Comuna 13 is one of the most colorful districts in Medellín. It’s a must-see place for anyone visiting the city. We will take you on the famous escalators up to the barrio of Comuna 13. Here, you’ll learn about the history and regeneration of this area. You’ll be able to take in the vibrant art and atmosphere of the streets. Comuna 13 is not to be missed and is a shining example of the positive changes seen across the city of Medellín. Be ready to see some fantastic street art, inspired by this area’s history and often created by local residents. From the hill, you’ll have great views across the city. And there will be time to visit interesting shops, cafés and take a slide for the more adventurous on the way down!
Gautape is one of the most beautiful (and colorful) towns in Antioquia. It’s home to the famous Piedra de Peñol – a huge stone mountain, that offers incredible views over the lakes in the area. We’ll pick you up in a luxury van, and you’ll spend the day taking in the amazing scenery. Take a boat onto the lake, climb the 740 steps to the top of the mountain (it’s a great work out), or enjoy the scenery from a helicopter – you decide! After a delicious lunch, you’ll have time to walk the gorgeous streets of the town, lined with colorful houses depicting life in this part of Colombia. We’ll drive you back to Medellín in time for a night out – just tell us where you want to go and we’ll organize the reservations and transfer.
Colombia’s coffee is prized across the globe and the Coffee Triangle outside Medellín is the best place in the country to see how coffee is grown and processed. This day trip takes you to one of the best coffee farms in the region. Walk through the organic coffee plantations and learn how coffee is grown, harvested, dried and ground. As well as the coffee plantation, the farm has bee hives and raises animals. Take the coffee tasting experience, before exploring a little further on a horse ride through the property. This day trip is one not to be missed!
Channel your inner adventurer! What better way to see Colombia’s coffee triangle than by air? Go paragliding in Colombia for the day, and soar like an eagle over the coffee farms and countryside just 30 minutes drive from Medellín. This day trip paragliding is perfect for groups, and especially popular among bachelor parties.
You may think that Tulum is all about lazing the day away on sumptuous beach loungers sipping mezcal margaritas, floating in the Caribbean turquoise waters, or eating gourmet lunches in quirky little eateries. And YES, you would be right to think that, because it is absolutely all about that. But if you really want to explore Tulum, you’re in luck! There are plenty of great Tulum activities, tours and experiences to enjoy. However, Tulum offers so much choice, it can be difficult to decide which places work best for you. So to help, we’ve selected our Top Six Activities to Explore Tulum.
Two Travel can offer a wide variety of customised excursions set up exclusively for your group. From cultural experiences to active adventures and everything in between. Whether you’re celebrating a bachelorette, a wedding, or a family vacation, we help create incredible Tulum experiences and unforgettable moments.
Explore Tulum’s Cenotes
A cenote is a magical, deep freshwater pool fed by underground springs, and they are unique to the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico. Many cenotes open up into vast under<water worlds, filled with tunnels and lagoons. Cenotes are number one on many people´s must see list while in Tulum and for good reason! If you’re travelling independently, the cenotes are usually open between 8am and 5pm, and some charge an entrance fee.
Cenote Dos Ojos, translated as “Two Eyes Pool” because it’s formed by two neighbouring circular cenotes, is the most photographed in Tulum. It’s easy to see why, as the sun beams glisten over the rock formations and transform the water into an aquamarine paradise. This place is also popular with divers due to the world’s longest underground water cave, so grab your snorkel and your GoPro, this is one not to miss!
2. The hottest beach clubs in Tulum
As soon as you arrive in Tulum you´ll want to hit the beach clubs. With so many to choose from, where do you start? The beach clubs in Tulum are split across the Beach road and the Hotel road and they range from rustic chic to luxury.
Here are our top three recommendations for beach clubs in Tulum.
Casa Malca
For pure opulence and a touch of the bizarre, head to Casa Malca, which once upon a time was one of Pablo Escobar’s homes. Now transformed into a boutique hotel, art sculptures and abstract pieces fill every corner. The draped fabrics, swinging sofas and armchairs dotted around make the perfect backdrop for a photo, before you take the winding staircase to the rooftop for incredible 360 views. For non-residents of the hotel, a day pass is available, so don’t worry, you’ll be able to enjoy beautiful grilled seafood lunch with a crisp rosé – the perfect combination.
Cinco
Now popular on the beach club scene, Cinco opened its doors in August 2020. Here you’ll find a rustic laid back beach club full of bohemian charm. Located on the beach road in a quieter part of Tulum, it’s the perfect place for a relaxing beach day with friends and family. With a help yourself beer cooler, sorbet stand and swinging hammocks, plus glamping teepees for an overnight stay, what’s not to love about this beach club!
Papaya Playa Project
Surrounded by beautiful, lush green jungle, Papaya Playa Project is a luxurious eco-friendly beach club in the very heart of Tulum. With guest DJs and beautiful people draped across sun loungers, this is the place to be if you want to party into the night.
3. Rent a yacht or catamaran and explore Tulum by boat
For an unforgettable day out with family and friends, jump on board your very own private yacht or catamaran. There is no better way to explore the area. Spend the day gliding across crystal clear waters and visit some of the most extraordinary beaches and sights in the Mayan Riviera.
Your boat will take you to the best places to swim and snorkel amongst tropical marine life, and if you’re lucky, you may spot sea turtles or dolphins bobbing in and out of the water alongside you. Take in the sights and enjoy an open bar, as well as gourmet lunch, freshly prepared by our chef. For added luxury, choose an onboard DJ and your very own photographer!
Get away from the hustle and bustle of central Tulum and step into the natural beauty of the Sian Ka’an nature reserve, which translates as “Origin of the Sky”. To negotiate the bumpy ride, a 4 wheel drive is essential. Deep in the jungle, with only the sounds of jungle birds and the rustle of a lizard at your feet, fun and adventure awaits!
Walk along the pontoon to your private lagoon boat, perfect for couples, families or large groups of friends. Cruise through the lagoons where the sea water meets with freshwater and you may even see a manatee, as wild birds swoop overhead. For added fun, pop on your life jacket, jump in and let the current gently pull you through the mangrove lined waterways.
After the lagoon tour, explore Tulum’s gorgeous secluded beaches. The Sian Ka’an is completely untouched, and home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Think white powdery sand and crystalline turquoise waters as far as the eye can see. As the sun sets, your food and drinks platter is served on the beach, brimming with fresh fruit, pastries, pasta salads and fresh juices, maybe even a bottle of fizz for that special occasion.
5. Spa and Detox Day in Tulum
Your vacation is all about balance. Too many midnight tacos might have you and your BFFs craving a detox. Rejuvenate your mind and body with a sensual spa day at the luxurious Yaan Healing Sanctuary spa in the hotel zone.
Here you’ll find a healing water circuit, with warm and cool massage pools, sauna, steam room and marble stone hammam. The spa uses natural waters from the crystalline springs of the Yucatan’s natural cenotes. Expect offerings of delicate herbal teas, made from herbs freshly harvested from the rooftop garden, followed by a natural scrub to stimulate your senses, and that’s just for starters.
Two Travel can help arrange unique spa experiences that will purify and cleanse your body, mind and soul. Choose from many different treatments including reiki, sound healing and traditional Mayan massages.
6. Tulum Cenote Adventure by zip line and ATV
For the adrenalin junkies, this activity is for you! Glide through the jungle on a zipline, ride an ATV through dense jungle before jumping into cool cenotes and crystal-clear waters. Experience the top adrenaline sports of the Riviera Maya on a trip that combines off-roading, ziplining, and snorkelling in a cenote.
These are just some of our top recommendations to explore Tulum. You can find more experiences here, or get in touch with details of the kind of vacation you’re looking for, and we’ll help you craft your dream trip to Tulum.
You are not alone if you’ve never heard of the Rosario Islands before. Most people who’ve not visited Colombia have no idea that just off the coast of Cartagena, there lies an archipelago of nearly 30 protected islands to rival the picture perfect Caribbean islands of your dreams.
The Rosario Islands nestle in a national park just an hour from Cartagena. The national park protects this important coral reef and the biodiversity that thrives in it. They are a must see for anyone coming to the Caribbean coast of Colombia. The experiences you can have in the Rosarios are as varied as the sea life you’ll find here.
This Two Travel guide to the Rosario Islands will help you decide what kind of trip you want to take. Discover when to visit, the best things to do in the Rosarios, and the things to know, before you go.We can help you with all your private boat rental needs. Simply get in touch to book a boat.
What kind of Rosarios Islands trip are you looking for?
The Rosario Islands offer a wealth of options for visitors who want to explore this beautiful Caribbean setting. Before you book, it’s important to know what kind of trip you want.
Party Vibe with Friends
The party you can have in the islands with friends all depends on your time and budget.
If you’re on a budget with just one day to spare, hire a speed boatfor an island hopping party.
For parties of 4 to 15 people, we’ll take you to the best spots to swim, snorkel and hit the beach. You´ll enjoy a traditional fish lunch and some dancing on the boat. And you´ll have time to explore some hotspots like Cholon which is THE party place in the Rosario Islands. Or maybe the hotspot where locals are flocking these days. It’s called La Piscina.
For a simple upgrade, choose a yacht or catamaran instead of a speed boat. You can even hire your own DJ and chef. This is a great option for bachelor and bachelorette weekends. It also works for a pre-wedding event, or for friends looking for a spring breaks style day trip.
For a more exclusive party if you have more time, you can rent a villa on a private island. This really gives you the chance to kick back and relax, or adventure and party. Staying the night in the Rosario Islands is the perfect way to enjoy the turquoise waters and perfect sandy beaches. With a private boat, you can explore anytime, then come back to the villa to relax, or continue the party.
Tell us what you need and our concierge will make sure everything is arranged for you – be it the boat you want, a DJ and bartender for the evening, or drinks and snacks for the ride.
Best Boats for Bachelor and Bachelorette to Party
When it comes to celebrating bachelor and bachelorette parties, there’s no place like the Rosario Islands in Cartagena. Imagine cruising through crystal-clear waters, soaking up the sun, and dancing to your favorite tunes with your closest friends. Our exclusive boat rentals offer the perfect setting for an unforgettable party on the sea.
Our fleet of luxurious boats is designed to cater to groups looking for a vibrant and memorable celebration. Whether you’re planning a wild bachelorette bash or a laid-back bachelor get-together, we have the perfect vessel for you. Each boat is equipped with top-notch amenities to ensure your day is nothing short of spectacular. Enjoy party essential amenities like a DJ, Private Chef, Food, and Drinks. For an extra touch of luxury, consider adding personalized decorations, a professional photographer, or a live band to your boat party. Whatever your vision, we’re here to make it happen.
Ready to make your bachelor or bachelorette party a day to remember? Contact us to book one of our premium boats and start planning your perfect day on the water.
The Rosario Islands are the perfect weekend away for couples. There are some incredibly beautiful places to relax, reconnect and recharge. Even if you don’t stay on a private island, if you choose a weekday trip to a small island, you may well be the only people there after the day trippers leave. Go for a sunset stroll or take in the sunset with a cocktail on the deck of a beach-side cabin, before an intimate dinner for two in the most gorgeous of surroundings.
Exploring and Adventure
If you’re keen to explore the biodiversity of the Rosarios, there are a wealth of options to suit any visitor. See the wildlife, coral reef or the mangroves in a kayak or on a paddle board.
Take a trip out for some excellent snorkelling or even better, scuba diving, and you will find yourself swimming with shoals of tropical fish in a unique coral wonderland. And if you’re staying the night, local residents will often offer you a chance to see and swim with bioluminescent plankton!
Relax for the day on a Caribbean beach
If you’re in Cartagena, without a doubt, you’ll be offered a trip to Playa Blanca. It’s true that the beach has idyllic white sand, tropical palms and incredible turquoise waters, but it can also get VERY busy. If you don’t know the best spot, you will (most likely) be hounded by vendors. That’s not to say it can’t be enjoyable, butwe know some better spotsif what you’re looking for is an Instagram shot to keep or a day to chill away from everyone.
As well as the villas that are available on private islands in the Rosarios, there are plenty of beach clubs you can go to for the day (we can help with those all important recommendations!) Perfect for those iconic Caribbean Instagram shots in the warm, turquoise-jewelled waters, or on incredible white-sanded beaches. You’ll need to arrange a day pass or stay the night at these island hotels, but we can guarantee that they’re worth it if you’re looking to relax for a couple of days. We can help you get the best price – just get in touch.
What you need to know before a trip to the Rosario Islands
Although a day trip is great for a boat party trip to the Rosarios, to really kick back and relax, we recommend you stay at least one night to enjoy more of what makes these islands so very special. Most boats, whether you go on a tour or hire a private boat, will leave from the main marinas in Cartagena between 7.30am and 9am, returning at around 4pm, before the sea gets too choppy.
As you can see, there are plenty of options for places to stay and things to do in the Rosarios, but do your research. If you’re looking for a quiet relaxing day, don’t head to Cholon or Playa Blanca. Instead, up your budget for a more luxe affair that you won’t forget.
Also, beware of gringo prices. Some tours, boats and lunch options are blatantly overpriced. When you’re out in the islands, there’s no choice to go elsewhere. So please choose a trusted operator who can tailor a trip to what you’re looking for.
Because there’s one thing we do know – the Rosario Islands are a great option for every visitor to Cartagena.
If you enjoyed these recommendations, don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for more inspiration for your next trip to Cartagena or Tulum. And get in touch if you need help with a boat, island or in building your journey.
Cartagena is a top destination for brides and grooms to celebrate with friends before tying the knot. With its beautiful landscape, relaxing Caribbean vibe, bustling nightlife, and wide array of fun activities, this city is the perfect backdrop for a great time. If you’re planning a Cartagena bachelor party or bachelorette weekend, here are our recommendations.
Embark on an unforgettable journey with Two Travel’s exclusive Concierge Service. As you prepare to revel in the splendor of Cartagena, allow us to elevate your experience with our bespoke services designed to ensure unparalleled luxury and seamless planning. Our Concierge Service is your gateway to personalized villa pre-stocking, responsive support available within minutes, and an unwavering commitment to uninterrupted enjoyment throughout your stay.
Whether you are looking for a crazy night out on the town for the bachelor party or a relaxing bachelorette weekend on the beach with private in house massages, Cartagena has everything you need for a fun and memorable excursion!
If you’re ready to plan your escape to Cartagena, we’ve got you covered. This list of the top six ways to party in Cartagena includes the best places to stay, what to do, and where to eat.
Stay in a Private Villa
While there are a lot of premium hotels and resorts available in Cartagena, we think you’ll enjoy your bachelor trip a lot more if you rent a private villa for your entire entourage.
Many villas feature exquisite 19th century architecture, private pools, rooftop views, and even dedicated staff.
If you book a villa with Two Travel, we will offer you a private chef to prepare delicious meals for you and your guests during your stay, a full staff to provide daily cleaning, a professional masseuse, and a dedicated concierge to take care of any last-minute needs. At your request, you can also have a bodyguard to accompany you around the town.
No need to worry about spending hours planning a bachelorette party. We’ll take care of all the details, so you can just enjoy bonding with friends and visiting Cartagena!
Whether you want to spend your time exploring all that Cartagena has to offer or just relaxing by the pool in your secluded courtyard— a private villa is the perfect home base for your bachelor or bachelorette party!
If you really want to treat yourself to something special, you may want to consider renting one of the many private Cartagena islands!
Our top choice for renting an island are the Rosario Islands, Cartagena – about an hour off shore of the city. These islands offer secluded white sand beaches, exotic palm trees, crystal blue waters, and stunning sunsets.
Surrounded by coral reefs, the Rosario Islands are as close as you can get to heaven on earth. They’re the perfect backdrop for a tropical bachelorette party, an unforgettable stag weekend, or even a joint bachelor and bachelorette party.
The best thing about renting a private island? It’s all yours, so you can do whatever you like, whenever you like. Throw a giant party. Stroll through tropical gardens. Relax on the beach. Go kayaking or jet skiing on the ocean.
Our private island rentals accommodate from 10 guests and come with a full staff who will cook and clean daily. All the groceries you need for your stay will be delivered to the island before you arrive. And each day you’ll get a delivery of fresh-caught fish of the day! We’ll take care of everything for you, so you can just spend your time enjoying your Cartagena vacation.
Whether you stay at a private villa, rent an island, or opt for a resort vacation, there’s one Cartagena activity you definitely won’t want to miss out on: yachting!
If you want to enjoy a good party while taking in some breathtaking sights, renting a private yacht, speedboat or catamaran is the perfect solution for your stagette or bucks party.
As Cartagena is located right on the southern coast of the Caribbean Sea, you can board your boat directly from the Old Town. Then spend the day exploring the islands and coral reefs of Cholon, Playa Blanca, and the Islas de Rosario.
Finish the day off by watching the majesty of a Caribbean sunset on board before heading back to shore.
Too busy to think about preparing food while partying? If you rent a yacht with Two Travel, we can provide catering onboard. We’ll make sure you have everything you need to make the most of your day on the sea! Find out more about the best way to explore the islands.
If you’re idea of the perfect bachelor party entertainment involves drinking and nightlife, Cartagena has some fantastic options! This city boasts a vibrant club scene complete with craft cocktails, dancing, and even live music for some special events.
If you want to enjoy some classic clubbing in a stylish setting, try out La Jugada. This club features up-cycled interiors, craft cocktails, and a dance-ready playlist. If you book a table here, come prepared for a stylish crowd and be sure to dress with an appropriate amount of class. It’s a local favorite, so spending an evening at La Jugada is a great way to experience the culture of Cartagena.
For an unforgettable and unique nightlife experience, head to Alquímico in the Historic Walled City. This innovative club features inventive cocktails, liquor infusions, and a menu that draws from local recipes and fresh ingredients. The menu isn’t the only reason to visit Alquimico, though! This club features a gorgeous art-deco cocktail bar on the ground floor, a roof terrace with city views upstairs, and a DJ curated playlist that features a variety of trendy music styles.
The newest (and coolest) kid on the block right now is Casa Cruxada. By day, you’ll find delicious food in the two restaurants on the ground floor. By night, the place is transformed with additional floors and rooms opened up for you to explore. This club / bar / restaurant is in an enormous, crumbling Colonial building that feels like it is coming apart at the seams, in the best way possible. Here, you can hear live DJs play minimal techno beats and deep house.
Having difficulties booking a table at your chosen club? Looking for VIP access to the best tables? If this is your scenario, we can help you out! At Two Travel, we have established relationships with the owners and managers of the top clubs and restaurants. We’re happy to get our clients VIP access, no cover charge, and even sold-out reservations that aren’t available online or by phone
Contact us to find out more about VIP access to the top Cartagena clubs today!
Dine out – best for group parties
No Cartagena bachelorette or bachelor party would be complete without a dining experience at one of the city’s famous restaurants.
Visit Carmen for an intimate dining experience with a menu that features contemporary cuisine and authentic Colombian flavors. At Lobo Del Mar, you’ll find innovative cocktails and gastronomic creations inspired by classic Caribbean flavors and locally sourced seasonal ingredients.
For a bachelor or bachelorette party, we also love La Unica for a quality Mexican experience. It has a fun, playful vibe and has great music – from in-house DJs to live mariachi bands – incredible food, and of course a range of tequilas. Or head up to the rooftop at Buena Vida. It’s a stylish but truly Cartagenero seafood restaurant with an impressive cocktail menu, wonderful food and live music from some excellent local bands and DJs.
A Cartagena Bachelor Party or Bachelorette Beach Day
Why wait until the evening to party? In Cartagena, you can dance at any time of day or night, and we love to dance on the beach! Don’t stay on the mainland. The best beaches and beach clubs are on nearby Tierra Bomba island or further out in the Rosario Islands.
For bachelorettes, try Blue Apple Beach – not only is the food and drink spectacular, but the service is always special for brides to be. If you want a dance lesson, they will always say yes. Lounge by the pool or on the beach, and if you have time, get a massage from the in-house masseuse team. You will not leave disappointed.
For bachelors, head out to Bora Bora in the Rosario Islands. Every day is a party at this famous and very popular beach club. Another option is to take an ATV tour in north Cartagena along some of the longest beaches in the city. It’s the perfect morning adventure activity for any bachelor group spending the weekend in Cartagena.
There you have it — our top six tips to make your Cartagena party unforgettable! And if you’re feeling overwhelmed planning it, or just want to relax and not deal with all the hassle of getting people to the right place at the right time – call us! We arrange bachelor and bachelorette weekends in Cartagena all the time.
If you’d like some help with your Cartagena Bachelor party or Bachelorette weekend, get in touch and we’ll build an itinerary that you’ll never forget! Indulge in unparalleled luxury with our Concierge services—your bilingual local expert crafting tailor-made itineraries and ensuring seamless logistics, from pre-arrival to departure. Experience personalized villa pre-stocking, responsive 5-minute support between 8 am and 1 am, and uninterrupted enjoyment with inventory checks and swift replenishment.
Elevate your journey—book now and savor the essence of bespoke hospitality.
Cartagena is one of Colombia’s most thriving cities. Founded in 1553 as a portal of trade between Spain and the American colonies, this beautiful historic city boasts impressive colonial architecture, a rich history, a vibrant culture, and a beautiful landscape. Today, Cartagena is considered the safest metropolis in Colombia and one of the best spots for tourism in South America!
Located in the northwest area of Colombia, this city sprawls between the inland hills of the department of Bolívar and the white sand coastline of the Caribbean. There’s plenty to see and do in Cartagena—soak up the sun on the beaches, take in the spectacular views of the tropical scenery, or wander through winding cobbled streets in charming neighborhoods. Just a short boat ride away, you’ll find the Rosario Islands – a protected reserve of picture-perfect islands and coral reefs.
Two places you absolutely won’t want to miss within Cartagena, are the Walled City of Old Cartagena and the neighborhood of Getsemani. Between these two districts, you can get a thorough taste of the culture and people of Cartagena while experiencing some of the city’s most noteworthy sights, tastes, and sounds!
If you want to elevate your experience in Cartagena we have it all for you: private boat rental, private villa rental for your stay, restaurant reservations, and a Concierge team for you and your group!
The Walled City of Old Cartagena, Colombia
One of the most memorable neighborhoods in all of Colombia, the Walled City of Old Cartagena is famous for its rich history and magnificent architecture. This district is so important to Colombian culture that it was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site In 1984!
Castillo San Felipe outside the historical centre, and the fortifications that surround and protect the city were built by Spanish colonists to protect from pirates, most notably Sir Francis Drake, during the 16th century. The entire neighborhood is surrounded by a massive stone wall and can only be entered through one of many arched gateways.
Despite the constant flow of tourists and the passage of three centuries, this enchanting fortified city has managed to preserve much of its authentic architecture and colonial charm. Visitors today find a winding network of cobbled streets, colonial churches, ancient mansions, and rows of brightly painted cottages protected behind the castle-like walls.
Today, Old Cartagena hosts a thriving tourist community. Many of the antique family mansions have been transformed into luxury hotels that still maintain some of the original construction and showcase authentic colonial decor. There are hundreds of world-class restaurants here, and it is expected that the Walled City will soon overtake Bogota as the culinary capital of Colombia!
You can expect to pay a little more for your accommodation, dining, and adventures within the walls, but it will be well worth it to experience this enchanting old-world city.
Things to Do in the Walled City: Cartagena, Colombia, Colonial District
During the day, wander through the Old City’s streets, lined with brightly painted houses and seemingly perfectly preserved colonial architecture. Travelers will find tropical blooms draping from colorful balconies, enchanting stone archways, and a tantalizing selection of local street food.
If fine-dining is what you’ve come for, be sure to try La Cevicheria for exquisitely prepared Colombian seafood, Montmartre for classic French cuisine, or Alma for contemporary classics in a romantic setting.
The Walled City is an amazing place to watch the sunset over the Caribbean! Just before dark, head to the Cafe del Mar to enjoy cocktails and fine dining with the view, or purchase drinks and a fruit cup from one of the street vendors and join the locals on the western wall. Either way, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the sun setting over the vibrant Caribbean waters!
Not sure how to make the most of your trip to Cartagena? Contact us and let’s build together an itinerary that fits your budget and requirements!
Getsemaní – Cartagena’s Williamsburg
Once considered Cartagena’s shadiest neighborhood, today, Getsemaní has evolved into a modern and trendy corner that draws tourists with its vibrancy and artistic expression. Located just outside of the Walled City, no trip to Cartagena is complete without a tour of this neighborhood.
Like the Walled City, Getsemaní features colonial architecture, winding streets, and bright colors. Mingled in with this classic aesthetic is an astonishing array of talented street art. Painted on buildings, walls, and sidewalks, the colorful local artwork has become an identifying characteristic of this trendy neighborhood.
Getsemani revolves around Plaza Trinidad, a large open square bustling with food vendors, cafes, and musicians. Every night, the plaza comes alive with a mix of tourists and locals coming together to enjoy good music, food, dancing, and company. While it’s still a bit rough around the edges, the local vibe, amazing street art, and authentic feel of Getsemani make it well worth the visit!
Things to do in Getsemaní
Getsemani seems to have been designed for wandering. The first thing you should do here is just that: walk! Amble up and down the narrow streets to enjoy the fantastic artwork, brightly colored homes, and prolific tropical plants that line almost every road.
For food, head to the Plaza Trinidad. The main square of the city has a wide selection of vendors to choose from, all of it well-priced and delicious. For a more formal setting, try out Di Silvio Trattoria for pizza and Italian food, or, go to Cafe del Mural for some of the best coffee in Cartagena!
Whatever you decide to do in the city of Cartagena, get in touch if you would like help with nightlife and restaurant reservations, tours, boat hire, day trips of the best villas in the city.
With its spectacular mountain views, diverse culture, traditional cuisine, and sightseeing attractions, Medellin is one of South America’s most popular travel destinations! Located in the Colombian department of Antioquia, this region is one of the top suppliers of Colombian coffee beans. It’s also home to some of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders such as Parque Arvi and El Peñón de Guatapé. And Medellín is a well-known shopping and dining destination.
Check out our comprehensive Guide To Things To Do In Medellin!
Explore Downtown Medellín
One of the best ways to experience the culture of Medellin is by exploring the downtown district, El Centro. Whether you take a guided walking tour or stroll through the streets with your traveling companion, El Centro is the ideal place to learn about Medellin’s history, culture, and architecture. Downtown is bustling and active, and by day this district is very safe. However, it’s important to travel in pairs or with a group and stay off the streets at night.
We recommend making a point of touring El Centro on your first full day in Medellin. It will help you get your bearings and make the most of the rest of your trip! You can also take our Medellin City Tour, where you will be paired up with a local, super-knowledgeable guide. Two Travel guides give you the key to the city and take you straight to the best of the best.
Plaza Botero & Museo de Antioquia
Be sure to enjoy some of Fernando Botero’s internationally acclaimed sculptures and paintings during your stay in Medellin. A native to Medellin, Botero patronized his home town with an impressive collection of stunning artwork.
Visit the Plaza Botero to admire his colossal human statues. Or wander around the Museo de Antioquia to see some of his most famous paintings. Located side by side in the city center, these two Medellin attractions have free admission!
Jardin Botanico
Located north of the city center in Zona Norte, the Botanical Gardens of Medellin are worth taking time to see. Among an impressive array of native plants and animals, these gardens feature a butterfly house and an orchid exhibit. Throughout the gardens, you’ll find many places to sit down and admire the exotic flora and fauna. Completely free to enter, the Jardin Botanico is a fantastic place to take a break from sightseeing and relax for a few hours.
Parque Arvi
Brimming with hiking trails, fresh water streams, and picnic areas, Parque Arvi is sure to be one of the most memorable destinations on your journey. As one of the region’s largest nature reserves, this park is the perfect spot to enjoy the tranquility of nature and observe wildlife. The easiest way to access Parque Arvi is by taking the Medellin Metrocable, but you can also hike up to it if you’re feeling adventurous!
Metrocable
One of our favorite things to do in Medellín is see the city from above! The Metrocable connects the valley-based hub of the city to some of the surrounding mountain communities. The city’s innovative metro system offers more than just easy accessibility around Medellin, though. Whether you take the metro cable all the way up to Parque Arvi or just to a hillside town, you’ll enjoy unparalleled sights of Medellin and the surrounding countryside!
Comuna 13
Explore a place that was once considered one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in the world. Decades ago, it was an epicenter of drug trafficking and violence. Today, Comuna 13 is a fascinating hub of local culture and street art. Community projects and investments made by the government have not only improved the mobility and quality of life of its residents, but have also opened the area to tourism.
Built on a steep hill in the mountain, this neighborhood relies on the outdoor escalators to facilitate transport. Take theComuna 13 Tour with Two Travel to guarantee the best visit to this part of town. Check out the beautiful street art. Hang with hip-hop dancers whilst learning about the history and inspirational social change of Comuna 13.
Pueblito Paisa
Constructed to resemble a traditional small pueblo, or village, Pueblito Paisa is located right in the center of Medellin on Cerro Nutibara. From this elevated hill, you can enjoy incredible views of the city and surrounding countryside. Pueblito Paisa is worth visiting for more than just the vantage point though! Home to a variety of quaint shops, this village is an excellent place to pick up a souvenir of your travels.
Things to do in Medellin with kids – Parque Explora
An interactive science museum located just next to the botanical gardens in Zona Norte, Parque Explora is a fun and educational choice for a free afternoon! Visitors can partake in interactive science programs or gaze at the exotic animals hosted in the large indoor aquarium. Full of activities for the entire family, this museum is a must-see for anyone traveling with kids!
Guatapé is a must-see day trip from Medellín
For anyone staying in Medellin over an extended visit, the small pueblo of Guatapé is a must-see. Just two hours away by bus, the main attraction in this beautiful lake town is El Peñón de Guatapé, a granite monolith. For a small fee, you can climb the 740 steps carved into the rock and experience the stunning views of the nearby lake, islands, and mountains.
After the climb, be sure to pick up some delicious and affordable Colombian street food from local vendors in Guatapé! The town itself is postcard-pretty, with cobbled streets and colorful zocalos lining the buildings. Zocalos are carved drawings from the start of the 20th Century. Each drawing tells the tale of the original purpose of the building. Pick up a souvenir from the quaint little shops. Then snuggle up with a hot chocolate, or dig into a bandeja paisa. This famous local dish is sure to replace any calories burned by climbing the Peñón! Two Travel can take you on a Tour to Guatapé any day, when you take a concierge service with us.
Local Cuisine
There are some amazing fine dining opportunities in Medellin! For contemporary cuisine and local ingredients, reserve seating at Carmen Restaurant in El Poblado. While the prices are fairly high at this fine dining restaurant, you are guaranteed to enjoy an exquisite meal experience!
For slightly more moderate prices and a family friendly atmosphere, try out Mondongos, where you’ll find a variety of delicious local favorites. If you’re looking for a diverse selection of ethnic cuisines, visit the gastronomic market of Mercado del Rio. With more than fifty food vendors located in one building, you’ll be sure to find something that suits your taste!
If you consider yourself a foodie or would like to learn more about the top restaurants in the city, make sure to check out our blog onthe best restaurants in Medellin. After all, the best way to explore a new place is through its cuisine!
Medellin Coffee Shops
Colombia is one of the world’s largest coffee producers. Many of the beans that are exported come from the region of Antioquia surrounding Medellin. The best place to go for freshly harvested, roasted, and brewed Colombian coffee is the trendy neighborhood of El Poblado. Pergamino coffee shop has a large selection of hot and cold beverages, made almost entirely from beans grown on the owner’s family farm. We’d also recommend sampling craft coffee brews at Café Velvet, and Urbania Café, also in El Poblado. Each of these coffee shops offers bags of regional beans at unbeatable prices. Take home an aromatic blend as a souvenir of your journey!
Things to do at Night in Medellin
Medellin has so much more to explore than its bars and clubs, but that doesn’t mean to say that you shouldn’t get a taste of the infamous Medellin nightlife! The majority of the bars and clubs are centered around Provenza, Parque Lleras, and La 70 in Laureles. Medellin has something for everyone; from electronica and house to reggaeton and salsa.
With so many options to visit, make sure you check out our Medellin Nightlife Blog, which gives an excellent summary of all the hottest places to visit during your stay. And, of course, you’ll need a villa, condo, or penthouse to crash at after your wild night out on the town. We have the keys to some of the most exclusive accommodations in Medellin, so don’t forget to book ahead to reserve your dream villa.
If you’re planning a trip to Medellín and the coffee region, get in touch. We’ll design an itinerary tailored to your time and interests, so you can enjoy this very special region to the max!
For real freedom and the chance to explore at your own pace, there’s no better way to travel than by bike. Spend a day beach and bar hopping by bike to really feel the vibe and connect with the locals. We can organize bike hire by the day or for your whole trip.
