Are you planning a trip to Colombia this year? Discover the must-see destinations and top experiences with Civitatis!
Over recent years, Colombia has quickly risen to the top of South America’s must-visit destinations. Dynamic cities like Medellín and Cartagena have become hotspots for backpackers, travelers, and digital nomads, but the magic of Colombia goes far beyond its urban life. From vast deserts and lush jungles to vibrant Caribbean beach towns and cutting-edge modern cities, this incredibly diverse country has something for every kind of traveler. In this Civitatis guide, we’ll explore the best places to visit in Colombia so you can experience the very best of what this beautiful country has to offer. ¡Vamos!
1. Cartagena
¡Bienvenido/a a Cartagena! The vibrant city of Cartagena is one of the most popular destinations on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, and it’s easy to see why. With its white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and beautifully preserved colonial streets, Cartagena offers the perfect mix of history, culture, and tropical relaxation. Once a key port of the Spanish Empire after its founding in 1533, this iconic walled city protected itself from pirates and invaders, shaping the rich heritage you can still feel today.
Today, Cartagena is buzzing with life: colorful architecture, lively plazas, amazing food, and a surprisingly great nightlife scene best experienced on a Cartagena night tour. If you want to dive deeper into its past, explore the city on a free walking tour of Cartagena de Indias or discover more of its personality on a historic center and Getsemaní neighborhood tour, where you’ll learn about its culture, street art, and landmarks.
And when you’re ready to enjoy the Caribbean sunshine, step outside the city walls and experience Cartagena from the water. Relax on a luxurious sunset yacht tour, or enjoy a more adventurous day exploring the coast on a kayak tour. Cartagena truly has something for every kind of traveler, and it keeps getting better every year.
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2. Santa Marta
Step into Santa Marta, one of South America’s oldest cities and Colombia’s oldest surviving settlement, founded in 1525. Although often overlooked by travelers who simply use it as a gateway to nearby destinations like Tayrona National Park or the Coffee Triangle, Santa Marta truly deserves more attention. Many visitors don’t realize that the city is home to some of the most beautiful beaches on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, think Playa Cristal, Bahía Concha, and Playa Blanca, all offering crystal-clear waters, soft sands, and that perfect, relaxed Caribbean vibe.
Beyond its coastline, Santa Marta’s long history makes it a fascinating city to explore. A Santa Marta free walking tour is a great way to discover its most important landmarks, including the impressive Cathedral Basilica of Santa Marta and the Gabriel García Márquez Library, both highlighting the city’s rich cultural heritage and colonial charm.
For adventure lovers, Santa Marta also serves as the ideal starting point for outdoor experiences. One of the most popular day trips is to the lush Minca Jungle, where you can hike through tropical landscapes, enjoy fresh mountain air, sip locally brewed coffee, and unwind with a well-earned lunch surrounded by nature. Santa Marta may be underrated, but that just means there’s even more to discover when you visit.
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3. San Andrés
Next up is the Caribbean paradise of San Andrés—one of Colombia’s most beloved island destinations and easily one of my personal favorites. Even though it sits closer to Nicaragua than mainland Colombia, the journey is absolutely worth it. What makes San Andrés so special is its incredible blend of Colombian, British, and Afro-Caribbean influences, which you can feel everywhere from the island’s lively music and colorful traditions to its delicious cuisine. I even joined a local cooking class and learned how to prepare the island’s famous rondón, a flavorful dish made with fresh fish, coconut, plantain, and vegetables an unforgettable experience!
San Andrés isn’t about ticking off endless tourist sights; it’s about relaxing, slowing down, and soaking up true island life. I found the best way to explore was by renting a golf cart or motorbike and simply cruising between beaches, viewpoints, and beach bars at my own pace. And if you love the ocean as much as I do, the crystal-clear waters here are perfect for snorkeling, scuba diving, and water sports, revealing vibrant marine life beneath that famous “sea of seven colors.”
San Andrés truly feels like a dream escape, laid-back, culturally rich, and full of postcard-perfect scenery. It’s one of those places that stays with you long after you’ve left.
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4. Providencia
We absolutely loved San Andrés, but for me, Providencia stole the show! While it shares some of the same Caribbean charm as San Andrés, Providencia feels much more secluded and untouched, truly a hidden gem in Colombia. The island is surrounded by crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling. I joined a snorkeling tour here and was amazed by the vibrant marine life just beneath the surface; it felt like swimming in an aquarium!
But Providencia isn’t just about the water. I also explored the island’s lush jungle trails on a hiking tour through the Providencia mountains, tasting fresh tropical fruits along the way, such a refreshing experience. And to really embrace island life, I took part in a traditional fishing tour, where I learned to catch and clean my own fish before enjoying a delicious grilled fish lunch right by the shore.
Providencia is one of those rare places where you can truly disconnect, soak up nature, and experience authentic Caribbean island life far from the crowds, but full of unforgettable moments.
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5. Tayrona National Park
Visiting Tayrona National Park was one of the highlights of my trip to Colombia. This breathtaking park perfectly blends lush tropical jungles with pristine Caribbean beaches, creating a landscape that feels both wild and serene. As I hiked along ancient trails, I could feel the deep connection this land holds to Colombia’s indigenous heritage. Every turn revealed something new: hidden coves, crystal-clear waters, and the sounds of nature all around.
Whether you’re trekking through diverse ecosystems or simply relaxing on a secluded beach, Tayrona National Park offers an unforgettable way to experience Colombia’s natural beauty up close. I had an amazing time exploring the park on a day trip from Cartagena, and if you’re staying closer to the northern coast, a day trip from Santa Marta is another fantastic way to see this incredible destination.
Tayrona is a must-visit for anyone looking to combine adventure, culture, and pure Caribbean relaxation in one unforgettable day.
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6. Barranquilla
Next on my Colombian journey was Barranquilla, a vibrant Caribbean coastal city and Colombia’s fourth-largest urban center. Known as a cultural hub, Barranquilla is famous for its world-renowned Barranquilla Carnival, which UNESCO has recognized as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. The carnival, which dates back to the 19th century, beautifully blends European, African, and Indigenous traditions, creating one of the most colorful and lively celebrations I’ve ever witnessed.
Even if you’re visiting outside carnival season, the city is full of culture and history. I explored Barranquilla on a free walking tour, which took me to its main landmarks, including the stunning Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, the impressive Queen Mary Cathedral, and the city’s bustling main baseball stadium. Walking through Barranquilla, I was struck by its energy, street art, and the warm, welcoming vibe of the locals—it’s a city that truly captures the heart of Colombia’s Caribbean coast.
7. Medellín
Medellín, the “City of Eternal Spring,” quickly became one of my favorite stops in Colombia. This vibrant city is buzzing with life, offering plenty of accommodation options, activities, and local experiences, yet it has managed to retain its authentic charm. Popular neighborhoods like El Poblado, Laureles, and Envigado make convenient bases for exploring, but there’s so much more to discover beyond the main streets. I loved taking a full-day sightseeing tour in Medellín, which gave me a fantastic overview of the city’s highlights and hidden gems.
Medellín’s transformation from a city once shadowed by its past into a modern cultural hub is truly inspiring. The most striking example is Comuna 13, a neighborhood that was once considered one of the most dangerous in the world. Today, it’s a symbol of Medellín’s rebirth, filled with colorful street art, creative murals, and uplifting community projects. I explored it on a Comuna 13 tour, and walking through the streets, seeing the art, and hearing the stories firsthand was an unforgettable experience that shows just how far the city has come.
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8. Guatapé
Just a short 80-minute drive from Medellín, I discovered the charming town of Guatapé, famously known as the “Rainbow Colored Town.” Its bright, colorful buildings immediately caught my eye, but the real star of the show is El Peñón de Guatapé, a massive 656-foot (200-meter) rock that looks like it’s fallen straight from the sky. Locals even joked that it came from aliens! I climbed the 708 steps to the top, and the panoramic views of the surrounding lakes and mountains were absolutely breathtaking, definitely worth every step.
While most visitors focus on the rock during a day trip from Medellín, I found that the town of Guatapé itself is a delight to explore. I joined a guided tour of Guatapé, which took me through its main landmarks and charming streets filled with local art and culture. For adventure seekers, there’s no shortage of activities nearby: I had a blast jetskiing on the Guatapé reservoir, took a thrilling helicopter ride over the area, and even tried river hiking and abseiling, all incredible ways to experience the natural beauty of this vibrant region. Guatapé is the perfect mix of colorful culture and outdoor adventure, and it’s an easy day trip that shouldn’t be missed.
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9. Bogotá
Although it’s Colombia’s capital, Bogotá has long been an underrated gem, and I quickly discovered why. This bustling, modern city is full of energy, history, and culture, making it a fascinating place to explore. My journey began in La Candelaria, the city’s historic heart. Here, Bogotá was founded around the Plaza de Bolívar, surrounded by iconic landmarks like the Bogotá Cathedral, the National Capitol, and City Hall. I explored it all on a Colombian culture tour in La Candelaria, which gave me a rich understanding of the city’s past.
As I wandered the streets, I couldn’t help but notice the vibrant street art everywhere. I joined a free graffiti tour to dive deeper into the city’s creative scene. One of my favorite spots was El Paraíso, a close-knit community accessible by cable car. From there, I enjoyed some of the best panoramic views of Bogotá and saw striking murals that showcased the local talent, definitely worth checking out on a guided tour.
What really sets Bogotá apart, though, are its museums and galleries. I loved visiting the Botero Museum in La Candelaria, which showcases the works of Colombia’s most famous artist, Fernando Botero. Even more impressive was the Gold Museum (Museo del Oro), home to tens of thousands of gold artifacts from Colombia’s pre-Colombian civilizations. I explored both museums along with La Candelaria on a guided tour, which was an unforgettable cultural experience.
And here’s a fun fact I discovered: Bogotá is considered the emerald capital of the world! I joined a free emerald tour to learn more about this fascinating gem and the city’s role in its history. Between the history, art, and culture, Bogotá completely exceeded my expectations.
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10. Zipaquirá
Just about 45 minutes from Bogotá, I visited the incredible Zipaquirá Salt Cathedral, one of the most popular day trips from the capital. This unique underground cathedral is carved almost 600 feet (180 meters) beneath the earth into massive rock salt deposits, creating an otherworldly experience that’s hard to forget.
As I explored the tunnels, I discovered 14 individual chapels representing the Stations of the Cross. Each chapel is filled with intricate salt sculptures, crosses, and dramatic lighting, giving the space a serene yet awe-inspiring atmosphere. Walking through this subterranean wonder felt like stepping into a hidden world, and it’s easy to see why it’s considered a must-visit attraction near Bogotá. The Zipaquirá Salt Cathedral day trip is perfect for anyone looking to combine history, art, and adventure in one unforgettable experience.
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11. Cali
Next on my Colombian adventure was Cali, famously known as the Salsa capital of the world, and I quickly understood why! I joined a Salsa tour of Cali, which took me through the city’s lively local dance clubs, or viejotecas. Watching the talented locals dance was incredible, and I even got the chance to try a few steps myself it’s impossible not to get swept up in the rhythm and energy of this city.
But Cali isn’t just about Salsa. The city is also home to stunning colonial architecture that reflects its rich history and culture. I visited the 18th-century San Antonio Church, the San Pedro Apóstol Metropolitan Cathedral, and the beautiful La Ermita, each offering a glimpse into Cali’s past. To get a full sense of the city’s charm, I took a Cali panoramic tour, which highlights the main landmarks and gives you a perfect mix of culture, history, and vibrant city life.
Cali left me with unforgettable memories, whether dancing Salsa, exploring its historic streets, or soaking in the local energy, it’s a city that truly moves you.
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12. Salento
If you’re looking for the perfect base to explore Colombia’s Coffee Triangle, Salento is the ideal choice. This charming town gives you easy access to some of the region’s most famous coffee farms in Arzacia, Ocaso, and Arcacia. I was blown away by the quality of the coffee here; it’s some of the best I’ve ever tasted and, in my opinion, easily ranks among the top in the world.
During my visit, I joined an El Ocaso Coffee Farm day trip, where I saw the entire coffee-making process up close, from harvesting and drying to grinding and brewing. The highlight, of course, was tasting the freshest coffee I’ve ever had, all while soaking in the stunning landscapes of rolling hills and lush plantations.
For a completely different perspective of the area, I also tried a Coffee Triangle private paragliding experience, gliding over these breathtaking landscapes. Seeing the patchwork of coffee farms, rivers, and mountains from the air was absolutely unforgettable. Salento is the perfect blend of culture, adventure, and, of course, incredible coffee.
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