La Candelaria is the historic and cultural soul of Colombia’s capital, a compact neighborhood of colonial and republican-era architecture nestled at the foot of the Andes. Its narrow streets climb steeply from the grand Plaza de Bolivar — flanked by the neoclassical Capitol building, the imposing Cathedral Primada, and the Palacio de Justicia — into a labyrinth of painted balconies, hidden courtyards, and centuries-old churches. The neighborhood is home to two of Latin America’s finest free museums: the Museo del Oro, which houses over 55,000 pre-Columbian gold artifacts in dazzling thematic galleries, and the Museo Botero, where the works of Colombia’s most famous artist are displayed in an elegant colonial mansion alongside pieces by Picasso, Dali, and Monet.

Like Comuna 13 in Medellin, La Candelaria has embraced street art as a form of cultural expression, and its walls are covered with elaborate murals addressing themes from indigenous rights to the peace process. The neighborhood’s bohemian energy attracts students from nearby universities, who fill the cafes and bars along Calle 10 and the Chorro de Quevedo plaza, where legend holds that Bogota was founded in 1538. Above it all, the white church atop Cerro de Monserrate gazes down from 3,152 meters, reachable by cable car or a punishing pilgrimage trail, and offering panoramic views across the sprawling city and the emerald Andean plateau beyond.

Pro tip: Visit the Museo del Oro first thing in the morning on a weekday to appreciate the exhibits in relative calm — school groups arrive later in the day. For the best street art walk, start at Chorro de Quevedo and wander downhill along Carrera 2 and Calle 12, where the most impressive murals are concentrated. Bring a rain jacket regardless of the forecast — Bogota’s mountain weather is famously unpredictable.