10 Things To Do In Caracas: Complete Guide To The Capital City Of Venezuela

Aug 30, 2023

From exquisite natural landscapes to interesting historical landmarks, uncover the top things to do in Venezuela's capital city of Caracas.

Caracas is the bustling capital city of Venezuela, set along the scenic Guaire River and nestled within the Caracas valley of the coastal mountain range in the northern tip of the country. Although grossly overlooked for other destinations like Angel Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and Los Roques National Park, it has enough attractions to deserve a stopover on a Venezuelan itinerary. As the cultural and commercial hub of the country, the fast-paced city offers a little bit of action for all types of visitors. Quaint galleries, world-class museums, trendy restaurants, and vibrant nightlife spots abound, ensuring no dull moment in the city.

Caracas is also surrounded by sprawling mountains, lovely waterfalls, and lush jungles, making it the perfect playground for nature lovers and adventurers. For food enthusiasts, a delectable dining experience awaits, with the opportunity to sample some of the best Latin American flavors. Caracas has plenty to offer, but remember to take all the safety precautions when exploring this beaming South American gem for a delightful experience.

Whether a history buff, outdoor explorer, cultural junkie, or foodie, there is enough to go around in Venezuela’s capital city. Set the stage for a riveting rendezvous with the top things to do in Caracas.

Plaza Bolivar is a cultural and civic hub in Old Town Caracas, where visitors and locals converge. It is the spot where the city was founded in 1567 and pays tribute to Simon Bolivar, a revered military leader and national hero.

The tree-lined square features a beautiful equestrian statue at the center, made in Munich and assembled at the site. Four more statues of women at the plaza’s corners represent the states of the former Greater Colombia: Peru, Venezuela, Ecuador, and Colombia.

Plaza Bolivar also comprises notable public buildings like La Catedral de Caracas, El Capitolio Nacional, and Palacio Municipal del Caracas, making it the perfect launch pad for scoping out the sights of Caracas.

The Panteon Nacional can be found in the northern section of Old Town Caracas. Formerly a church, the building became the final resting place for national heroes, including Simon Bolivar, Fransisco Andara, and Jose Angel de Alamo.

The central nave pays homage to the country’s liberator, Simon Bolivar, who’s credited with championing the secession of the Greater Colombian states from the Spanish Empire.

Several paintings from the 1930s cover the pantheon, depicting scenes from Simon’s life and accomplishments. The majestic crystal chandelier and ceremonial changing of the guard at the site are notable fixtures worth seeing.

Related: Visit The Pantheon In Rome To See One Of Its Most Well-Preserved Ancient Ruins

Outdoorsy travelers craving a little physical activity can try this exciting trek to Venezuela’s Coastal Range summit. The 10-mile backcountry trail is quite popular with hikers and takes tourists to an altitude of over 9,000 feet.

Starting at the Cotamil Entraces, seven miles from downtown Caracas, the path traverses unique landmarks and ruins while offering dramatic viewpoints of the surrounding landscape. Hiking to Pico Naiguata is the ideal way to escape civilization and explore the city's open spaces.

It’s common for first-timers to feel unusually weird and out of sorts when scaling Pico Naiguata. Remember to follow recommended tips to avoid altitude sickness for a comfortable experience.

Parque de Recreacion Los Chorros is a 9-acre stretch of exuberant outdoor scenery highlighted by a natural cascade, lush landscapes, mountain springs, tunnels and bridges, large trees, and benches.

Situated at the base of Caracas’ Cerro El Avila, the park is ideal for relaxing and unwinding on a picnic, dipping in the natural waterfall, or simply inspecting the fantastic scenery.

On a lucky day, tourists may encounter exotic species like lazy sloths, squirrels, and the vocal guacharaca birds.

A small restaurant on-site sells various meals and drinks for guests who forget to carry a snack.

Art enthusiasts and lovers will feel at home at Centro de Arte Los Galpones, east of Caracas. The popular site is full of giant mango trees, while an outdoor terrace makes for the ideal getaway in the middle of the busy city.

Visitors can tour several art galleries and eateries to sample the local culture. This is also an excellent opportunity to taste the local flavors, with sumptuous dishes like the famous arepas and corn patties on the offing.

Other interest areas include yoga and tango classes, bookstores, and outdoor concert venues, making it a one-stop shop for all kinds of entertainment.

The Caracas Museum of Contemporary Art (MACC) houses a collection of more than 5,000 art pieces featuring historical heavyweights like Picasso, Warhol, Monet, and Bacon. The world-class facility in Parque Central comprises 13 halls, a grand library, a garden courtyard, and several auditoriums.

The museum also harbors the works of Jesus Soto, a renowned Venezuelan artist who created the Caracas Sphere.

The Caracas Sphere is an attraction in itself and features a kinetic sculpture created using hundreds of metal rods to form a huge orange ball that remains dangling in the air.

Visitors looking for the perfect memorabilia for their time in Caracas can visit the bubbly Centro Artesanal Los Goajiros. The handicraft market west of Plaza Chacaito is rife with local vendors selling merchandise like wallets, bags, hammocks, musical instruments, and clothing.

The picturesque space is very popular with tourists, who enjoy inspecting the various artisan goods along the corridor and interacting with the local traders.

El Hatillo is a tiny village to the northeast of Caracas and one of the most visited areas in the greater Caracas area. A national monument, the town lures tourists with its small-town charm, introducing them to the traditional Venezuelan lifestyle, defined by modest houses, soothing music, and authentic local cuisine.

Several restaurants in the area accord guests an unforgettable culinary journey. El Hatillo is also known for its traditional crafts and furniture, which offer villagers the bulk of their revenue. It is the ideal getaway for those seeking an alternative to the Caracas urban experience.

It takes about 21 minutes from Caracas to El Hatillo by taxi and costs around $35 and $50, depending on what the driver asks for.

El Avila National Park is the ideal place to be one with nature. Located northeast of Caracas, the park is famous for its dense jungles and diverse wildlife populations. It is also home to one of the country’s longest cable cars (telefericos), offering visitors a once-in-a-lifetime South American aerial adventure.

The thrilling ride provides dramatic views of the city landscape, and on clear days, tourists can catch a glimpse of the Caribbean Sea atop the mountain.

But if the cable car ride is too overwhelming, interact with the species in the park, such as birds and butterflies, or hunt for the country’s national flower, the Easter orchid, for a less adrenaline-rushing adventure.

Those curious to interact with locals and experience their lifestyle can head to Mercado Municipal del Chacao. This vibrant market sells fresh produce from the region, allowing tourists to purchase fresh vegetables, fruits, poultry, fish, and dairy products.

Some vendors exhibit local hand-made crafts and décor items that will make great souvenirs. Guests will also enjoy fun sampling the snacks and teas in the area.

Related: Lightning Capital Of The World: Meet Venezuela's Maracaibo Lake

Unlike the norm in most American cities, Caracas only experiences two distinct seasons: the dry and wet seasons. The city’s proximity to the equator means it enjoys pleasant sunny weather, with temperatures averaging around 80 degrees Fahrenheit and minimal variation throughout the year.

Nevertheless, the ideal time for tourists is the dry season, between November and April. The weather is comfortably sunny, with low humidity and the least rainfall. This is perfect for exploring the numerous sites in the city. Visitors also take the opportunity to experience the great outdoors, hiking the green jungles without worrying about Mother Nature changing her timetable.

Meanwhile, the wet season, from May to October, is best avoided as it brings rainfall and a lot of heat. Besides the rain interrupting outdoor adventures, the humid conditions can be uncomfortable for many; not even the rain offers relief. Occasional thundershowers and cloudbursts can also throw a wrench into the works.

Pack enough woolen clothing if visiting in the wet season to avoid falling sick during the vacation.

For festival lovers, February is the best time to visit, when the nationwide Carnival takes center stage just before the beginning of Lent. Colorful costumes, songs, and dance fill the streets as parades take over the neighborhoods of Caracas. Travelers get to experience a long-held national tradition and revel in the exuberance of the local culture.

Caracas is served by the Simon Bolivar International Airport, one of the region's busiest and the main gateway to Venezuela. The airport is less than a 30-minute drive from downtown Caracas, and upon arrival, travelers have different options to move around the city:

The best way to get around Caracas is through its efficient and reliable metro system. This is well-maintained and offers visitors a cheap transportation option. The metro operates on three distinct lines, spanning almost 39 stations, and traverses most tourist attractions in the city.

Trains are comfortable, air-conditioned, and pass every few minutes. The metro is connected to the city suburbs via a "Metrobus" system, making it convenient to access distant attractions.

To save on metro tickets, buy the “multiabono” (multiple) ticket, which allows visitors ten trips to chosen destinations. Also, avoid the metro during rush hours as this is the opportune time for pickpockets in Caracas.

Caracas has plenty of taxi operators, which can be identified by the “Libre” or “Taxi” signs. Although they are not expensive, taxis are unmetered, and travelers should negotiate the fare before boarding to avoid surprises later on. Most taxis operate 24 hours daily and can be accessed at different taxi ranks or summoned via phone.

Riding telefericos or cable cars is a unique way of exploring the city, and numerous lines exist at the Parque Nacional Avila in Caracas. These take visitors to the top of the mountain, from where they can enjoy an exquisite bird’s-eye perspective of the cityscape.

Car hire services dominate the airport and major city centers. These are handy when planning to venture outside the city or taking day trips to neighboring towns.

Driving in Caracas may prove too daunting for tourists. Too much paperwork is involved, and many local drivers are too aggressive on the roads, with little regard for traffic laws.

Downtown Caracas is best explored on foot. The modern metropolis has everything from world-class museums, vibrant cultural centers, lively markets, and historical monuments that should be experienced at a snail’s pace. The numerous parks, centers, and plazas also provide resting areas when the heat proves too much.

Caracas is ranked on the world’s most violent cities list: tourists are advised to take extra caution when moving around the city. Avoid carrying valuables, walking on secluded streets, and doing anything that may invite trouble.

Caracas has a population of just over 2 million, with residents settling in different residential areas spreading to the Vargas and Miranda States. Each neighborhood has unique offerings and personalities, providing tourists with a fresh experience wherever they stay.

When contemplating accommodation options in Caracas, these are the highest-rated neighborhoods to consider.

Chacao is a district in Miranda State and the smallest among five municipalities forming the Caracas Metropolitan Area. Situated to the east of downtown, it’s an elegant neighborhood housing major commercial and financial institutions in the city. It also features modern skyscrapers, trendy restaurants, and a string of bars to entertain locals and visitors alike.

Chacao is connected to the city center by the Caracas metro, enabling guests to access other areas of Caracas if need be. It is also one of the safest areas travelers can opt to stay. Top hotels in the area include:

Lidotel Centro Lido Caracas

JW Marriott Hotel Caracas

Altamira is a section of the popular Chaco Municipality and home to high-end residential properties served by a dedicated metro station. Its main highlight is the Plaza Francia, a lovely public square with a fountain and obelisk.

Next to Altamira, tourists will bump into La Castellana, a middle-class district and a cultural hub within the city. These two neighborhoods house various diplomatic buildings, including the Spanish, Portuguese, Swiss, Japanese, and Brazilian embassies. Accommodation options here include:

Renaissance Caracas La Castellana Hotel

Chacao Suites

Related: This Church Is The Most Dramatic In South America

Las Mercedes is essentially the city's commercial district south of Caracas. It has a string of bars and nightclubs, known for its throbbing nightlife. Also, shopping venues, art galleries, and restaurants abound, making it a popular option for shoppers and party animals. There are multiple transport options, with several taxi stands and a metro station just a stone’s throw away. Some of its top hotels include:

Eurobuilding Hotel & Suites Caracas

Caracas’ savory South American cuisine is one of the many reasons tourists are pulled to Venezuela. But the dining scene is much more diverse. Several award-winning restaurants serve everything from Pan-Asian cuisine and Venezuelan fare to seafood specials and international flavors, with specialties like arepas and beef steaks promising to tickle the taste buds. When feeling puckish, look for these popular city joints:

La Casa Bistro

La Estancia

El Barquero

Holic

Venezuela’s capital city is a delightful vacation destination with a lot to offer first-timers. However, consider the following to get the most out of a stay in Caracas:

Target the dry season from November to April to take advantage of conducive conditions for exploring all the outdoor sights and attractions.

Pack warm clothing and comfortable walking, no matter the season. The weather remains sunny throughout the year, and multiple outdoor attractions result in much walking and exploring.

Unfortunately, Caracas has one of the highest crime rates in the world. It is critical to take all the necessary safety precautions for a foreigner in a new city upon disembarking from the plane. Leave all essentials and valuables at the hotel, avoid engaging strangers, don’t party too hard, and steer clear of the dark. Stick to tourist-heavy areas and avoid isolated streets.

Related: 12 Tips For Solo Female Travel Throughout South America

Start the day with a tour of the city’s historic center, and Bolivar Square is perfect for just strolling and admiring the statues. Check out the cathedral and pay homage to the final resting place of the iconic national hero. Head to the charming Iglesia de San Fransisco, constructed in the 16th century. Discover its rich history before finishing the morning’s activities admiring masterpieces at the Museum of Modern Art in Central Park.

Recharge the body with lunch at La Estancia and pick it up at the Museum of Fine Arts. Be sure to check out the fantastic Egyptian collection and the sculpture garden. Later, explore the local flora at the Botanical Garden of Caracas and proceed to El Avila National Park for a thrilling ride on the telefericos.

After enough cable rides and aerial views of the city, grab supper at El Barquero and cap off the day sampling the Caracas nightlife. Stop by Holic for drinks and bust a move on the dance floor.

The best time to tour Caracas is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. Ideally, target February to visit as it's one of those cities that spring vacationers can’t go wrong with.

Unfortunately, Venezuela isn’t the richest South American nation, and the capital city is really feeling the brunt of the collapsed economy. The crime rate has drastically risen in Caracas; hence tourists should avoid barrios (slums), Central Caracas, and the city outskirts, where crime is at an all-time high.

Venezuela is home to the famous Angel Falls and Tabletop Mountains. It has also produced multiple Miss World beauty pageant winners and boasts delicious dishes that make the country a must-visit in a South American itinerary.

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Nicholas is a serial traveler and outdoor enthusiast who likes to document his adventures on the road. He has over 5 years experience freelancing in article writing, focusing on travel, entertainment, and lifestyle niches.