Suggested Itineraries

Two weeks in Colombia should provide you with a good feel for the country and give you enough time to see some of the major sights and cities. Keep in mind that road conditions can be unpredictable, so it's best to fly between the far-flung destinations.

Days 1-3: Bogotá

Spend your first day in Colombia exploring La Candelaria and the historic center. Have breakfast at La Puerta Falsa, Colombia's longest-running business and restaurant. Stop at the Museo del Oro at Santander Square, and visit the Museo Botero for an overview of Colombia's most famous artist. Recharge your energy by having lunch at any of La Candelaria's quaint eateries, popular with college students. In the afternoon, head to Plaza de Bolívar to feed the pigeons and be awed by Bogotá's eclectic architecture. Stay at the amazing Casa Medina or Hotel de la Opera and eat at one of the many gourmet restaurants in Bogotá's "gourmet district." On Day 2, if you're around on a weekend or holiday, hop on the Turistren, the only remaining steam engine in Colombia. If you're not around on the weekend, visit a few more of Bogotá's 50-plus museums -- culture buffs should go to the Museo de Trajes Regionales while those interested in Colombian history will enjoy the Quinta de Bolívar. Also explore some of the city's most popular parks, such as Parque La 93. Dedicate Day 3 to shopping. If you're looking for handicrafts and cheap clothing, shop to your heart's content at San Victorino Square. If you're looking for posh designer clothing, leather goods, or jewelry, head to one of the upscale malls in the city's northern districts.

Days 4-5: Villa de Leyva

Take a 4-hour bus to the perfectly preserved town of Villa de Leyva, and spend Day 4 exploring the cobblestone streets and handicraft shops. Stay at the Hotel del Molio, a 450-year-old former mill. On Day 5, learn a bit about the Colombian independence movement by visiting the Museo de Antonio Nariño and see one of Colombia's most complete collections of religious art at El Museo de Arte Religioso. Spend the evening people-watching in the main plaza from one of the many open-air cafes bordering the plaza. Alternatively, book a tour with one of the numerous companies offering adventure and nature activities around Villa de Leyva. Go rock climbing, visit a vineyard, hike in a nearby desert, or explore one of the many waterfalls around town.

Days 6-7: Medellín & Antioquia

Fly into Medellín and spend Day 6 exploring the city center. Hop on a Turibus to visit the Catedral Metropolitana and other major sites. In early afternoon, take the free cable car up to the comunas for great views of Medellín. For dinner, dine at one of the many classy restaurants around Parque Lleras before heading to Via de Las Palmas for a night of dancing. For a change of pace, on Day 7, book a tour of the surrounding Antioquian countryside with Aviatur.

Days 8-10: The Eje Cafetero

Book a farm-stay in the Eje Cafetero. On Day 8, let yourself relax in the Thermal Waters of Santa Rosa before heading to your colonial-style farm deep in the coffee-growing region. The next day, learn about the coffee-growing process at the Parque Nacional del Café. Spend Day 10 swimming, exploring the verdant countryside, and taking pictures of the breathtaking scenery.

Days 11-14: The Atlantic Coast

Fly from Pereira, Armenia, or Manizales into the magical city of Cartagena. On Day 11, spend the morning sunbathing and swimming in the warm Caribbean waters. In the afternoon, book a chiva tour of the city for a brief history and overview of the city's major sights. At night, head to the Club de Pesca for a romantic seafood dinner overlooking Cartagena's yacht basin. Stay at the historic Santa Clara Hotel in San Diego Square. On Day 12, head to the Old City to explore its many plazas, museums, and shops. Have lunch in Santo Domingo Square. In the evening, book a spot on the Rumba Chiva, a typical Colombia party bus, or, if you're feeling a bit more romantic, take your special someone on a carriage stroll through the Old Town. Spend the next day in Las Islas del Rosario. Visit the Aquario de San Martín, and go snorkeling and swimming in the bright green waters of Isla de Baru, 45 hours from Cartagena. If you still have energy left, head to Mr. Babilla, in Getsemaní, or Tu Candela, in La Plaza de Los Coches, for a night of fun and dancing. On day 14, depart Cartagena, flying either directly home from there or connecting in Bogotá.