Day-by-Day Itinerary
Begin your Caracas adventure in the heart of the colonial city, exploring the iconic Bolivar Square and the nation's most sacred monument, the National Pantheon.
Morning
Arrival and hotel check-in
Arrive in Caracas and transfer to your accommodation in the safer eastern districts. Take time to settle in, exchange currency if needed, and orient yourself with the neighborhood. Rest from your journey and prepare for afternoon exploration. Familiarize yourself with basic safety protocols and transportation options.
3-4 hours
$25-40 (airport transfer)
Arrange airport pickup through your hotel in advance for safety and convenience
Lunch
A traditional Venezuelan restaurant near your hotel serving arepas and pabellón criollo
Venezuelan
Budget
Afternoon
Bolivar Square and National Pantheon
Visit Bolivar Square, the historic plaza surrounded by colonial architecture and the imposing Cathedral. Walk to the nearby National Pantheon,
Venezuela's most important monument where Simón Bolívar's remains rest. The neoclassical building features stunning murals and ornate details celebrating independence heroes. Spend time absorbing the historical significance of this sacred space.
2-3 hours
$5-8 (transportation and tips)
Evening
Light dinner and early rest
Dine at a casual eatery in your hotel's neighborhood, trying cachapas or tequeños. Return early to adjust to the time zone and prepare for full days ahead.
Where to Stay Tonight
Altamira or Las Mercedes (Mid-range hotel in a safer eastern neighborhood)
These areas offer better security, dining options, and easier access to both downtown attractions and mountain excursions
Always carry small bills in bolivares for minor purchases, as change can be difficult to obtain and USD is widely accepted but often at unfavorable rates
Day 1 Budget: $50-75
Dive deeper into
Venezuela's independence history with visits to Simón Bolívar's birthplace and the Museo Boliviano, understanding the Liberator's enduring influence.
Morning
Simón Bolívar Birthplace House
Explore the colonial house where Simón Bolívar was born in 1783. This beautifully preserved museum showcases period furniture, personal artifacts, and exhibits detailing Bolívar's early life and family background. The tranquil courtyard and authentic colonial architecture transport you to 18th-century Caracas. Knowledgeable guides provide context about
Venezuela's path to independence.
2 hours
$3-5
Lunch
A colonial-area restaurant serving traditional sancocho soup and grilled meats
Venezuelan
Budget
Afternoon
Museo Boliviano and surrounding historic district
Visit the Museo Boliviano to see an extensive collection of Bolívar memorabilia, documents, and historical artifacts. The museum provides comprehensive context about the independence movement across
South America. Afterward, wander the surrounding streets to appreciate colonial architecture and observe daily life in the historic quarter.
2-3 hours
$3-5
Evening
Return to eastern Caracas for dinner
Enjoy dinner at a restaurant in Las Mercedes serving contemporary Venezuelan cuisine with international influences. Experience the more cosmopolitan side of Caracas dining.
Where to Stay Tonight
Altamira or Las Mercedes (Same hotel as Day 1)
Maintaining a consistent base in the safer eastern districts minimizes logistics while exploring various parts of the city
Photography restrictions apply in many museums; always ask permission before taking photos of exhibits or building interiors
Day 2 Budget: $45-65
Spend the day in Plaza de Los Museos, exploring
Venezuela's finest art collections and enjoying the green spaces of Los Caobos Park.
Morning
Museum of Fine Arts
Begin at the Museum of Fine Arts,
Venezuela's oldest art museum featuring extensive collections of Venezuelan and international art. Explore galleries showcasing colonial religious art, 19th-century landscapes, and modern Venezuelan masters. The museum's architecture itself is noteworthy, with natural light flooding exhibition spaces. Allow time to appreciate both permanent collections and rotating exhibitions.
2-3 hours
$3-5
Lunch
A casual café near Los Caobos Park with outdoor seating, serving empanadas and fresh juices
Venezuelan snacks and light meals
Budget
Afternoon
Contemporary Art Museum and Los Caobos Park
Visit the Contemporary Art Museum to see cutting-edge Venezuelan and Latin American art in a striking modernist building. The museum hosts thought-provoking exhibitions and installations. Afterward, stroll through Los Caobos Park, a welcome green oasis with shaded paths, tropical vegetation, and locals enjoying leisure time. The park connects several cultural institutions.
3 hours
$3-5
Evening
Dinner in Sabana Grande
Experience the bustling Boulevard de Sabana Grande area, dining at an outdoor restaurant and observing Caracas street life. Try pargo frito or other seafood dishes.
Where to Stay Tonight
Altamira or Las Mercedes (Same hotel)
Continuing to use your established base for consistency and security
Visit museums early in the week when they're typically less crowded; some museums close on Mondays, so plan accordingly
Day 3 Budget: $40-60
Ascend Caracas's iconic mountain via the Maripérez cable car station for breathtaking views and cooler mountain air at the summit.
Morning
Cable car ascent from Maripérez station
Take the Caracas cable car from Maripérez station up Warairarepano mountain. The journey offers spectacular views as you rise above the city toward the summit at over 2,100 meters. At the top, enjoy panoramic vistas of Caracas sprawling below and the Caribbean coast beyond. The temperature drops significantly, providing refreshing relief from city heat. Explore walking paths and observation points.
3-4 hours
$15-25
Arrive early to avoid crowds and ensure clearer morning views before afternoon clouds potentially obscure visibility
Lunch
The mountain-top restaurant serving hot chocolate and Venezuelan comfort food with incredible views
Venezuelan
Mid-range
Afternoon
Summit exploration and descent
Continue exploring the summit area, visiting the small chapel and taking in different viewpoints. The cooler mountain environment contrasts dramatically with the city below. Browse small souvenir stands and enjoy the unique atmosphere. Descend via cable car in the afternoon, watching the city transform as you return to lower elevation.
2 hours
Included in morning ticket
Evening
Relaxed evening in eastern Caracas
After an active day, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a restaurant in Altamira, perhaps trying Venezuelan wine or craft beer that's becoming increasingly available.
Where to Stay Tonight
Altamira or Las Mercedes (Same hotel)
Maintaining your secure base while exploring different parts of the city
Bring a jacket or sweater for the mountain summit where temperatures can be 10-15 degrees Celsius cooler than the city
Day 4 Budget: $55-80
Explore the grand Paseo Los Proceres, a monumental complex honoring independence heroes with impressive architecture and expansive grounds.
Morning
Paseo Los Proceres
Visit this magnificent monument complex featuring towering statues, fountains, and colonnades honoring
Venezuela's independence heroes. The grand neoclassical design creates a powerful sense of national pride. Walk the lengthy esplanade, examining individual monuments to different próceres (heroes) and appreciating the scale of this ambitious project. The site offers excellent photography opportunities and insight into Venezuelan historical consciousness.
2-3 hours
$5-8 (transportation)
Lunch
A nearby restaurant in the Chuao district serving international and Venezuelan fusion cuisine
Contemporary Venezuelan
Mid-range
Afternoon
Quinta de Anauco
Visit this beautifully preserved colonial hacienda, now a museum showcasing 18th and 19th-century Venezuelan life. The house features period furnishings, art, and decorative objects in authentic room settings. The gardens and architecture exemplify colonial wealth and taste. Guides provide fascinating details about daily life in colonial Caracas and the families who inhabited these grand estates.
1.5-2 hours
$3-5
Evening
Dinner in Las Mercedes
Explore the dining scene in Las Mercedes, choosing from numerous restaurants offering everything from traditional Venezuelan to Italian, Japanese, and steakhouse options.
Where to Stay Tonight
Altamira or Las Mercedes (Same hotel)
Continuing your stay in the familiar, safer eastern district
Paseo Los Proceres is best visited on weekdays when it's quieter and you can fully appreciate the monuments without crowds
Day 5 Budget: $45-65
Spend the day at Caricuao Zoo, one of
Venezuela's most important zoological parks, home to diverse native and exotic species.
Morning
Caricuao Zoo
Explore this extensive zoo featuring Venezuelan wildlife including jaguars, spectacled bears, capybaras, and numerous bird species, along with animals from other continents. The zoo emphasizes conservation and education, with naturalistic habitats set among tropical vegetation. The hilly terrain and shaded paths make for pleasant walking. Pay special attention to native Venezuelan species rarely seen elsewhere.
3-4 hours
$8-12
Lunch
The zoo's cafeteria or pack a picnic to enjoy in designated areas within the grounds
Casual snacks and meals
Budget
Afternoon
Continue zoo exploration and return to eastern Caracas
Complete your zoo visit, ensuring you see all major exhibits and perhaps catching scheduled feeding times or educational presentations. The zoo's size requires several hours to see thoroughly. Return to your hotel area in the late afternoon, perhaps stopping at a local market or shopping area to browse.
2 hours
Included in entry
Evening
Casual dinner near your hotel
After a full day walking, enjoy a relaxed dinner at a neighborhood restaurant, trying Venezuelan specialties like asado negro or hervido.
Where to Stay Tonight
Altamira or Las Mercedes (Same hotel)
Maintaining your established base in eastern Caracas
Visit the zoo on weekdays to avoid family crowds and have better animal viewing opportunities; bring sun protection as some areas have limited shade
Day 6 Budget: $40-60
Explore specialized museums focusing on design innovation and religious art, revealing different facets of Venezuelan cultural heritage.
Morning
Museo de la Estampa y del Diseño Carlos Cruz Diez
Visit this museum dedicated to printmaking and design, named after
Venezuela's renowned kinetic artist Carlos Cruz Diez. The collection showcases graphic design, prints, and visual communication from Venezuelan and international artists. The museum highlights
Venezuela's contributions to 20th-century art movements, particularly kinetic and op art. Rotating exhibitions keep the experience fresh and contemporary.
1.5-2 hours
$3-5
Lunch
A restaurant in the Parque Central area serving traditional Venezuelan lunch plates with sides
Venezuelan
Budget
Afternoon
Museo Sacro de Caracas
Explore this sacred art museum housed in a colonial building adjacent to Caracas Cathedral. The collection includes religious paintings, sculptures, vestments, and liturgical objects spanning centuries of Venezuelan Catholic heritage. Gilded altarpieces, colonial-era santos, and ornate silver pieces demonstrate the wealth and artistic patronage of the colonial church. The museum provides insight into religious life's central role in Venezuelan history.
1.5-2 hours
$3-5
Evening
Reflection dinner
Mark the end of your first week with a nice dinner at a restaurant in Altamira or Las Mercedes, perhaps trying grilled meats at a parrilla or seafood specialties.
Where to Stay Tonight
Altamira or Las Mercedes (Same hotel)
Completing your first week in your established accommodation
The Museo Sacro's collection is particularly impressive during the weeks before Easter when additional special pieces may be displayed
Day 7 Budget: $45-60
Enjoy a relaxed day at El Laguito, a recreational area centered around a scenic lake, popular with local families and joggers.
Morning
El Laguito exploration
Visit El Laguito, a pleasant urban lake surrounded by walking and jogging paths. The area offers a glimpse of everyday Caracas life as locals exercise, families picnic, and vendors sell snacks. The lake itself provides a peaceful focal point with ducks and other waterfowl. Surrounding greenery creates a refreshing environment. Walk the perimeter path, observing the neighborhood and mountain backdrop.
2-3 hours
$5 (transportation and snacks)
Lunch
A casual eatery near El Laguito serving arepas, empanadas, and fresh fruit juices
Venezuelan casual dining
Budget
Afternoon
Parque Ítalo Americano
Visit this neighborhood park offering green space, playgrounds, and recreational facilities. The park exemplifies the urban parks that provide crucial breathing room in dense Caracas neighborhoods. Observe local life, perhaps catching informal sports games or cultural events if scheduled. The park's Italian-American theme reflects
Venezuela's diverse immigrant heritage.
1.5-2 hours
$3-5 (transportation)
Evening
Dinner in your hotel neighborhood
After a relaxed day, enjoy dinner at a familiar restaurant near your hotel, perhaps returning to a favorite from earlier in the week.
Where to Stay Tonight
Altamira or Las Mercedes (Same hotel)
Continuing your stay in the secure eastern district
El Laguito is most pleasant in early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are cooler and the light is beautiful for photography
Day 8 Budget: $35-50
Venture to Cuevas Del Indio Recreational Park for outdoor activities, natural scenery, and a break from urban exploration.
Morning
Cuevas Del Indio Recreational Park
Visit this recreational park offering natural attractions including caves, hiking trails, and picnic areas. The park provides opportunities for light adventure and nature appreciation within reach of the city. Explore cave formations, walk trails through tropical vegetation, and enjoy the cooler temperatures of this elevated area. The park attracts Venezuelan families seeking weekend escapes.
3-4 hours
$10-15
Bring water, snacks, and appropriate footwear for walking on uneven terrain
Lunch
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the park's designated areas or visit the park's basic food services
Picnic or casual park food
Budget
Afternoon
Continue park exploration and return
Complete your exploration of the park's various trails and features. Take time to relax in natural surroundings before returning to the city. The contrast between urban Caracas and these recreational areas highlights the city's geographic diversity. Return to your hotel in the late afternoon.
2 hours
Included in entry
Evening
Dinner in Las Mercedes
Celebrate your outdoor day with dinner at a restaurant in Las Mercedes, perhaps trying international cuisine for variety from Venezuelan meals.
Where to Stay Tonight
Altamira or Las Mercedes (Same hotel)
Returning to your familiar base after a day trip
Recreational parks are best visited on weekdays when they're less crowded; bring insect repellent for forested areas
Day 9 Budget: $45-65
Explore Hacienda La Vega, a historic estate offering insight into
Venezuela's agricultural heritage and colonial architecture.
Morning
Hacienda La Vega
Visit this historic hacienda showcasing colonial agricultural life and architecture. The estate includes period buildings, gardens, and exhibits about coffee and cacao cultivation that formed
Venezuela's colonial economy. The property's preservation allows visitors to understand how wealthy landowners lived and how haciendas operated. The grounds provide pleasant walking and photo opportunities.
2-3 hours
$5-8
Lunch
A traditional restaurant in the La Vega area serving home-style Venezuelan cooking
Venezuelan
Budget
Afternoon
Return to Los Caobos Park for leisure time
Revisit Los Caobos Park for a relaxed afternoon enjoying the green space, perhaps reading or people-watching. The park's central location and pleasant atmosphere make it ideal for unwinding. You might explore sections missed on your first visit or simply appreciate the peaceful environment. Nearby cafés offer refreshments.
2 hours
$5 (transportation and refreshments)
Evening
Dinner in Altamira
Dine at a restaurant in Altamira, exploring this neighborhood's dining options and perhaps finding a spot with outdoor seating for pleasant evening weather.
Where to Stay Tonight
Altamira or Las Mercedes (Same hotel)
Maintaining your established accommodation base
Historic haciendas often have limited visitor facilities, so plan accordingly with water and sun protection
Day 10 Budget: $40-55
Return to Plaza de Los Museos to explore museums missed earlier or revisit favorites with fresh perspective.
Morning
Museum exploration in Plaza de Los Museos
Spend the morning exploring museums in Plaza de Los Museos that you haven't yet visited or wish to see again. The concentration of cultural institutions allows you to move easily between venues. Consider special exhibitions or sections you missed on earlier visits. The plaza itself is architecturally interesting and pleasant for strolling between museums.
3 hours
$5-8
Lunch
A café in the museum district serving sandwiches, salads, and Venezuelan specialties
Casual international and Venezuelan
Budget
Afternoon
Los Caobos Park extended exploration
Spend more time in Los Caobos Park, perhaps exploring areas you haven't fully discovered. The park's size and variety mean there's always something new to see. Enjoy the tropical vegetation, shaded paths, and local atmosphere. This is an opportunity to slow down and observe daily Caracas life in a pleasant setting.
2 hours
$3-5
Evening
Dinner near your hotel
Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a restaurant you've come to appreciate during your stay, savoring familiar flavors and atmosphere.
Where to Stay Tonight
Altamira or Las Mercedes (Same hotel)
Continuing your stay in the eastern district
Museum shops often sell unique Venezuelan art books and crafts that make excellent souvenirs and are typically priced reasonably
Day 11 Budget: $40-60
Make a second ascent of Warairarepano to experience the mountain at different times or weather conditions, or explore different trails.
Morning
Second Warairarepano cable car journey
Return to Maripérez station for another cable car ascent, experiencing the mountain with the knowledge gained from your first visit. You might see different weather conditions, clearer or cloudier views, or simply want to spend more time at the summit. Explore walking paths you missed previously or revisit favorite viewpoints. The mountain experience varies significantly with weather and time of day.
3-4 hours
$15-25
Lunch
The summit restaurant again, or descend for lunch at a restaurant near the cable car base station
Venezuelan
Mid-range
Afternoon
Neighborhood exploration near Maripérez
After descending, explore the neighborhoods around the cable car base station. This area offers insight into residential Caracas and local commerce. Browse small shops, observe daily life, and perhaps visit a local market. The contrast between tourist attractions and everyday neighborhoods enriches your understanding of the city.
2 hours
$5-8
Evening
Dinner in Las Mercedes
Return to Las Mercedes for dinner, perhaps trying a restaurant you've been curious about throughout your stay.
Where to Stay Tonight
Altamira or Las Mercedes (Same hotel)
Maintaining your accommodation base as your trip nears its end
A second mountain visit often provides clearer understanding of Caracas's geography and how the city sprawls from mountains to coast
Day 12 Budget: $50-75
Revisit favorite sites, complete any missed attractions, and begin preparing for departure while soaking in final impressions of Caracas.
Morning
Revisit favorite location or complete missed attraction
Use this morning to return to a location that particularly resonated with you, whether Bolivar Square, a favorite museum, or a peaceful park. Alternatively, visit any attraction from your list that you haven't yet seen. This flexibility allows you to prioritize based on your interests and energy level as your trip concludes.
2-3 hours
$5-10
Lunch
Return to your favorite restaurant from the trip for a farewell meal
Venezuelan
Mid-range
Afternoon
Souvenir shopping and final wandering
Browse shops for souvenirs, Venezuelan crafts, coffee, chocolate, or other items to bring home. Visit a local market or artisan shops to find authentic products. Take final walks through neighborhoods you've come to know, capturing last photos and absorbing the atmosphere. Begin packing and organizing for departure.
2-3 hours
$20-40 (souvenirs)
Evening
Farewell dinner
Enjoy a special farewell dinner at a restaurant in Altamira or Las Mercedes, reflecting on your two weeks in Caracas and savoring final Venezuelan flavors.
Where to Stay Tonight
Altamira or Las Mercedes (Same hotel)
Your final night in your established accommodation
Venezuelan coffee and chocolate make excellent gifts; purchase from reputable shops to ensure quality and proper packaging for travel
Day 13 Budget: $55-80
Final morning in Caracas before departing, with time for last-minute activities depending on your flight schedule.
Morning
Final breakfast and hotel checkout
Enjoy a final Venezuelan breakfast at your hotel or a nearby café. Complete checkout procedures, ensuring you have all belongings and necessary documents. If time permits before your airport transfer, take a last walk through your neighborhood, visiting a final café or simply absorbing the atmosphere one more time.
2-3 hours
$10-15
Lunch
Light meal at the airport or near your hotel before departure, depending on flight time
Venezuelan or international
Budget
Afternoon
Airport transfer and departure
Transfer to Simón Bolívar International Airport with adequate time for check-in, security, and any airport procedures. Allow extra time as airport processes can be unpredictable. Reflect on your two weeks exploring Caracas as you depart, carrying memories of this complex, challenging, and fascinating city.
Varies by flight time
$25-40 (airport transfer)
Arrange airport transfer through your hotel for reliability and security
Evening
Departure
Depart Caracas with deeper understanding of Venezuelan culture, history, and the resilience of its people.
Where to Stay Tonight
N/A (N/A)
Departure day
Arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before international flights; airport facilities are limited so don't expect extensive dining or shopping options
Day 14 Budget: $40-60