Villa de Leyva is a historic town in the Boyacá department of Colombia, about 100 miles (160 km) north of Bogotá. Famous for its well-preserved colonial architecture and cobblestone streets, it’s one of the most charming destinations in the country. Whether you’re here for history, nature, or just to unwind, this guide covers the best areas to stay in Villa de Leyva.
At 7,051 feet (2,149 meters) above sea level, Villa de Leyva is home to Plaza Mayor, a 14,000-square-meter cobbled square—one of the largest in South America—surrounded by whitewashed buildings, arched walkways, and the 17th-century Church of Nuestra Señora del Rosario. The town’s colonial charm extends to its artisan shops, small museums, and cozy cafés, making it a great place to explore at a relaxed pace. Find accommodation in the Old Town.
Villa de Leyva isn’t just about history—it’s also a lively spot for cultural events. The Astronomy Festival, Kite Festival, and Festival of Lights in December bring an extra spark to the town throughout the year. While some people visit as a day trip from Bogotá, staying overnight gives you time to experience its historic sites and nearby attractions, like Iguaque National Park and La Periquera waterfalls.
Getting here is easy, with frequent buses from Bogotá’s main terminal and Tunja, the capital of Boyacá. The drive from Bogotá takes around three hours, making Villa de Leyva a perfect weekend getaway or an extended stop on a trip through Colombia’s Andean region.
This guide explores the best areas to stay in Villa de Leyva, whether you prefer the charm of the town center or a peaceful retreat in the countryside.
What is the best area to stay in Villa de Leyva?
The best area to stay in Villa de Leyva is the Historic Town Center. It’s where you’ll find Plaza Mayor, colonial buildings, museums, and some of the best restaurants and cafés in town. Staying here means you can wander the cobblestone streets, explore artisan shops, and enjoy the town’s relaxed atmosphere with everything close by. It’s the most convenient and scenic place to stay, perfect for soaking in Villa de Leyva’s history and culture. Find accommodation in Villa de Leyva’s Historic District.
Other great locations to consider in Villa de Leyva include Gondava Park and the rural areas around Iguaque National Park.
1. Centro Histórico (Old Town)
The best location to stay in Villa de Leyva
Thanks to its history, culture, and easy access, Centro Histórico is the best area to stay in Villa de Leyva.
If you want to stay where history and atmosphere come together, Centro Histórico is the best place in Villa de Leyva. This district is home to Plaza Mayor, a 150,694-square-foot (14,000-square-meter) cobblestone square, the center of town, and one of the largest plazas in South America.
The streets around the plaza are lined with whitewashed 16th and 17th-century buildings with wooden balconies and clay-tiled roofs. Everything is within walking distance, and the town has little car traffic, making it easy to explore on foot.
Many of Villa de Leyva’s most important landmarks are here. The Church of Nuestra Señora del Rosario, standing on Plaza Mayor, is the town’s most recognizable building. A few blocks away, Casa Museo Antonio Nariño tells the story of one of Colombia’s independence leaders. The Museo Paleontológico displays fossils from the prehistoric era when this region was part of an ancient sea. Small artisan shops sell handmade crafts, pottery, and regional artwork.
Restaurants in Centro Histórico serve local dishes like ajiaco, arepas boyacenses, and fresh trout, and cafés offer Colombian coffee and pastries like almojábanas. Additionally, the Old Town features many accommodations, from boutique hotels in restored colonial mansions to budget-friendly guesthouses with inner courtyards.
The Old Town feels relaxed during the day, with people strolling the cobblestone streets, browsing artisan shops, or enjoying coffee in small plazas. On weekends and during events like the Astronomy Festival and the Festival de Luces, the town becomes livelier, with more visitors filling the main square and restaurants. While it never feels chaotic, popular spots can get busy. Most businesses close early, but a few bars and wine houses stay open later, offering a quiet nightlife. Since hotels book up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays, it’s best to plan ahead.
Our hand-picked accommodations in the Old Town
Sie Casa Hotel
Located in Villa de Leyva, a 3-minute walk from Villa de Leyva Main Square, Sie Casa Hotel provides accommodations with a terrace, free private parking, a restaurant and a bar.
2. Gondava Theme Park
The best location in Guatapé for families traveling with children
The area around Gondava Theme Park offers a quieter setting with open landscapes and unique attractions nearby.
Located a 10-minute drive west of the historic center in the Villa de Leyva Desert, this area offers open landscapes and a quieter setting while still close to town.
Gondava Theme Park, also known as the Great Valley of Dinosaurs, is the main attraction here. Dedicated to paleontology, Gondava features life-sized dinosaur replicas in an impressive natural setting. It is truly a unique educational stop for visitors of all ages.
A few miles north, the enigmatic Parque Arqueológico de Monquirá is known for its pre-Columbian-era stone monuments. Also known as El Infiernito (little hell), this Muisca site dates back two millennia and features dozens of standing monoliths, burial sites, and earth mounds.
Other attractions worth checking out in this area include the Paleontological Research Center, which studies the region’s rich fossil deposits and displays prehistoric remains, and the Museo Comunitario El Fósil, home to a near-complete Kronosaurus fossil, one of the best-preserved specimens of its kind. Nature lovers can also visit the Pozos Azules, a series of striking blue pools whose vivid color contrasts with the surrounding arid landscape, making it a popular spot for photography and short hikes.
Accommodations in this area range from countryside lodges to small family-run hotels, often with large green spaces and scenic views. Gondava is a good option for those looking for a peaceful stay with easy access to outdoor activities like horseback riding, hiking, and adventure sports.
3. Iguaque National Park
The best area for nature lovers
The rural surroundings of the Iguaque National Park are some of the best areas to stay in Villa de Leyva for adventurers.
Iguaque National Park, officially called Santuario de Flora y Fauna de Iguaque, is a protected natural reserve about 9 miles (15 km) northeast of Villa de Leyva. It is known for its Andean cloud forests, high-altitude lagoons, and diverse wildlife. The park’s most famous site is Laguna de Iguaque, a sacred lake in Muisca mythology, believed to be the birthplace of humanity.
Hiking is the main activity in the region, with well-marked trails leading through dense vegetation, waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints before reaching the lake at 12,467 feet (3,800 meters) above sea level. Due to the challenging ascent, good physical condition and proper gear are recommended. Birdwatching is also popular here, as the park is home to species like the Andean condor and emerald toucanet.
The rural areas surrounding the park are home to small farming communities, ecolodges, and countryside retreats that offer a peaceful alternative to the town center. The serene rolling hills, misty forests, and open fields create a tranquil setting for a quiet stay.
Accommodations in this area are primarily ecolodges, rural cabins, and small guesthouses, often run by local families. Many offer home-cooked meals, guided nature walks, and transportation to trailheads. Dining options are limited, so most visitors rely on their accommodations for meals or bring their own supplies.
Our hand-picked accommodations near Iguaque National Park
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