Plaza de Bolívar - Peaceful noon in a Merida Yucatan square.
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Plaza de Bolívar

4.6
·87k reviews·Bogotá, Colombia

Bogotá's historic heart, a grand plaza surrounded by iconic buildings and famous for its thousands of pigeons.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daytime

Vibrant atmosphere, shops open

CrowdMedium
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Plaza de Bolívar - Peaceful noon in a Merida Yucatan square.

Plaza de Bolívar

Best Time

Daytime

Vibrant atmosphere, shops open

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Bogotá's historic heart, a grand plaza surrounded by iconic buildings and famous for its thousands of pigeons.

4.6
(87k reviews)

"Blown away by how beautiful and lively the area is, full of rich history and culture."

Vertical photo
TIP

🐦 Feed the Pigeons

Vendors sell birdseed for a unique interaction with the plaza's famous feathered residents.

🚶‍♂️ Explore Nearby Streets

Discover more beautiful architecture and street art just a few blocks away.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Primatial Cathedral

Primatial Cathedral

North side of the plaza

Majestic colonial architecture, a cornerstone of the plaza's historical grandeur.

National Capitol

National Capitol

West side of the plaza

Impressive neoclassical building, a symbol of Colombian governance and history.

Palace of Justice

Palace of Justice

East side of the plaza

Striking modern architecture contrasting with historical surroundings.

The Pigeons

The Pigeons

Throughout the plaza

Thousands of pigeons create a unique, lively atmosphere; birdseed is often sold.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Pigeons & Vendors

Plaza de Bolívar is lively with street vendors and a famous pigeon population. Embrace the charm, but keep an eye on your belongings in this bustling hub. Reddit

Best Time for Photos & Peace

Visit during the day for vibrant scenes and open shops. Early mornings offer fewer crowds and more peaceful bird-watching opportunities. Reddit

Best Times

When
Daytime
Why
Vibrant atmosphere, shops open
Crowd
Medium
When
Early mornings
Why
Peaceful, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

12 hours in Bogota

🐦 Feed the Pigeons

Vendors sell birdseed for a unique interaction with the plaza's famous feathered residents. Reddit

🚶‍♂️ Explore Nearby Streets

Discover more beautiful architecture and street art just a few blocks away. Reddit

reddit.com

Qué lugares tengo que visitar sí o sí en Bogotá?

reddit.com

Bogota for a week.. what to do, see and eat also safety tips

💰 Bring Small Cash

Useful for flea market vendors and pigeon feed. Reddit

🎒 Secure Your Belongings

It can get crowded, so keep your valuables close. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🐦 Feed the Pigeons

Vendors sell birdseed for a unique interaction with the plaza's famous feathered residents. Reddit

🚶‍♂️ Explore Nearby Streets

Discover more beautiful architecture and street art just a few blocks away. Reddit

💰 Bring Small Cash

Useful for flea market vendors and pigeon feed. Reddit

🎒 Secure Your Belongings

It can get crowded, so keep your valuables close. Reddit

🏛️ Visit Nearby Museums

Botero Museum and Gold Museum are within walking distance. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(87k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Plaza de Bolívar is a vibrant and historically rich public square in Bogotá, praised for its stunning colonial architecture and lively atmosphere, especially its famous pigeon population. Visitors appreciate the surrounding significant buildings and the proximity to museums and restaurants, though some note it can get crowded with street vendors. Reddit

"Nice place. A little crowded and surrounded by street vendors but I suppose that part of the charming. A lot of pigeons too. Very important: Safe place… and beautiful museums near as well as very good restaurants (all prices)"

Alexander Herrera

"Beautiful plaza in the heart of Bogota Colombia. Full of life color and especially pigeons. People sell food that you can use to feed the pigeons with. On one corner there's a cathedral that was closed the day we were there. Several streets go off and directions with tons of little shops. Plaza de armas is also nearby, an easy walk. A must see when coming to Bogota."

John Storms

"1st time in Bogota. Had an AWESOME time. We were cautious with time restraints in the southern portion of the city..... We hired a driver for a few hours. It made the sightseeing more pleasurable."

J.P. Serrano

What People Like

Beautiful architecture
Lively atmosphere
Pigeon feeding

What People Dislike

Crowded with vendors
Many pigeons

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Plaza de Bolívar is centrally located in Bogotá's La Candelaria district. You can easily reach it by taxi, ride-sharing services, or public buses that frequent the downtown area. Many visitors find hiring a driver for a few hours convenient for sightseeing. Reddit

Yes, Plaza de Bolívar is very walkable and is a central point for exploring La Candelaria. Nearby attractions like the Botero Museum, Gold Museum, and Plaza de Armas are just a short stroll away. Reddit

For first-time visitors, using ride-sharing apps or taxis is a straightforward way to get around Bogotá. Buses are also an option, but can be more complex to navigate. Reddit

Parking can be challenging in the busy city center. It's often more convenient to use public transport, taxis, or ride-sharing services rather than driving and searching for parking. Reddit

Plaza de Bolívar is generally considered a safe area, especially during the day. However, like any busy tourist spot, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Plaza de Bolívar is a public square and is free to enter. You can wander freely and enjoy the architecture and atmosphere. Reddit

Plaza de Bolívar is accessible 24/7 as it's an outdoor public space. However, the surrounding buildings like the Cathedral and Capitol have their own visiting hours. Reddit

The pigeons themselves are free to observe! If you wish to feed them, vendors within the plaza sell birdseed for a small fee. Reddit

Yes, many guided walking tours of Bogotá's La Candelaria district include a stop at Plaza de Bolívar. These tours can offer historical context and insights. Reddit

While the plaza is free, some of the surrounding buildings like the Gold Museum have admission fees. The Botero Museum, however, is free to enter. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

You can admire the grand architecture of the Cathedral, Capitol, and Palace of Justice, people-watch, interact with the famous pigeons, and browse flea market stalls. Reddit

The key buildings are the Primatial Cathedral of Bogotá, the National Capitol, and the Palace of Justice, each representing significant historical and governmental importance. Reddit

Absolutely! The plaza offers stunning architectural views, lively street scenes, and the unique spectacle of thousands of pigeons, making it a photographer's delight. Reddit

You'll find vendors selling souvenirs, crafts, antiques, and local goods. Some also sell birdseed for visitors who want to feed the pigeons. Reddit

The plaza itself is largely flat and accessible. However, some of the older surrounding buildings may have limited accessibility. It's best to check individual building access if needed. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the area around Plaza de Bolívar is filled with numerous cafes and restaurants offering a wide range of cuisines and price points, perfect for a break. Reddit

You can buy snacks and drinks from some street vendors within the plaza, as well as birdseed for the pigeons. For full meals, nearby restaurants are recommended. Reddit

You can find everything from traditional Colombian dishes to international cuisine, catering to all tastes and budgets. Reddit

Yes, you can find affordable local eateries and street food stalls offering delicious and economical options. Reddit

Eating from street vendors can be a great way to experience local flavors, but it's always advisable to choose vendors that appear clean and popular. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the grand facades of the Cathedral and Capitol, the lively pigeon gatherings, and the street vendors for dynamic shots. The contrast between old and new architecture is also a great subject. Reddit

Daytime offers vibrant colors and activity. Early morning provides softer light and fewer people, ideal for capturing the architecture without crowds. Reddit

Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. However, professional photography or filming may require permits, especially around government buildings. Reddit

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both wide architectural shots and details. A wide-angle lens is useful for the expansive plaza. Reddit

Try getting down low to capture them in flight or interacting with people. Patience is key to getting the perfect shot of these iconic plaza residents. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Plaza de Bolívar offers a lively and engaging experience for families. Kids are often fascinated by the thousands of pigeons, and vendors sell birdseed for a fun feeding activity. The open space allows children to move around, and the historical buildings provide a visual lesson in architecture and Colombian history. Reddit

Nearby, the Botero Museum (free admission) and the Gold Museum offer excellent educational and engaging exhibits for children. Consider hiring a driver for a few hours to make navigating between attractions more comfortable and efficient for the whole family. Reddit

🚶 Budget Travelers

Plaza de Bolívar itself is completely free to visit, making it an ideal starting point for budget travelers. You can soak in the atmosphere, admire the architecture, and enjoy the spectacle of the pigeons without spending a dime. Reddit

For affordable food options, explore the smaller eateries and street food stalls surrounding the plaza. Many vendors sell local snacks and drinks at very reasonable prices. Additionally, the Botero Museum is free to enter, and the Gold Museum has a modest admission fee, offering great cultural value for a low cost. Reddit

🏛️ History & Architecture Buffs

Plaza de Bolívar is a treasure trove for anyone interested in history and architecture. The square is a living museum, showcasing a remarkable collection of significant buildings from different eras. You can spend hours admiring the Primatial Cathedral, the National Capitol, the Palace of Justice, and the Liévano Palace, each a testament to Colombian architectural heritage. Reddit

Take time to learn about the historical events that have unfolded in this very plaza. Consider joining a guided walking tour of La Candelaria to gain deeper insights into the significance of each building and the role the plaza has played in shaping Colombia's past. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Hub of History and Governance

Plaza de Bolívar, also known as Plaza Mayor, is the historical and geographical heart of Bogotá. It has been the central public space since the city's founding and has witnessed countless significant events in Colombian history. The plaza is meticulously designed, featuring a central monument to Simón Bolívar, the liberator of several South American countries. Surrounding the plaza are some of the most important buildings in Colombia, each with its own architectural style and historical significance. Reddit

On the north side stands the imposing Primatial Cathedral of Bogotá, a neoclassical masterpiece that has been rebuilt several times. To the west is the National Capitol, the seat of the Colombian Congress, an impressive example of neoclassical architecture. The east side is dominated by the Palace of Justice, a building that has seen dramatic events, including a siege in 1985. Finally, on the south side, you'll find the Liévano Palace, the seat of the Mayor's office of Bogotá, known for its ornate French Renaissance style. Reddit

Visiting Plaza de Bolívar offers a tangible connection to Colombia's past and present. It's a place where you can feel the pulse of the city, observe daily life, and appreciate the grandeur of its historical and governmental institutions. The blend of architectural styles and the sheer weight of history make it a must-see for any visitor interested in Bogotá's heritage. Reddit

The Famous Plaza de Bolívar Pigeons

One of the most distinctive features of Plaza de Bolívar is its massive population of pigeons. These birds are so iconic that many visitors come specifically to see them, and vendors within the plaza often sell bags of birdseed for people to feed them. The sight of thousands of pigeons taking flight simultaneously is a memorable spectacle. Reddit

While the pigeons add a unique charm and lively atmosphere to the plaza, they can also be a bit overwhelming for some. Visitors are advised to be aware of their surroundings, as the sheer number of birds can be surprising. Despite their abundance, the pigeons are a beloved part of the Plaza de Bolívar experience, contributing to its vibrant and somewhat chaotic energy. Reddit

Interacting with the pigeons is a popular activity for both locals and tourists. It's a simple yet engaging way to connect with the spirit of the plaza. Remember to purchase birdseed from official vendors if you wish to participate, and always be mindful of keeping your personal belongings secure amidst the activity. Reddit