Discover Villa de Leyva: Colombia’s Most Beautiful Colonial Town

Nestled in the heart of the Colombian Andes, just four hours from Bogotá, Villa de Leyva is one of the country's best-preserved colonial towns. With its whitewashed buildings, cobblestone streets, and timeless atmosphere, this historic town feels like stepping into a living museum.
 

Designated a national monument in 1954, Villa de Leyva has become a beloved destination for both Colombians and international travelers looking to experience authentic colonial charm, explore prehistoric fossils, hike through natural landscapes, and savor traditional cuisine—all in one place.

📍 Where Is Villa de Leyva?

Villa de Leyva is located in the Boyacá Department, in central Colombia, approximately:

🛻 3.5 to 4 hours by road from Bogotá

🚗 2 hours from Tunja, the departmental capital

⛰️ Sitting at an altitude of 2,149 meters (7,050 feet)

Despite its proximity to the capital, Villa de Leyva maintains a serene, small-town feel, far removed from the chaos of big cities.

Why Visit Villa de Leyva?

✅ Wander through one of Colombia’s most beautiful colonial towns
✅ Explore the largest cobblestone plaza in South America
✅ Discover prehistoric fossils, including a full Kronosaurus skeleton
✅ Visit museums, monasteries, vineyards, and waterfalls
✅ Enjoy a peaceful atmosphere perfect for relaxing or romantic getaways

Villa de Leyva is a versatile destination that offers something for history buffs, nature lovers, foodies, and families alike.

A Brief History of Villa de Leyva

Founded in 1572 by Hernán Suárez de Villalobos, Villa de Leyva served as a retirement town for Spanish conquistadors and later became an important political and religious center during the colonial period.

Its architecture has remained remarkably intact, with efforts to preserve its historical character strictly enforced—there are no high-rises, modern franchises, or traffic lights in the historic core.

The town is also home to significant paleontological discoveries, as the surrounding area was once covered by the prehistoric sea, leading to the unearthing of fossils dating back over 100 million years.

How to Get to Villa de Leyva

🚍 By Bus

From Bogotá’s Terminal de Transporte Salitre, take a bus to Tunja, then transfer to Villa de Leyva.

Direct buses from Bogotá’s Portal Norte Terminal also available (3.5 to 4.5 hours).

🚗 By Car

Driving from Bogotá is convenient via Route 55 and Route 60.

Scenic route through Zipaquirá or Chiquinquirá possible for stopovers.

🗺️ Roads are mostly paved and in good condition; parking is available in town.

Entry and Accessibility

Entry to the town is free, and most attractions are low-cost or donation-based.

The historic center is pedestrian-friendly, but wear comfortable shoes—those cobblestones are no joke!

For attractions outside town, taxis, tuk-tuks, bicycles, and horseback rides are available.

🏛️ Top Attractions and Things to Do in Villa de Leyva

1. 🏰 Plaza Mayor

One of the largest cobblestone squares in Latin America, Plaza Mayor is the centerpiece of Villa de Leyva.

Surrounded by colonial buildings, cafes, and boutique hotels

Home to the Iglesia Parroquial, built in the 17th century

A popular spot for festivals, concerts, and markets

🕰 Best experienced at sunrise or sunset when the light transforms the square into gold.

2. 🦖 El Fósil Museum

Just 5 km from the town center lies El Museo El Fósil, home to a 120-million-year-old Kronosaurus fossil discovered nearby.

The fossil is nearly 8 meters long, and still embedded in stone

The museum also features other marine fossils, ammonites, and dinosaur bones

🧬 A must-visit for families, science lovers, and curious minds.

3. 🧱 Casa Terracota

Often referred to as the "largest piece of pottery in the world", Casa Terracota is a whimsical house made entirely of baked clay.

Designed by Colombian architect Octavio Mendoza

The structure is both artistic and functional, with rooms, furniture, and walls made of terracotta

Visitors can explore inside and outside this unique eco-creation

🎨 A great photo stop and an icon of sustainable architecture.

4. 🏛 Museo del Carmen

A former Carmelite monastery turned museum, this space showcases religious art from the colonial period.

Baroque altarpieces, religious sculptures, and paintings

Peaceful gardens and courtyards for reflection

🙏 A quiet spot to learn about Colombia’s spiritual history.

5. 🌄 Pozos Azules (Blue Pools)

A short drive or walk from the town are the Pozos Azules, man-made mineral pools with surreal turquoise waters.

Scenic, photo-worthy location with hiking trails nearby

Great for nature lovers and outdoor photographers

Swimming is not allowed, but the views are worth it

💡 Visit early to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquil scenery.

6. 🍇 Local Vineyards and Wine Tasting

Surrounding Villa de Leyva are a few Colombian vineyards that offer tours and tastings.

Try Viñedo Ain Karim or Gondava Winery

Learn about wine production in the Andes

Sample local reds and rosés with mountain views

🍷 A pleasant way to spend an afternoon with friends or a partner.

7. 🥾 Hiking to Iguaque National Park

Just outside Villa de Leyva lies Parque Nacional Natural Iguaque, a sacred site for the Muisca people.

Challenging hike to Laguna de Iguaque, a sacred lake believed to be the origin of humanity in Muisca mythology

Diverse ecosystems: cloud forests, páramos, and alpine terrain

Full-day trek with beautiful flora and fauna

⛰️ Only recommended for physically fit travelers; guides are advised.

8. ⛏ Gondava – The Great Valley of the Dinosaurs

A theme park dedicated to prehistoric life, Gondava is ideal for families and kids.

Life-size dinosaur replicas in natural settings

Fossil exhibits and educational displays

Paddle boats and picnic areas

🦕 A fun, educational diversion only 15 minutes from town.

Best Time to Visit Villa de Leyva

Villa de Leyva enjoys a mild, dry climate year-round:

☀️ Best months: December–February, July–September

🎉 High season: During festivals (see below) and long weekends

🌧 Occasional rain May–June and October–November, but still accessible

Average temperatures hover around 18°C (64°F)—perfect for walking and exploring.

Notable Festivals in Villa de Leyva

🎆 Festival of Lights (December) – Thousands of candles and fireworks fill the plaza

🏺 Pottery Festival (June) – Showcases local ceramic traditions

📚 Literature and Astronomy Festivals – Cultural and scientific events throughout the year

🍇 Harvest Festival – Celebrates wine and agriculture with tastings and events

🎭 These events are perfect opportunities to experience local culture and traditions.

Where to Stay in Villa de Leyva

🏨 Boutique Hotels

Hotel Casa Terra – Cozy, high-end colonial ambiance

Hotel Casa de los Fundadores – Just outside town with pools and gardens

La Posada de San Antonio – Right in the historic center, charming and traditional

🛌 Budget and Mid-Range

Hostal Rana – Social hostel with great reviews

Hotel Antonio Nariño – Affordable and central

Selina Villa de Leyva – Trendy option for digital nomads and backpackers

🏡 Many Airbnb-style stays are available with views of the countryside.

What to Eat in Villa de Leyva

Villa de Leyva’s culinary scene is surprisingly rich for a small town.

Must-Try Dishes

Ajiaco Boyacense – A regional variation of the chicken and potato soup

Longaniza – Local sausage from neighboring Sutamarchán

Arepas de maíz pelao – Local-style arepas with cheese

Tamal Boyacense – Hearty and flavorful

Recommended Restaurants

Mercado Municipal – Gourmet Colombian with a modern twist

El Solar de la Guaca – Traditional food in a colonial courtyard

La Wafflería – Sweet treats and good coffee

☕ You’ll also find great coffee shops, bakeries, and gelato stands throughout town.

Sample 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Culture & Town Stroll

Morning: Visit Plaza Mayor and the Iglesia Parroquial

Afternoon: Explore Casa Terracota and the Fossil Museum

Evening: Enjoy dinner and a glass of wine in a colonial courtyard

Day 2: Nature & Adventure

Morning: Hike or bike to Pozos Azules

Afternoon: Wine tasting or a trip to Gondava

Evening: Catch sunset at the plaza or from a rooftop cafe

Travel Tips for Villa de Leyva

👟 Bring comfortable walking shoes—cobblestones can be tricky

🧼 Some attractions have cash-only entry, so bring small bills

🌄 If visiting during a festival, book accommodation in advance

🌤 Weather can be unpredictable—bring a light jacket

🧭 Download offline maps, as signal can be spotty

Nearby Attractions to Combine with Villa de Leyva

🧂 Zipaquirá Salt Cathedral – En route from Bogotá

🏰 Ráquira – Colorful artisan village famous for ceramics

⛰️ Iguaque National Park – For hiking and nature

📿 Monguí – Another beautiful colonial town in Boyacá

🧙‍♂️ Chiquinquirá – Home to the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary

Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Fall in Love with Villa de Leyva

Whether you're sipping wine under a colonial archway, hiking to a sacred lake, or marveling at ancient fossils, Villa de Leyva is a destination that surprises and delights at every turn. It's a town where past and present harmonize, where tranquility meets cultural depth.

For those looking to slow down and soak up authentic Colombian charm, Villa de Leyva is more than worth the journey—it’s unforgettable.