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 1-4: Bogotá
On your first day, arrive and get settled in the city. 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.” Spend your first full day (Day 2) in Colombia exploring La Candelaria and the historic center. Have breakfast at La Puerta Falsa, Colombia’s longest-running business and restaurant. Take the cable car up to Monserrate, Bogotá’s highest peak, and admire the view of sprawling Bogotá. 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.
On Day 3, if you’re around on a weekend or holiday, hop on the Turistren, the only remaining steam engine in Colombia, or visit a few more of Bogotá’s 50-plus museums—those interested in Colombian history will enjoy the Quinta de Bolívar. Also explore some of the city’s most popular parks, such as Parque de la 93, Usaquén, and El Parque de Bolívar.
Dedicate Day 4 to shopping. If you’re looking for handicrafts and cheap clothing, shop to your heart’s content at Plaza Santander or, if you’re around on a Sunday, head to Usaquén. 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. Also spend some time exploring some of the city’s funkier neighborhoods, like La Macarena, home to some of the city's strangest (and most entertaining) bars and restaurants; El Centro, with its many universities and cafes, gallerias, and vibrant bar scene; or the north, home to the city’s best malls and restaurants.
Days 5-7: Villa de Leyva
Take a 4-hour bus to the perfectly preserved town of Villa de Leyva, and spend Day 5 exploring the cobblestone streets and handicraft shops. Stay at the Hospedería Duruelo for a luxury experience, or Hostal Renacer if you want to get away from it all. On Day 6, 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 del Carmen. 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, go horseback riding, visit a vineyard, hike in a nearby desert, or explore one of the many waterfalls around town.
Spend your last day in Villa de Leyva rappelling, hiking, mountain biking, and exploring the area’s many natural attractions. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy horseback riding through the Villa de Leyva desert and visiting the area’s many waterfalls and rivers.
Days 8-9: Medellín & Antioquia
Fly into Medellín and spend Day 8 exploring the city center. Hop on a Turibus to visit the Catedral Metropolitana and other major sites. In the early afternoon, take the free cable car up to the comunas (municipal districts) for great views of Medellín. For dinner, dine at one of the many classy restaurants around Parque Lleras before heading to Vía de Las Palmas for a night of dancing. For a change of pace, on Day 9, book a tour of the surrounding Antioquian countryside with Aviatur.
Days 10-13: The Caribbean Coast
Fly from Pereira, Armenia, or Manizales to the magical city of Cartagena. On Day 10, 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, dine alfresco at a table overlooking one of the city’s lovely plazas.
On Day 11, head to the Old Town to explore its many plazas, museums, and shops. Have lunch in Santo Domingo Square. In the evening, book a spot on a 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 Barú, 45km (28 miles) from Cartagena. If you still have energy left, head to Getsemaní for a night of fun and dancing. On Day 13, depart Cartagena, flying either directly home from there or connecting in Bogotá.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
