Plaza de los Periodistas
A lively public square in Bogota, featuring a unique pagoda and a tribute to Gabriel García Márquez, buzzing with daily life.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for atmosphere & safety
Plaza de los Periodistas
Best Time
Best for atmosphere & safety

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A lively public square in Bogota, featuring a unique pagoda and a tribute to Gabriel García Márquez, buzzing with daily life.
"It's a busy public square with a picturesque pagoda, surrounded by vibrant restaurant crowds."
🚶♀️ Embrace the Bustle
It's a lively spot! Enjoy the energy of students, vendors, and locals.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Capture the pagoda and street life. Great for candid shots.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Simón Bolívar Temple
Center of the plaza
A picturesque pagoda dedicated to the liberator, offering a unique architectural focal point.

People-Watching Paradise
Benches throughout the plaza
Observe the vibrant daily life, from students to street performers and local vendors.

Gabriel García Márquez Tribute
Near the plaza entrance
A nod to the Nobel laureate, reflecting the area's cultural significance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for a Pleasant Visit
Embrace the Local Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Embrace the Bustle
It's a lively spot! Enjoy the energy of students, vendors, and locals.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Capture the pagoda and street life. Great for candid shots.
⚠️ Be Aware of Surroundings
Some visitors note graffiti and a homeless presence, especially at night.
🍌 Grab a Snack
Plenty of vendors offer local treats.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Embrace the Bustle
It's a lively spot! Enjoy the energy of students, vendors, and locals.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Capture the pagoda and street life. Great for candid shots.
⚠️ Be Aware of Surroundings
Some visitors note graffiti and a homeless presence, especially at night.
🍌 Grab a Snack
Plenty of vendors offer local treats.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Plaza de los Periodistas offers a vibrant slice of Bogota life, with its iconic pagoda and bustling atmosphere attracting visitors for people-watching and local snacks. While some appreciate its eclectic charm and historical nods, others note concerns about cleanliness and the presence of a homeless population, suggesting daytime visits are preferable.
"Sometimes i like to sit on a hospitable built environment and watch people go about their lives. I sink into sonder and sink my teeth into another banano. Someone is playing techno out of a portable speaker. College kids head home after evening classes. The glowing TransMileno rumbles past. Lovers stop to kiss. Some days feel longer than others."
Lucas Crampton
"Lots of vendors. Good place to meet up with friends. There were many dogs and pigeons in the park. Attached to the review I have included a picture of the mountain nearby taken from the park. It was relatively busy, but we went on a holiday and weekend right around lunch time."
nrgriffi6565
"The area is very interesting/eclectic, with lots of historical significance, but not very clean. The statue is pretty small, and there is graffiti/trash all around. Basically this is just a 2 minute stop on the way to Monserrate."
Natalie Williams
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Plaza de los Periodistas is centrally located and easily accessible by public transport. The TransMilenio bus system is a popular and efficient way to reach the area. Several stations are within walking distance, making it convenient for exploring Bogota.
While street parking might be limited and challenging in this busy urban area, there are often paid parking lots nearby. It's generally recommended to use public transportation like the TransMilenio for easier access.
During the day, the plaza is generally safe and vibrant with local activity. However, some reviews mention that it can feel less safe in the evenings due to a homeless population and graffiti.
It's advisable to be aware of your surroundings, especially after dark.Depending on your starting point, Plaza de los Periodistas can be within walking distance of other central Bogota attractions. It's often considered a brief stop on the way to major sites like Monserrate.
Using a navigation app on your phone is highly recommended. For public transport, look for TransMilenio stations closest to the plaza.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Plaza de los Periodistas is a public square and is free to enter. You can wander through and enjoy the atmosphere without any admission fee.
As a public park, Plaza de los Periodistas is generally accessible 24/7. However, for safety and the best experience, visiting during daylight hours is recommended.
There are no specific entry restrictions for the plaza itself. However, it's a public space, so general rules of public conduct apply. Be mindful of the local environment and any ongoing events.
Many visitors have noted seeing dogs in the park, suggesting that pets are generally welcome. However, it's always a good idea to keep them on a leash and clean up after them.
The Simón Bolívar Temple, which is a pagoda within the plaza, is also part of the public space and does not have an entrance fee. You can admire its architecture freely.
📸 📸 Photography
The Simón Bolívar Temple pagoda is a prime spot for photography, offering a unique architectural element. Capture the lively street scenes, vendors, and people interacting.
The view of the nearby mountain can also be a picturesque backdrop.Generally, yes. During the day, it's a busy public space where photography is common. However, as with any urban environment, be mindful of your surroundings and avoid displaying expensive equipment ostentatiously, especially in quieter or less populated areas.
Street photography thrives here, capturing the daily life, diverse characters, and the blend of urban elements with the pagoda. Candid shots of people enjoying the space are also popular.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, can offer beautiful lighting for the pagoda and surrounding buildings. However, the midday sun can also create strong contrasts for street photography.
Drone usage in urban public spaces can be subject to strict regulations and may require permits. It's best to check local aviation laws and park rules before attempting to fly a drone.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the area surrounding Plaza de los Periodistas is known for being eclectic and vibrant, with many restaurants and eateries nearby. You can find a variety of cuisines to suit different tastes.
You'll find a mix of local Colombian cuisine, international options, and casual dining spots. Many visitors enjoy the convenience of grabbing a quick bite from street vendors.
Absolutely! The plaza is often bustling with vendors selling various snacks and treats. It's a great place to experience local flavors and grab a quick, affordable bite.
Both are great options! For an authentic local experience, try the street vendors. If you prefer a sit-down meal, explore the diverse restaurants in the surrounding eclectic area.
Look out for local favorites like 'banano' (banana), empanadas, and other Colombian street snacks.
Many vendors offer quick and tasty options.For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historical and Cultural Significance
The most striking feature is the Simón Bolívar Temple, a picturesque pagoda that adds a unique architectural element to the plaza. This structure, dedicated to the liberator Simón Bolívar, stands as a landmark and a popular spot for photos. The blend of historical tributes and distinct architecture makes Plaza de los Periodistas more than just a public square; it's a space that tells stories of national heroes and cultural icons.
Navigating the Plaza's Atmosphere
However, it's important to note that the plaza's condition has been a point of discussion. Some reviews mention that the area can be less clean, with graffiti and a noticeable homeless population, particularly in the evenings. While this adds to the raw, urban character for some, others find it intimidating. Visiting during daylight hours is generally recommended for a more comfortable and visually appealing experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit