Planning your Colombia itinerary for the very first time? You’re in the right place. I recently returned from my own first trip through Colombia, and I’ve packed this guide with everything I learned along the way – where to stay, what to do, my favourite bars and restaurants, plus the things I wish I’d known before I went.

Colombia is one of the most diverse countries in South America, offering vibrant cities, golden beaches, lush coffee regions, and incredible tours. This itinerary blends it all together so you can experience the very best of the country on your first visit.

Colombia Itinerary: How to Spend 7, 10, or 14 Days Exploring the Country

How many days do you need in Colombia

I would suggest spending at least 10 days in Colombia if you’re visiting for the first time. This is how much time I spent on my first trip to Colombia and I felt like I was able to fit in quite a bit and get a great feel for the country.

While 10 days in Colombia was enough to see some of the most famous cities and top sites, it did feel a bit rushed at times. Therefore, if you’re able to, I’d ultimately suggest spending 2 weeks in Colombia. That way you can slow down a bit, really take it all in, and fit in some hidden gems and off the beaten path destinations this incredible country has to offer.

Depending on where you’re from in the world, you could even pop over to Colombia for a quick weeklong visit (I’m looking at you Americans).

No matter how much time you spend on your first visit, I can guarantee you’ll want to come back for more. There’s just so much to see and experience you can’t possibly do the whole country justice in just a week or two.

Here is my recommendation for a 1 week, 10 day, and 2 week Colombia Itinerary:

1 Week Colombia Itinerary

• 1 Day in Bogotá
• 3 Days Medellín (with a day trip to Guatapé)
• 3 Days in Cartagena (with a Rosario Islands day trip)

10 Day Colombia itinerary

• 1 Day in Bogotá
• 3 Days Medellín (with a day trip to Guatapé)
• 3 Days in Cartagena
• 3 days in Isla Grande (one of the Rosario Islands) OR Tayrona National Park

2 Week Colombia Itinerary

• 1 Day in Bogotá
• 3 Days in the Coffee Region OR Cali
• 3 Days Medellín (with a day trip to Guatapé)
• 3 Days in Cartagena (with a Rosario Islands day trip)
• 4 Days in Providencia

Just an FYI, this post is sponsored and may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to purchase something through the links, at no additional cost to you. It enables me to keep bringing you more free content to binge and I really appreciate it! If you would also like to to earn affiliate income from your travel suggestions, I highly recommend signing up for a Stay22 account here, it’s free! 😊 Read my Affiliate Disclosure here.

Tips for Visiting Colombia/ FAQs About Colombia

Best time to visit Colombia

Colombia’s weather doesn’t swing wildly by season as it sits near the equator, so temperatures stay steady year-round. What really changes is the rainfall, and that varies by region. In general, the best time to visit Colombia depends on what you want to do and which regions you’re exploring, but the country’s two main dry seasons generally run from December to March and June to August. These are the best times for sightseeing, hiking, and beach-hopping, with warm, sunny weather across most regions. Expect average temperatures around 24–30°C (75–86°F) on the coast and 15–20°C (59–68°F) in high-altitude cities like Bogotá or Medellín.

How to get to Colombia

You can fly into most major cities such as Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena, etc. I found that flying into Bogotá tended to be cheaper coming from the UK so that’s what I went with.

I use Google Flights to find the cheapest flights and if you love booking on points, I’d suggest installing the Points Path Google Chrome extension which shows you the price in points in your Google flights search.

I personally flew with Iberia from London via Madrid in Premium Economy on the way out and Business on the way back and would highly recommend. The service was incredible and the food was delicious!

How to get around Colombia

Getting around Colombia is surprisingly easy and budget-friendly. Domestic flights are quick, frequent, and very affordable. If you’re not in a rush, buses (including comfortable overnight options) are a great way to see the countryside while saving a night’s accommodation. Within the cities, Uber and local ride apps are widely available and very affordable. Our group used Ubers everywhere to get around.

Currency used in Colombia and is cash or card preferred

The currency used in Colombia is the Colombian Peso. Card is accepted at most major shops and upscale restaurants whereas you’ll need cash for most everything else such as street food vendors, small souvenir stands, etc.

Do people speak English in Colombia?

The main language spoken in Colombia is Spanish. English is pretty commonly spoken in most major cities but not necessarily in the smaller towns. I always recommend downloading the Google Translate app on your phone before arriving to a new country to help with communication if you don’t know the local language. In addition, learning basic phrases in the local language such as hello, please, and thank you will go a long way!

Is Colombia safe?

I have to be honest, before visiting Colombia I’d heard and read quite a few negative things about petty crime and theft rates. So, when I arrived, I was a bit on guard. However, in my experience I found Colombia to be quite normal in terms of safety. By quite normal I mean that I didn’t find any of the big cities any different or more dangerous than other cities I’ve visited in the world.

For example, when I’m at home in London I have a death grip on my phone if I get it out in public and I did the same in Colombia. I didn’t wear flashy jewellery or clothes, and I kept my money and electronics tucked away and didn’t wave it around. I never felt particularly unsafe or scared walking around with my group of girlfriends during the day. We also took Ubers at night or if we were walking, we made sure to stay on well lit streets and together in a group. Like I said, precautions I’d take anywhere in the world.

The above being said, no matter how safe or unsafe a destination is, you should ALWAYS have travel insurance. I highly recommend Safety Wing for travellers who will be traveling long term. Their essential plan not only covers medical emergencies but also travel emergencies such as lost luggage or trip cancellation.

Is Colombia a good destination for solo travellers

Yes! Colombia is a great place for solo travellers as there’s plenty to do, the people are friendly, and it’s a very common destination for backpackers and other travellers so it’s easy to make friends. As a solo female traveller, I would definitely recommend Colombia for your next solo trip. Check out this article I’ve written on How to Make Friends While Traveling Solo if you want some tips!

How to get phone data when visiting Colombia

If your phone provider doesn’t have a great international roaming plan, then I’d recommend getting an eSIM. I normally use the Airalo, Holafly, or Yesim app to get my eSIM to access data abroad. You can use my code WRIGHT3 to get $3 off your first eSIM with Airalo.

Bogotá Guide

When I was planning my Colombia itinerary, almost everyone I spoke to told me not to spend much time in Bogotá . After visiting, I think that’s fair advice if you have limited time to explore Colombia. If you have a bit more time, I’d recommend spending maybe a few days here so you can explore some of the other neighbourhoods outside of La Candeleria which is the main tourist spot. Here are all of my suggestions for where to stay, things to do, and places to eat from my quick trip in Bogotá.

Where to stay in Bogotá

For first-time visitors, La Candelaria is the city’s historic heart – full of cobblestone streets, colonial buildings, museums, and colourful hostels perfect for budget travellers. If you prefer something trendier, Chapinero and Zona G are packed with cafés, boutique hotels, and some of the best restaurants in the city.

Nearby, Zona Rosa and Parque 93 offer an upscale vibe with luxury hotels, rooftop bars, and buzzing nightlife. For a quieter, more residential feel, Usaquén in the north combines charming cobblestone streets with weekend markets and chic restaurants.

No matter your travel style or budget, sticking to one of these areas will keep you close to Bogotá’s best food, culture, and nightlife scenes. Here are some of my recommended hotels and hostels in Bogotá.

Budget

Socialtel La Candelaria Hostel

Set inside a beautifully restored historic building, this hostel blends colonial charm with modern comfort. The private rooms are spacious and stylish, with some featuring balconies overlooking the city. The showers have great pressure and hot water (a rarity in hostels!), and there’s an on-site restaurant and coffee shop that make lazy mornings easy. You’ll find plenty of social areas and co-working spaces, plus a steady stream of organized activities if you’re feeling social. The included breakfast is surprisingly delicious, making it one of the best-value stays in La Candelaria.

A few other budget hotel and hostel recommendations I found in my research are

• Arche Noah Boutique Hostel (La Candelaria)
• Hotel Expo Hotel Ferial (Bogotá)
• Liv Hotel Zona G

What to do in Bogotá

If you only have one day in Bogotá, I’d spend it exploring the neighbourhood of La Candelaria which is the city’s historic core and birthplace of the city itself. It’s has a bohemian artsy feel to it, with colonial Spanish architecture, cobbled streets, art galleries, and vibrant street murals. I spent the whole day just walking around and stumbled upon the following sites I think you should see:

• Plaza Bolívar: The grand main square
• Calle 10: – a pedestrianised street with colourful buildings, shops, and restaurants. Good place for birds eye photos of the city as it’s on an incline.

• Calle del Embudo: A colourful cobbled lane lined with murals, cafés, and bars – perfect for photos and people-watching.

• Chorro de Quevedo: Said to be the spot where Bogotá was founded, now a lively plaza with local street performers and arepa vendors.

Some other things that were on my list but I didn’t get time to do were:

• Go on a food and walking tour
• Eat your way through Paloquemao Market
• Ride the cable car up Monserrate
• Sip local brews in Chapinero or Zona G
• Catch a football match at El Campín Stadium

Where to eat in Bogotá

As I mentioned, I only had limited time in Bogotá, so didn’t get to try many places but here are some recommendations of places I either ate at or stumbled upon during my walk around La Candelaria. Also, pro tip, do NOT forget to bring cash with you when walking around because you will stumble upon the best street food and they only take cash.

Socialtel La Candelaria Hostel

This is where we stayed and had breakfast as it was included and it was delicious! They had traditional Colombian breakfast options or things like pancakes if you preferred something more café like.

Arepa stand on the corner of Carrera 6 and Calle 11 in La Candelaria

I found this place completely by accident when walking around. They serve breakfast arepa’s with choices of egg, cheese, bacon and more.

Fruteria y cafeteria barichara IV

This place was selling the freshest and best looking arepas I saw on my walk around La Candelaria. There was a making them them fresh on the grill at the font of the open restaurant. You could get one to go or have it to eat in. It’s a tiny no frills spot but there were lots of locals there which is a good sign. They also have all sorts of lunch and dinner items on the menu to choose from if you don’t feelie an arepa.

Medellín Guide

Known as the City of Eternal Spring for its year-round mild weather, Medellín is surrounded by green hills and packed with cool neighbourhoods. It has absolutely boomed in popularity over the past few years especially with digital nomads and budget travellers as it’s affordable, lively, and has great weather year-round.

Where to stay in Medellín

Medellín is a city of distinct neighbourhoods, each with its own personality and choosing the right one can completely shape your trip. Most visitors base themselves in El Poblado, the city’s most popular and upscale area, known for its leafy streets, boutique hotels, trendy cafés, and buzzing nightlife around Provenza. It’s also one of the safest and most walkable parts of the city, making it a solid choice for first-time visitors.

For a more local vibe, Laureles is a favourite among digital nomads and long-term travellers. It’s laid-back, residential, and packed with great restaurants, bars, and coworking spaces without the party scene. If you’re after something artsy and up-and-coming, Envigado, just south of El Poblado, feels like a small town within the city, with colourful streets, local markets, and some of Medellín’s best food spots. Each neighbourhood offers a different take on Medellín life, so it really depends whether you want trendy, local, or low-key charm.

Here are a few recommendations of places to stay on any budget including where we stayed!

Budget

Los Patios Hostel (El Poblado)

I stayed at Los Patios Hostel in Medellín, and honestly, it felt more like a boutique hotel than a hostel. Everything was spotless, the rooms were modern, and the showers had proper hot water and amazing water pressure. The property is split into two buildings: one geared towards backpackers with dorms and social spaces, and the other designed for travellers who prefer private rooms and a bit more comfort.

There’s a rooftop pool and bar with incredible city views, plus loads of common areas for co-working or just hanging out. They also had TONS of activities planned, from morning yoga and language exchanges to evening events, there was always something happening, day or night. It’s easily one of the best hostels I’ve stayed in and a great base for exploring El Poblado.

What to do in Medellín

Walking tour of La Comuna 13 with street food and cable car

If you only do one thing while in Medellín, make sure it’s this walking tour of Comuna 13. What was once one of the city’s most dangerous neighbourhoods has now turned into a vibrant neighbourhood with bars, restaurants, street food and even break dancing. It’s quite interesting to hear about the history of the neighbourhood and how it got to where it is today.

Day trip to Guatapé

The second thing you absolutely have to do while you’re staying in Medellín is a day trip to the nearby Guatapé. It will take up your full day though, so plan accordingly. You can book this day trip that we did which first, includes breakfast followed by a boat ride on the beautiful Guatapé Lake (official name Embalse Peñol-Guatapé) while you hear about the history.

Next, a stop in Guatapé town which is a colourful pastel-painted lakeside town.

After Guatape town, a trip to climb the 740 steps up El Peñón de Guatapé for sweeping views over the turquoise reservoir. Yes the climb is worth it!

Last but not least, a stop at a llama petting zoo which actually ended up being one of the funniest experiences of the trip. The animals are well treated and definitely well fed lol.

Explore El Poblado

I really think you should spend one day just exploring and relaxing in El Poblado. There are tons of cafés, restuarnts, cocktail bars, and boutique shops to explore. I wish we’d had more time so I could have relaxed and spent mroe time seeing the neighbourhood.

Where to eat in Medellín

Mamasita Medallo

This was my favourite restaurant we ate at in Medellín. It had all sorts of local Colombian dishes to choose from. It’s definitely more upscale so a little more expensive than a local no frills place would be, but it was still affordable especially compared to what you would pay for the same thing back in the US or UK.

Hijamia Coffee

We had a delicious breakfast from here and came back for the coffee twice! It’s a charming cafe with great service and an even better motto “Kindness $0”.

Buñuelos

Wherever you can find a stand selling homemade Buñuelos – get one. These are one of Colombia’s most beloved snacks – golden, crispy cheese fritters. Some stands even let you add chocolate or caramel as well.

Nightlife in Medellín

While it wasn’t really my cup of tea, everyone I spoke to recommended going to Provenza for nightlife. It’s basically a huge pedestrianised area with tons of restaurants, bars, and clubs lining the streets. It’s definitely more of a club atmosphere though where they have multiple floors, long lines, and cover. I didn’t really like it because I’m not much of a club person, but I could see why it would be fun if you do like that sort of thing. I was also jet lagged and it was pissing it down with rain so probably didn’t help my experience 😂

Cartagena

My absolute FAVOURITE city in Colombia. It’s on the Caribbean side so you already know the vibes will be high, the weather will be hot, and the food will be banging.

Where to stay in Cartagena

The best place to stay while you’re in Cartagena really comes down to personal preference. There are 3 main areas, Bocagrande, Getsemaní, and The Walled City. The Walled City and Getsemaní are within walking distance and right next to one another so don’t get too hung up on choosing between the two as you can easily get back and forth. However there are some differences, so let me explain.

Getsemaní

Getsemaní is Cartagena’s most vibrant and artistic neighbourhood. Once a gritty, working-class area just outside the old city walls, it’s now the city’s creative heart. Historically, this was where independence movements against the Spanish colonial rule began. Today, Getsemaní is famous for its murals, art studios, boutique cafés, and endless restaurants and bars, making it a favourite for travellers who want something a little edgier than the polished walled city.

My friends and I stayed here in this epic Aribnb we found that also had a pool! Fair warning though, it’s LOUD as it’s right in the middle of the action.

Pros: Vibrant, full of art studios and cute cafes, loads of restaurants and bars to choose from
Cons: It’s the party spot so it’s loud!

The Walled City

The Walled City (or Ciudad Amurallada) is Cartagena’s historic old town and the most famous part of the city. It gets its name from the thick stone walls built in the 16th century by the Spanish to protect against pirate attacks and invasions — and they still stand today, surrounding a maze of cobblestone streets, colourful colonial buildings, and flower-draped balconies. Inside the walls, you’ll find some of Cartagena’s best boutique hotels, restaurants, bars, and cafés, all packed with history and charm.

For a stay that blends luxury with old-world elegance, Hotel Casa San Agustín or Sophia Hotel are all top picks right in the heart of the action.

Pros: Beautiful colonial architecture, walkable, full of history, great restaurants, and boutique hotels.
Cons: More expensive than Getsemaní

Hotel Casa San Agustín

Sophia Hotel

Bocagrande

Bocagrande is Cartagena’s modern, beachside neighbourhood — often compared to a mini Miami. It’s lined with high-rise hotels, beachfront apartments, and an endless stretch of sandy coastline, making it the go-to spot if you want sun, sea, and resort-style relaxation. You’ll find plenty of restaurants, shops, and cafés along the main strip, plus ocean-view pools and sunset cocktails galore. It’s not as atmospheric as the old town, but it’s perfect if you’re after a more laid-back, modern vibe within easy reach of the Walled City.

Pros: Beachfront location, modern hotels, great for swimming and relaxing, close to the Walled City.
Cons: Lacks the charm and character of the old town, more commercial, and can feel touristy.

What to do in Cartagena

I have WAY TOO MANY suggestions for what to do in Cartagena to fit into 1 blog post. I’ll work on writing a separate guide to publish soon! In the meantime, here is a short list to get you started.

Walking tour

We booked this free walking tour of Cartagena which was a great way to learn the history of the city and get the lay of the land. We specifically did the Walled City tour, but there were also Getsemaní tours as well. Free walking tours are also a great way to get local suggestions from the tour guide! Just be aware that while it is free, they will expect a tip at the end.

Browse and buy some art in Getsemaní

Art is EVERYWHERE in Getsemaní so you’re bound to find something you love! I found my favourite piece on Carrera 9 at Murais de Getsemaní. Haggling is completely normal and expected so don’t take the first price you’re given if you want a deal. You can of course pay full asking price if you’d like!

Go to playa de bocagrande

We didn’t make it to playa de Bocagrande as we were staying on the Rosario Islands for a few days right after Cartagena so would have plenty of beach time there. However, if you do have some time, I’d recommend checking it out as it was recommended on every blog I read.

Rosario island day trip

I’d highly recommend booking a boat trip to explore the Rosario Islands for a day while you’re in Cartagena. We booked a private boat tour with Botegena and were able to build our own itinerary. We visited Playa Blanca, Isla Cholon, and Isla Grande. If you don’t have a big enough group to book a private boat, you can absolutely find a day tour on Get Your Guide.

Cartagena Nightlife

Carrera 10

This is the main street in Getsemaní where the majority of bars and restaurants can be found. Just take a stroll and head into anywhere that looks fun! There are quite a few rooftop bars so you’ll be spoilt for choice. We stumbled upon El cabildo Gastrobar which had live music and a large rooftop. The perfect spot to unwind after a long day of sightseeing.

Calle 28

In addition to Carrera 10 you’ll also want to head to Calle 28 which is a car-free street lined with plastic tables and chairs, bars blasting Caribbean music, good vibes, and unbeatable cocktail prices. It’s basically just a giant street party every night! We especially loved hitting up La Esquina Cocktail stand where we had some of the best frozen mango margaritas of our lives for only $2.50 each!!!!

Café Havana

Now I personally didn’t get to go here as we ran out of time, but my friends from back home recommended it and said it was one of their favourite nights out in Cartagena. I always trust their recommendations so if you have time you should definitely give it a go!

Where to eat in Cartagena

Again, I have so many great suggestions I can’t possibly fit them all into this post so you can check them out in my Best Restaurants of Cartagena post, and in the meantime, here are my top 3 suggestions to get you started.

Restaurant coroncor

Go where the locals go and you’ll never be disappointed and this is no exception. Restaurant Coroncor is a local favourite that proves you don’t need to spend a fortune to eat well in Cartagena. It’s a classic Colombian diner-style spot where you’ll find hearty plates of rice, plantains, grilled fish, and arepas for just a few dollars.

Restaurant sambal bistro caribeno

From the outside, this tiny restaurant is very unsuspecting and you might simply walk by if you didn’t know any better. But luckily I’m here so you know better! This was one of my favourite meals in all of Colombia. It’s a fresh, modern twist on Caribbean and Colombian flavours. Think beautifully plated seafood, coconut rice, and creative cocktails, all served in a laid-back, cosy space. It’s one of those restaurants that feels a bit special without being pretentious. Perfect for a relaxed dinner with friends or a date night in Cartagena.

Café san Antonio by casa jaguar

This will be the best limonada de coco you ever taste in your entire life. I’m not exaggerating. This is where I had my first limonadade coco and I was ruined after that. The bar was set so high!! What exactly is a Limonada de coco you might be asking? It’s a local Colombian drink made with fresh lime juice, coconut milk, sugar, and ice, all blended together until it’s creamy and frosty – kind of like a tropical lime smoothie.

Isla Grande

Isla Grande is a laid-back tropical escape about an hour’s boat ride from Cartagena. With crystal-clear turquoise water, coral reefs, and powdery white sand, it’s the perfect spot to slow down after a few days in the city.

Where to stay in Isla Grande

Hotel cocoliso

This is where I wish we had stayed during our time in Isla Grande. We came here to go scuba diving with Diving planet island Centre and it looked epic. The hotel is oceanside with sun loungers and steps right into the ocean. In addition they also have a huge pool with a swim up bar, the grounds are tropical and leafy and very well maintained. In addition they have an onsite restaurant service up incredible food and drink. I’d highly recommend staying here if you can!

Hotel isla del sol

This is where we stayed while on the island and while it was a nice hotel, I wouldn’t stay here again nor would I recommend it. Mainly because of the condescending vibes from the front desk staff but in addition, it was geared towards families with kids which wasn’t clear in the reviews or description when I was booking. Lastly, they put on a special day trip package for guests not staying at the hotel which means everyday they have a boat full of people from the mainland who come and take over all the sun loungers at the beach and the pool.

What to do in Isla Grande

Relaxing at the beach or hotel pool, swimming, snorkelling and/or diving are how I’d recommend spending your time while on Isla Grande. We specifically dove with Diving planet Island Centre and they were wonderful. Very professional, good quality equipment, nice boats, and stunning dive sites.

In addition, you may want to look into hiring a boat for the day to go around the island and anchor at some of the floating ocean bars. On our last day in Isla Grande (which was a Saturday) we saw tons of boats pull up to the harbour and everyone was playing music, swimming, jet skiing, and just having a good time. It looked like a vibe!

Where to eat in Isla Grande

I wish I had more to say here, but we never left the hotel for food because it was so good and also because we were exhausted and just wanted to relax by the end of our trip! While I don’t recommend staying there, I would recommend coming to Hotel Isla del Sol for a nice meal.

Providencia

This island is so high on my travel bucket list, you have no idea how badly I want to go!! I’ve been so close to visiting Providencia twice now. The first was in 2020 but a hurricane came through and wiped out the island (how very 2020). The second time was on this trip but we just didn’t have the time to make it there. My friends visited in 2018 and haven’t stopped talking about it since which is why I’m recommending it to you if you have time to make it!!

Apparently it’s paradise. A tiny, peaceful, Caribbean island surrounded by turquoise water and vibrant coral reefs. It’s a place for travellers who want to disconnect completely – think diving, snorkelling, scooter rides around the island, and long, quiet evenings watching the sunset over the Caribbean.

To get here you have to fly to San Andrés island and then take either a 30 min. flight or a 3-4 hour ferry. My friends stayed at The Yellow Home and couldn’t recommend it more.

Tayrona National Park

Another destination we didn’t make it to on our trip this time is Tayrona National Park. This will absolutely be a stop on my next trip to Colombia as it’s meant to be one of the most stunning natural parks in the world. In most of the blogs I’ve read, they describe it as a lush stretch of Caribbean coastline where the Sierra Nevada mountains meet turquoise sea and palm-fringed beaches. You literally hike through the jungle to make it to the beach which sounds right up my alley. It’s Located about 45 minutes from Santa Marta which is about 4 hours drive from Cartagena.

Final thoughts on the Colombia Itinerary

Planning the perfect Colombia itinerary can feel overwhelming – there’s just so much to see. But whether you spend your days wandering through Bogotá’s streets, exploring Medellín’s hillside neighbourhoods, or relaxing on Cartagena’s beaches, Colombia has a rhythm that pulls you in. It’s a country of contrast and colour, where every stop feels different from the last -and that’s exactly what makes it so special.