Botero Museum
A free museum showcasing Fernando Botero's iconic art and his personal collection of global masterpieces in a historic Bogotá mansion.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more art immersion
Botero Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more art immersion

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A free museum showcasing Fernando Botero's iconic art and his personal collection of global masterpieces in a historic Bogotá mansion.
"An amazing museum you can visit for free in Bogotá, truly worth a visit!"
🎯 Free Entry for All!
Enjoy world-class art without an admission fee. A true gem for budget travelers!
🏛️ Explore La Candelaria
Combine your visit with a stroll through the charming historic district.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Botero's Signature Style
Main Galleries
Experience the iconic, voluptuous figures in paintings and sculptures that define Botero's unique artistic vision.

Masterpieces from a Private Collection
Special Exhibition Rooms
Discover a stunning array of works by art legends like Picasso, Monet, and Dalí, personally curated by Botero.

Tranquil Courtyard
Central Courtyard
A peaceful oasis with a fountain, perfect for a moment of reflection amidst the art and history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission, Big Impact
Location & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Qué lugares tengo que visitar sí o sí en Bogotá?
🎯 Free Entry for All!
Enjoy world-class art without an admission fee. A true gem for budget travelers!
🏛️ Explore La Candelaria
Combine your visit with a stroll through the charming historic district.
12 hours in Bogota
Two days in Bogotá, any must see things?
🖼️ Botero's Unique Style
Appreciate the distinctive, voluminous figures in his paintings and sculptures.
☕ Relax in the Courtyard
Take a break in the beautiful, tranquil courtyard with a fountain.
Long weekend in Bogotá
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Entry for All!
Enjoy world-class art without an admission fee. A true gem for budget travelers!
🏛️ Explore La Candelaria
Combine your visit with a stroll through the charming historic district.
🖼️ Botero's Unique Style
Appreciate the distinctive, voluminous figures in his paintings and sculptures.
☕ Relax in the Courtyard
Take a break in the beautiful, tranquil courtyard with a fountain.
🎨 Beyond Botero
Don't miss his impressive private collection featuring Picasso and Dalí.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Botero Museum for its free admission and the unique, often humorous, style of Fernando Botero's art. The inclusion of his personal collection of international masterpieces is a significant bonus, offering a rich artistic experience within a beautiful colonial setting. While some might find the art style an acquired taste, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting it as a must-visit cultural gem in Bogotá.
"Did not know Botero, enjoyed his style which is rather unique. The bronze sculptures do provoke a smile. Donated other paintings from Picasso and Max Ernst beside others. Happy to have visited this free museum.
Recommended!!"
peter jones
"To truly appreciate Ferdinand Botero’s wry sense of humor unique artistry is to see up close in person a large body of his artwork including his sculptures housed together in this museum. Extra bonus is his private collection of internationally famous artists from Picasso to Giacometti. Free admission to not just locals but also to foreigners which to my mind reflects the non judgemental ways and generous spirit of the Columbian people."
Serena Chin
"This is an amazing museum you can visit for free in Bogotá. The collections of Botero (and others) are displayed here for everyone to see. It is a great place to relax for a moment and enjoy the art. The works of Botero are quite amusing to look at. The museum has a beautiful open courtyard with a relaxing ambience. There are toilets present. There are multiple museums connected to the backside of the building. This place is really worth a visit!"
Sam H
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Botero Museum is located in the heart of La Candelaria, Bogota's historic center. You can easily reach it by taxi or ride-sharing services. If you're exploring La Candelaria on foot, it's a pleasant walk from many points of interest.
While there isn't a direct metro station to the museum, you can take a TransMilenio bus to a nearby station like 'Museo del Oro' and then walk a short distance. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are also readily available and convenient.
Many visitors combine their museum visit with a walk through La Candelaria, exploring its colorful streets, plazas, and other attractions like the Gold Museum. It's a very walkable area.
Street parking in La Candelaria can be challenging. It's often recommended to use paid parking lots in the vicinity or rely on taxis and ride-sharing services for easier access.
Absolutely! The Botero Museum is a perfect stop for a short visit to Bogota, especially if you're exploring La Candelaria. You can easily spend 1-2 hours here and still have time for coffee and exploring the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Botero Museum offers free admission to all visitors, locals and tourists alike. This is a significant draw and a generous offering from the Banco de la República.
The museum's hours can vary, but it's typically open from Monday to Saturday, with slightly different hours on Sundays and holidays. It's always best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
The Botero Museum is completely free to enter. This policy is highly appreciated by visitors and makes it an accessible cultural experience for everyone.
Since admission is free, there's no need to book tickets in advance. You can simply walk in during operating hours.
Generally, there are no special requirements beyond respecting museum etiquette. You may need to check your bags at the cloakroom if they are too large.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum showcases a vast collection of works by Colombian artist Fernando Botero, including his famous paintings and sculptures. It also features his personal collection of international art, with pieces by Picasso, Monet, Dalí, and more.
Most visitors spend between 1 to 2 hours at the Botero Museum to fully appreciate the art and the architecture. If you're in a hurry, you can get a good overview in about an hour.
Yes, Botero's distinctive style, with its exaggerated forms, can be quite amusing and engaging for children. The museum is also spacious and has a lovely courtyard, making it a pleasant experience for families.
The museum is housed in a beautiful colonial mansion, which itself is an attraction. The building features a charming central courtyard with a fountain, offering a serene atmosphere.
Yes, the museum provides restrooms for visitors. There are also facilities like a cloakroom for storing bags.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
While the museum itself doesn't have a full-service restaurant, there are often small cafes or areas where you can grab a coffee or a light snack. The surrounding La Candelaria district, however, is brimming with excellent dining options.
In La Candelaria, you'll find a wide range of Colombian cuisine, from traditional dishes like bandeja paisa to international flavors. There are also many cafes offering excellent Colombian coffee.
It's generally not permitted to bring food or drinks into the exhibition halls to protect the artwork. However, you might be able to enjoy a coffee in designated areas or the courtyard.
Yes, La Candelaria offers a variety of eateries, including local spots and street food vendors, that provide affordable and delicious options.
Colombian coffee is renowned worldwide for its rich flavor. You'll find numerous cafes in La Candelaria serving freshly brewed coffee, perfect for a break after your museum visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside the Botero Museum for personal use, but without flash. Always check for specific signage in certain galleries, as some exhibits might have restrictions.
The central courtyard with its fountain is a picturesque spot. Many visitors also enjoy photographing Botero's sculptures and the unique proportions of his paintings. The colonial architecture of the building itself is also very photogenic.
Professional photography or videography usually requires special permission and may incur fees. For casual visitor photos, standard rules apply.
Botero's 'Mona Lisa' and his 'Abu Ghraib' series are often subjects of discussion and photography, though the latter can be sensitive. His sculptures are also highly recognizable and popular.
Natural light from the courtyard can be lovely. Mid-morning or early afternoon might offer good lighting conditions without being too harsh, especially if you avoid direct sunlight.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families:
* Encourage kids to point out their favorite 'big' characters.
* Take a break in the courtyard – it’s a lovely spot for a snack or just to relax.
* Combine the visit with a walk around La Candelaria to see street art, which kids often love.
💰 Budget Travelers
Tips for budget travelers:
* Take advantage of the free entry and spend ample time exploring.
* Combine your visit with a walk through La Candelaria to save on transportation.
* Enjoy affordable Colombian coffee and snacks from local eateries in the surrounding area.
✈️ Day-Trippers & Layover Visitors
Tips for day-trippers:
* Prioritize the museum and a brief walk through La Candelaria.
* Use taxis or ride-sharing for efficient transport to and from the airport/hotel.
* Check museum hours beforehand to maximize your visit time.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Fernando Botero: The Artist and His Legacy
The Botero Museum in Bogotá is a testament to this legacy, housing a substantial collection of his paintings and sculptures. Visitors are often struck by the sheer volume and expressiveness of his figures, whether they are depicting everyday scenes, religious motifs, or historical events. The museum also provides a fascinating glimpse into Botero's personal taste through his curated collection of works by other masters, showcasing his appreciation for art history and his influences. This dual focus makes the museum a rich experience, offering insights into both Botero's genius and his engagement with the broader art world.
Exploring La Candelaria: A Historic Heartbeat
Beyond the Botero Museum, La Candelaria offers a wealth of attractions. The Gold Museum (Museo del Oro), the Plaza de Bolívar (the city's main square), and numerous street art murals add to the district's allure. The area is also a hub for Colombian cuisine, with countless restaurants and cafes serving everything from traditional dishes to artisanal coffee. For those with a short layover, like the traveler mentioned, La Candelaria provides an excellent concentrated experience of Bogotá's cultural richness and historical depth.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit