Time Out, the global guide and magazine of culture, entertainment, gastronomy, and tourism founded in London in 1968, published this Wednesday, September 16, its long-awaited annual ranking of the best neighborhoods in the world.
In the 2026 edition of this ranking, which marks nine years of evaluating urban life globally, a sector of Bogotá stood out by ranking seventh on the international list.
Which Bogotá neighborhood is among the coolest in the world?
The review was written by journalist Anastasia Moloney, who highlights one of the most iconic areas as Chapinero Alto, located in the central-eastern zone of Bogotá, between Seventh Avenue and the Eastern Hills.
The publication describes this sector of approximately 16 blocks as a place characterized by its “omnipresent backdrop of wooded mountains.”
Likewise, the journalist highlights the warm atmosphere that evokes the vibes of a small town, standing out for its gastronomic offerings, creative scene, and for being the “home to Bogotá’s largest gay community and a young generation of local artists, expatriates, digital nomads, and students.”
Anastasia defines Chapinero Alto as a neighborhood with a progressive spirit whose elevation above the Eastern Hills offers a refuge from the traffic of the rest of Bogotá.
In her view, the area has established itself as the perfect setting to enjoy food, have a coffee, or share a glass of wine on a terrace overlooking the city, as well as to browse alternative clothing stores, conceptual bookstores, and vintage antique shops.
In her text, Moloney highlighted the unique architectural mix hidden in its streets, describing the urban landscape as a harmonious coexistence between “Tudor-style brick mansions, unpolished low-rise homes from the 1970s, and modern loft-style apartments.”
As usual in its reviews, the publication includes a guide to enjoy a perfect day in the area.
The suggested journey starts “with a Colombian coffee or a chai at Diosa Café,” a renowned specialty coffee shop famous for its traditional pastries and artisanal teas.
The itinerary continues with a visit to independent art galleries to discover local talents and a stop at Átiko, a store noted for its timeless fashion offerings.
For the gastronomic break, the journalist advises trying the chocolate shop at Metkalü, a conscious market of organic products, exploring the surroundings of La Salle University and enjoying a late brunch.
The day ends at dusk “to watch the last rays of the Andean sun setting around 6 p.m. every day,” concluding the experience with a cocktail at Franc, a space that blends gastronomy, art, and live music.
Although the journalist mentions that the capital does not have seasons like other countries, she recommends visiting Bogotá any month except April, because it usually rains during that season.
The other neighborhoods chosen among the coolest in the world
According to the Time Out publication for 2026, the list of the 40 most attractive neighborhoods in the world is topped by Jongno 3-ga, in Seoul (South Korea), which holds the first place.
In this global selection, Latin America stands out with five representatives: Chapinero Alto, in Bogotá (Colombia); Laranjeiras, in Rio de Janeiro (Brazil); Chacagiales, in Buenos Aires (Argentina); República, in São Paulo (Brazil); and the Historic Center of Lima (Peru).
Laura María Villarraga Ariza
LAST NEWS EDITORIAL
