With its staggering topography, dizzying altitude and vibrant cultural activity, La Paz is a beautiful and fun place to visit. The expansive cityscape stretches across mountainsides and valleys, against a stunning backdrop of snow-capped peaks. A hotspot for tourists and backpackers, this Bolivian city comes alive after sunset with a thriving nightlife. Our insiders have got the goods, so see below for the local scoop.
Unique city views from the top floor of the Europa Hotel (the stairs are worth it, we promise) make this an unmissable offering in La Paz. The view makes the city feel cosmopolitan. Often missed even by those staying at the hotel, this place is often quiet, making it a tranquil spot to escape the crowds and have a quiet drink with friends. Recommended by local insider Andrea Puente Mancilla
Named after the Bolivian area code, +591 Bar, on the seventh floor of the Atix Hotel, is passionate about the homeland with cocktails inspired by the flavors, cultures and stories of Bolivia. Try the San Mateo of vodka, grapefruit soda, cherry juice, lemon and bitters, or the Singani Sour with lemon, sugar, bitters and egg white. Take a tour of the hotel’s art exhibitions, or just head straight for a seat at the poolside bar. Recommended by local insider Andrea Puente Mancilla
In Sopocachi, you’ll find magic(k). Heralded as one of Bolivia’s coolest cafés, this spot has a team dedicated to using local and national ingredients to create a balanced menu of international and Bolivian dishes. The menu is as colorful and thoughtful as the laidback, fun decor. The food is spot-on, with sourdough bread making up the sandwiches, and salads with quinoa and amaranth to make you feel good. Don’t be surprised if you swing by for an evening drink and find a flamenco show or local band performing. Recommended by local insider Andrea Puente Mancilla
This spot has pizzas with a Bolivian flair and good cocktails from the wizard behind the bar. Enjoy your classic margarita pizza with views of the Illimani mountain – the views here rock. Close to Mirador Kili Kili, the Tata Café Pizza Bar is a great place to grab a bite before your trip up, or reward yourself with a cocktail afterwards. Recommended by local insider Andrea Puente Mancilla
Bolivians love dancing, drinking and live music, and Selina serves up all three with panache. This spot has colorful art on the walls, a global clientele thanks to the hostel upstairs, and a host of local musicians bring music to tap your feet or dance to until the 4am curfew. The cocktail menu is extensive, with local spirits taking pride of place, allowing you to travel Bolivia via your tastebuds. A wide variety of folk drink here, making it easy to strike up a conversation at the bar with your (new) friends. Recommended by local insider Shania Brassard
Malegria brings the vibes to La Paz, and it’s a hotspot for the city’s movers and shakers. It’s packed with dancers from midnight each evening, so the drinks and music will always be flowing. With an ever-changing roster of events, head here on a Thursday for the Afro-Bolivian saya and dance the night away! When you’ve worked up a hunger, the pizzas are top-notch and the bartender artfully blends the freshest flavors with the best liqueurs into, frankly, divine cocktails. Recommended by local insider Sabrina Morreale
This is an update of an article by Shaahin Pishbin