If you are planning a trip to the capital of Venezuela you might be wondering what to do in Caracas. You will find that it is a city full of contrasts and fascinating places to visit. One of the main attractions is the impressive Avila Hill, which offers panoramic views of the city and opportunities for hiking amid lush nature. Another must-see is the historic quarter of Caracas where you can find colonial architecture, explore historic churches and enjoy charming squares.
In addition, Caracas has a lively cultural life, with museums, such as the Museum of Contemporary Art, and a variety of cultural and artistic events that reflect the diversity and vitality of the city. In short, Caracas has a lot to offer, from lush nature in the Avila National Park to the history and architecture of the Historic Center, as well as the cultural diversity of its museums and events.
What are the best places to visit in Caracas?
1. Cerro Avila, the best place where you can see Caracas
The Avila Hill is an imposing mountain that stands above the city of Caracas. It is one of the most spectacular points to visit in the city. It is part of the Waraira Repano National Park and offers a peaceful natural environment in the middle of the bustle of the city.
To reach its summit and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views, you can use the Caracas Cable Car. It ascends from the base station in Maripérez to the final station, known as “El Ávila”. During the approximately 15-minute ride, passengers witness a fascinating transition from the city to the tranquility of nature. Once at the top, you can explore a variety of trails, hike, spot local flora and fauna, or simply enjoy the beauty of the mountain scenery. Cerro Avila and the Cable Car offer a unique experience to connect with nature and enjoy spectacular views over the city of Caracas.
Cable car timetable: Mon-Fri 12:00 to 18:00. Sat-Sun 9:00 to 18:00.
Price (in USD$): Adults: $10. Children between 3 and 12 years old: $6. VIP cabin with maximum capacity of 4 people: $60.
2. Historic Center of Caracas
The Historic Center of Caracas is a cultural and architectural treasure that reflects the history and heritage of the city.
Its cobblestone streets and charming squares are home to impressive colonial buildings and emblematic monuments. Highlights include the Catedral de Caracas, an imposing church built in the 17th century, and the Palacio Municipal, a majestic neoclassical-style building that houses the Caracas City Hall. In addition, the Plaza Bolivar, the heart of the Historic Center, is an emblematic place with the Equestrian Statue of the Liberator Simon Bolivar. Walking through these streets allows you to immerse in history and enjoy the architectural beauty of the colonial era. The Historic Center of Caracas is one of the most beautiful places to see in Caracas. It is an experience that reminds us of the city’s glorious past and represents an important cultural legacy for locals and visitors.
3. The Contemporary Art Museum of Caracas
The Museum of Contemporary Art of Caracas is a must-see destination for art and culture lovers traveling to the capital of Venezuela. Located in the Central Park, the Museum houses an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art by Venezuelan and international artists.
Its 13 spacious exhibition halls display a variety of works spanning different styles and artistic currents. In addition to its permanent collection, the museum also presents temporary exhibitions showcasing the latest trends in contemporary art. The museum’s architectural design, with its distinctive white cube facade, adds a visually striking element to the experience.
Opening hours: Thu-Sun: 10:00-16:00 Price: Free
4. National Pantheon of Venezuela, an iconic landmark to visit in Caracas
The National Pantheon of Caracas is an emblematic place of great historical and cultural importance in Venezuela. Located in the center of the city, this majestic neoclassical building was originally built as a church in the 17th century. It was later converted into a pantheon in the 19th century.
The remains of prominent characters of Venezuelan history rest inside, including Simón Bolívar, the Liberator of Venezuela and other South American countries. The National Pantheon is a site of homage and tribute to the heroes of independence and prominent political leaders. Its imposing architecture and symbolic value make it a must-see for those interested in Venezuelan history.
Opening hours: Tue-Sun: 9:00-14:00 Price: Free
5. East Park
The Parque del Este, also known as the Generalísimo Francisco de Miranda Park, is a beautiful “green lung” located in Caracas. This extensive park is a peaceful oasis in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the city.
With its ample green spaces, lakes, walking trails and recreational areas, it is a popular place for locals and visitors to enjoy nature and outdoor activities. The park has several attractions, such as its Cactus Garden, with a variety of plant species. You’ll also find the Humboldt Planetarium, with its 20m diameter dome and a Replica of the corvette Leander, among others. There are also playgrounds for children, sports courts and picnic areas. East Park is a charming retreat that gives you the opportunity to relax. There you can connect with nature and enjoy moments of leisure in the vibrant city of Caracas.
Opening hours: Tue-Sun: 5:00 to 16:00
Travel Tip: To organize your trip we recommend using Passporter totally free. You can be inspired by the experiences of other travelers, choose the places that interest you most, create the travel route with a geolocated map, upload all important documents such as reservations and invite your friends so that everyone can participate in the organization of the trip.
Venezuela, the unknown country in Latin America
Things to do around Caracas
1. Colonia Tovar, a german village near Caracas
Colonia Tovar is a charming village located about an hour away from Caracas, in the mountains of Venezuela. Founded by German immigrants in the 19th century, it maintains an architecture and ambience reminiscent of a typical Germanic village.
Its cobblestone streets, Bavarian-style houses and colorful gardens create a picturesque and cozy atmosphere unique to the area. Here you can enjoy pleasant strolls along the streets, explore craft stores and taste the delicious typical German cuisine in the restaurants. In addition, the surrounding area offers outdoor activities such as hiking and visits to farms where they grow traditional products. Colonia Tovar is a perfect destination to visit if you have an extra day or afternoon in Caracas and want to experience the unique atmosphere of the city.
What and where to eat in Caracas
Venezuelan cuisine is a delicious and diverse mix of flavors. In Caracas you will find everything from traditional Venezuelan dishes such as the arepa, the pabellón criollo and the hallaca, to the international influence reflected in Italian, Asian and Mediterranean restaurants. The cuisine of the capital is extensive and delicious. In addition, markets and street stalls offer a variety of fresh and exotic foods, such as tropical fruits and natural juices.
- Maute Grill: For many the best grilled meats restaurant in Caracas. The best selection of meat cuts prepared with taste and mastery. You can also try traditional Venezuelan and Latin dishes, such as arepas and patacones. Price range: 23€-93€.
- Alto: A gourmet restaurant that takes traditional Venezuelan dishes and turns them into fusion and contemporary cuisine. An authentic gastronomic experience in Caracas. Price range: 23-93€
Where to stay in Caracas?
- Waldorf Hotel: A fabulous 5-star hotel just 1km from the city center offering outdoor pool, fitness center, garden and terrace. Very good breakfast buffet, a la carte or continental, included. Prices per night depend on season: 130-200€
- Pestana Caracas: Another wonderful 5-star hotel, very close to Parque del Este, modern style, with spacious and comfortable rooms, swimming pool and restaurant. Average price per night: 131€
- Hotel Chacao Suites: Hotel Chacao is a 4-star hotel, very central and also close to Parque del Este. It also has a restaurant, gym and events room. Average price per night: 100€
What should I know before a trip to Caracas?
- The currency of Venezuela is the Venezuelan bolivar
- Be protected in case of medical emergencies: travel insured. Choose a good travel insurance such as the one from Mondo.
- We recommend exchanging the money before your trip to Caracas, as it will be cheaper than at the airport.
- The best months to see Venezuela are from December to April, in the dry season.
- Always drink bottled water.
- Wear sunscreen, especially in the summer months, as well as light clothing that covers you from the sun and stay hydrated.
- Get yourself an eSIM card to have internet connection on your trip to Caracas.
How to organize a trip to Caracas
Register or download the Passporter App and discover all its possibilities.
- Get inspired by the experiences of other travelers.
- Create your own itinerary and add the suggestions from the app to it.
- Add the stops you are most interested in, as well as the restaurants and bars where you want to eat (you can use the points of interest we listed in this post as a reference).
- Organize your itinerary by route days according to their location on the map (you can be inspired by the routes presented in the post)
- Make any modifications you need and you’ll be all set for your trip.
- Share your experience. Upload photos of the places you visited on your trip to the app and recommend to other travelers the things to do in Caracas.
If you have questions on how to do it, you can refer to our post: How to create a travel itinerary in Passporter.
Frequently asked questions before a trip to Caracas
Caracas has a warm, tropical climate due to its location in a mountainous area. Average temperatures range from 25-30ºC during the day, with pleasant nights of 18-22ºC. The city experiences a rainy season between May and November, with July and August as the rainiest months, and a dry season from December to April.
The best time to travel to Caracas is from December to April, in the dry season, with hardly any rainfall which favors outdoor activities.
The most common way to get to Caracas from abroad is by plane. Venezuela has several international airports, such as the Simón Bolívar International Airport in Maiquetía, near Caracas. There are numerous airlines operating flights to Caracas, so you can find direct flights or flights with stopovers, depending on your place of origin.
Caracas has a good public transportation network including metro and buses. Of course, a convenient option is the cab and private vehicles, but remember to agree on the fare in advance.
No Comments