Amare Beach Club is a firm favorite with locals craving a beach day without the crowds of tourists or the vendors. It’s only 10 minutes from the city, but you would never know it. It’s hidden on the far side of Tierra Bomba on a beach called Playa Linda (which translates to “beautiful beach”). Here you have a view of the ocean, the beach and the palm trees – what more could one ask for?!
Amare really is a gem of a place. The beach is huge and white. The sky is blue 320 days of the year, and the water is clean and clear. And at Amare, you can choose your style. Set back under the palms, you’ll find a gorgeous pool and plenty of places to relax. For those that want more “on the beach action”, head to the loungers set on the beach.
But it’s not just the setting that you’ll love at Amare Beach Club. You’ll also find excellent cocktails recommended by all the city’s bartenders, plus deliciously satisfying design-your-own bowl-style lunches. And look out for the regular events, featuring some of the best DJs in town (and some of the coolest locals!)
This beach club truly is for those in-the-know wanting to experience local Cartagenero culture at its coolest!
What’s included in the Amare Beach Club day pass?
Round trip by boat departing from Playa Hospital Bocagrande
Welcome to Blue Apple – one of the best beach clubs in Cartagena!
In their own words, “Blue Apple is an independently owned boutique hotel and beach restaurant with a strong focus on fun and also on sustainable tourism.”
Here, you can relax during the week and party and dance on the weekend. Blue Apple always has live music and DJs from Friday to Sunday, whereas the weekdays are more relaxed if you’re looking for a quieter time, maybe a horse ride or simply a delicious organic lunch and some cocktails by the pool.
Included in your day pass:
Round trip transfers in shared boat (departure from Cartagena 10am or 12pm, return from Blue Apple Beach 4pm or 5:30pm) – Make sure to choose the right schedule for you!
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.
If you’re yearning for a slice of tropical paradise, the bohemian beach town of Tulum in Mexico may well be the answer to your vacation daydreams. This Caribbean coastal stunner is a delicate mix of picture-perfect beaches and thick luscious jungle topped off with a cool boho vibe. Located on the east coast of Mexico, this former fishing village is home to some of the world’s most Instagrammed beaches. So if you’re looking for crystal turquoise waters and sugar-white sand, there are ten miles of exquisite Tulum beaches for you to explore.
Tulum has two main areas: Tulum beach (playa) and Tulum town (pueblo). It’s a 90-minute drive south of perennial spring break favorite — Cancun — and although Tulum’s not as bold and busy as its northern neighbor, your Tulum vacation can be as social or as chill as you please. This idyllic spot enjoys a reputation as a nature lover’s paradise — an eco-chic destination brimming with yoga retreats, organic smoothies, and a burgeoning foodie scene. It’s also known as a music event hot spot, with big-name DJs drawing large crowds to epic jungle raves and full moon parties.
Where to find Tulum’s Top Beaches
When it comes to experiencing the natural beauty of Tulum, you can’t go past its breathtaking Caribbean surrounds. Tulum’s beaches stretch for more than 10 miles south of the spectacular Mayan ruins in Tulum National Park to the World Heritage-listed Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve. So you’ve got plenty of choices regarding where to stay and where to play along the Tulum coast.
Less development in the north means fewer hotels and beach clubs and easier access to that silky-soft sand. The further south you go, you’ll find luxury accommodation and beach clubs and more of a party vibe.
And although Mexico’s beaches are public by law, many of Tulum’s resorts limit beach access to resort guests. Some beachfront hotels and beach clubs offer daybeds and cabañas for rent, as well as access to the beach if you dine or drink at their restaurant.
The Two Travel team are experts in all that Tulum has to offer, so to whet your appetite for your next visit to Mexico, we’ve put together a guide to Tulum’s 10 Best Beaches.
1. Playa Ruinas
The spectacular 13th-century Mayan ruins are one of Tulum’s biggest drawcards. These well-preserved structures sit high on a clifftop, overlooking a dazzling beach called Playa Ruinas. This secluded cove is all glistening blue water and powder-white sand and can be accessed via steep steps down from the viewing platform.
Arrive early at the ruins to beat the crowds and the midday sun, and make sure to bring a towel and your swimsuit so that you can cool off in the crystal-clear waters below. The striking contrast of the tropical jungle, dramatic ancient architecture, and baby blue water of the Caribbean makes this one of Mexico’s most photographed locations.
2. Playa Santa Fe
The beautiful white sands of Santa Fe Beach are just a 10-minute walk south of the ruins. Playa Santa Fe is a public access beach, and its long, vast stretch of sand is the perfect spot for a day lazing in the Caribbean sun. You can still see the Mayan ruins from this stunning beach, and there are a handful of beachfront restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat or rent a lounge chair on the sand.
3. Playa Pescadores
The next beach heading south along the Tulum coast is gorgeous Playa Pescadores. This long stretch of sand gets a little busier at times because the local boat tours depart from here; it’s also pet-friendly so expect to see some four-legged friends frolicking in the shallows. Playa Pescadores is the kind of beach where you can just throw a towel down on the sand and spend the day bathing in the calm azure water. If you’re up for some adventure, you can head out on a snorkeling or fishing tour with one of the boats moored offshore, and make sure you sample the freshly caught seafood at one of the local restaurants.
4. Playa Paraíso
Named one of Mexico’s most beautiful beaches, Playa Paraíso (Paradise Beach) is all crystal-clear water and pure white sand. It’s one of Tulum’s most popular beaches and has become an Instagram hotspot, with its famous leaning palm tree taking prime position on influencer feeds.
You’ll find this slice of paradise just over a mile south of the ruins, and although it’s long and wide, it’s best to get there early to secure a good spot on the sand.
Paradise Beach has become popular with daytrippers, and while it’s a public access beach, you can also rent a sunbed and fill up on food and drink at one of the local beach clubs.
5. Playa Las Palmas
The last of the beaches along Tulum beach road’s northern stretch is Playa Las Palmas — one of Tulum’s more secluded places to laze away a sunny day. This public access beach is the perfect spot to settle in for a day of sun, sand and baby blue water, and although it’s less busy than some of the other spots along the Tulum coast, you’ll still encounter local vendors selling their wares. Playa Las Palmas also has an outdoor beach gym resembling the one in Muscle Beach, California!
6. South Playa
South Beach is where you’ll find the majority of Tulum’s luxury hotels and eco-boutique resorts. Most of Tulum’s beach accommodation lines either side of the Tulum beach road, and South Beach is the go-to for open-air clubs and lively beach parties. The Tulum beach strip is brimming with fine dining options located within instagrammable interiors — think sand floors and rustic decor — as well as high-end boutiques stocking bohemian-style fashion, handcrafted accessories, and organic skincare.
If you’re coming to Tulum and want advice on where to stay and what to do, get in touch.
We manage some gorgeous houses and can offer great rates on unique experiences.
OK, let’s get back to those amazing beaches…
7. Sian Ka’an Biosphere
If you’re dreaming of lazy days on a secluded beach, get off the beaten track and venture into the wilds of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere. This UNESCO World Heritage nature reserve is south of Tulum and spans more than one million acres! Home to thousands of species of fauna and flora, Sian Ka’an is tricky to get but worth it. Sian Ka’an boasts an abundance of stunning places to swim — we’re crystal-clear waters with not another soul in sight. There are miles of coastline to explore, and while some of the beaches are rough and rugged, others are protected and serene. The reserve beaches are not like Tulum’s developed areas, so bringing supplies is essential.
8. Soliman Bay
If you head back in the other direction — that’s north of Tulum towards Playa del Carmen — you’ll discover a hidden gem called Soliman Bay. This tranquil tropical hideaway has escaped the development found along other parts of the Riviera Maya, so you won’t find large beachfront hotels and loud bars along this stretch of sand.
But if you’re seeking sunshine and serenity against a tropical backdrop, this pristine piece of paradise is ideal. Soliman Bay is a semi-private gated community, so to gain access to the beach, you’ll need to refuel with an ice-cold drink or some tasty ceviche at one of the small beachfront restaurants.
There’s an outer coral reef that protects the bay’s calm turquoise waters and provides snorkelers with an amazing underwater world full of marine life. Make sure to pack beach shoes or flip-flops to avoid mishaps with broken coral and seashells.
9. Akumal
If you’re a wildlife lover, then a day trip to the town of Akumal is essential. Akumal is known locally as ‘Place of the Turtle,’ and it’s famous for giving visitors the chance to swim with wild sea turtles. It’s a small inlet, about 30 minutes north of central Tulum, that boasts brilliant underwater visibility and warm, calm waters thanks to the surrounding coral reef. As well as the juvenile sea turtles, snorkelers are spoilt with an incredible abundance of marine life, including manta rays, parrotfish, and pufferfish. This popular beach vacation destination was officially founded in 1958 as a scuba diving community and is quite commercialized compared to other beach towns along the Tulum coast.
10. Paamul Beach
For a stripped-back beach experience, travel a little further north towards Playa Del Carmen and make a stop at Paamul Beach. This crescent-shaped bay is less developed than other spots along the Riviera Maya. But what it lacks in beach clubs and facilities, it makes up for with calm blue-turquoise water and plenty of swaying palm trees to protect you from the midday sun. A favorite amongst locals and visitors, Paamul boasts superb snorkeling thanks to the offshore coral reef, and you can indulge in delicious local cuisine and an ice-cold beer at the resident beach restaurant.
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.
We work with a number of Tulum yoga teachers, and can arrange yoga sessions to suit your needs and experience. We highly recommend an early morning session on the beach, and can also organize private yoga session at your villa, whenever is most convenient.
Take time out to relax and be pampered in a jungle spa. Choose a Mayan clay massage to relax, refresh or rejuvenate. Or take a dip in the healing pools and jacuzzis. We promise you’ll enjoy every magical moment.
