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La Candelaria (Historic Old Town)
Historic District

La Candelaria (Historic Old Town)

Colombia
4.6
(5,000 reviews)
99
Tours Available
free (some museums may charge)
Adult Entry
3-4 hours
Recommended Duration
March-May, September-November
Best Time

Overview

La Candelaria is the historic old town of Bogotá, featuring colonial architecture, vibrant street art, and a rich cultural heritage. It's a living museum with museums, churches, and lively plazas.

La Candelaria is the heart of Bogotá's history and culture, showcasing the city's colonial past and vibrant present.

Cultural Historical Architectural

Location

Address

La Candelaria, Bogotá

Neighborhood: La Candelaria

Coordinates

4.627200, -74.064500

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
tuesday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
wednesday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
thursday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
friday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
saturday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
sunday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Admission

Adults
free (some museums may charge)
Children
free (some museums may charge)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May, September-November

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds, better light for photos

Duration Recommendations

Minimum
1 hour
Recommended
3-4 hours
Full Experience
full day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild to warm

  • • flowers
  • • festivals

summer

warm to hot

  • • extended daylight

autumn

mild to cool

  • • cool evenings
  • • cultural events

winter

cold, possible rain

  • • holiday decorations
  • • festive atmosphere

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

  • Check weather forecast
  • Wear comfortable shoes
  • Carry cash

What to Bring

essential

ID comfy shoes cash

recommended

camera sunscreen jacket

seasonal

umbrella hat

not allowed

large bags drones

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate

  • • uneven streets

Medical facilities: first aid available at museums

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, credit cards

Currency

COP (Colombian Peso)

Typical Costs

entry free
parking $5,000 COP
food $15,000 COP
souvenirs $20,000 COP

Dress Code

casual, comfortable walking shoes, walking shoes, inappropriate clothing

Booking Tips

  • • none required
  • • official tourism website
  • • not applicable
  • • not available

Amenities

Restrooms
Gift shop
Atm
Wifi
Lockers
Wheelchair rental
Stroller rental
On site restaurant
Cafe
Picnic areas
Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Bogotá Turística

Size: 45 MB

Features: Map, Attraction info, Event calendar

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Plazas, cafes

Charging Stations: cafes, some museums

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: El Dorado International Airport

Distance: 15 km

Travel Time: 30 minutes

taxi
$25,000 COP 30 min
public_transport
$3,500 COP 1 hour

From City Center

Distance: 2 km

bus
$2,000 COP 15 min
taxi
$10,000 COP 10 min
walking
30 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Rich history, vibrant culture, and community spirit

Historical Significance: Founded in 1538, it's the heart of Bogotá's colonial past

Insider Tips

  • Best empanadas at La Candelaria Bakery
  • Free entry to many museums on Sundays
  • Local markets offer unique souvenirs

Local Recommendations

  • • Try local food at Plaza de Mercado de Paloquemao
  • • Ask for recommendations from local artisans
  • • Visit lesser-known museums like Museo de Bogotá

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hola
thank_you Gracias
where_is ¿Dónde está?
how_much ¿Cuánto cuesta?
beautiful Hermoso
ticket Boleto

Guide Languages: Spanish, English

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Plaza de Bolívar

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Wide angle for the square

Result: iconic shot of the main square

#LaCandelaria #Bogota #Colombia

Street art in Crispín Rosado

Best Time: Daylight

Tips: Close-ups of vibrant murals

Result: colorful street art

#StreetArt #BogotaGraffiti

Photography Rules

allowed areas all outdoor areas
prohibited areas inside museums without permission
flash photography not allowed in museums
commercial photography permit needed
drone policy prohibited without special permit
tripod policy restricted, check with venue
selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Museo del Oro

Distance: 100m

Walking: 2 min

Type: Museum

Plaza de Bolívar

Distance: 200m

Walking: 3 min

Type: Plaza

Capitolio Nacional

Distance: 150m

Walking: 3 min

Type: Government Building

Casa de Nariño

Distance: 300m

Walking: 5 min

Type: Presidential Palace

Reviews

4.6

Based on 5,000 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

  • "Explore side streets"
  • "Visit museums early"
  • "Try local food"

Contact Information

Related Tours & Activities (12)

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Quick Info

Available Tours

99

Rating

4.6 / 5.0

Reviews

5,000

Adult Entry

free (some museums may charge)

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