Where to Stay in Bogotá
Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips
Top 3 Areas to Stay in Bogotá
Most affordable areas with the best value accommodation
La Candelaria
Bogotá's historic heart, brimming with colonial architecture, street art, and a bohemian atmosphere.
Our top picks in La Candelaria
Chapinero
A vibrant and diverse district offering a mix of commercial activity, trendy restaurants, and LGBTQ+ friendly nightlife.
Our top picks in Chapinero
Usaquén
A charming, upscale colonial village within the city, known for its cobblestone streets and Sunday flea market.
Our top picks in Usaquén
We earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Neighbourhood Comparison for Backpackers
| Neighbourhood | Budget | Vibe | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
#1La Candelaria | Mid-range | Bogotá's historic heart, brimming with colonial architecture, street art, and a bohemian atmosphere. | first-timersculture |
Usaquén | Luxury | A charming, upscale colonial village within the city, known for its cobblestone streets and Sunday flea market. | couplesfoodies |
Chapinero | Mid-range | A vibrant and diverse district offering a mix of commercial activity, trendy restaurants, and LGBTQ+ friendly nightlife. | nightlifefoodies |
Zona T / Zona Rosa | Luxury | The epicenter of Bogotá's upscale shopping, dining, and vibrant nightlife. | nightlifeluxury |
Find budget-friendly hostels in Bogotá
Affordable stays in the best backpacker areas
We earn a small commission if you book through this link, at no extra cost to you.
Tips for Backpackers in Bogotá
Book Hostels with Kitchens
Self-catering saves significant money in Bogotá. A hostel with a good kitchen can cut your food budget by half.
Walk Where Possible
Many city centres are walkable. Save transport money for longer journeys and use your feet for neighbourhood exploring.
Find Free Activities
Free walking tours, museum free days, parks, and markets are everywhere. Ask hostel staff for the best free experiences.
Carry a Water Bottle
A refillable bottle saves money and plastic. Many cities have free water fountains; check the local tap water safety first.
Find free walking tours in Bogotá
Budget-friendly ways to explore
Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers
Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Bogotá
La Candelaria
Mid-rangeBogotá's historic heart, brimming with colonial architecture, street art, and a bohemian atmosphere.
- +Rich in history and culture
- +Abundant street art
- +Central location for sightseeing
- -Can be very touristy
- -Some streets can feel less safe at night
Usaquén
LuxuryA charming, upscale colonial village within the city, known for its cobblestone streets and Sunday flea market.
- +Excellent dining options
- +Picturesque atmosphere
- +Safer feel, especially at night
- -Further from main tourist attractions
- -Can be expensive
Chapinero
Mid-rangeA vibrant and diverse district offering a mix of commercial activity, trendy restaurants, and LGBTQ+ friendly nightlife.
- +Excellent nightlife and dining scene
- +Good transport links
- +More local feel than Candelaria
- -Can be noisy
- -Requires more awareness of surroundings than Usaquén
Zona T / Zona Rosa
LuxuryThe epicenter of Bogotá's upscale shopping, dining, and vibrant nightlife.
- +World-class dining and bars
- +High-end shopping
- +Energetic atmosphere
- -Very expensive
- -Can be extremely crowded and noisy, especially on weekends
Daily Budget (Budget)
COP 150000/day
Hidden Gems in Bogotá
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Mercado de las Pulgas de Usaquén
This charming flea market in Usaquén comes alive on Sundays, offering a delightful mix of artisan crafts, antiques, local food, and live music. It's a perfect place to find unique souvenirs and soak in a relaxed, bohemian atmosphere.
Andrés Carne de Res (DC)
Experience the unique, eclectic, and wildly fun atmosphere of this iconic Colombian restaurant that's more than just a place to eat. It's a sensory explosion of quirky decor, loud music, and delicious, hearty Colombian food.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Bogotá
Hand-picked guided experiences you can book in advance on GetYourGuide.
Bogotá Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Bogotá on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
View Tour Details
Bogotá Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Bogotá with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
View Tour Details
Best of Bogotá: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Bogotá's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
View Tour Details
Day Trip from Bogotá: Scenic Excursion
Escape Bogotá for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
View Tour Details
Bogotá Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Bogotá's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
View Tour DetailsWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
2 areas to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Bogotá
Backpackers in Bogotá: FAQ
What is the best area in Bogotá for backpackers?
Is Bogotá safe for backpackers?
How much does it cost per day in Bogotá for backpackers?
When is the best time for backpackers to visit Bogotá?
Where are the cheapest hostels in Bogotá?
Found your hotel in Bogotá?
We search 30+ sites including members-only platforms like Secret Escapes and Voyage Privé. Most people save 14-23%.
Plan Your Perfect Bogotá Trip
Tell us what you love and we'll build a personalised day-by-day itinerary with the best spots, tours, and hotels. Completely free.