25 Cities in Colombia That Will Steal Your Heart

No matter your traveling style, the cities in Colombia are ready to impress you. With six distinct regions, Colombia offers variety for all.

Beachside cities? Check. 
Modern metropolises? Got them. 
Luscious jungle towns? Yup. 

Whether you want to explore hiking trails, mouth-watering eats, or the country’s rich history, there’s a perfect city just for you. Columbia is, by far, one of the best countries I’ve visited on my South America trip, and you’ll soon find out why.

In this blog, we’re counting down the top urban areas in each region, what makes them unique, and why you need to visit ASAP. Get your backpack out. You’ll be booking your ticket in minutes. 

Andean Region

Welcome to Colombia! Our first stop is the Andean region, which contains mountains, urban centers, and most of the country’s population. 

1. Bogota

Forget looking for the biggest cities in Colombia. Bogota is one of the largest on the continent!

Colombia’s capital is home to over nine million residents, an international airport, and a gorgeous historic center — the La Candelaria neighborhood. Here, you can explore beautiful cathedrals, churches, and museums. Don’t miss the Gold Museum, a spot dedicated to the country’s indigenous history. The Modern Art Museum of Bogota was my highlight.

But museums and churches aren’t the only activities here. Spend an evening in the Zona Rosa and watch the city come alive. The best bars, restaurants, breweries, and clubs are packed into this hip spot.

Pro tip: Bogota is 2,640 m (8,660 ft) above sea level. Bring a jacket or jumper.

Ready to start your journey? Consider Bogota to Medellin (1-hour flight/10-hour bus) to get the party started.

2. Medellin

Ignore everything you think you know about Medellin. Though this city is known for its drug-addled past, it has completely transformed in the last 15 years. 

Today, two million people thrive here, and the tourism industry is booming. It’s also home to some of Colombia’s best nightlife. Head to the Poblado neighborhood to enjoy lively reggaeton clubs, buzzing bars, and delicious plates. This vibrant area is perhaps the best place to visit in Colombia for singles, thanks to its friendly vibe and safety.

Other top activities in Medellin include:

• Chilling in the botanical gardens
• Medellin Museum of Modern Art
• The festival of flowers
• Botero Plaza
• Riding the Metro Cables

There’s a lot to do in this city. I ended up staying for over a month. So, make sure you have ample time to explore. 

Don’t Miss: Take a day trip to El Penon de Guatape, an impressive 200-meter-tall granite rock with a 740-step climb. It may sound exhausting, but the views from the top will bring you back to life. 

Medellin to Guatape takes around two hours via car or minivan.

3. Cali

Fancy a bit of salsa? No, not the food. The dance. 

The jump from Medellin to Cali to continue your city hopping. It takes 55 minutes via plane or nine hours via bus. 

Cali is situated on the western side of Colombia and is known as the world capital of salsa. You can twist and turn all night or take classes with experts if you need to practice your steps. 

Exquisite dancing isn’t the only thing to do here, though. Cali has a stunning historic center, Afro-Colombian culture, and awe-inspiring museums. 

It’s also a landing place for anyone visiting the coffee triangle between Medellin and Cali. 

Don’t Miss: Spend a few nights discovering the UNESCO World Heritage Site of San Agustin, a small town approximately five hours away via car or taxi. It’s known for its prehistoric megalithic sculptures. 

However, it’s further off the beaten path, and in my experience, the buses here can be confusing. While you might not experience the bus breaking down like I did, patching together local buses is tricky. If you’re new to traveling or have rusty Spanish skills, it might be one to skip.

4. Salento 

Salento hasn’t been on the map for long, but it’s instantly become a favorite destination. 

That’s right. This coffee country area was a no-go for tourists a couple of decades ago. But today, it’s a staple on the backpacking circuit. From hikes through Valle de Cocora to authentic coffee tours, Salento is the town to stay in to unlock those wonders. And yes, this is the place with the extremely tall palm trees.

This coffee town was the only one I had time to visit, but I was glad I did. Nothing beats riding through the thick jungle on the back of a truck!

Salento is quaint and small. But worth spending some time in to sample local foods or admire the classic architecture. Plus, you’ll need a place to crash after all the cool tours.

5. Manizales 

The coffee region is home to many gems, including Manizales. 

This neoclassical city lies between lush green mountains and is home to a large student population — ideal if you want to explore an exciting nightlife scene. 

Sadly, many of Manizales’ attractions and old buildings were destroyed by a tragic fire and numerous earthquakes over the years. But it’s looking up for this city, as it’s quickly becoming one of the most popular coffee town stops.

Pro tip: Visit the Nevado del Ruiz volcano from here.

6. Armenia 

It’s only a quick 3-hour bus from Manizales to Armenia to continue your coffee tour.

In Armenia, like other coffee region dwellings, you’ll find gorgeous buildings and coffee tours. What makes Armenia different is its Parque de la Vida, a park equipped with a roller-skating arena and a lake.  

If you have ample time and love caffeine, Armenia is another coffee region town to enjoy. 

Want to keep the good vibes and caffeine going? Armenia to Pereira takes one hour via car or two hours by bus. 

7. Pereira 

Pereira is another coffee region gem, and this is the place to go if arabica beans are your favorite for a morning cuppa.

This town is calm and beautiful — ideal for an overnight stay while visiting Colombia’s Coffee Axis. 

Top sights include Bolivar Square, the Our Lady of Poverty Cathedral, and the Pereira Art Museum.

8. Jardin

Most major cities in Colombia are quickly transforming. However, Jardin always stays the same. Almost as if untouched by time, it offers charming views and picturesque streets reminiscent of a distant era. From the primary square to the basilica, this is a photographer’s dream.

Jardin isn’t just a pretty face, though. You can also escape to the nearby hills to discover unblemished hiking trails and hidden waterfalls. Perfect for a break in between big cities. 

Want to reach this pristine town? You can get from Medellin to Jardin in three hours via bus.

9. Villa de Leyva

In the Andean region, you’ll find Villa de Leyva, a quiet oasis with cobblestone streets and white buildings. 

This isn’t a party hotspot, but it’s still worth a visit. Here, you’ll find the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary (a 17th-century parish church), the Paleontological Museum with genuine dinosaur fossils, and the history-fuelled Antonio Narino House Museum.

And, of course, because Villa de Leyva is in the Andes, you can fill your days with hiking and mountain biking. Sublime.

10. Popayan

You can’t truly get to know Colombia without exploring the diverse food scene. And Popyan is one of the most popular cities in Colombia for sampling some grub.

Deemed a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, this whitewashed city produces the best empanadas de pipian (peanut and potato pastries), tamales, and many more street food variations. 

You’ll only need to spend a few days here, but your taste buds will thank you. You can skip from Popayan to Bogota in a quick 1-hour flight. 

11. Bucaramanga

Bucaramanga is an excellent example of a thriving Colombian city. 

It’s not as tourist-centric as Medellin or Bogota, but it is home to beautiful colonial buildings, skyscrapers, parks, and a multitude of bars and clubs. 

Though it’s not one of the main cities in Colombia, Bucaramanga is worth a stay if you have some spare time. 

Stay here on the way to the Caribbean coast. Burcaramanga to Cartagena takes 14 hours via bus or 12 hours by car. Or, from Medellin, it’s only a one-hour flight.

12. San Gil

Okay — San Gil isn’t exactly a city. It’s a small town. But this Andean spot should be on your roadmap, especially if you’re an adrenaline junkie. 

Enveloped in nature and home to a gorgeous cathedral, San Gil wins the hearts of all visitors. The real fun starts with the many adventure tours in the Andes mountains. 

Popular options include:

• Trekking
• White-water rafting
• Paragliding
• Caving
• Biking

It is a great stop for anyone who wants to explore nature in a non-traditional way. 

You can get from Bucaramanga to San Gil via a 3-hour bus.  

13. Ibague

You’ll find Ibague deep in the center of the Colombian Andes, surrounded by hills, green spaces, and colonial buildings. 

This is a hub for coffee and textile production, but it’s also dubbed the “Musical Capital’ of Colombia due to the many folklore performances. Truly a place you should visit if you want to feel the warmth of Colombian culture.

14. Cucuta

Cúcuta (AKA San Jose de Cucuta) isn’t one of the most visited cities in Colombia, but it’s slowly growing in popularity, and it’s somewhere you should consider. 

Located in the eastern Andes next to the Venezuelan border, Cucuta is a commercial city with several prominent universities. Landmarks include the Battle of Cucuta Monument, the old Clock Tower, and Villa del Rosario. 

15. Pasto

Only a 1.5-hour drive from the Ecuadorian border, Pasto is a small city with a cool climate. 

Typically, you only pass through Pasto on the way to the Ipiales border point. So, don’t worry if you can’t cram this city into your schedule.

However, it has some pretty colonial buildings, an exciting downtown area, and it’s very close to the Lagune de la Cocha. 

Caribbean Region

Next, we’re going to the Caribbean region. Get ready for historic sites, beautiful beaches, and delicious food. 

16. Cartagena de Indias

The top cities in Colombia all offer something unique, and Cartagena is no different. 

Surrounded by Caribbean beaches, tropical heat, historical architecture, and beauty, it is easy to see why this northern city has been dubbed the “Jewel of Colombia.” 

History buffs enjoy delving into Cartagena’s colonial history in the Palace of the Inquisition Museum. Then, you can stand amid the past in Castillo San Felipe, a fortress that provides sweeping city views. Sitting in the old town with a fresh mojito is something I’ll never forget.

Don’t forget to relax after traveling back in time. 

Take a quick day trip to Playa Blanca and de-stress on one of the pristine white sand beaches near Cartagena. Fabulous. 

17. Barranquilla 

Carnival, colors, and the Caribbean Sea. What more could you ask for from one of the largest cities in Colombia?

Barranquilla is another northern Caribbean coastal city that visitors love. Its carnival is a must-see event, so align your visit with late February or early March. 

Other attractions in Barranquilla include the Metropolitan Park, El Museo del Caribe, and the Barranquilla Museum of Modern Art. 

But the secret top attraction? The nightlife. The city is lively long after the sun goes down — head to Zona Rosa for non-stop rumba.  

You can travel from Barranquilla to Santa Marta (the next Caribbean city) via a 2-hour tourist van or a 3-hour bus.

18. Santa Marta

Want to see more of Colombia’s Caribbean coast? Don’t skip Santa Marta. 

Located further north than Cartagena and Barranquilla, this port city was the first Spanish settlement in the country. But today, it’s one of the best cities in Colombia for seaside views, rolling hills, and invigorating history. 

Popular sights in Santa Marta include the many vivid buildings in the historic center and Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino — the home of Simon Bolivar. 

You can also spend hours lazing on the city’s Caribbean Sea beaches. 

For all the hikers out there, Santa Marta is a good base for visiting the Tayorona and Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta National Parks. It’s also where you can start the famous Lost City hike, a trek that weaves through the jungle to an ancient citadel. 

19. Valledupar

Valledupar isn’t a very well-known Colombian city, but that doesn’t mean you should discount it. This spectacular metropolis sits between two mountains; its emerald hills are a true wonder. 

Fun Fact: Vallenato folk music originated here.

You might find it easier to navigate this city with some basic Spanish skills, so get Duolingo going now.

20. Santa Cruz de Mompox

Do you know the name of the first Latin American town to vote for independence from Spain? It was Santa Cruz de Mompox! A place Simon Bolivar thanked for his legacy. 

That’s not the only intriguing fact about this town. Thanks to its rich history and beautiful architecture, it’s also one of two UNESCO World Heritage Towns in Colombia. The other is Old Cartagena.

Here, you can admire colonial architecture, learn about Colombia’s past, and enjoy food from independent vendors. To make this small city even cooler, it’s on an island in the Magdalena River. Unique in so many ways. 

Pacific Region

Could the Pacific region be in your future? There aren’t as many stops as the Andean or Caribbean regions, but the west should still be on your planner.

21. Buenaventura

Ignore the Caribbean coast for a moment. Buenaventura is here to show you the beauty of the Pacific. 

Buenaventura is a port city with a population of 235,000, and in 2017, it was awarded the Creative City of Gastronomy title by UNESCO. Fresh seafood and exciting tastes are abundant here, and you can flex your spending muscles on artisan handicrafts at the nearby Nesto Urbano Tenorio Park.

Fun Fact: 60% of the country’s ocean bounty travels through Buenaventura.

Orinoquia Region (Llanos)

Picture vast plains, lush greenery, and authentic Colombian life. The Orinoquia region is sparsely populated and known for the Llanos plains. Don’t skip it! 

22. Villavicencio

Colombia is world famous for its llanos (grassy plains), and if you want to see these sights in person, Villaciencio is the place to be. 

This city also separates the rainforest from the mountains, making it an excellent passing point for a few nights if you visit both.

Villavicencio is also home to the Lady of Carmen Cathedral, Liberators Park, and Malocas Park.

You can reach the great plains from the country’s capital. Bogota to Villavicencio takes one hour via flight or eight hours by bus.

Amazon Region 

You’ll stumble upon the Amazon Basin in southern Colombia. Prepare for spectacular wildlife, unique cultures, and unforgettable tours.

23. Leticia

Some of the best cities in Colombia are ultra-modern.

However, if you’re not a fan of concrete jungles, don’t worry. Colombia has some spectacular jungle cities to explore. 

Leticia is situated in the south, close to the Brazil-Peru border. It’s your gateway to many Amazon rainforest tours, the Amacayacu and Tanimboca National Parks, and Lake Tarapoto. Cue manatees, pink dolphins, and piranhas. 

24. Florencia

Most Colombian cities have long and impressive histories. And Florencia is no different. 

This southwestern town was first explored in 1542 by the Spanish. However, only in 1902 was it officially founded as a city. Today, nearly 170,000 have made the town their home, and the town is involved in tourism and the rubber trade. 

Before you Google it — yes, Florencia is named after Florence, Italy. The name pays homage to Paolo Ricci, a Florence native and significant rubber trade figure. 

Attractions here include:

• El Encanto Petroglyphs
• Curiplaya heritage site
• The Hacha River
• Curiplaya — a colonial building built in the 1950s

Fun Fact: Florencia is the most populated city in the Amazonian region.

Insular Region 

Our final stop is the Insular region. Alongside five diverse mainland regions, Colombia also boasts vibrant island life. 

25. San Andres Island

San Andres may lie closer to Nicaragua and Costa Rica than Colombia, but the extra journey is necessary to access this Caribbean Sea paradise. 

Close your eyes and imagine white sands, crystal waters, and palm-lined coats. Uh-huh, that is San Andres. 

While the costs are spectacular, San Andres Town impresses visitors with its chaotic energy and urban jungle feel. Here, you can party to Afro-Caribbean beats amidst colorful architecture and palm trees. The best way to end a Colombian trip.

You can reach this island paradise by traveling from Cartagena to San Andreas via a 1.5-hour plane ride.

Pro tip: Snorkeling and diving are the top activities here. Make the most of the clear waters.

Map of Colombia’s best cities

Lost your bearings? No bother. Here’s a map of the 25 best cities in Colombia so you can put a face to the name.

How to get to Colombia

Colombia’s main airport is the El Dorado International Airport in Bogota. This is likely your first stop if you’re flying into the country.

Once you’ve explored the modern streets of the capital, a popular journey is from Bogota to Medellin. The cheapest route is 9 hours and 50 minutes by bus, but you can also zip from A to B on a 50-minute flight. 

If you want to venture even further, a trip from Bogota to Cali could be for you. Affordable buses take 11 hours to complete this route. However, those on a tight schedule can get to Cali by plane in an hour and four minutes.

Is the Caribbean coast calling your name? Don’t ignore it. Bogota to Cartagena takes two hours and 10 minutes via plane and just under 26 hours by bus (yes, buses travel that long.) The choice is yours. 

Weather in Colombia

So, you want to see the best places in Colombia. But is your wardrobe ready? Depending on the length of your trip, you might need to pack for different climates. 

Nailing the best time to visit Colombia isn’t so simple. With so many regions, the forecast is different wherever you go. 

Though many high-altitude areas exist, 80% of Colombia sits 1,000m below sea level. In these areas, the temperature is approximately 27°C (80.6°F) throughout the year. There’s not too much variation, but you can expect more rain in the summer months (June, July, and August).

Bogota is often called the City of Perpetual Autumn. At 2,000 meters above sea level, the temperature rests at a cool 14°C (57°F). Similarly, Medellin sits at around 22°C (71°F) most of the year and is known as the City of Eternal Spring. 

Plan your outfits and packing list depending on where you’re going. Don’t get caught out.

Packing list essentials for Colombia

Make sure you’re prepared for your adventure. Tackle the top places in Colombia with these essentials.

• Mosquito repellent
• High-SPF sunscreen
• Rain jacket
• Water bottle with filter
• Comfortable shoes (or hiking boots)
• Portable charger
• Microfiber travel towel
• Mini-padlocks

Final thoughts on the 25 best cities in Colombia

So, that was our whistle-stop tour through the many cities in Colombia. The real question is, which caught your attention?

Start planning for the trip of a lifetime now by bookmarking this page to ensure you don’t forget any hidden gems. Get ahead of the game with these trust-worthy Colombia routes from Bookaway.

We’ll see you there.

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