The tour begins at 10:30 AM at La Concordia District Market Square , in the heart of Bogotá`s Historic Center , where our bilingual coordinator will welcome you and offer some recommendations to help you make the most of your experience. You`ll explore the market square, discovering its traditional stalls, aromas, and colors, while enjoying a tasting of exotic and local fruits, connecting with the authentic flavors of Bogotá.
From there, you`ll wander through the cobblestone streets of La Candelaria until you reach the Chorro de Quevedo , considered the city`s founding site and one of its most photographed spots, surrounded by urban art and murals that tell the neighborhood`s story in their own unique way. At a nearby stop, you`ll pause at a traditional La Candelaria café to savor artisanal Colombian coffee and learn about the country`s coffee culture.
The walk continues past colonial mansions until it reaches Plaza de Bolívar , the political and historical heart of Colombia, surrounded by the National Capitol, the Primatial Cathedral, and the Palace of Justice, while the guide shares anecdotes and facts about Bogotá`s urban development. From there, the tour immerses itself in the bustling Carrera Séptima , the capital`s most iconic pedestrian thoroughfare, and delves into the world of Colombian emerald trading that characterizes this downtown area.
Upon arriving at Plaza Santander , a space that blends tradition and modernity, you`ll pause to sample a freshly baked traditional Colombian pastry—like an almojábana or a pandebono—before visiting a traditional emerald workshop. There, you`ll learn about their geological origin, the extraction and polishing processes, and why they are considered some of the most valuable gemstones in the world. This workshop also offers the opportunity to purchase an authentic and sustainable souvenir of Bogotá.
The tour concludes with a view of the historic Continental Building and a final walk to Plaza de los Periodistas , the perfect starting point for exploring the city on your own. In total, this approximately 2.5-hour experience brings together the flavors, history, and urban creativity of Bogotá`s Historic Center.