La Candelaria : The Best Tour of the Historic Center
Traveler rating
4.9/5
Based on 121 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is La Candelaria : The Best Tour of the Historic Center worth booking?
La Candelaria : The Best Tour of the Historic Center is a 3-hour experience in Bogotá, Colombia, from $14 per person. It scores 84 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 121 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 84 / 100
- Rating
- 4.9/5 (121)
- Duration
- 3 hours
- From
- $14 per person
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
What you get
About this experience
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
What's included
Included
- Tourist guide
- Tour of the areas of interest in the center
Not included
- Snacks
What you'll see and do
Plaza de Bolivar de Bogota
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.
30 minutes here
Plaza Ruffino de Cuervo
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.
20 minutes here
Teatro Colon Bogota
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.
20 minutes here
Centro Cultural Gabriel Garcia Marquez
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.
10 minutes here
Museos del Banco de la Republica
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.
20 minutes here
Plaza Del Chorro Del Quevedo
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.
10 minutes here
Plaza De Mercado La Concordia
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.
20 minutes here
Eje Ambiental
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.
15 minutes here
Jorge Eliecer Gaitan Monument
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.
15 minutes here
Plazoleta del Rosario
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.
20 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Bogotá
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.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
The tour ends at Rosario Square
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Free Tour Bogota - Agencia de viajes Oaca Colombia
Know before you go
- 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
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 121 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
7 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
The guide
5 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Traveler reviews
121 verified traveler reviews for La Candelaria : The Best Tour of the Historic Center. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Very informative historical tour.
The guide (Diana) had a very good knowledge of the history. Her english was very good. The tour went through the historical part of the city.
via Tripadvisor
Discover La Candelaria with Oaca!
Very good tour and súper interesting spots, I would recomnend! Dianne was very kind and knowledgeable, Thank you very much!
via Tripadvisor
10/10, Diana is a super guide!
We did the walking tour with Diana, and it was amazing! We were only 4 tourists, but Diana took the time to explain everything and to answer all our questions. The tour lasted around 3 hours, and wasn't a single minute boring. We'll see Bogota with new eyes now.
via Tripadvisor
Wonderful engaging tour
As someone with a passing interest in history, Paola F presented an excellent and engaging tour. While I thought 3 hours seemed like a lot, Paola did a nice job of style and substance. She blended walking sitting, talking, facts, stories and even gave the much enjoyed appreciated stop a coffee and bathroom break. I went away with a greater appreciation of Colombia’s tumultuous history underlined with a sense of hope for the future and a recognition of the great advances that have been made in the last 30 years. Don’t forget to tip!
via Tripadvisor
A great way to see the city
Dianne was our tour guide. She was very friendly and knows a ton about the area. We had a great experience and highly recommend this tour to her a feel for the city prior to exploring on your own.
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 3 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 42
- Verdict
- Exceptional
Why this scores 84
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
La Candelaria : The Best Tour of the Historic Center: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Bogotá.
How much does La Candelaria : The Best Tour of the Historic Center cost?
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Prices start at $14 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Bogotá usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does La Candelaria : The Best Tour of the Historic Center take?
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Plan for about 3 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Bogotá is not rushed.
Is La Candelaria : The Best Tour of the Historic Center worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 84 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 121 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Bogotá, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule La Candelaria : The Best Tour of the Historic Center?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is La Candelaria : The Best Tour of the Historic Center suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 3-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book La Candelaria : The Best Tour of the Historic Center?
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Around 42 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Bogotá can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Bogotá and add a light layer if any part of the 3-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does La Candelaria : The Best Tour of the Historic Center start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Bogotá within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Bogotá?
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On Outty we rank every Bogotá experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Free Graffiti Walking Tour Every Day in Bogota, Bogota Zipaquira Salt Cathedral Private Tour + Lunch, Private City Tour Bogota + Monserrate, Gold, Botero and Candelaria.. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Bogotá?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Bogotá?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in La Candelaria : The Best Tour of the Historic Center?
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Included: Tourist guide; and Tour of the areas of interest in the center. Not included: Snacks. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for La Candelaria : The Best Tour of the Historic Center?
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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. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is La Candelaria : The Best Tour of the Historic Center offered in?
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It runs in Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for La Candelaria : The Best Tour of the Historic Center?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is La Candelaria : The Best Tour of the Historic Center wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to La Candelaria : The Best Tour of the Historic Center if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Bogotá. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about La Candelaria : The Best Tour of the Historic Center?
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Across 121 reviews averaging 4.9 out of 5, recurring themes include knowledge and storytelling, the guide. Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
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