Caracas

Mountains and walking trails, historic architecture, beaches and late-night music make Venezuela’s capital one of the country’s most popular cities.

Fast-paced, modern and cosmopolitan, Caracas is one of Latin America's most progressive cities. Amid modern skyscrapers explore rich cultural experiences, hundreds of years of history and a lively nightlife.

Enjoy the Venezuelan capital’s art, history and science. See Latin American, European and North American works at the Museo de Bellas Artes. Learn about the country’s archeology and anthropology at the Museo de Ciencias. Under the gold domes of Capitolio Nacional, view murals of the decisive battle that led to Venezuela’s independence from Spain.

Heroes of the country’s independence are honored along the Paseo de los Proceres, a 1.4-mile-long (2-kilometer) avenue. Amid fountains, plazas and walkways are statues and monuments dedicated to important historic figures.

Caracas is surrounded by the natural beauty of a valley under Avila Mountain. Enjoy a brief escape from urban sprawl by hiking along Avila National Park’s green slopes. Take the cable car that runs all the way from the city to the mountainous region.

You can also enjoy nature inside the city’s green spaces. East Park, one of Caracas’s most popular recreational spots, is officially named Generalissimo Francisco de Miranda Park after one of Venezuela’s national heroes. Stroll through forested areas, unwind by its lakes and visit a zoo. For more scenic beauty, visit Caracas’s Caribbean beaches, a 30-minute drive from the city.

Caraquenians have a love of long nights; many of the bars, clubs and live music venues stay open until daybreak. Find the best late-night spots in Las Mercedes, Altamira and El Rosal.

Reach Caracas by flying into Simón Bolívar International Airport, 16 miles (26 kilometers) from the city. Rent a car or use the very convenient metro system to get around. Two types of buses operate in the city: public and more expensive and less well-maintained private minibuses. Taxis are ubiquitous and unmetered so you will need to hone your haggling skills; set a price with the driver before you get in.

Visit Caracas year-round to enjoy its pleasant tropical climate.