10 Days in Colombia: Exploring Cartagena, Medellin, and Bogota
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During my 10 days in Colombia, I found myself falling for the country more than I ever dreamed. This Colombia itinerary takes you through three of its most captivating destinations—Cartagena, Bogota, and Medellin—and I’m so excited to share it with you! From the food to the culture, the architecture, and how vibrant everything felt, every moment was unforgettable.
Nestled on the northernmost tip of South America, Colombia is a country that has gracefully emerged from its tumultuous past to embrace a future filled with warmth, diversity, and charm. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and the infectious passion of its people, it’s no wonder that Colombia has captured the hearts of travelers from around the globe! Let’s dive into my epic 10-day Colombia itinerary so you can get planning.
10-Day Colombia Itinerary
Day 1-3 Cartagena
Cartagena is nestled along the Caribbean coast of Colombia, and it’s the kind of place that grabs your heart the moment you step foot in it! It has a mix of colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and that warm Caribbean vibe.
The energy here is contagious—whether you’re wandering through the Old Town, soaking in the vibrant colors, or savoring mouthwatering street food. Cartagena feels like a beautiful blend of cultures, from its Spanish colonial roots to African influences and indigenous traditions, all adding to the city’s unique magic.
By day, explore the cobbled streets, and by night, the city comes alive with music, dancing, and delicious smells wafting through the air. Cartagena ended up being my favorite of the cities we visited in Colombia. It’s just so lively, and the food? Absolutely incredible.
Best Things to Do in Cartagena
- Explore the historic Old Town— Lose yourself in the maze-like streets of the Old Town, known as the Walled City, where every turn reveals a fascinating piece of history. There is an awesome free walking tour that I highly recommend checking out
- Stroll along the city walls— Take a leisurely walk along the city walls, dating back to the 16th century, and enjoy panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea and the city’s rooftops.
- Indulge in local cuisine— Sample the flavors of Colombian cuisine, from fresh seafood dishes to traditional arepas and empanadas. The city’s street food scene is so amazing. We enjoyed ceviche several times, each a different experience!
- Relax on the beaches— To be honest, Cartagena’s coast doesn’t have the most beautiful beaches, but head to the nearby Rosario Islands for sun-soaked days on sandy beaches and refreshing dips in crystal-clear waters!
- Enjoy the sunset at Cafe del Mar— Witness breathtaking sunsets over the Caribbean Sea from the historic Cafe del Mar, an iconic spot perched atop the city walls. You may even see some locals salsaing, join in!
Check out my complete guide to 3 days in Cartagena!
Where to Stay in Cartagena
For a perfectly located and affordable stay, consider Casa India Catalina. Situated in the heart of the Old Town, this charming boutique hotel has easy access to the city’s best activities, restaurants, and cultural sites.
Plus, the included breakfast is a total win—it’s the perfect way to kick off your day with something tasty and filling, giving you all the energy you need for a day of exploring this amazing city!
Book Casa India Catalina here, or view other hotel options here! Hostels are also a popular and budget-friendly option in Colombia, so check out Hostelword as well.
Day 3-6 Medellin
Nestled in the beautiful Aburra Valley, Medellin is a city that completely surprised me. Known as the “City of Eternal Spring,” the weather is perfect all year, making it the perfect spot to enjoy both the city vibe and nature.
Medellin has come such a long way—once notorious for its rough past, it’s now a thriving, innovative city with a ton of culture to explore. The locals, or Paisas, are so proud of their city and its history, and they are super friendly to visitors. The arts, music, and dance scene here is incredible!
And the best part? Medellin is all about progress—from its cool public transportation to the social initiatives that have earned it a place as one of the world’s most innovative cities. You’re going to love it!
Best Things to Do in Medellin
- Ride the metro cable— Take the city’s iconic cable car system to get a bird’s-eye view of Medellin as it stretches across the valley and up the surrounding mountains. This journey offers glimpses into the everyday lives of locals living in the hillside communities.
- Comuna 13— Explore the once-troubled neighborhood of Comuna 13, now a symbol of urban transformation through street art, community projects, and cultural expression. Join a free guided tour to learn about the neighborhood’s inspiring journey to peace and progress! This was my favorite thing we did in Medellin!
- Pueblito Paisa— Visit Pueblito Paisa, a replica of a traditional Antioquian town perched atop Cerro Nutibara. Enjoy stunning views of the city and immerse yourself in the charm of Colombia’s countryside.
- Botanical Garden— Stroll through the lush Botanical Garden, home to a diverse array of native plants, flowers, and butterflies. This tranquil oasis is perfect for a relaxing afternoon amid nature. This is one of the best free things to do in Medellin!
- Plaza Botero— Admire the iconic sculptures of Colombian artist Fernando Botero at Plaza Botero. The oversized figures are a beloved symbol of Medellin’s vibrant art scene.
Check out my full guide on how to spend 3 days in Medellin!
Where to Stay in Medellin
For our stay in Medellin, we loved Nomada Hotel Origen. Located in the safe and lively Poblado neighborhood, this spot had such a cool vibe with lush greenery and a relaxing atmosphere. It’s the perfect blend of comfort and style in the heart of the city.
The hotel is surrounded by tons of great restaurants, bars, and cafes, plus their own rooftop lounge. Breakfast was included and was always a highlight of our mornings. With rates around $100 per night, it was a steal for a place this nice!
Book your stay at Nomada Hotel Origen here, or check out other Medellin accommodations here! Again, hostels are very popular in Colombia so it may also be worthwhile to check out Hostelworld.
Day 6-10 Bogota
Bogota, nestled in the Andes, is a lively, cosmopolitan city that’s a blend of history and modern flair. At over 8,500 feet above sea level, the city is surrounded by stunning mountain views, making it a unique place to explore.
The energy here is contagious, from its cultural heritage to its thriving arts scene. Bogota is a must-visit during your 10 days in Colombia, offering everything from colonial charm in La Candelaria to upscale vibes and vibrant nightlife in El Retiro. It’s truly the perfect mix of old and new!
Best Things to Do in Bogota
- Cerro de Monserrate— Take a cable car up to the iconic Monserrate hill, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of Bogota’s sprawling landscape. At the top, you’ll find the Santuario del Señor Caído, a pilgrimage site with a charming chapel.
- Paloqueamo Fruit Market— Book a fruit tour to experience the Paloquemao Fruit Market like a local. You’ll love this colorful market where you can immerse yourself in the local Colombian culture and find a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, and more!
- Dine at The Atlantis Plaza Shopping Mall— Indulge in a dining experience like no other at the Atlantis Plaza Shopping Mall. Head to Omnia restaurant for their Omakase experience, where skilled chefs artfully prepare a multi-course meal using the freshest ingredients, leaving you with a culinary journey to remember. Not only was this the best foodie experience from our 10 days in Colombia, but this was genuinely the best foodie experience I’ve ever had in my life!
- Explore La Candelaria District— Wander through the historic La Candelaria District, Bogota’s charming old town. Check out the well-preserved colonial architecture, and visit iconic landmarks like the Bolivar Square and the Bogota Cathedral. Don’t miss the Botero Museum and Plaza Botero to see the iconic oversized sculptures by renowned artist Fernando Botero!
Check out my complete guide to 3 epic days in Bogota!
Where to Stay in Bogota
For a great stay in Bogota, check out Bo Living 81. It’s a chic boutique hotel that captures the city’s modern vibe. With spacious suites that include a kitchen, living room, and two bathrooms, you’ll feel right at home—and at an affordable price too!
Located near the Andino Mall, you’ll be in the heart of the city’s shopping, dining, and nightlife. We tried staying in a hostel in La Candelaria, but honestly, it wasn’t the best experience. If you’re staying in Bogota, I’d recommend El Retiro for a more comfortable stay, though definitely take a day to explore La Candelaria!
Book your stay at Bo Living 81 here, or check out other Bogota accommodations here! Again, hostels are very popular in Colombia so it may also be worthwhile to check out Hostelworld.
How to Get Around in Colombia
- Buses—Buses are a cheap and popular way to get around Colombia. The bus network is extensive, connecting cities and towns, and some even have Wi-Fi! Just be prepared for long rides if you’re traveling between cities.
- Domestic flights—With only 10 days in Colombia, flights between cities like Cartagena, Bogota, and Medellin can save you time. They’re affordable and super convenient!
- Uber and taxis—Uber works in major cities and is a safe, easy option. Taxis are common too, but I recommend using a reputable company. In Cartagena, always agree on a price before hopping in. In Bogota and Medellin, taxis use meters, but we mostly stuck with Ubers to avoid any surprises on the fare.
Is Colombia Safe?
Safety in Colombia was definitely one of the most common questions I got before my trip, and I totally get it! While the country’s past might raise some concerns, I felt completely safe throughout my 10 days in Colombia.
Colombians are super welcoming, and the phrase “no dar papaya,” which means “don’t give papaya,” is just a friendly reminder to stay aware and keep your things secure.
In cities like Cartagena, Bogota, and Medellin, just be mindful of your surroundings—nothing crazy happened, just a few moments where I kept my phone and camera tucked away. We mostly explored in the daytime and early evening, soaking in the vibes without taking any unnecessary risks.
So, bottom line? With a little caution and common sense, you’ll be all good! The locals make sure you feel right at home, and I felt nothing but warmth and safety wherever I went.
When is the Best Time to Visit Colombia?
The best time to visit Colombia is typically during the dry seasons, from December to March and July to August. These months offer milder weather with less rain, perfect for exploring and outdoor activities. Even during the wetter months, the rain tends to be short-lived, followed by sunshine.
If you want to avoid crowds, consider traveling during the off-season (late August to November or May). Just keep in mind that it’s Colombia’s rainy season, but it’s not raining all the time.
Related read: Colombia in July
Money + Currency
Colombia is pretty affordable, with lots of budget-friendly options for food, accommodations, and activities. The Colombian Peso (COP) is the currency, and while cards are accepted in most places, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash for local shops or markets. When using ATMs, go with the conversion option from your bank for a better rate.
What’s the Weather in Colombia Like?
Colombia’s weather varies a lot based on where you are. The Caribbean coast is tropical, Bogota is cooler due to its altitude, and Medellin’s “eternal spring” is perfect year-round. Pack layers and be ready for different weather in each region!
Do I Need a Visa to Enter Colombia?
Entering Colombia is easy for most travelers—no visa required for up to 90 days. Just fill out the free Check-mig form before entering and leaving. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months. If you’re staying longer or have other purposes, get the appropriate visa.
Colombia Travel Tips
- Pack for multiple weather conditions— Colombia’s climate varies by city, so pack clothing suitable for different weather conditions, including light and breathable clothes for warmer areas and layers for cooler regions.
- Fill out Check-mig forms— Remember to complete Check-mig forms before entering and leaving the country, as they are required for immigration purposes.
- Pack light— Traveling between cities by air is common, so packing light will save you from paying for checked bags each time you fly. Check out my favorite luggage!
- Tipping— Standard tipping is typically 10%, but always check your bill as it may be included.
- Safety precautions— Stay alert and keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded areas and public transportation.
- Currency conversions— Have your bank handle currency conversions when you withdraw money from ATMs to get better exchange rates.
- “Cuantas Quotas?”— If asked this when making a payment, respond with 1 to ensure a one-time payment and avoid additional fees.
- eSIM— Consider getting an eSIM for data usage and staying connected even without access to Wi-Fi.
- Negotiate prices— When shopping at local markets or with street vendors, don’t hesitate to negotiate prices to get the best deals.
- Transportation— Use known cab companies like Cabify or Uber for safe and reliable transportation.
- Learn basic Spanish— Knowing some basic Spanish phrases will be helpful and appreciated by locals.
- Stay hydrated— Carry a refillable water bottle and stay hydrated, especially in warmer areas.
- Emergency numbers— Save emergency numbers for local police, ambulance, and your embassy in your phone.
- Travel insurance— Consider getting travel insurance to cover unexpected events during your trip. Safety Wing is one of the most popular travel insurance options (it’s less than $50 for 1 month of travel!).
Are you ready for an epic 10 days in Colombia?!
If you’re planning a 10-day Colombia itinerary, you’re in for an amazing adventure. From the historic charm of Cartagena to the buzzing energy of Medellin and the cultural richness of Bogota, Colombia has so much to offer. I hope this guide helps you make the most of your time in this beautiful country—whether you’re exploring, eating your way through each city, or just soaking up the local vibe, it’s going to be a trip to remember!
Before you go, be sure to follow me on Insta @guidedbydestiny and check out some of my other blog posts:
