A fascinating blend of old and new where colonial architecture meets modern skyscrapers, SantafĆ© de Bogota is Colombiaā€™s largest city and capital, generously dubbed the ā€œAthens of South Americaā€ for its history ans culture.

Surrounded by lush hills, BogotĆ” sits at 2600m above sea-level on a plateau high in the countryā€™s central Andes. Famed throughout the continent for its libraries and universities, BogotĆ” was founded by the conquistador Gonzalo Jimenez de Quesada in 1538 and is a wonderful introduction to Colombia.

At its heart, the historic old town of La Candelaria teems with beautiful architecture, colonial facades and churches awash with old-world charm. The magnificent cathedral looms high over the impressive Plaza Bolivar bound by the imposing buildings of the Palace of Justice, National Congress and LiĆ©vano Town Hall. From the plaza, cobbled streets radiate out and house some of the countryā€™s finest museums and galleries including the ā€œCasa de la Monedaā€ Mint, the Gold Museum and Museo Botero art collection. By contrast, the buzzing suburbs of Zona T, Zona G and La Macarena capture the dynamic energy of modern Colombia and are renowned for their fine dining and vibrant nightlife. Escaping the bustle of central Bogota, a funicular railway and cable car lead up Monserrate Hill for breathtaking views over the city, beautifully lit up at night.

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