Colombia's Highlights: Bogota, Medellin & Cartagena
Explore the "Gateway of South America"
Divide your time between three famous cities as you discover Colombia's land of extremes, from towering Andean peaks to colonial cobbled lanes! Enjoy incredible coffee and meet some of the friendliest people in the world on this 6-night vacation.
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare into Bogota (BOG) and out of Cartagena (CTG)
- Round-trip airport transfers in all cities
- 2 nights in Bogota at the Hotel Dann Carlton Bogota, or similar
- Bogota city tour (half-day)
- One-way, economy class flight from Bogota (BOG) to Medellin (MDE)
- 1 night in Medellin at the Hotel Poblado Plaza, or similar
- Medellin city tour (half-day)
- One-way, economy class flight from Medellin (MDE) to Cartagena (CTG)
- 3 nights in Cartagena at the Caribe by Faranda Grand Hotel, or similar
- Cartagena city tour (half-day)
- Breakfast daily
Want to add 2 nights in the coffee region? Click here!
Great Ways to Explore
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Tour Bogota's historic La Candelaria district with its quaint charm that brings to mind a European city.
- Enjoy a chocolate completo at La Puerta Falsa, one of Bogota's oldest restaurants dating back to 1816!
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Take a selfie at Botero Plaza then enjoy spectacular views of Medellin as you soar above the city by cable car.
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Scale the mighty fortress of San Felipe in Cartagena, the greatest fortress ever built by the Spaniards in any of their colonies!
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Purchase the freshest mango and pineapple in Cartagena from Las Palenqueras, ladies dressed in colorful outfits selling fruit.
Nicknamed the "gateway to South America," Colombia is the perfect intro to Latin America's vibrant culture and diverse landscapes. Soaring Andean peaks, sun-kissed Caribbean coastline, and bustling city centers are just a few of the beautiful places you will encounter on this 6-night journey.
Begin in Bogota, the third-highest capital in the world. Tour the city's most famous attractions including Paloquemao market, La Candelaria district and the Gold Museum. Take a funicular to the top of Monserrate for incredible views of the sprawling metropolis!
From Bogota, fly to Medellin, nicknamed the "City of Eternal Spring" for its perennial warm weather. In recent years, Medellin has blossomed into a modern, tech-forward city with a big heart. See hometown hero Fernando Botero's famous sculptures in Botero Plaza then ascend the city by cable car!
End your whirlwind vacation on the Caribbean coast in Cartagena. The most visited city in Colombia enchants with its vine-draped balconies and cobbled streets. Tour the former Spanish stronghold at the fortress of San Felipe and witness where Gabriel Garcia Marquez's "magical realism" came to life.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
- Round-trip economy class airfare into Bogota (BOG) and out of Cartagena (CTG)
- Round-trip airport transfers in all cities
- 2 nights in Bogota at the Hotel Dann Carlton Bogota, or similar
- Bogota city tour (half-day)
- One-way, economy class flight from Bogota (BOG) to Medellin (MDE)
- 1 night in Medellin at the Hotel Poblado Plaza, or similar
- Medellin city tour (half-day)
- One-way, economy class flight from Medellin (MDE) to Cartagena (CTG)
- 3 nights in Cartagena at the Caribe by Faranda Grand Hotel, or similar
- Cartagena city tour (half-day)
- Breakfast daily
-
Tour Bogota's historic La Candelaria district with its quaint charm that brings to mind a European city.
- Enjoy a chocolate completo at La Puerta Falsa, one of Bogota's oldest restaurants dating back to 1816!
-
Take a selfie at Botero Plaza then enjoy spectacular views of Medellin as you soar above the city by cable car.
-
Scale the mighty fortress of San Felipe in Cartagena, the greatest fortress ever built by the Spaniards in any of their colonies!
-
Purchase the freshest mango and pineapple in Cartagena from Las Palenqueras, ladies dressed in colorful outfits selling fruit.
Nicknamed the "gateway to South America," Colombia is the perfect intro to Latin America's vibrant culture and diverse landscapes. Soaring Andean peaks, sun-kissed Caribbean coastline, and bustling city centers are just a few of the beautiful places you will encounter on this 6-night journey.
Begin in Bogota, the third-highest capital in the world. Tour the city's most famous attractions including Paloquemao market, La Candelaria district and the Gold Museum. Take a funicular to the top of Monserrate for incredible views of the sprawling metropolis!
From Bogota, fly to Medellin, nicknamed the "City of Eternal Spring" for its perennial warm weather. In recent years, Medellin has blossomed into a modern, tech-forward city with a big heart. See hometown hero Fernando Botero's famous sculptures in Botero Plaza then ascend the city by cable car!
End your whirlwind vacation on the Caribbean coast in Cartagena. The most visited city in Colombia enchants with its vine-draped balconies and cobbled streets. Tour the former Spanish stronghold at the fortress of San Felipe and witness where Gabriel Garcia Marquez's "magical realism" came to life.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
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Day 1. Welcome to Bogota!
¡Bienvenidos a Colombia! Upon arrival in Bogota, you will have a transfer from the airport to your hotel.
Bogota is the Colombian capital and was founded in 1538 by the Spaniard Gonzalo Jimenez de Quesada under the name of Santa Fe. Here you will experience both the colonial grandeur and the vitality of a modern metropolis. Named a UNESCO Creative City for its rich music scene, Bogota is a cosmopolitan city that can rival any in Europe.
Celebrate your first night with a bowl of warming ajiaco, a hearty soup made with chicken and three kinds of potatoes.
Transfer to Bogota hotel
Hotel Dann Carlton Bogota prides itself on the values of tradition, quality, and trust in its accommodations. Located in Northern Bogota, within close proximity to some popular attractions, this hotel provides ultimate comfort and convenience during any trip to Bogota.
Rooms include a private bathroom, desk and chair, TV, in-room safe, and more. The hotel's on-site restaurant May Fair combines the flavors of Colombia with international food flavors, and Bar Carlton is the perfect place to grab a few cocktails or cup of coffee. In addition, a buffet breakfast is served daily. Guests have access to the hotel's game room and spa where you can laze about in the sauna, request a massage session, or use the fitness facilities.
The Hotel Dann Carlton Bogota is closely located to some of the best things to do in Bogota. It's just 15 minutes from shopping centers like Hacienda Santa Barbara and Centro Andino, a 20-minute drive to Jose Celestino Mutis Botanical Garden and the National Museum, and is just 8-minutes away from Parque del Chico.
Located in one of Bogota's most exciting and popular neighborhoods, Zona G, the bs Rosales Hotel is a contemporary 4-star hotel with an intimate and relaxing feel. The hotel's wide range of amenities and overall atmosphere make it great for guests of any kind, whether you're on a business trip or on vacation in Bogota. The hotel is designed in a simplistic yet lavish aesthetic which adds even more depth to the comfort of the accommodation. Each guest room features a private bathroom, room service, beautiful décor, a flat screen television, and more.
Guests can feel even more at home by taking advantage of some of the hotel's unique features, such as grocery delivery and (by request) area shuttle service. There's an on-site bar and lounge, sauna, and fitness center with great views of the mountains. The hotel also provides their own set of excursions including tickets to national parks, tours, mountain hiking guides, and more. The on-site restaurant offers a daily buffet breakfast complimentary to each guest.
While staying at the hotel, guests will enjoy easy access to some of the best things to do in Bogota. Nearby attractions include the Quinta Camacho, Jose Celestino Mutis Botanical Garden, Bolivar Square, the Gold Museum, and more.
Relax and dine at the Mercure BH Zona Financiera, just a few steps away from the culinary center of Bogotá. Over 60 elegantly-decorated rooms are available, each featuring plasma TVs, private bathrooms, a minibar, coffee machine, and free Wi-Fi. A community snack bar is provided by the hotel where guests can grab a quick bite to eat before heading out to explore Bogotá. Other amenities include a fitness room, 24-hour reception, a sauna, and a business center.
Staying at the Mercure Bh Zona Financiera makes a vacation in Bogotá all the more comfortable. The hotel is just under a mile away from the Financial District and seven miles away from El Dorado International Airport. A variety of other fun attractions are also within close proximity including the National Museum, Bolivar Square, Parque Portugal, and more.
Day 2. Bogota
Wake up and enjoy a half-day city tour taking you to Paloquemao market, La Candelaria district, Plaza de Bolivar and the Gold Museum!
After your tour, you can take a funicular up to Bogota's mountain in the clouds, Monserrate. Breath in the fresh, cool air as you admire the stunning views of the city. On Monserrate you will find a Catholic church, restaurant, food stalls and a crafts bazaar.
In the evening, head to the trendy Zona Rosa neighborhood for dinner and a shot of aguardiente, an anise-flavored liquor beloved by Bogotanos.
Bogota city tour
The Bogota city tour will start at Paloquemao, the famous food market located in the heart of the city. Once you enter the market, you will smell, see and be surprised by exotic fruits, vegetables, herbs, seafood and meat. Take a break at one of the simple but delicious food stands and try a fresh juice or one of the typical meals of this region. Early in the morning you will find a beautiful flower market in front.
After the market, take a walk through ‘La Candelaria’, Bogota's historical neighborhood. A pleasant quarter of cobble stoned streets, Spanish colonial architecture, and Baroque churches, the neighborhood is also home to several universities, libraries and museums. Walk across the main square Plaza Bolivar as you pass various government buildings, then visit one of a dozen milliners along Calle San Miguel to get an idea of how hats are made.
Pass by the Fernando Botero Museum, which holds a large collection of works from the well-known Colombian painter and sculptor, on your way to the Gold Museum. The museum contains nearly 34,000 gold pieces plus a further 20,000 bone, stone, ceramic, and textile articles belonging to 13 Pre-Hispanic societies.
Day 3. Bogota - Medellin
In the morning you will transfer to Bogota airport for your flight to Medellin. Upon arrival, a transfer will take you to your hotel. After you've settled in, enjoy an evening tour taking you to a few must-see sites in the capital of Antioquia!
Medellin has had a remarkable turnaround and is now one of Colombia's most important cities in business, politics, fashion and nightlife. Known as city of perennial springtime, Medellin is also the hometown of the artist Fernando Botero, whose over-sized depictions of Colombian life, people and world issues are exhibited throughout the world.
A Tip For Your Trip: Please choose a morning flight to Medellin as you have a city tour this afternoon.
Transfer to Bogota airport (BOG)
Fly to Medellin!
Transfer to Medellin hotel
Hotel Poblado Plaza is a peaceful respite from the bustling city. 10 minutes from the airport and located on the famous Golden Mile of Medellin, you will never be far from the city's top restaurants, bars, and boutiques. The Oviedo Shopping Center is across from the hotel, as well as the renowned Lleras Park. Make the most of your stay with trips to the nearby Museum of Modern Art, several sports clubs, and more! When you're ready to unwind, head back to the hotel to enjoy a bite at the hotel's restaurant with a private entrance for guests. Don't miss the hotel's spa amenities, which include a gym, sauna, solarium, and two Jacuzzis.
The Hotel bh El Poblado is a boutique accommodation in a prime downtown location close to many top attractions. The vibrant Santa Fe shopping centre is a short walk away, while other popular sights nearby include Medellin's Museum of Modern Art and the Dancer's Park.
Featuring a fitness room, business services, buffet breakfast, and chic bar with views of the city, the Hotel bh El Poblado is a wonderful choice for a hotel in Medellín. There is also a café on-site, as well as a therapeutic sauna. Guests can relax in their comfortable rooms that include modern amenities like free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, minibar, iPod docks, coffee/tea-making facilities, and more.
Other features of this hotel include tickets/tour assistance and dry cleaning/laundry services.
The Hotel Torre Poblado is located in the vibrant El Pobaldo neighborhood of Medellín. It's just a few minutes' walk from El Poblado Park and Lleras Park, while popular attractions like the Museo de Arte Moderno de Medellín and Plaza de Toros La Macarena are also nearby. Poblado metro station is also under one mile away, making transportation around the area easy.
Guests can enjoy delicious dining at the on-site restaurant with wonderful city views, as well as a comfortable lobby lounge to relax. Room service, parking, and a business center are also available.
All rooms at the hotel are comfortably decorated with modern amenities like free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, a TV, minibar, coffee/tea machine, and more.
Medellin city tour (half-day)
Explore the highlights of the “City of Eternal Spring.” Listen to local musicians and the traditional “Guasca” music while visiting Parque Berrio. Stroll through the hustle and bustle of downtown Medellin to the famous Botero Plaza with an exhibition of the Colombian artist Fernando Botero, whose sculptures have become a landmark of the city. Take the Metro Cable up to Santo Domingo, which was once a notorious area of gang violence in Medellin.
The cable car was constructed to make the inner city more accessible to people from the outskirts, and allows visitors a glimpse into the lives of the marginalized population. While enjoying the spectacular view you learn more about the transformation of Medellín from one of the most dangerous cities in the world into a fascinating melting pot of cultures with possibly the friendliest and warmest people in the world.
Day 4. Medellin - Cartagena
A transfer will pick you up at the hotel to take you to Medellin airport for your flight to the colonial jewel of Colombia, Cartagena.
Cartagena was founded in 1533 by the Spaniard Pedro de Heredia. Gold-crafting indigenous tribes, Spanish colonialism, pirates and corsairs, African slaves, fortifications, Catholicism and The Inquisition: Cartagena has led a very interesting life! With such a fascinating and turbulent history, you can bet that there are plenty of must-see spots for visitors.
Head into the old town and get lost in the dreamy cobbled streets and vine-draped balconies.
Transfer to Medellin airport (MDE)
Fly to Cartagena!
Transfer to Cartagena hotel
Nestled in lush tropical gardens, the 5-star Hotel Caribe by Faranda Grand boasts unmatched beachside elegance. Featuring a semi-Olympic outdoor pool, charming colonial architecture, and impressive interior design, this hotel will sweep you off your feet.
Check in to your air-conditioned room and look out the window at a colorful view of palm trees and the Caribbean Sea. Relax on the plush bed, or indulge in deliciousness at one of the hotel's 3 on-site restaurants. Pamper yourself at the spa, or work your stresses away in the fitness center!
Relax in style at Hotel Dann Cartegena! The only hotel in Bocagrande with direct access to the beach, the whole family will find something to love. A recent remodeling has refreshed each of the 101 guestrooms to create more space and a refreshed atmosphere to revive you after a day of sightseeing. Splash around in the heated pool and Jacuzzi, or take the short stroll to the beach. Sample the local flavors at the Bucaneros Restaurant, which boasts a variety of dishes including local and international cuisine as well as hand-crafted cocktails.
Almirante Cartagena Hotel is located on a beach in the lively Bocagrande neighborhood of Cartagena. The hotel is elegantly decorated with amenities including a pool, casino, spa, and fitness center. Each guest room design is inspired by the colonial style of the city, and most rooms have a beautiful view of colorful Cartagena. There is also a desk, private bathroom, minibar and air-conditioning.
The hotel has multiple on-site restaurants. Alcatraz Restaurant specializes in international cuisine and overlooks the Bocagrande beach, while The Terrace Café offers refreshing drinks and sandwiches with al fresco dining. American Bar offers a quiet, relaxed environment in the hotel lobby with some live music, and the Sports Bar is the perfect place to grab drinks and play games.
Guests are just minutes away from some of the best places in Cartagena when staying at this hotel. The Caribbean and Emerald Jewelry Museum is only two minutes away, and Cartagena Modern Art Museum and Bolivar Park are both within a 15-minute drive. Bocagrande Beach is just a minute away, and Castillo Grande Beach is only four minutes from the hotel.
Day 5. Cartagena
Today you will visit some of Cartagena's highlights on an included city tour. Cartagena was given the name La Heroica (Heroic City) by Simon Bolivar in 1815 after the city resisted 105 days of siege by the Spanish.
After the tour, stroll over to Plaza de la Aduana, the largest and oldest square in Cartagena's old town that was once the home of the city's government (aduana means customs).
Sip an ice cold cocktail at one of the outdoor bars near Plaza de la Aduana as you watch the sun go down!
Cartagena city tour (half-day)
Cartagena has as many stories to tell as its streets in the old quarter has names, and today you will visit the highlights of “La Heroica” (the Heroic city – name gave to the Cartagena during the times of the Colony). Begin at the fortress of San Felipe de Barajas, a masterpiece of engineering and military strategy built by the Spaniards to defend the city from pirates and pillagers. Despite several attempts to storm it, the fortress was never taken.
Then continue walking around the walled colonial city where narrow streets and vine-draped balconies will take you back in time. End your tour with a visit to the Convent of San Pedro Claver, a monumental three-story building that is considered one of the jewels of the Spanish colonial architecture.
Day 6. Cartagena
Today you will have a full day to see Cartagena at your leisure. Consider visiting the Palace of the Inquisition, one of Cartagena's most visited tourist sites that documents the darkest period in the city's history. Enter through the baroque limestone doorway off Plaza de Bolívar to see the torture devices used during the 1700s.
Enjoy your last night in Colombia dining on fresh seafood from the coast and relaxing in this romantic and seductive city.
Day 7. Depart Colombia
Your Colombian vacation comes to an end today. At the scheduled time, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight home.
Transfer to Cartagena airport (CTG)
Fly home!
We have selected the most economical flight schedule for you. Please note that shorter and more convenient flight options may be available at an additional cost.
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