Things To Do
Medellin
Medellín truly offers it all - great shopping, incredible food, vibrant nightlife, and some of the best views in the country. Since most international flights to Santa Marta route through Medellín or Bogotá, it makes for an easy and worthwhile stop if your schedule allows. From shopping and dining at El Tesoro with sweeping city views, to exploring the walkable streets and restaurants of Laureles, the city has something for every pace. El Poblado is ideal for those looking to enjoy cocktails, late-night dining, and nightlife, while a guided visit to Comuna 13 offers meaningful insight into Medellín’s history, art, and culture. If you have extra time, nearby escapes like Guatapé, with its colorful streets and iconic climb, or the quieter town (pueblo) of El Retiro make for perfect day trips.
Bogota
Bogotá is another common gateway to Santa Marta and offers a rich mix of culture, history, and world-class food for anyone able to linger a bit longer. The city’s historic La Candelaria neighborhood is filled with colorful architecture, museums, and cobblestone streets, while the Gold Museum provides a fascinating look into Colombia’s indigenous heritage. A ride up Monserrate offers sweeping views of the city below, and Bogotá’s diverse dining scene — ranging from traditional Colombian flavors to internationally acclaimed restaurants — makes it a destination worth exploring at any pace.
Cartagena
Cartagena is coastal, colorful, and full of character, offering a completely different experience from Colombia’s inland cities. The historic walled Old City is perfect for wandering, with vibrant streets, colonial architecture, and charming plazas around every corner. Sunset drinks along the city walls or at a rooftop bar are a must, and for those craving beach time, a day trip to the Rosario Islands offers crystal-clear waters and relaxation.
Eje Cafetero (Coffee Region of Colombia)
Colombia’s Coffee Region offers lush landscapes, colorful colonial towns, and a slower pace that feels worlds away from the cities. Known for its rolling coffee-growing hills, the region is home to highlights like the Cocora Valley, famous for its towering wax palm trees, as well as charming towns such as Salento and Filandia filled with artisan shops and scenic viewpoints. Visitors can enjoy coffee farm tours to experience Colombia’s renowned coffee culture firsthand, unwind in nearby thermal baths, and stay in boutique hotels tucked into the countryside or in nearby cities like Pereira or Armenia for easier access.
Santa Marta
If you find yourself with extra time during your stay, there’s no shortage of ways to explore. Relax along the coastline or take a boat trip to nearby beaches, wander through the historic city center, or enjoy a sunset stroll along the marina. For the more adventurous, day trips to Tayrona National Park offer breathtaking beaches and hiking trails.