A typical Spanish colonial city during the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries, Bogota began to reflect other European influences during the 20th century. For example, the city's palaces built at the turn of the 20th century are French-influenced, while the residential areas built during the mid 20th century are English-influenced. Bogota's skyscrapers, which were erected late in the 20th century, clearly reflect an American architectural sensitivity.
By visiting each of Botoga's neighborhoods and districts, one can gain a better appreciation for Bogota's contrasting, yet complimentary, style.
Barrio La Candelaria
Barrio La Candelaria is the oldest district in Bogota and the city's historical center. Barrio La Candelaria is home to a lovely residential sector, known for its magnificent colonial houses with wooden balconies and clay tile roofs. It is also home to the Plaza de Bolivar area, where the presidential residence (or Palacio de Narino) is located.
Just to the south of La Candelaria is Nueva Santa Fe, one of several government-sponsored projects in the 1990s to revitalize the city center. This new neighborhood, with plentiful examples of late 20th-century architecture, is home to Colombia's impressive national archives (the Archivo General de la Nacion).
Centro Internacional
The Centro Internacional (International Center) area surrounds the Hotel Tequendama and can offer visitors a variety of cultural, dining and religious experiences. Just to the sorth of the hotel is the Torre Colpatria, while the Museo de Arte Moderno and the Biblioteca Nacional are to the east. To the north are the Museo Nacional and the Parque Central Bavaria, which is one of the best examples of Bogota's modern architecture.
El Salitre
El Salitre is home to most of Bogota's open green space. Attractions include the Parque Simon Bolivar the citys largest public park as well as the Unidad Deportiva El Salitre, the Jardin Botanico (The Botanical Gardens), Museo de los Ninos (the Bogot Children's Museum) and Maloka, an interactive science center.
Avenida Chile
Avenida Chile is Bogota's central business sector. Tourists can visit the Granahorrar shopping center, next to La Porcioncula church, or take in an authentic dining experience in one of the district's numerous Colombian restaurants.
Chapinero
Once one of Bogota's most exclusive residential neighborhoods, the Chapinero is now one of the city's central shopping areas. The district is also home to numerous examples of neo-gothic architecture, including the Nuestra Senora de Lourdes church and the Teatro Libre.
El Campin
El Campin is home to the Nemesio Camacho el Campin, Bogota's largest stadium, featuring sporting events and concerts year-round.
Carrera 15
Carrera 15 is Bogota's only pedestrian-only zone, with a host of lovely cafes, restaurants, shops and the city's famous Mercado de las Flores (flower market). Carrera 15 also has a number of nightspots, making it a popular destination after dark.
La Zona Rosa
Perhaps Bogota's liveliest nightspot, La Zona Rosa is well known for its restaurants, bars and discotheques.
Parque de la 93
This stunning Parque (park) lies at the center of one of Bogota's most exclusive residential neighborhoods. The district also offers numerous five star restaurants, many of which ring the park and have outdoor seating on their terraces.
