The Best Markets in Bogotá, Colombia
Bogotá is the exuberant capital of Colombia, oozing with character and framed by the Andes mountains. Among the city’s many points of cultural interest are its most popular markets. Here, we’ve rounded up the must-see markets in Bogotá.
Considering a trip to Colombia? With Culture Trip, you can visit Bogotá, Medellín and the Zona Cafetera on our exclusive eight-day Colombian Andes adventure, or trace the northern coastline from Cartagena to Palomino on our specially curated eight-day Colombian Caribbean tour – both led by our Local Insider.
1. Mercado de las Pulgas de San Alejo
Market
A truly authentic flea market – open on Sundays and public holidays – Mercado de las Pulgas de San Alejo fills a large square space in the Santa Fe locality in downtown Bogotá and is an ideal spot to search for all kinds of goodies. A stroll through San Alejo is like a treasure hunt: one day you might leave with bags full of interesting trinkets, and the next you could leave with nothing. You never know exactly what you’ll find – it’s all part of the fun. From vinyl records to movie posters and vintage clothing, this bohemian market is a hipster’s paradise.
2. Paloquemao Market
Market, South American
4. Pasaje Rivas Craft Market
Shopping Mall, Market
5. Galeria Artesanal De Colombia
Market
A small, indoor market, Galeria Artesanal is an intimate space in which artists of Bogotá and elsewhere in Colombia promote their creations and establish direct commercial contact with their clients. An effective way to promote independent businesses and artists, it’s a very different experience to the sprawling and somewhat hectic flea markets. Galeria Artesanal is considerably calmer and could almost be described as a very lavishly decorated café where you can peruse delightful souvenirs.
6. La Concordia
Market, South American
Opened in 1934 in La Candelaria, the La Concordia market was recently renovated as part of a project led by the District Institute of Cultural Heritage. Its sleek, modern decor and layout – designed to facilitate a less crowded space in light of the Covid-19 pandemic – contrasts sharply with the more traditional outdoor markets in Bogotá. Strolling through the new La Concordia market, therefore, offers a more laid-back shopping and dining experience – with stalls selling street food, fresh fruit and vegetables, flowers, handcrafted souvenirs and more. There’s also an art gallery (Santa Fe) in the same building, showcasing contemporary exhibitions from local artists, which is worth visiting while you’re here.
7. Mercado de Monserrate
Hill Station, Historical Landmark, Church, Shrine
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