The BEST Cities to Visit in Colombia – UPDATED For 2025!

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.

Here’s a look at my picks for the best cities to visit in Colombia – a mix of icons, underrated gems, and everything in between.

Bogotá hits you with that high-altitude intensity – locals walk faster, talk louder, and the street art literally covers entire building facades. While Cartagena slows you down to Caribbean time, where a 20-minute coffee becomes a 2-hour people-watching session.

A trip to Colombia wouldn’t be complete without visiting these incredible places. Let’s go!

1. Bogota

Bogotá gets the short end of the stick compared to Medellín’s perfect weather or Cartagena’s postcard beaches, but that’s their loss. Colombia’s capital is gritty, and packed with serious attitude, and high altitude. Three days at 2,640 meters above, and I was still getting winded climbing the hostel stairs. But surprisingly, there’s actually a lot to do in Bogota.

Then the weather – it changes faster than you can say “Bogo- what the?!” Brilliant sunshine at 9 AM, then fog rolling down from the Andes by 2 PM. My hostel owner warned me: “Always carry a jacket.” I learned this the hard way after getting soaked near the Gold Museum, shivering in a useless cotton t-shirt.

What hooked me was the creative energy. I counted over 200 murals in La Candelaria (one of the best areas to stay in) in one afternoon. Unlike the polished street art in Buenos Aires, Bogotá’s feels raw and rich. Local artists say the pieces change weekly, making every walk a different visual experience.

Best Things to Do in Bogota

• Take a Bogotá Graffiti Tour. This was hands-down one of the best walking tours I’ve done anywhere. The guide was superb and very informative. Every mural had a story – politics, protest, or pure creativity.
• Visit the Gold Museum and ride the cable car up to Monserrate. Book a guided city tour to see the best of everything – the Gold Museum (remember the legend of El Dorado?) and the monastery at the top of Monserrate. But the main attraction is that panoramic skyline and the views over Bogotá are unreal, especially at sunset.
• Taste some of the best craft beers in Bogotá and learn about the Colombian beer culture and its rich history.
• Local tip: Walk La Candelaria’s cobbled streets – colourful colonial houses, edgy street art, traditional fruit-tasting, and cool little cafés everywhere.

Where to Stay in Bogota

• Hostel – The HiPinto Social Experience – I had an absolute blast at The HiPinto. Every night felt like a party with drinking games, dinners, and wild club crawls. I met so many fun people – travellers, volunteers, even the staff were awesome. It’s not the place to chill, but if you’re after social vibes and nightlife, it’s perfect.
• Hotel – Urban Heights Bogota – This place ticks all the boxes – spotlessly clean, quiet, and in a great, walkable location with cafés and shops nearby. The rooms are bright, spacious, and well-equipped, with thoughtful touches like a space heater on cold nights. The staff are friendly and helpful, making it a safe, comfortable stay all around.
• Airbnb – 72Hub By Jalo – This Airbnb has modern comfort with standout amenities in the building, like a gym, sauna, and rooftop lounge. Friendly staff, beautiful surroundings and a polished vibe. There’s some noise that comes from being located in the city centre, but overall, it’s a solid stay just a short drive from Bogotá’s best spots.

Best time to visit Bogota

Seasons in Bogotá? Nah. It’s spring-like year-round, but with unpredictable rain. December to March and July to August are the driest months and best for walking tours and hikes. Bring layers as mornings and nights can get chilly thanks to the altitude, and a rain jacket is a must pretty much any time of year.

2. Cartagena

Cartagena is Colombia’s Caribbean crown jewel – a city that feels more like a movie set than a real place. Think crumbling colonial mansions in pastel colours, horse-drawn carriages trotting past bougainvillaea-covered balconies, and the smell of arepas and sea salt drifting through the air.

Cartagena nearly melted me. It’s stupidly hot and humid as hell, but that sticky heat is half the charm. The city operates on island time compared to the chaos of Bogotá or Medellín. You’ll find yourself sipping ice-cold coconut lemonades in shaded plazas and watching epic sunsets from the ancient city walls, amongst many of the things to do here.

The real magic happens in places like Getsemaní late at night. That’s when tourist crowds retreat, and local families emerge onto stoops, starting authentic salsa and going on until the wee hours of the morning. If you wander away from the postcard-perfect spots and into the lived-in corners of the city, you’ll get to see the real charm of Cartagena.

Best Things to Do in Cartagena

• Wander the Walled City. Yes, it’s popular, and for good reason. There’s vibrant colonial architecture, street musicians, boutique shops, and photo ops at every turn. Early mornings are the best time to beat the crowds.
• Do a street food tour – come hungry! What could be a more perfect way of exploring the streets of Cartagena than by tasting the delicious local delicacies?
• Take a boat tour to the Rosario Islands. Crystal-clear waters and white-sand beaches just 45 minutes from the city. Great for a day of snorkelling and swimming.
• Dive into Totumo Mud Volcano. Take a half-day tour to the mud volcano and soak in the mineral-infused mud for some special healing therapy.
• Free/local tip: Visit Mercado de Bazurto – Cartagena’s labyrinthine central market. It’s gritty, chaotic, and not for the faint of heart, but a great place to see the city beyond the tourist bubble.

Where to Stay in Cartagena

• Hostel – Los Patios Hostel – This hostel blends vibrant Caribbean flair with cultural roots in a beautifully restored historic home. With rooftop pools, coworking spaces, and a buzzing social atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to stay if you’re seeking connection and comfort. Staff go above and beyond. Be ready to splurge a little on drinks at the bar.
• Hotel – Habitaciones cerca al aeropuerto 2 – This cosy guesthouse near Cartagena Airport feels like home, with thoughtful touches that show real care from the host. Just a short walk from the airport, it’s ideal for early flights or short stays. It’s quiet, well-equipped, and super convenient, plus the friendly staff and spotless rooms make it even better.
• Airbnb – Nenka’s Loft 2 – You wouldn’t pick a better place than this cute loft. It was peaceful yet close to all the action and in a perfect location for exploring the walled city and Getsemani. I went with friends and we got everything we needed. Kelly, our host, was incredibly responsive and helpful. Highly recommend.

Best time to visit Cartagena

Cartagena is hot year-round, with temperatures hovering around 30°C (86°F) and humidity to match. December to April is the dry season. It’s great for beach days and boat tours. May through November you’ll see more rain and fewer tourists. If you can, avoid Holy Week and Christmas, when prices and crowds both go up. Months like February or late August are usually ideal for visiting Cartagena.

3. Medellin

I’d heard travellers rave about Medellín’s “perfect weather” for months, so I braced for disappointment. But the hype was real. For three straight weeks, my weather app showed 23 to 26°C every single day. No jackets. No sweating. No altitude adjustment like Bogotá. Just consistent, spring-like perfection that makes walking, hiking, and getting lost in the city feel effortless. I was honestly thriving whilst backpacking in Medellín.

The metro system sealed it for me. After Bogotá’s chaotic TransMilenio buses, Medellín’s trains felt like a glimpse into the future – clean, efficient, and always on time. I never waited more than four minutes. And the cable cars that glide up into the hills? Not tourist gimmicks. Actual public transport for locals in the hillside barrios.

What really stood out to me was how the city mixes modern development with local culture. You’ll find trendy coffee shops and rooftop bars in El Poblado (one of the best areas to stay), but also powerful street art and community-led projects in places like Comuna 13. Medellín feels like a city that’s constantly moving forward but hasn’t lost its roots.

Best Things to Do in Medellín

• Ride on the Metrocable. The views on the cable car ride are next-level, and it’s all part of the public transport system. You’ll glide over the city’s barrios and see Medellín from a whole new angle.
• Visit Comuna 13. Once one of the city’s most dangerous neighbourhoods, it’s now a hub of street art, music, and community tours. Join a locally led graffiti tour to understand the transformation.
• Explore Parque Arví, a huge nature reserve accessible via cable car. Perfect for a day hike or picnic away from the city buzz.
• Sample delicious Colombian coffee and learn the coffee production process at a coffee farm.
• Free/local tip: Hop between local arepa joints in Laureles. Less touristy than El Poblado, this neighbourhood has chill cafés, parks, and amazing street food.

Where to Stay in Medellín

• Hostel – Medellín Vibes Hostel – This hostel will strike the perfect balance – social but not overwhelming. The pool and bar area have great energy, but things quiet down by 10 pm, which people really appreciate. The place is spotless, the breakfast is tasty, and the staff are super friendly. A great base near El Poblado for exploring the city.
• Hotel – Faranda Collection Medellin – Stayed here and found the room spacious and super comfortable. It has a lovely rooftop restaurant and a delicious breakfast. The hotel itself is a true gem – modern, and filled with relaxing spots like a spa and jacuzzi with stunning city views.
• Airbnb – Cosy loft – This comfortable loft offers a vibrant stay in one of the city’s best neighbourhoods, with top restaurants and bars within walking distance. The windows are soundproof, so you’re sure to have peaceful nights despite the lively area. The place is a clean, modern space with a 24/7 helpful front desk, fast Wi-Fi, and responsive staff.

Best time to visit Medellín

Thanks to its altitude, Medellín has pleasant weather year-round. That said, December to March and July to August tend to be drier, with more festivals and outdoor events. I visited during Feria de las Flores in August, and the whole city was buzzing with music, parades, and flower displays. Avoid April and May if you hate rain, as there will be frequent showers. Having said that, the city is a must-visit.

4. Manizales

Manizales wasn’t on my original Colombia itinerary. I only ended up here because my bus from Medellín broke down halfway, and the replacement dropped us at this mountain university town at midnight. Best travel accident ever. Turns out, it’s one of the best places to visit in Colombia!

This city doesn’t see as many backpackers as Salento or Medellín, but that’s part of the appeal – it feels lived-in, local, and real. Built on a steep ridge in the Andes, the city’s streets twist and climb in every direction. I learned to take the cable car instead of walking uphill with my backpack after nearly collapsing on day one.

The coffee here ruined me for anywhere else. I mean, Manizales is known for its high-quality aromatic coffee, thanks to the high-altitude conditions it grows. I’m talking about a cup of coffee that rivals anything I’ve had in speciality shops worldwide. The aroma alone would get me out of bed. And what’s more awesome is Manizales’ commitment to sustainable and ethical production methods.

Best Things to Do in Manizales

• Visit a coffee farm (finca). Some of the best in Colombia are just outside the city. Hacienda Venecia offers day tours with hands-on roasting demos, or you can stay overnight in the countryside.
• Take the cable car. It connects the city’s districts and offers awesome views of the surrounding hills. Super cheap, super scenic, and very local.
• Soak in Termales El Otoño. These thermal baths are a short drive from town, surrounded by trees and misty mountain air that is ideal for a post-hike soak.
• Free/local tip: Hike up to Chipre Viewpoint at sunset. Locals gather here to snack, chill, and watch the sky turn pink over the valley. Great spot for photography

Where to Stay in Manizales

• Hostel – Golden Frog Mountain Hostel – This charming hostel/hotel has a central location, spotless kitchen, and comfy beds. The friendly host goes above and beyond, like offering free luggage storage. It’s perfect if you want to explore nearby salsa spots and join communal meals. Highly recommended for a confident, fun stay!
• Hotel – Hotel Adel – I loved how modern and clean the rooms were, with plenty of counter space to stay organised. Being so close to the bus terminal and cable car made getting around a breeze. The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful. They gave great local tips. The secure entry and free coffee were nice touches that made me feel right at home in Manizales.
• Airbnb – Close to Airport – This apartment offers a good location and beautiful views with sunlight flooding every room. It is well-equipped with necessary appliances – the maintenance is impeccable. The host is friendly and helpful, as are the people of Manizales warm and polite. The area is quiet and peaceful.

Best time to visit Manizales

Manizales has a cooler climate than Colombia’s bigger cities, thanks to its altitude. December to February and July to September are the driest and best for outdoor adventures. I visited in January during the Feria de Manizales – the biggest festival of the year, and the city was packed with parades and concerts. If you’re after peace and coffee trails, come outside festival season and bring a jacket, as the nights can get chilly.

5. Santa Marta

Santa Marta nearly broke my Colombia budget, but I couldn’t leave. This Caribbean coastal city is wedged between jungle-covered mountains and white sand beaches –  a combination I hadn’t found anywhere else in South America. The heat here is different from Cartagena’s humidity. Ocean breezes off the Caribbean keep temperatures around 32°C and bearable, especially in the historic centre, where colonial buildings create natural shade.

I used Santa Marta as my base for everything on the Caribbean coast: Tayrona, Minca, Palomino, even the start of my Lost City trek. And after hiking through the jungle or catching colectivo buses through the dusty towns, coming back to cheap empanadas, cold beers, and a hammock by the pool was all I needed. It’s low-key, but totally practical. Sometimes that’s exactly what a traveller needs.

Best Things to Do in Santa Marta

• Make a full-day trip to Tayrona National Park and treat your eyes to some gorgeous Colombian nature.  You can visit on a day trip or spend the night in a hammock or eco-lodge near the beach. The hike to Cabo San Juan takes around 2–3 hours – sweaty but scenic.
• Start the Lost City Trek (Ciudad Perdida) to explore the older-than-Machu, Tayrona city. This 4-day trek through the jungle, mountains and rivers is tough but unforgettable.
• Fancy a sailboat ride? With fresh seafood? Snorkelling?  And the beach?
• Old town and city tours are my favourite, so do check this one out.
• Free/local tip: Head to Mercado Público early in the morning for fresh fruit, cheap empanadas, and a real slice of coastal Colombian life.

Where to Stay in Santa Marta

• Hostel – Playa del Ritmo – This is a peaceful beachfront hostel on Santa Marta’s quiet Cabo Tortuga beach. It is ideal if you want a relaxed vibe, as there’s a laid-back energy, beachside bar, and friendly staff. Between yoga, sunsets, paddleboarding, and playful pets, it’s a perfect escape just minutes from the city buzz.
• Hotel – Comunidad Calle 13 Hotel Boutique – The check-in was seamless. The room was spacious, had a big shower, and powerful AC, which were perfect for the heat. Breakfast was honestly one of the best I’ve had. The staff was very helpful and accommodating. Highly recommend staying here.
• Airbnb – Incredible apto 2 hab – This stylish, modern loft puts you right in the heart of Santa Marta’s tourist zone. It is just steps from Parque de los Novios and the marina, with shops, restaurants, bars, and everything you need nearby. Ideal for exploring the city with ease while enjoying a cosy and convenient home base.

Best Time to Visit Santa Marta

December to April is the dry season, which is perfect for beach time, jungle hikes, and multi-day treks. Expect sunshine and high temps (30–32°C or 86–90°F). May to November brings heavier rains and humidity, especially in the Sierra. That said, Tayrona stays open most of the year (except for its annual closures, usually in February). Pack light, breathable clothing, and prepare to sweat.

Get insured for your trip to Colombia

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Colombia’s cities offer an incredible tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty that will captivate every kind of traveller.

From the vibrant, narrow streets of Bogota to the roaring Caribbean vibe of Cartagena, each city reveals a unique side of this diverse country. Whether you’re drawn to historic old towns, stunning architecture, or pristine coastline, Colombia’s urban gems provide endless inspiration and discovery.

What’s your favourite Colombian city? Share your experiences in the comments below. We’d love to hear which city stole your heart!

A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links, since we’ve decided to keep the site ad-free. So here it is!

You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂