Tunja: Tourism, Historic Sites & Things to Do in the Capital of Boyacá
Tunja is a travel destination that holds history, culture and beauty in every corner.
Tunja is a city well worth visiting to discover its sights and tourist attractions and to get to know part of Colombia's history.
Tourist information about Tunja
Tunja, capital of the Boyacá department, is a Colombian city steeped in history and tradition. Founded on August 6, 1539, it keeps a colonial charm that shows in its cobblestone streets and historic buildings. As a strategic point during colonial times, Tunja witnessed key events that shaped the history of Colombia. Today it is a vibrant destination that combines its historical legacy with an active cultural life and lush surrounding nature. From the central Parque Bolívar to the imposing hills that ring the city, Tunja offers a unique experience you should not miss on your trip to Colombia.
How to get to Tunja
There are several ways to reach Tunja from other parts of Colombia. If you are in Bogotá, the capital, you can take a bus from the main bus terminal or rent a car and drive the roughly 130 kilometers between the two cities. The road trip lets you enjoy beautiful Andean scenery as you approach your destination.
Bus companies:
- Coflonorte: coflonorte.com.co
- Autoboy: autoboysa.com.co
- Concorde: concordeoficial.com
- El Rapido Duitama: elrapidoduitama.redbus.co
If you prefer to fly, you can take a flight from El Dorado International Airport to Juan José Rondón Airport, a few kilometers from Tunja. From there you can take a taxi or public transport into the city center. Whichever you choose, the trip to Tunja promises to be an unforgettable experience.
Things to do in Tunja
Once you arrive in Tunja, you will find plenty to enjoy. Strolling through the historic center is a must: you can admire the colonial architecture of buildings like the Santiago de Tunja Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica and the Palacio de la Torre. You can also visit the Central Market, where you can soak up everyday local life and try regional dishes such as mazamorra and ajiaco. Nature lovers will find numerous hiking trails and spots for outdoor sports around Tunja, such as Pisba National Natural Park and Lake Tota. Whether exploring its history, enjoying its food or connecting with nature, Tunja has something for every taste.
Places to visit in Tunja
Tunja is full of fascinating places worth visiting during your stay. Among the highlights are the Boyacá Bridge (Puente de Boyacá), scene of the battle that sealed Colombia's independence; the Monastery of La Candelaria, a 16th-century architectural gem; and the House of the Founder Gonzalo Suárez Rendón, where you can learn more about the city's origins. Other points of interest include the Museum of Religious Art and the Plaza de Bolívar, the heart of Tunja's social and cultural life. Touring these places lets you immerse yourself in the region's history and culture and discover the treasures that make Tunja a unique destination in Colombia.
Churches to visit in Tunja:
- Santiago de Tunja Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica
- Church of Santo Domingo
- Chapel and Museum of Santa Clara la Real
- Church of Nuestra Señora de las Nieves
- Church of Nuestra Señora del Milagro del Topo
Museums in Tunja
For lovers of art, history and culture, Tunja has a range of museums worth exploring. The Casa del Fundador Museum, in the former residence of Gonzalo Suárez Rendón, offers a fascinating look at the city's colonial history, with historic artifacts, antique furniture and temporary exhibitions that transport you to Tunja's past. Another standout is the Museum of Religious Art, which holds an impressive collection of sacred art, including paintings, sculptures and liturgical objects of great historical and artistic value. To dive even deeper into the culture of Boyacá, be sure to visit these museums during your stay in Tunja.
Casa del Fundador Museum: Carrera 9 No.19-56, central Tunja.
Map of Tunja
Frequently asked questions about Tunja
It is the capital of Boyacá, in the Eastern Andes, and one of the oldest and most historic colonial cities in Colombia, founded in 1539.
From Bogotá it is about 130 km by highway (frequent buses or by car). You can also fly into Juan José Rondón Airport, near the city, and continue by road.
Explore the historic center: the Plaza de Bolívar, the Cathedral, the colonial houses with their painted ceilings (such as Casa del Fundador) and the city's museums and churches.
Villa de Leyva (40 km away), the Boyacá Bridge (a landmark of Colombia's independence) and the Andean towns and landscapes of Boyacá.
It is a mountain city with a cold climate, with mild days and cold nights; it is a good idea to bring a coat year-round.
It can be visited year-round; many travelers combine it with Villa de Leyva on a weekend getaway from Bogotá.