gaitan Monument

    15 min

    In this part of the tour, we will talk about El Bogotazo, one of the most significant events in the modern history of Colombia. We will analyze its importance in the short and long term, and how this event impacted the politics, society and development of Bogotá and the country in general.

    This explanation will allow you to better understand the contemporary history of Colombia and connect the facts of the past with the Bogota we see today.

  10. Plazoleta del Rosario

    20 min

    At our final stop, you will meet the oldest church in Bogotá, a true historical and architectural icon of the city.

    We will also explore the Emeralds area, a place full of history and craft tradition, and give you useful recommendations to tour the city, take advantage of your visit and bring you unique memories.

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

  • The meeting point will be at the Plaza de Bolivar in front of the church, the Catedral Primada.

    Our guide will be holding a green umbrella with the name of the company, Oaca Colombia.

End point

  • The tour ends at Rosario Square

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel You get back
At least one day before 100%
Less than a day before 0%

Good to know

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

  • Service animals allowed

  • Public transportation options are available nearby

  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Traveller ratings

4.9 out of 5 · 121 reviews
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La Candelaria : The Best Tour of the Historic Center

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