Colombia is already a hugely popular destination, and that popularity is only continuing to soar.
Once a country only famous for its drug trade and high crime rate, Colombia is now better known as a beautiful and affordable South American hotspot that has plenty to offer both travelers and digital nomads alike.
Flight reservations to Colombia this winter have already increased 6% compared to last year, and the country is particularly appealing to American travelers who are attracted by its natural beauty.
These are the 3 most popular destinations to visit in Colombia for 2025:
Bogota
Bogota is the Colombian capital city. It’s a sprawling, urban city with a rich and unique culture, which explains why it is so popular with tourists.
Despite its overwhelming size, Bogota is a surprisingly green city with plenty of beautiful parks and the green of the Andes mountain range rising to its east.
Don’t miss Parque Metropolitano Simón Bolívar, which has a pretty lake and incredible views of the city.
Some of the city's not-to-be-missed attractions include wandering around its 18th-century historic district, known as La Candelaria, or shopping for the weird and unusual at the Mercado de las Pulgas de Usaquén flea market.
This is a great place to get shoulder-to-shoulder with Bogota’s welcoming local people.
If you only have time to visit one museum in Bogota then make it the Museo del Oro.
This is a museum dedicated to all things gold, and it’s so much more fascinating than you might think. There are over 55,000 pieces of gold here, much of it pre-Hispanic.
Entry to the museum costs COP $5,000 ($1.14) from Tuesday- Saturday, but if you’re on a really tight budget then visit on a Sunday when entry is free to everyone.
The museum is closed on Mondays.
Medellin
As Colombia’s second-largest city, there’s never a bad time to visit Medellin.
It’s known as the “City of the Eternal Spring” thanks to its year-round clement climate, and it has a reputation for being a fun and friendly city that attracts a young and adventurous crowd.
Medellin is also a digital nomad hotspot.
Medellin is a city of surprises with an amazing nightlife scene.
The affluent neighborhood of El Poblado is the best spot if you’re looking for nightclubs.
If you only visit one club, make it Perro Negro, which is the most famous and iconic club in Medellin.
If you’re interested in exploring Colombian culture, then visit Medellin’s historic center. The Palace of Culture, the Museum of Antioquia, and the Plaza Botero are all close to each other and each is well worth visiting.
Medellin is a hot spot for adventure lovers and thrill seekers. From paragliding to taking an ATV adventure, you’ll be spoiled for choice of things to do.
For epic views and an adrenaline rush, try the Dream hammock and Medellin zipline.
Located in a beautiful eco park, you’ll soar to heights of 330 meters with a full day of activities and adventure costing $199.
Cartagena
If you want to combine culture with time by the coast, then there’s nowhere better to be in Colombia than Cartegena.
Cartegena is a unique coastal city that offers direct access to the Caribbean Sea alongside incredible examples of colonial architecture.
Don’t miss Cartegena’s UNESCO-recognized walled city. The fortifications here date back to the 16th century and are considered the most preserved and complete fortifications in South America.
As an added bonus, entering and exploring the walled city is completely free. You can enjoy the shops and restaurants here, as well as the historic buildings.
From here head to the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas fortress which is the fortress within the walled city. Enjoy the grand entrance as well as the hidden tunnels.
Entry to the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas fortress costs COL$25,000 ($5.68) per person.
But perhaps the best way to spend time in Cartegena is to relax on the beautiful beaches.
Walk along the promenade of Playa Bocagrande, a beautiful sandy beach in an upmarket neighborhood.
Or enjoy watersports on the more famous beach of Playa Blanca.
Take a boat ride from the mainland to the Rosario Islands, which only takes around an hour.
Here you’ll find crystal clear waters and a much more relaxed vibe, making it a great place to truly unwind.
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