10 of the Best Places to Visit in Colombia

Are you planning a trip to Colombia? This vibrant and beautiful country is home to beautiful sites and rich history.

We’re excited to share the best places to visit in Colombia, although there are many, we’re just sharing our 10 favorites and giving you some insight on why you should add it to your list when visiting Colombia!

So, without further adieu, let’s dive in!

Medellín

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town of Medellin with pretty lush green trees on the ground

Medellín is the second largest city in Colombia located in the central region of the Andes Mountains.

Medellín has a lot of nature around it and is great if you are looking to visit somewhere that you can have the opportunity for adventure!

You’ll be able to hike, zip-line, horseback ride, go rafting, and more. The city is full of beauty and one we recommend putting on your bucket list when visiting Colombia!

Cartagena

colorful buildings in turqoise, bright blue, orange, and yellow on a main street, Best Places to Visit in Colombia

Cartagena was founded in 1533 and it’s location made it the main port for trade between Spain and other countries.

Currently, it is the second-largest city in the region and the fifth largest in Colombia. Cartagena is a popular tourist destination right on the coast of the Caribbean.

Here you’ll find beautiful beaches, history, and art. There a number of things to do in Cartagena, such as the obvious, relaxing on the beach and swimming or snorkeling in the bright blue waters of the Caribbean.

You can also do a walking tour and see the gorgeous architecture of old buildings, eat delicious food, visit the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas which is an old castle, visit the museum, party on a Chiva (a.k.a. a party bus) and more!

Bogotá

Bogotá is the heart of Colombia. It is the capital and the largest city in Colombia and has the most business activity of any city in Colombia. It is located in the center of Colombia and sits on top of a tall plateau.

It is the third-highest capital in South America and sits at about 8,660ft above sea level. Bogotá is charming and filled with history. You’ll find colonial buildings that house restaurants, hotels, bars, etc.

As well as houses and churches that are at least 250 years old and street graffiti that will be enjoyable to check out!

You can also visit the Salt Cathedral which is about an hour away by car, visit the botanic garden, and enjoy some delicious and authentic Colombian food!

Santa Marta

Santa Marta is the oldest city in Colombia and is even the second oldest city in South America.

There isn’t a ton to do in the city if you are looking for activities. However, you can shop, go to museums and on walking tours and see historic locations.

As well as visit the Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona which is a local national park. It’s an excellent place to visit if you are looking for a charming city to relax in and explore, Santa Marta is definitely one worth visiting!

Cali

Cali Colombia is the only major city in the country that has access to the pacific coast. It is the main hub for sports in Colombia and has hosted a number of sports championships.

It isn’t a huge tourist hub which is why we think it’s an excellent stop on your trip if you are looking for more authentic places to visit that don’t focus heavily on tourism.

We think it is underrated and a place that you should put on your bucket list when visiting Colombia!

It is still a bit rugged from its infamous past however they call itself the Salsa capital of the world.

The atmosphere of this city and the fun and Salsa music can be heard all around the city.

It’s a great city to take a walking tour of to see the different architecture in the neighborhoods, street art, sculptures, and beautiful views.

Barranquilla

Barranquilla is known as The Golden Gate of Colombia because it is located north of Colombia and has the most important part of The Republic of Colombia.

It’s located between Cartagena and Santa Marta and is an underrated gem in Colombia. If you are in Colombia around Ash Wednesday, we recommend going to the second largest carnival after Rio de Janeiro which is Barranquilla’s carnival.

During the carnival, the entire city celebrates together with an enormous party. You can also visit museums, visit La Troja where you’ll find people who are salsa dancing, relaxing, having fun on a night out with friends, etc.

While visiting this city, you can also visit a castle, the beach, shop around in the bustling city center, eat delicious authentic Colombian cuisine, and more!

Villa de Leyva

Villa de Leyva is a tourist colonial town that has preserved its colonial roots. Here you’ll be able to find its original cobblestone roads and colonial buildings.

It has established itself as a wine region with a number of wineries near the town. This town is a beautiful place to relax and a great place to do some sightseeing.

You can take walking tours and visit the gorgeous historic buildings and churches as well as museums to learn more about the history of the town. As well as visit the shops and enjoy some tasty Colombian cuisine!

Bucaramanga

Bucaramanga is known as “the pretty city of Colombia”. It has a number of lush parks and gardens as well as beautiful weather just about all year round.

It’s near the Parque Nacional de Chicamocha which is a beautiful national park where you can do a number of outdoor activities like zip-lining, hiking, rafting, fishing, etc.

It’s also close to other little cities you can take a day trip and explore such as Floridablanca or Girón.

As well as taking a walking tour and exploring the city, shopping, enjoying authentic Colombian food, visiting museums, and enjoying everything the city has to offer!

Salento

Wax palm in lush green cocora valley with mountains in the background and a cloudy beautiful blue sky, best places to visit in colombia

Salento is a colorful little town that is full of charm. It’s a relaxed town and is a popular destination for tourists and Colombians going on vacation.

It has some beautiful hiking in the Cocora Valley which is part of the Los Nevados National Natural Park.

You’ll also be able to climb to the Mirador which is a short climb up a staircase that goes up to a lookout area and see gorgeous views of the area.

You will also get the opportunity to enjoy some delicious authentic food and coffee. It’s a fun little city and one you should definitely add to your list!

Leticia

the amazon full of green tall trees and fog, best places to visit in colombia

Leticia sits on the border of Peru and Brazil and is right next to the Amazon. It’s an excellent place to stay if you are wanting to explore the Amazon, go hiking, fishing, etc.

You can usually find tour guides that will take you on nature walks into the jungle, visit indigenous communities, sightsee pink dolphins, etc. If you plan to venture into the Amazon we highly recommend working with a guide and not going on your own, it’s definitely safest to go with someone who has experience venturing in.

Leticia also has a range of foods from Colombia, Brazil, and Peru since it’s right on the border. There are also museums, shopping, and natural areas to visit in and around this city!