11 Best & Biggest Cities in Colombia to Visit in 2026

Have you ever been to Colombia? If you want to travel to the beautifully wondrous country of Colombia, you will find this article about cities in Colombia to visit helpful. 

Experiencing city life while traveling has a certain charm, especially in a country as amazing and diverse as Colombia. Exploring the food, art, architecture, Colombian nightlife, and other city attractions is a major part of traveling through its regions. 

We have compiled a list of the best cities in the three regions of Colombia, the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, and the Andes. We’ll be highlighting the major aspects of the cities, including their histories and what to do in each city. If you plan accordingly, you may even learn how to travel for free.

Let’s find out what you can do if you visit Colombia in any of these amazing places. 

Mapping Colombia in Your Mind

Cities reflect a country’s unique local life, history, and culture.

Colombia is a culturally rich and geographically diverse country. When you think of this South American destination, you do not think of just one thing or place. Colombia has it all. The beautiful beaches, wildlife, cathedrals, colorful streets, historic towns, and much more. That’s why Colombia is a popular destination for tourists. 

Here are some of the best places in three regions of this wonderful country in South America.

Cities in Colombia – Caribbean Region 

Cartagena

Climate	Population	Elevation
24-32°C	1.03M	7 feet above sea level

Cartagena History

Cartagena was founded on June 1, 1533. It is a wealthy city that served as the most important Colombian port in the early times, where merchants transported goods from the inland to the coast and towards Barranquilla, exporting its gold and raw materials to Europe. 

The city often came under attack for its wealth, so walls were built on the outer boundaries to secure it from outsiders. You can still see the city walls when you visit Cartagena today.

Things to Do in Cartagena

Cartagena is an old colonial town and the capital of the Bolivar region. This beautiful walled city is the perfect blend of modern and old. 

There are a lot of things to do in Cartagena for tourists. You can enjoy boating on the Caribbean Sea and other water activities. You will also enjoy its beautiful sights, restaurants, and boutique hotels. Many would deem it the perfect honeymoon destination.

It’s important to know where to stay in Cartagena to avoid roaming in other areas as a precaution.

Santa Marta

Climate	Population	Elevation
21-33°C	540K	16 feet above sea level

Santa Marta History

The Spaniards founded Santa Marta on July 29, 1525. It is regarded as one of the oldest Latin American cities. 

Indigenous people once occupied the city, such as the Kogi, Wiwa, Kankuamo, and Arhuaco (or Ika). However, today, these people live and are only limited to the mountains.

Things to Do in Santa Marta

Santa Marta is the capital of Magdalena and is very popular for tourism, particularly among the Colombian people. 

You will see a beautiful blend of beaches and mountains in Santa Marta. You also can trek in the beautiful Tayrona National Park or explore the Lost City of the Sierra Nevada mountains. 

There are many amazing things to do in Santa Marta, whatever activity you want. 

Barranquilla

Climate	Population	Elevation
23-34°C	1.27M	59 feet above sea level

Barranquilla History

The 4th largest city in Colombia, Barranquilla, was founded on April 7, 1813. It is regarded as the country’s economic capital. This port city has multiple industries, including fishery, trade, and financing.

Things to Do in Barranquilla

As one of the most important cities in Colombia, efforts are underway to promote tourism in Barranquilla. 

Its main highlight is the Carnival festival, the second-largest in the world. You can also enjoy bird watching and explore other tourist zones developed by the administration. 

Riohacha

Climate	Population	Elevation
21-35°C	188,000	16 feet above sea level

Riohacha History

The capital of the La Guajira department, the city of Riohacha, was founded in 1547 and is located on the Caribbean coast. In the 16^TH century, the city came into the limelight as locals’ wealth grew due to pearls from the sea, which was why Frances Drake, a famous pirate, attacked the city.

The northern region of the area is predominantly occupied by the Wayuu, the native population there, who rebelled against the local administration and strived for improved trading conditions.

Things to Do in Riohacha

La Guajira is a beautiful region with multiple ecosystems. You can explore the beauty of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the deserts, as the region shares borders with the Caribbean Sea, Venezuela, Cesar department, and Palomino town. 

If you are an adventure lover, you will surely love visiting Riohacha and the surrounding areas.

Cities in Colombia – Pacific Coast Region

Buenaventura

Climate	Population	Elevation
19-34°C	430,000	16 feet above sea level

Buenaventura History

Buenaventura, the most important city on the Pacific coast, was founded on July 14, 1540. The city did not become a seaport until 1819 and was developed earlier for river migration only. The majority of the region’s inhabitants are Afro-Colombians.

Things to Do in Buenaventura

Buenaventura is quite biodiverse and offers access to other cities on the Pacific coast. It receives heavy rainfalls, so you may want to plan and pack according to the weather. 

While you are there, you can enjoy bird and whale watching. There are many sites to explore along with the wildlife. In addition, its local fresh fish makes for delicious meals.

Cities in Colombia – Andes Region

Medellin

Climate	Population	Elevation
16-28°C	2.53 million	4,921 feet above sea level

Medellin History

The beautiful Medellin was founded on March 2, 1616. Located in the department of Antioquia, Medellin has become widely populated, particularly from the early 1900s to the 1950s, due to the booming industrial sector. 

It is also notorious for being home to the famous Pablo Escobar. His drug cartel was eliminated in 1993, and since then, the area has become a safe place for tourists.

Things to Do in Medellin

Medellin is rightly called the city of eternal spring. Although its air is not always clean, the city attracts tourists from all over the world. 

Its mild weather and booming Medellin nightlife make it worth the visit. Known for its street food, music, and art, you can also enjoy visiting nearby colonial towns. The coffee triangle is also not too far.

As you see, there are plenty of things to do in Medellin. If you want to take day trips from Medellin, check out Piedra el Peñol or Guatapé.

[Related Read: Where To Stay In Medellin, Colombia – 5 Best Places To Stay In The City]

Cali

Climate	Population	Elevation
16-31°C	2.25 million	3,340 feet above sea level

Cali History

Originally a small town, Cali was founded in 1536. It did not begin growing until 1915, when the Panama Canal and a railway line were subsequently opened. 

Like Medellin, the city was once notoriously famous for its drug cartel. However, things have changed since then.

Things to Do in Cali

Many still wonder if Cali is safe, yet something about Cali draws in tourists. It is known as the world capital of Salsa, so don’t forget to check out the Cali nightlife. 

When you visit Cali, do not forget to visit the Gato de Rio, the famous cat sculpture at the Cali Riverbank, and Cristo Rey, the famous 85-foot statue of Jesus Christ that overlooks the city. Other things to do in Cali include windsurfing and kite flying. 

[Related Read: Where To Stay In Cali, Colombia – 5 Best Places To Stay For Your Next Trip]

Pasto

Climate	Population	Elevation
9-17°C	400,000	8,268 feet above sea level

Pasto History

Located in central San Andes, Pasto is the capital of Narino and was founded on June 24, 1537. Pasto is historically known as the city that rebelled against Simon Bolivar, the great liberator. 

During a civil war in 1861, Pasto was declared the national capital for six months.

Things to Do in Pasto

Pasto does not offer much in terms of tourism, although you may find some outdoor activities, like exploring the San Cathedral. 

The Black and White festival held in the region is also quite popular.

Bogotá

Climate	Population	Elevation
7-20°C	7.74 million	8,661 feet above sea level

Bogotá History

Colombia’s capital city, Bogotá, was founded on August 6, 1538. This city is one of the primary cities in the Andes region and has a heavy influence on the cultural, economic, and political landscape of Colombia. 

Before the Spaniards reached Bogotá in 1537 for its gold, it was inhabited by the indigenous Muiscas. Recently, the city and its outskirts were marred due to terrorist threats from the FARC rebels. 

But now, it is safe for tourists to travel from Bogotá to other cities after the peace treaty in 2016.

Things to Do in Bogotá

Bogotá is a popular tourist destination known for its colorful street art, beautiful neighborhoods, museums, and local breweries. 

You will have a wonderful time exploring the wonderful attractions in Bogotá.

Pereira

Climate	Population	Elevation
17-27°C	500,000	4,629 feet above sea level

Pereira History

Pereira was founded on August 30, 1863. It is the capital of Risaralda and the most populated coffee zone. The country experienced heavy migration around the 1920s from Antioquia as people traveled to accumulate wealth from coffee cultivation. 

Things to Do in Pereira

Pereira is famous for many landmarks in addition to being the center of the coffee cultural landscape. The city offers many recreational parks, swimming pools, restaurants, and cafes.

Manizales

Climate	Population	Elevation
11-22°C	440,000	7,087 feet above sea level

Manizales History

Founded on October 12, 1873, Manizales is the capital of the department of Caldas. Like Pereira, it is a member of PCC, El Paisaje Cultural Cafetero de Colombia, the Colombian coffee zone recognized as a world heritage by UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization).

Up until the 1990s, the city was recognized only because of coffee. However, the local bodies took steps to enable other industries to flourish as well. 

Things to Do in Manizales

The hot springs of Manizales are quite famous, but it is also well-known for their proximity to the Nevado del Ruiz volcano, which is still active. 

The region is usually cold and receives frequent rain. On days it doesn’t rain, you can trek the Los Nevados national park or explore the downtown. You can also climb the Manizales Cathedral or relax in the hot springs, Thermals.

What Are The 10 Major Cities in Colombia?

As noted in the description above, all cities of Colombia have distinct characters and offer different attractions and sights. You can get a different experience in each city you visit. 

However, there is only so much you can do, and if you were to travel to select cities of the country only, you would want to pick only the top cities. 

Here are the top ten cities of the Republic of Colombia ranked according to population:

1. Bogotá – 7.74M
2. Medellin – 2.53M
3. Cali – 2.25M
4. Barranquilla – 1.27M
5. Cartagena – 1.03M
6. Cúcuta – 780K
7. Bucaramanga – 610K
8. Villavicencio – 550K
9. Ibagué – 540K
10. Santa Marta – 540K

Frequently Asked Questions – Cities in Colombia to Visit

What Is the Most Famous City in Colombia?

Bogotá, the capital and economic center of Colombia, is the most well-known of all Colombian cities.

How To Stay Safe In Colombia

To stay safe in Colombia, prioritize awareness and caution. Research your destinations beforehand, opt for reputable transportation, and avoid flaunting valuables. Stay informed about local safety conditions and trust your instincts in unfamiliar situations to ensure a secure visit.

Additionally, consider protecting yourself with travel insurance such as SafetyWing, which can cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen incidents during your stay. Use the widget below to snag the perfect policy for your needs and travel with peace of mind knowing you’ve got your back covered, no matter what adventures come your way!

Which City Is Best to Visit in Colombia?

While the top Colombian cities vie for the reputation as the best destination, many travelers recommend Cartagena at the top of their lists. Cartagena is considered one of the best-preserved colonial destinations in the Americas. Also, the Cartagena beaches are dotted with upscale condos and hotels, and the islands are ideal for relaxing day trips or weekend getaways.

What Is the Safest Part of Colombia?

Salento is generally considered the safest city if you want to travel to Colombia. Sparsely populated with a resident population of a little more than 7,000, it has become a must-see tourist spot, so efforts to keep crime rates low are a local government priority.

Conclusion – Cities in Colombia to Visit

If you have the time, energy, and resources, you can do a cross-country tour of these featured regions and have the time of your life. Otherwise, destination planning is the key to enjoying these awesome Colombian cities. 

We hope this article gives you a nudge to the right, fun destination. May your Colombia travel experience be enjoyable and safe!

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