La Catedral Primada
The Basics
Free to all visitors, La Catedral Primada is also an included stop on many tours of Bogotá, from walking tours to bike tours and layover tours. Even if you don’t go inside, you’ll likely pause to take in the cathedral’s impressive neoclassical façade. For a more in-depth perspective on La Catedral Primada, consider a religion- or history-themed tour of the neighborhood, which is packed with centuries-old buildings from the colonial era.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Great for travelers interested in architecture, history, and art.
- Look up: some of the best art is on the ceiling.
- Bring coins to donate if you’d like to light a candle in one of the chapels.
How to Get There
La Catedral Primada is located on the corner of Carrera 7 and Calle 11, overlooking the Plaza de Bolívar. The closest bus stops, served by many lines, are on the nearby Carrera 10. Taxis are plentiful near the Plaza de Bolívar, but look for an official, licensed taxi with the meter running. If you’re visiting La Catedral Primada on a tour, transport will be taken care of.
Trip ideas
When to Get There
From Monday through Saturday, Mass is held at 12pm and 5pm, with an additional service in the Capilla del Sagrario at 7am from Monday through Friday. Sunday Mass is held at 10am, 12pm, and 5pm. While visitors are welcome to enter the cathedral during religious services, no photos may be taken at those times.
Visit More Churches and Cathedrals in Bogotá
There’s plenty more to explore here: start with the Sanctuario Nuestra Senora del Carmen, a beautiful church whose interior is striped in a striking red-and-white pattern. Another favorite is the Iglesia de San Francisco, where an ornate, gilded altar presides over one of Bogotá’s most richly decorated religious landmarks. For big views of the skyline, head to the Iglesia Basilica del Senor de Monserrate, perched on the mountain that overlooks the city.
- Mirador Torre Colpatria
- Gabriel García Márquez Cultural Center
- Bogotá Mint Museum (Museo Casa de la Moneda)
- Botero Museum (Museo Botero)
- Plaza de Bolivar
- Gold Museum (Museo del Oro)
- International Emerald Museum (Museo Internacional de la Esmeralda)
- La Candelaria (Historic Old Town)
- Children's Museum of Bogota (Museo de los Niños)
- Quinta de Bolívar Museum
- Bogotá Museum of Modern Art (MAMBO)
- Colombian National Museum (Museo Nacional de Colombia)
- La Chorrera Waterfall
- Mundo Aventura Theme Park (Parque Mundo Aventura)
- Maloka Museum