Things To Do
in Villa de Leyva
Villa de Leyva is a perfectly preserved colonial town set on a scenic highland plain in Boyacá, known for its expansive white Plaza Mayor and cobblestone streets. The town feels like stepping back in time, with centuries-old churches, pastel façades, and a tranquil pace of life. Surrounded by rolling countryside and nearby natural attractions, it’s a popular weekend escape from Bogotá.
Visitors come for history, architecture, and easy access to outdoor adventures in the surrounding valleys and páramo landscapes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying traditional Colombian arepas and fresh coffee. After breakfast, stroll through the cobblestone streets of Villa de Leyva, admiring the colonial architecture and vibrant flower-adorned balconies. Visit the Plaza Mayor, one of the largest town squares in Colombia, where you can soak in the historical atmosphere and take pictures of the stunning surroundings.
After lunch at a nearby restaurant, head to the nearby Casa de la Cultura to learn about the town's rich history and cultural heritage. Spend the afternoon exploring local artisan shops, where you can find unique handicrafts and souvenirs to take home. Don't miss a visit to the iconic blue doors and windows that characterize the town's architecture, perfect for capturing those Instagram-worthy moments.
As the sun sets, enjoy a delightful dinner at a traditional Colombian restaurant, sampling local dishes like bandeja paisa or sancocho. After dinner, take a leisurely walk back to the plaza, where you can enjoy live music or cultural performances that often take place in the evenings. End your night with a glass of local wine, reflecting on the day's adventures.
Begin your day with breakfast at your accommodation before heading to the Fossil Museum, a short drive from the town center. Here, you'll discover fascinating exhibits featuring fossils and prehistoric remains, providing insight into the region's ancient past. The knowledgeable guides will share engaging stories about the significance of these finds and their connection to the area's geology.
After exploring the museum, enjoy lunch at a nearby café and try the local trout, a popular dish in the region. Spend the afternoon hiking to the nearby Pozos Azules, a series of stunning blue lagoons, where you can relax and take in the natural beauty of the landscape. The serene environment is perfect for a picnic or simply enjoying the tranquility of the water.
Return to Villa de Leyva for dinner at a local pizzeria, where you can savor artisanal pizzas made with fresh ingredients. After dinner, take a stroll through the town, watching the stars twinkle in the clear night sky. If you're up for it, find a cozy spot to sip on hot chocolate, engaging in conversation about the day's explorations.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $1.5-3 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within town | $1-3 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel per night | $20-50 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two (mid-range) | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Impressive Plaza Mayor and well-preserved colonial architecture
- Short drive to stunning natural areas and hiking trails
- Relaxed, safe, and family-friendly atmosphere
- Rich regional cuisine and welcoming cafés
- Can be crowded on weekends and holidays
- Limited nightlife compared to big cities
- Some streets are cobblestoned and uneven for strollers
- Fewer large-scale shopping options and modern amenities
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Ayuda" - Help
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
- "Estoy perdido" - I am lost
Places to Visit in Villa de Leyva
Visit one of these nice places.
The vast whitewashed square framed by colonial buildings and the church provides dramatic morning or golden-hour light for wide-angle shots.
The striking clay-built house is a standout architectural subject against blue skies and green hills.
A narrow, atmospheric street with arches, balconies, and a sense of old-world charm ideal for moody street photography.
Fossil exhibits and surrounding greenery offer interesting textures and architectural angles.
Food in Villa de Leyva
Villa de Leyva Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A robust stew featuring pork, beef, chickpeas, potatoes, and corn; a regional specialty often served with arepa or rice.
Must-Try!
Grilled trout from nearby rivers, typically served with plantains, potatoes, or rice.
A thick cornmeal arepa, sometimes stuffed or topped with cheese and hogao.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A traditional market offering fresh produce, cheeses, baked goods, arepas, and regional snacks.
Try arepas con queso, empanadas, and obleas with dulce de leche or arequipe near the main square.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake or friendly greeting with a smile is standard; say 'Buenos días/tardes' when entering shops or restaurants.
Dress modestly when visiting churches; remove hats and speak softly in sacred spaces.
The town is relaxed; be patient with service in cafes and shops during peak times.
Ask for permission when photographing people or private spaces; respect posted restrictions.
Safety
Tipping in Villa de Leyva
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory. In restaurants, 5-10% is common if a service charge isn’t included. For taxis and guides, rounding up the fare is appreciated.
Cash (Colombian pesos) is widely accepted; many places also take credit/debit cards, especially in tourist zones. Some small vendors may prefer cash; check for a service charge if not included.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Bright sunny days with clear skies and comfortable daytime temperatures; ideal for outdoor exploration and photography.
Afternoon showers are common; trails can become muddy, so bring waterproof gear and a light rain jacket. Lush green landscapes make for vibrant photography.
Villa de Leyva at Night
Hiking in Villa de Leyva
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A revered high-altitude trek to a sacred lake in Iguaque National Park; prepare for cool weather and variable terrain.
Airports
How to reach Villa de Leyva by plane.
The main international gateway; transfers to Villa de Leyva are by road and take several hours depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly families from Boyacá; warm and welcoming, with a strong sense of regional identity and history.
Tourists from across Colombia and abroad seeking culture, scenery, and outdoor activities.
A steady presence drawn to the town’s charm, galleries, and tranquil lifestyle.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular pastime and local leagues kept around plazas and parks.
Scenic rides through rural roads and surrounding hills attract cycling enthusiasts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Villa de Leyva.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places can accommodate vegetables, grains, and dairy. Ask for vegetable-based dishes, salads, or bean stews; communicate clearly about meat-based sauces if avoiding meat.