Day 1: Arrive in Bogotá and Explore La Candelaria
Welcome to Bogotá! This is where you’ll start your Colombian adventure. Bogotá is the capital of Colombia, and it has a little bit of everything—culture, history, food, and art.
After you arrive and settle in, head straight to the historic neighborhood of La Candelaria. This area is full of colorful buildings and street art around every corner. It’s where you’ll find the real heart of Bogotá.
Make your way to Plaza Bolívar, the city’s main square, surrounded by important historical buildings like the Capitolio Nacional and the Primatial Cathedral. After exploring the square, walk through the nearby streets and visit the Museo del Oro (Gold Museum). It’s one of the best museums in South America and is home to over 55,000 pieces of gold.
Grab lunch at one of the local restaurants. I recommend trying an “ajiaco”, a traditional Bogotá soup made with chicken, corn, and three types of Andean potatoes. It’s a warm, comforting meal that’s perfect if you’re adjusting to Bogotá’s high altitude.
In the afternoon, visit the Museo Botero to see the works of Colombia’s most famous artist: Fernando Botero. His larger-than-life, exaggerated figures are iconic, and the museum is free to enter.
Finish your day with an easy stroll through Carrera Séptima, one of Bogotá’s busiest pedestrian streets. There’s often live music or street performances, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day of walking.
Sleep early tonight—you’re just getting started, and there’s a lot more to come.
Day 2: Head to Zipaquirá and the Salt Cathedral
Start your second day with a short trip out of Bogotá. Take a bus or hire a car for the 1.5-hour drive to the town of Zipaquirá.
Zipaquirá is famous for its Salt Cathedral—a Roman Catholic church built within the tunnels of a salt mine 200 meters underground. It’s totally unique and breathtaking, both for its religious significance and the way the salt formations create otherworldly shapes. You’ll walk through several chambers that explain the Stations of the Cross, all carved into the salt rock.
After visiting the Salt Cathedral, take some time to explore the town itself. Its charming colonial architecture and picturesque square make for a great place to grab a local lunch.
Once you’re back in Bogotá, wind down with a nightcap at one of the many rooftop bars in the Chapinero neighborhood. It’s a great place to mingle with locals and soak in the views of the city lights.
Day 3: Flight to Medellín and Discover Comuna 13
Today, you’ll leave Bogotá behind and head to Medellín. It’s a short 1-hour flight, and you’ll arrive in the famous “City of Eternal Spring”, known for its pleasant weather year-round.
After checking into your accommodation, spend the afternoon visiting Comuna 13. This area used to be one of Medellín’s most dangerous neighborhoods but has transformed into a hotspot for street art and culture. It’s a must-visit to understand the city’s recent history and how it has undergone such a massive transformation.
You can join a local walking tour of the area, which will help you get the backstory of the murals and graffiti. The escalators that run through the commune are a unique feature, and you’ll get some amazing views over the entire city from the top.
In the evening, explore the lively El Poblado neighborhood. This area is packed with cafes, restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. It’s tourist-friendly, and you’ll find lots of international options if you’re craving something beyond Colombian food.
Day 4: Guatapé Day Trip and Climb El Peñol
On your fourth day, take a day trip to Guatapé, one of the most colorful towns in Colombia. The trip is around two hours from Medellín, but it is well worth it.
Guatapé is known for its zócalos—brightly colored, decorative panels on the lower half of houses. You’ll want to spend time walking around, exploring the streets, and taking plenty of photos.
But the real adventure awaits just outside Guatapé: El Peñol. This gigantic rock tower stands 10 million years old and offers one of the best views in Colombia. The climb is 740 steps to the top, which might sound daunting, but it’s worth the effort. When you reach the summit, you’ll be rewarded with jaw-dropping views of lakes, islands, and the surrounding green hills.
After your climb, relax with a boat ride on the nearby lake or grab lunch at one of the many lakeside restaurants before heading back to Medellín.
Day 5: Parque Arví or Museo de Antioquia
For your final day, you have a few choices depending on your energy levels. If you’re in the mood for some fresh air and nature, head to Parque Arví, located high above Medellín. You can actually take a cable car all the way there from the city, giving you some amazing views as you glide through the clouds.
Once you reach Parque Arví, there are a number of hiking trails through the lush forest. It’s a great way to spend a peaceful few hours, away from the city noise. You can even rent a bike for an easier ride through the reserve.
If you’re more in the mood for art and culture, visit Museo de Antioquia instead. This museum is one of the best cultural hubs in Medellín, with important works from Fernando Botero and other Colombian artists.
Whichever activity you choose, spend your last night enjoying the laid-back vibe of Medellín. I recommend grabbing dinner at a local eatery in Laureles, a quieter part of the city with excellent restaurants.
Wrap-Up
Colombia is a country that has it all: diverse landscapes, rich history, vibrant street culture, and incredible food. Over these five days, you’ll have a chance to experience the highlights of Bogotá and Medellín, two of the country’s must-see cities.
This itinerary gives you a taste of Colombia’s charm without feeling too rushed, allowing you some downtime to relax or explore at your own pace. But remember, there’s much more to Colombia beyond these two cities—so if you get the chance, come back to explore more of what this beautiful country has to offer!
Safe travels!
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