• Description
  • How to get there
  • Multimedia

12 de Octubre Market

Built in 1946 by the District Public Services Company (EDIS) and transferred to the District Property Office in 1996, the 12 de Octubre Market is a vibrant hub preserving the heart of Bogotá's intangible cultural heritage.

Far more than a supply market, it invites visitors to immerse themselves in the living traditions of its vendors. Every stall showcases ancestral knowledge, artisanal skills, and cultural practices passed down through generations.

The culinary experience stands out as one of its biggest highlights: sample the famous fritanga bogotana, taste artisanal dairy products, and explore a fresh fruit selection that spans sweet tropical varieties to crisp, citrus flavors.

The market also houses the Gastronomic Innovation Center, a pioneering city space dedicated to technical training and culinary experimentation that connects tradition with modern cooking.

📍 How to get there

The 12 de Octubre Market is a traditional landmark in northern Bogotá, well known for its wide variety of fresh produce and authentic local dishes. Thanks to its central location, getting there is quick and easy from across the city.

  • By private vehicle: Take Avenida NQS and turn west onto Calle 72 until you reach Carrera 51, where the market is located. You can also arrive via Avenida Suba by connecting with Calle 72. Parking lots are available in the surrounding area.
  • By TransMilenio: The closest stations are Avenida Chile and Calle 72 along the Avenida Caracas trunk line. From either station, you can take a local SITP bus or a short taxi ride directly to the market.
  • By SITP: Several urban bus routes run along Calle 68 and Calle 72, with stops near Carrera 51, leaving you just a few blocks from the entrance.

Venue video

This image shows a dense display of handcrafted products made from wicker and natural materials. Baskets of different shapes and sizes are stacked, some with lids, and others with intricate designs. There are also decorative objects such as bamboo cages, a clay vase, and bundles of brooms. A straw hat hangs over a red striped cloth in the background, creating a rustic and traditional atmosphere. ose-up focuses on a colorful variety of fresh, exotic fruits arranged at a market stall. In the center, several bright yellow carambolas (star fruits) and reddish fruits stand out. To the right, an orange container holds more round fruits. The background and foreground are softly blurred, revealing a profusion of other green and yellow fruits, suggesting an abundance of produce. The image shows a food display case from a traditional fritanga. In the foreground, pieces of roasted or fried meat with visible bones are visible, along with a large quantity of small, yellow potatoes, chicken, and chunchullo. Behind the glass, a woman wearing a pink face mask and a white sweatshirt reaches for the food, suggesting she is about to serve or take a plate. This photograph features the exterior facade of the 12 de Octubre Market. The building is bright yellow and features large, vibrant murals on either side of the main entrance, depicting fruits, vegetables, and hands holding peas. A large blue sign with market information is located above the entrance. The "MAIN ENTRANCE" is clearly marked and open, revealing an interior passageway. There is a small stall to the left and stone pillars on the sidewalk.