Usaquén

A charming colonial neighborhood turned bohemian district with craft markets, cafes, galleries, and trendy restaurants housed in restored traditional buildings. Especially lively on weekends, it represents the modern creative side of Bogotá while maintaining historic character.

Things to do

• Usaquén Market (Feria de Usaquén) — Browse the famous Sunday craft market in Plaza Mayor where local artisans sell handmade jewelry, textiles, ceramics, and souvenirs amid street performers and live music.
• Iglesia de Santa Bárbara — Visit this restored 18th-century colonial church at the heart of Usaquén that anchors the neighborhood's historic character with its whitewashed facade and simple interior.
• Gallery Hopping on Carrera 6 — Walk through contemporary art galleries and smaller artist studios concentrated along Carrera 6 and surrounding streets showcasing Colombian and international works.
• Café Culture at Local Cafeterías — Spend time in restored colonial buildings converted to artisanal cafes where locals gather for specialty coffee, conversation, and people-watching throughout the day.
• Restaurant Row on Calle 120 — Explore Usaquén's upscale dining scene concentrated on Calle 120 and nearby streets featuring everything from traditional Colombian cuisine to international fusion restaurants.
• Street Art and Murals Walking Tour — Discover colorful murals and street art throughout the neighborhood's narrow streets and alleyways that reflect Bogotá's vibrant creative culture.

Food to try

• Ajiaco — Try this warming Colombian potato and chicken soup served with corn, avocado, and sour cream, considered comfort food and widely available in Usaquén restaurants.
• Empanadas with Aji — Sample fried pastry pockets filled with meat or cheese served with spicy ají sauce, a ubiquitous street food and café staple throughout the neighborhood.
• Fresh Jugo Natural — Drink freshly blended fruit juices made from tropical fruits like guanabana, mora, and papaya at cafes and juice stands, a daily ritual for locals.
• Bandeja Paisa Style Platter — Order hearty meat-based platters served at traditional restaurants, reflecting Colombian regional cuisine with rice, beans, and grilled meats as signature dishes.
• Tamales — Taste corn-based steamed parcels filled with meat, typically wrapped in corn husks and served with fresh cheese or arepa, especially popular at weekend breakfasts.

Local customs & good to know

• Visit on Weekends for Full Atmosphere — Usaquén is most vibrant on Saturdays and Sundays when the feria market operates and the neighborhood fills with locals and tourists; weekdays are quieter and more residential.
• Greetings and Respect for Space — Colombians value polite greetings and personal warmth; make eye contact and exchange 'buenos días' or 'buenas tardes' with shopkeepers and café owners for better interactions.
• Mind Your Belongings — Like any popular tourist district in Bogotá, keep valuables secure and avoid displaying expensive jewelry, cameras, or large amounts of cash; stay aware of surroundings, especially at night.
• Respect the Creative Community — Usaquén is home to working artists and bohemian residents; be respectful when photographing murals or entering galleries, and support local artisans by purchasing directly from them rather than tourist shops.