Day 1: Bogotá – Discover the Capital
Start your adventure in Bogotá, Colombia’s lively capital. Settle in and take some time to adjust to the altitude. A good way to kick off your visit is by exploring the historic district of La Candelaria. With its colorful colonial buildings and street art, it’s a vibrant place to learn about Colombia’s past.
Walk over to the Museo del Oro (Gold Museum), one of the most impressive museums in South America. It houses more than 55,000 pieces of gold, emeralds, and other precious artifacts from pre-Hispanic civilizations.
If time allows, take the cable car (or hike) up to Monserrate for stunning views of the city. The ride is short, but the view from the church at the top is well worth your time, especially around sunset when Bogotá’s skyline looks its best.
End your day by diving into the local food scene at one of the nearby restaurants in Chapinero or Zona G. Try dishes like “ajiaco” (potato and chicken soup) or “arepas” (corn cakes filled with cheese, meat, or eggs).
Day 2: Bogotá – Art and Culture
Ease into your second day in Bogotá with a visit to the Botero Museum. Fernando Botero is Colombia’s most famous artist, known for his exaggerated, voluminous figures. The museum houses his work alongside pieces from international artists like Picasso, Dalí, and Monet.
From there, stroll through Simón Bolívar Park, one of the largest urban parks in Latin America. It’s a great spot to relax, people-watch, or rent a bike if you’re feeling active.
In the afternoon, head to Usaquén, a colonial neighborhood that’s now an upscale area full of cafes, restaurants, and art galleries. On Sundays, there’s a lively marketplace with local crafts, food, and souvenirs—definitely worth exploring if you’re in town.
Wrap up your day with a visit to the Zona T area, where you’ll find plenty of bars and restaurants offering live music and open-air seating. It’s a fun area to wind down after a long day of exploring.
Day 3: Zipaquirá – The Salt Cathedral
Leave Bogotá in the morning and take a day trip to Zipaquirá, a town famous for its stunning Salt Cathedral located inside a huge salt mine. Tours will take you through the underground tunnels and into various chapels, all carved from salt. It’s an awe-inspiring place that’s a unique mix of history, religion, and engineering.
After you return to the surface, take a walk around Zipaquirá’s charming main square. This town has preserved a lot of its colonial architecture, making it a peaceful spot for lunch or a coffee before heading back to Bogotá.
Return to Bogotá in the late afternoon and see if there’s a concert or event happening at the Teatro Colón, the largest theater and cultural hub in the city.
Day 4: Medellín – The City of Eternal Spring
Catch a morning flight or bus to Medellín, Colombia’s second-largest city. Known as the “City of Eternal Spring” for its pleasant year-round weather, Medellín has been transformed from a dangerous place in the ’90s to a modern, innovative hub.
Start by exploring El Poblado, a popular neighborhood full of cafes, bars, and restaurants. It’s also one of the safest places in the city, making it a perfect base for tourists.
In the afternoon, take a ride on Medellín’s famous cable cars, which are integrated into the city’s public transport system and offer great views over the valley. You can hop off at the top and visit Parque Arví, a large nature reserve that’s perfect for hiking, biking, or simply relaxing.
In the evening, join the locals at a rooftop bar in El Poblado or the Laureles area for drinks with a view. The sunsets in Medellín are pretty special.
Day 5: Medellín – Comuna 13 and More
Start your day with a visit to Comuna 13. This neighborhood was once Medellín’s most dangerous area but has since become a symbol of the city’s transformation. Take a guided graffiti tour to learn about how art and community projects helped revitalize the area. The murals are incredible, and the story behind them is moving and inspiring.
Afterward, visit Plaza Botero, which showcases the work of Fernando Botero (yes, the same artist from the Bogotá museum) via massive public sculptures. Adjacent to the plaza is the Antioquia Museum, which houses more of his work as well as a fantastic collection of modern and contemporary Colombian art.
If you have the energy, head to Pueblito Paisa, located on top of Nutibara Hill. It’s a replica of a traditional Colombian village with beautiful panoramic views of the city. You can grab some souvenirs or enjoy a coffee while taking in the scenery.
Day 6: Guatapé – Lakeside Colors
Take a day trip to Guatapé, about two hours outside of Medellín. Guatapé is famous for its brightly colored buildings and the incredible Piedra del Peñol, a massive granite rock that you can climb for panoramic views of the surrounding lakes.
The climb is 750 steps, but the view from the top makes it worth the effort. Once you’re done, head back to Guatapé town. Walk through its streets and admire the colorful houses adorned with “zócalos,” intricate, hand-painted designs on their lower walls.
Take a boat tour of the reservoir to see the drowned town of Old Peñol or relax by the waterfront with a drink and some delicious local food.
Return to Medellín in the evening, and if you’re up for it, visit Parque Lleras for some nightlife. The area has a good mix of clubs, bars, and live music venues, offering something for every taste.
Day 7: Cartagena – Coastal Charm
On your last full day in Colombia, catch a morning flight to Cartagena, the country’s crown jewel on the Caribbean coast. Start by walking through the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its cobblestone streets, colorful colonial houses, and flower-filled balconies are incredibly charming.
Visit the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, a fortress built to protect the city from pirates. From the top, you get great views of the historic city and the modern skyscrapers of Bocagrande.
In the afternoon, take a short trip to the nearby Rosario Islands for some time on the beach. If you prefer to stay in the city, Bocagrande beach is a nearby option, though the water isn’t as clear.
End your day and your trip by watching the sunset at Café del Mar, a popular rooftop bar that sits on top of the Old Town’s walls. It’s the perfect way to end a week of adventure and exploration.
Final Thoughts
Colombia offers a rich mix of culture, history, and natural beauty, and this itinerary gives you enough time to soak it all in without feeling too rushed. From the colonial streets of Bogotá and Cartagena to the vibrant atmosphere of Medellín, every stop offers something unique. Whether you’re hiking up Monserrate, marveling at the Salt Cathedral, or exploring the transformation of Comuna 13, this 7-day trip will give you a deep appreciation for Colombia.
Remember, this itinerary is flexible. Feel free to adjust based on your travel pace, interests, and the time you plan to visit. Enjoy your time in Colombia!
Leave a reply