Can’t decide between a cosmopolitan vacation full of culture and partying, or lying on the sand in front of the Caribbean Sea? Don’t choose. In Colombia you can have it all.
The Medellin + Cartagena route has become a classic for first-time visitors to the country. They are only an hour’s flight away, but they are two completely different worlds. Here’s how to divide your week to enjoy “La Eterna Primavera” and “La Heroica”.
Part 1: Medellín (Days 1-4)
Start with the coolest city of the moment. Medellín is modern, green and the reggaeton capital of the world.
The Trendy Neighborhood: Provenza and El Poblado. This is where you have to stay. Streets full of green tunnels, the best restaurants, specialty cafes and a non-stop nightlife (Yes, this is where Karol G and Maluma hang out).
Transformation Story: Comuna 13. What was once dangerous, today is the most touristy and vibrant place. Take the Graffitour. You’ll see impressive street art, breakdancers and climb the famous outdoor escalators. The view of the city from the top is unique.
The Getaway: Guatapé. Dedicate a day to go to the Piedra del Peñol. It’s 700 steps up to a giant rock, but the view of the dam full of islets is possibly the best in all of Colombia. Afterwards, stroll through the town of colorful skirting boards.
The Taste: You have to eat a Bandeja Paisa. Warning: it’s gigantic (beans, rice, chicharrón, meat, egg, avocado, arepa…) Arrive hungry!
The Bridge: Short Flight. Flying from Medellin (MDE) to Cartagena (CTG) is super cheap and fast (45 min – 1 hour). Airlines like Avianca, LATAM or Wingo have flights all day long.
Part 2: Cartagena de Indias (Days 5-7)
Change of chip: Turn up the heat, put on linen and get ready for colonial romanticism.
The Walled City: The historic center of Cartagena is a World Heritage Site. Walk aimlessly through its streets full of balconies with flowers, yellow and orange facades.
Sunset: It’s a ritual to watch the sun go down from the ramparts (Café del Mar is the classic, but there are many free spots on the wall).
The Rookie Mistake: Many stay at the city beaches (Bocagrande) and are disappointed because the sand is dark.
El Secreto: To see the real turquoise Caribbean, take a speedboat to the Rosario Islands or to Baru (Playa Blanca or private beach clubs). There you will find a paradise of crystal clear water for snorkeling and boat parties.
La Rumba: At night, hop on a Chiva Rumbera (a colorful party bus with musicians on board) to tour the city with aguardiente in hand.
Tips “Parceros” 2026
Climate: Medellín is “Eternal Spring” (neither hot nor cold, perfect). Cartagena is hot and humid all year round. Pack varied.
Currency: The Colombian Peso (COP) is very favorable to the dollar. Eating and partying in Colombia is incredibly cheap for the foreign tourist.
Safety: Both cities are very touristy and safe in their main areas, but as they say there: “No des papaya” (don’t be careless with your cell phone in your hand in lonely areas).
Colombia is risk… but the kind you want to keep.
