La Paz, Bolivia, perched at an elevation of 3,650 meters (11,975 feet), is the world's highest capital city and offers couples a unique blend of culture, adventure, and romance – all within a vibrant urban setting surrounded by the Andes mountains.
To reach La Paz, you’ll likely fly into El Alto International Airport (LPB), just 30 minutes from the city center. From the airport, take the Aeropuerto Express bus (30 BOB or about $4.30 USD) which runs every 30 minutes to the city center. Once in La Paz, the best way to navigate is by using the Mi Teleférico cable car system, which offers stunning views and costs around 3 BOB (about $0.43 USD) per ride.
For local travel, taxis and ride-sharing apps like Uber are popular. A typical taxi ride within the city ranges from 15 BOB to 25 BOB ($2.15 to $3.60 USD). Be sure to negotiate the fare beforehand or use the app to avoid confusion. For a more authentic experience, consider taking the number 210 microbus from Plaza San Francisco to Valle de la Luna for about 2 BOB (30 cents USD) each way.
For a romantic stay, consider Hotel Rosario in the historic center, where doubles start around 450 BOB ($65 USD) per night. This hotel combines local charm with modern amenities, including a beautiful rooftop terrace. For a more luxurious experience, head to Casa Grande Suites in the upscale neighborhood of San Jorge, with rates starting at 800 BOB ($115 USD) per night, featuring spacious rooms and a top-notch spa.
If you’re on a budget, check out the quaint Hostal Patrimonio, where prices begin at 150 BOB ($22 USD) per night. This cozy spot is centrally located, and you can enjoy complimentary breakfast. Regardless of your choice, booking in advance is advisable, especially during peak tourist seasons from June to September.
La Paz is a culinary delight, with plenty of options to explore with your partner. Start your day at Café de la India, where you can enjoy a traditional Bolivian breakfast of salteñas (meat-filled pastries) for about 15 BOB ($2.15 USD). For lunch, try the popular Mercado Lanza, where you’ll find stalls serving hearty plates of pique macho—a beef and sausage dish topped with fries and colorful sauces—at prices around 30 BOB ($4.30 USD).
For a romantic dinner, head to Gustu in the Sopocachi neighborhood, where you can savor gourmet Bolivian cuisine. Tasting menus start at around 320 BOB ($46 USD). Alternatively, experience the rooftop dining at Hotel Atix, offering a view of the city and mountains; a main course here will cost around 120 BOB ($17 USD). Don’t forget to sample local wines and the national drink, Singani, which is a perfect complement to your meals!
Start your romantic adventure with a stroll through the Witches' Market (Mercado de las Brujas), where you can purchase handmade crafts and traditional medicinal herbs. Engage with local traditions, and perhaps buy a small amulet as a token of your journey together. Afterward, don’t miss the Valle de la Luna, a surreal landscape of eroded rock formations. You can take the microbus as mentioned earlier; entrance fees are about 15 BOB ($2.15 USD) per person.
For a unique experience, schedule a day trip to Lake Titicaca, just a few hours away. Book a tour from La Paz to visit Isla del Sol and Isla de la Luna, where you can hike and explore ancient Inca ruins. Tours typically start around 150 BOB ($22 USD) per person and include transportation and lunch. Finally, conclude your evening at one of the trendy bars in Sopocachi, like the Al Pacino bar, known for its creative cocktails and cozy ambiance.
La Paz can be overwhelming, but with a few tips, you can make the most of your visit.
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Aeropuerto Express Bus | 30 BOB ($4.30 USD) | 30-minute ride to the city center |
| Mi Teleférico ride | 3 BOB ($0.43 USD) | Stunning aerial views, easy access around the city |
| Salteña at Café de la India | 15 BOB ($2.15 USD) | A delicious local breakfast option |
| Lunch at Mercado Lanza | 30 BOB ($4.30 USD) | Hearty local dishes like pique macho |
| Valle de la Luna entrance fee | 15 BOB ($2.15 USD) | Explore a unique, otherworldly landscape |
| Tasting menu at Gustu | 320 BOB ($46 USD) | Romantic dinner with gourmet Bolivian cuisine |
| Day trip to Lake Titicaca | 150 BOB ($22 USD) | Includes transportation and lunch |
Use this rough planner to sanity-check the total trip cost before you lock flights, hotels or activities.
The best time for couples to visit La Paz is during the dry season, from May to September. During these months, you can expect clear skies and mild temperatures, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. However, if you prefer fewer crowds, consider visiting in April or October, when the weather is still pleasant and the city is less busy.
While La Paz is generally safe for couples, it's essential to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas. Avoid flashy jewelry and keep your belongings secure. Stick to well-lit streets at night and consider using reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps. By taking standard safety precautions, you can enjoy a romantic and worry-free experience in this vibrant city.
Traveler comments
Add a route note, correction, timing tip or question for this guide.