We provide a guide to help foreigners choose a city to live in Colombia. This guide looks at different cities based on 13 important categories, understanding foreigners come to Colombia for many reasons, such as a lower cost of living, beach or mountain lifestyles, a better climate, retirement, and love.
Medellín may be a popular destination for foreigners, but it’s far from the only city in Colombia offering an inviting environment for newcomers. Vibrant cities like Bogotá, Santa Marta, Cali, and Cartagena captivate many with their dynamic cultures and diverse amenities. Beyond these bustling urban centers, charming smaller cities such as Manizales, Pereira, Armenia, and Bucaramanga, as well as picturesque “pueblos” like Salento, Jardín, and Guatapé, provide a tranquil lifestyle where residents can fully immerse themselves in Colombia’s rich culture and warm communities. Each of these locations has unique appeal, and in this blog, we’ll delve into the specific reasons that draw people to these incredible places.
Why Choose Colombia as an expat destination?
Before exploring the diverse categories that guide us in selecting the perfect city to live in Colombia, it’s essential to recognize the impressive current context the country is experiencing. These dynamics make Colombia an appealing choice for many foreigners looking to settle in and consequently invest, pursue studies, retire, or simply live in places that align with their preferences.
Forbes Magazine has recently highlighted a significant trend among Americans: many are not only navigating political tensions but are also driven by a strong desire for a better quality of life, prompting them to seek new places to call home. Colombia stands out as an exceptional choice, renowned for its affordability and stunning natural beauty, making it a prime destination for American expats, highlighting some cities that illustrate this blend of modern conveniences and traditional Colombian charm, all at a fraction of the cost found in many U.S. cities. There are also some smaller cities which offer breathtaking landscapes and a desirable lifestyle at even more accessible prices, further solidifying Colombia’s appeal as a top relocation option for these reasons and others we’ll explore next.
Remember, if you’re considering relocating to Colombia, obtaining the correct immigration status is crucial to turn your aspirations into reality. Navigating the Colombian visa process can be intricate, so it’s wise to consult professionals like expatgroup.co for a seamless transition. Their dedicated team will assist you at every stage of the journey to start your exciting new chapter in Colombia.
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Colombia’s Beauty and Diversity
Colombia is renowned for its breathtaking and varied landscapes, stemming from its remarkable geographical diversity. From the pristine beaches along the Caribbean and Pacific coasts to the vibrant Amazon rainforest and the towering Andes mountains, the country offers natural beauty to satisfy every taste. This diversity not only brings different climates and cultures but also presents a wide range of tourist attractions. Colombia’s unique lifestyle and ever-changing experiences captivate millions of visitors each year, making it an attractive tourist destination and a compelling choice for expats looking to settle down.
Colombia’s Hospitality
Colombia’s vibrant culture and warm hospitality make it a top choice for expats seeking a new home. The kindness of the Colombian people creates an inviting atmosphere, helping newcomers easily integrate into their communities, qualities that have also positioned Colombia with 3 of its cities as the most friendly places with foreigners, according to Preply, one of the most important expat communities worldwide.
Urban centers thrive as cultural hubs, alive with festivals celebrating music, dance, and traditional art that highlight Colombia’s rich heritage. The modern art scene, featuring galleries, theaters, and music venues, further showcases the country’s creativity.
With the infectious rhythms of salsa, cumbia, and traditional crafts, Colombia's culture captivates expats. The opportunity to explore historical landmarks, enjoy local cuisine, and engage with friendly locals enriches the experience of living in this dynamic country.
Colombia’s Cost of Living
Colombia’s unique blend of cultural appeal and affordability makes it an attractive option for expats considering settling there. Compared to many Western countries, Colombia offers a relatively low cost of living, which is a significant advantage for those looking to make a change. This affordability spans housing, healthcare, and daily expenses, enabling expats to maintain a high quality of life without straining their budgets.
The cost of living varies significantly by city and neighborhood. Below is a sample budget based on current rental listings for both a family of four and a single person in a mid-sized city. These amounts may fluctuate with exchange rates, so careful financial planning is essential. Nonetheless, Colombia offers an attractive cost of living for expats looking to settle down.
| Expenses (in U.S. dollars) | Single | Family Of Three |
|---|---|---|
Rent (furnished one or two-bedroom) | 350$ | 640$ |
Electricity | 25$ | 32$ |
Water | 20$ | 25$ |
Gas | 3$ | 4$ |
Household help (cleaning service three times a week) | 100$ | 128$ |
Internet | 20$ | 28$ |
Cellphone (one or two) | 15$ | 34$ |
Cable or Pay TV | 10$ | 10$ |
Transportation (car, public transport, and taxis) | 100$ | 120$ |
Groceries | 90$ | 175$ |
Entertainment | 75$ | 125$ |
Miscellaneous and incidentals (dental, repairs, travel, clothes, taxes) | 300$ | 525$ |
Monthly Total: | 1,108$ | 1,836$ |
Colombia’s Healthcare System
The Colombian healthcare system is considered one of the best in Latin America. With high-quality medical facilities and skilled professionals, expats can access excellent healthcare at a fraction of the cost compared to other countries. This especially appeals to retirees and families seeking preventive and urgent care services. To ensure access to the best care, it is important to have a health insurance policy that meets visa requirements and offers comprehensive coverage, providing safety and peace of mind in every city across the country.
The massive opportunity to invest in Colombia
Colombia’s attractive real estate investment opportunities, diverse living environments, and the chance to engage with a rich cultural heritage make it a favored destination for expats seeking a new adventure and choosing Colombia to settle in.
One significant reason is the vibrant real estate market, which attracts non-residents and Colombians living abroad. Reports from the Colombian Chamber of Construction (Camacol) indicate that around 7.3% of real estate sales in Colombia involve international buyers. This interest suggests a thriving market and supports the overall revitalization of the sector.
Colombia boasts a wide range of diverse and affordable housing options. Expats can easily find homes or projects that fit their budget in vibrant cities like Bogotá, Medellín, Cali, and Cartagena, all offering significant potential for property appreciation. The charming Coffee Region also attracts many, thanks to its beautiful landscapes and quality of life, making the real estate investment a key advantage of living in Colombia. It is essential to understand this market with experts like our trusted partner, Real Estate by expatgroup, to navigate local laws effectively.
How to Choose a city in Colombia to Live in Colombia?
It helps if you prioritize your requirements. Is cost of living important to you? Is healthcare important? Do you want a beach lifestyle? Do you want to live in a small town?
The bottom line is no city or town is perfect. Each has positives and negatives. The best place to live is the best place to live for you. Everyone has different priorities. The only way to know which city is the best for you is to spend time there.
To assist readers in selecting the ideal city to live in Colombia, we have evaluated 13 distinct categories and identified the top-performing cities in each category. In cases with no clear winners, we will highlight those as well. It’s important to note that a few categories may not have any winners. The categories are presented in no particular order.
1. Climate – Choosing a City in Colombia
In Colombia, you can choose your climate based on elevation. Colombia’s location is near the equator, so the climate in cities can be similar all year round. You can choose a warm, eternal spring, or even colder climates based on your elevation.
For example, the temperature during the year in Medellín averages 72.5 °F (22.5 °C). The Medellín weather and climate are a benefit of living in the city. Medellín is also known as “La Ciudad de la Eterna Primavera”, or the City of Eternal Spring.
The average temperature in Medellín typically only varies by about 1 °F during the year. In Medellín, the high daily average temperature ranges from 81.0 to 82.8 ° F (27.0 to 28.2 °C). And the low daily average ranges from 61.7 to 63.3 ° F (16.5 to 17.4 °C). There are three cities in Colombia with an eternal spring climate – Medellín, Pereira, and Bucaramanga have similar climates.
In comparison, the average temperature in Bogotá during the year averages a much chillier 58 °F (14.5 °C). The daily average high temperature in Bogotá ranges from 65.5 to 68.4 °F (18.6 to 20.2 °C). And the daily average low temperature ranges from 45.7 to 49.5 °F (7.6 to 9.7 °C).
In Cali, the temperature during the year averages a warmer 75 °F (23.9 °C). Cali’s daily average high temperature ranges from 84 to 86.4 °F (28.9 to 30.2 °C). But the high temperature sometimes exceeds 90 °F (33°C) in Cali.
And in Cartagena and Santa Marta, the temperature during the year averages a much warmer 82 °F (27.8 °C). Cartagena’s daily average high temperature ranges from 87.1 to 89.2 °F (30.6 to 31.8 °C). And the daily average low temperature ranges from 75.0 to 78.3 °F (23.9 to 25.7 °C).
In Medellín, Pereira, and Manizales, living without air conditioning or heating is feasible. However, in Cali or Bucaramanga, the temperatures can rise to the point where air conditioning becomes necessary. Coastal cities like Cartagena, Barranquilla and Santa Marta experience even higher temperatures, making air conditioning essential.
In Bogotá, the weather can get cool enough that some people opt for heaters. I’ve spoken with various expats with different preferences; some enjoy the cooler climate of Bogotá, while others favor the warmth of Cali or Cartagena. Ultimately, there isn’t a definitive best climate; it comes down to personal preference.
Climate Winner: All Cities
2. Cost of Living – Choosing a City
The cost of living in Colombia varies significantly by neighborhood, with gentrified areas like Bocagrande in Cartagena and El Poblado in Medellin being more expensive for rent and dining. Colombia’s housing market features a 39% rental share, with affordable rents available in areas such as Usaquen and La Soledad in Bogota, Cali or in minor cities such as Pereira, Manizales, Armenia and Bucaramanga. Rental prices in coastal cities like Cartagena or Santa Marta can range from $320 to $960 for a studio, while a three-bedroom apartment in El Poblado can start around $500.
It’s crucial to know Colombia utilizes a tiered estrato system to set utility rates based on neighborhood income levels, where lower estrato neighborhoods pay less than higher ones. Choosing mid- to low-level estrato can lead to significant savings on housing. Utility costs are considerably lower than in North America, with electricity costing $21 to $32, water $18 to $25, gas $3 to $4, internet approximately $16, cell phone service about $17, and basic cable around $10 per month. Popular service providers include Claro, Tigo, and Movistar. Most expats find living in estrato 3 or higher comfortable.
I’ve noticed that apartment properties in Cartagena located in neighborhoods classified as Estrato 5 or 6 typically rent or sell for prices at least 30-40% higher than similar properties in Medellín. In Bogotá, properties in the same Estrato 5 or 6 range generally have about 20% higher prices than equivalent properties in Medellín.
Conversely, real estate in Bucaramanga and Pereira within Estrato 5 or 6 neighborhoods usually rents or sells for around 15-25% less than comparable properties in Medellín.
Additionally, it’s important to consider electricity costs. In Cartagena, electricity expenses typically range from 80-100% more than in Medellín, largely due to the demand for air conditioning. Other living costs, such as dining out, drugstore purchases, and groceries, are generally 6 to 20% higher in Cartagena compared to Medellín.
Colombia’s aviation industry has faced challenges, notably with Viva Air canceling flights due to financial issues. Avianca has increased domestic flights, while LATAM is taking over some international routes. Domestic flights remain affordable despite rising prices, with a Bogota to Medellín flight costing around 250,000 COP ($53).
The bus industry also offers low fares, with a Bucaramanga to Bogotá ticket costing approximately $16 for an 11-hour journey. Gas prices in Colombia are high, averaging $2.38 per gallon, while local bus fares are under $1 and taxi rides are around $3. Taxi pricing may require negotiation in some areas, especially in coastal regions.
Use the Numbeo website to compare the cost of living in Colombian cities confidently. It gathers data through crowdsourcing, meaning accuracy improves with more user inputs. However, connecting with expats living in those cities is wise to gain even more precise insights, like in our Facebook group where you can share your insights with other expats.
Cost of Living Winner: Colombia's smaller cities and pueblos.
Are you looking to move to Colombia for its affordable cost of living? To make your dream a reality, you need the right immigration status. Securing a Colombian visa is essential, and the process can be complicated. We recommend working with experts such as expatgroup.co to ensure a smooth relocation experience. Their team will guide you through every step. Don’t leave your future to chance! Contact them.co today and embark on your new journey with confidence. Your vibrant life in Colombia awaits!
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3. Healthcare – Choosing a City
Good healthcare is crucial for retirees, and Colombia boasts 18 of the best hospitals in Latin America. In 2024, Newsweek, in collaboration with Statista, ranked these top 50 hospitals of the country, emphasizing the significance of the healthcare system and the services offered to locals and expats. This evaluation series began in March 2019.
The hospital scores are derived from an online survey involving over 85,000 medical experts and public data from patient satisfaction surveys after hospitalization. The scores also factor in metrics such as hygiene, patient-to-doctor ratios, and whether hospitals use standardized questionnaires called Patient Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs) to evaluate patient experiences and outcomes.
The top hospitals in Colombia are in six different cities:
*Cartagena, Bucaramanga, Piedecuesta, Rionegro, Pereira, Puerto Colombia, Pasto, Cúcuta, Montería, Chía, Envigado, Armenia, Popayán, Soledad and Neiva, each city mentioned has 1 of the best hospitals in the country.
Healthcare Winner: Bogotá and Medellín
If access to top-notch healthcare and one of the best hospitals in the country is a priority for you, then Bogotá and Medellín are the clear winners in this category, boasting the finest hospitals and healthcare systems. Cali, Barranquilla, and Manizales follow closely behind, securing the second spot.
When considering other cities in Colombia, ensuring they have at least one highly ranked hospital or are conveniently located near a high-quality hospital from a neighboring city is essential. Prioritizing your healthcare is crucial, and these guidelines will help you make the best choice, counting as well with the best health insurance for expats in Colombia, such as our excel partner, Assist Card.
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4. Travel Access to North America, Europe and Latin America - Choosing a City
Travel access is important for some foreigners. If the local airport has more direct flights, travel will be easier.
From Bogotá’s El Dorado Airport (BOG), you can typically fly non-stop to numerous destinations, including major cities in North America like Atlanta, Miami, and New York, as well as European cities such as London and Madrid. Additionally, there are non-stop flights to over 20 cities in Latin America.
Medellín’s José María Córdova International Airport (MDE) is the second-largest in Colombia and typically offers non-stop flights to international destinations in the U.S., Europe, and Latin America. Destinations include Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and New York (JFK) in the U.S., Madrid in Europe, Aruba, Curaçao, Lima, Maracaibo, Mexico City, Panama City, San Salvador, and Valencia in Latin America.
In addition to Medellín and Bogotá, Colombia features several other cities that offer international flights. While these cities may have fewer destinations compared to the major hubs of Bogotá and Medellín, they still provide the option to connect to various global locations:
| Airport | Category |
|---|---|
Rafael Núñez Airport, Cartagena | International Airport |
Alfonso Bonilla Aragón Airport, Palmira and Cali | International Airport |
Simón Bolívar Airport, Santa Marta | International Airport |
Ernesto Cortissoz Airport, Soledad/ Barranquilla | International Airport |
Matecaña Airport, Pereira | International Airport |
Gustavo Rojas Pinilla Airport, San Andrés | International Airport |
Palonegro Airport, Bucaramanga | International Airport |
Camilo Daza Airport, Cúcuta | International Airport |
El Eden Airport, La Tebaida/Armenia | International Airport |
Los Garzones Airport, Montería | International Airport |
Ultimately, Bogotá stands out with significantly more daily non-stop flights to international destinations, making it the clear leader in this category. Following Bogotá, Medellín, Cali, and Cartagena offer decent international flight options, but other cities in Colombia are generally limited, often requiring connections for international travel.
Travel Access Winner: Bogotá
5. Safety – Choosing a City
Unfortunately, Colombia still has a bad security reputation to overcome, which is mostly undeserved. The reality is that the security situation has improved dramatically over the past couple of decades. But many foreigners still ask, “Is Colombia safe?”
In my experience, there is not much difference in terms of safety between the different cities in Colombia. Each city has safer neighborhoods and neighborhoods that are less safe to avoid. We have a series of 15 popular articles about safety and security in Colombia which you can explore next:
Ultimately, the overall safety landscape in Colombia’s cities is quite similar. By following the precautions outlined in our articles, you can significantly minimize your risk of becoming a victim of crime. Stay informed and vigilant, and you can confidently enjoy all Colombia offers.
Safety Winner: No Clear Winner
6. Public Transportation - Choosing a City
Reasonable and affordable public transportation is crucial for many foreigners. Every city in Colombia boasts inexpensive buses and taxis, featuring integrated routes that connect all neighborhoods. This economical option allows easy access to even the most distant areas of each city.
However, in this case Medellín easily wins this transportation category, as Medellín has a world-class, modern metro system, the only rail-based metro system in Colombia. The Medellín Metro is a comprehensive and inexpensive system. It integrates two rail lines, five Metrocable cable-car lines, two Metroplús elongated bus lines, a Tranvía tramcar line and even feeder Metro buses.
Cities in Colombia are making significant strides in public transportation with their extensive bus systems, particularly Barranquilla, Bucaramanga, Bogotá, Cali, and Pereira. Medellín has successfully operated its metro system for over 20 years, demonstrating a strong commitment to efficient transit. Meanwhile, Bogotá is on track to launch its metro system by 2028, positioning itself to enhance urban mobility further.
Public Transportation Winner: Medellín
7. Restaurants and Nightlife - Choosing a City
Colombia is a vibrant country brimming with contrasts, providing a nightlife scene that caters to every preference. Whether you’re in the lively streets of Bogotá, the picturesque beaches of Cartagena, the dynamic energy of Medellín, or the rhythmic beats of Cali, Colombia offers an unforgettable nightlife experience that can be appreciated depending on preferences, music, budget and even culture.
Regarding population, Bogotá stands out as Colombia’s largest city, boasting an unrivaled and incredibly diverse nightlife and dining scene. With its array of bars, nightclubs, live music venues, pubs, and upscale restaurants offering a mix of local, international, and innovative cuisine, Bogotá truly has it all. With a metro population of approximately 10.7 million, it provides far more options than Medellín, which has a metro population of about 4 million, or any other city. This makes Bogotá the destination for those seeking the best nightlife and culinary experiences in Colombia.
Though Bogotá wins this category, we can’t avoid mentioning cities such as Medellín with El Poblado, Provenza, la 70 and Laureles areas as the best option for restaurants and nightlife. Cartagena, with its colonial charm and beautiful coastline, is no slouch for nightlife. The Getsemaní area is known for its bars and clubs that offer Caribbean and salsa music. Additionally, some beach clubs in the Rosario Islands offer unique beachfront parties. Similarly, Santa Marta offers El Rodadero, Calle 19 (“The Pink Zone”), and Taganga as the best options for enjoying beach parties and the best of the coastal cuisine.
Cali is undeniably the world capital of salsa and Latin music, boasting an unparalleled array of vibrant dance nights that promise unforgettable experiences. Pair that with exquisite local cuisine, and you’re in for a treat. Don’t overlook the charming cities of Pereira, Manizales, and Bucaramanga, where you can dive into fantastic discotheques, a diverse music scene, and rich local culture.
Restaurants and Nightlife Winner: Bogotá
8. Traffic – Choosing a City
Many foreigners are concerned about traffic, and based on my experience, Bogotá has the worst traffic in Colombia. As the largest city in the country, it faces a high volume of cars on the roads, making it common to spend several hours each day navigating across town.
However, it’s important to note that Bogotá doesn’t have the title of the worst traffic in Latin America. That distinction belongs to larger cities like São Paulo and Mexico City, where congestion is even more severe.
While Medellín experiences its fair share of traffic during rush hours, it is not as problematic as what I have encountered in Bogotá. The heaviest congestion in Medellín tends to occur in areas like El Poblado, El Centro, and Sabaneta.
In summary, Bogotá clearly has the most intense traffic in Colombia, followed by Medellín. Other large cities in the country, such as Cali, Barranquilla, and Cartagena, experience some traffic, but smaller cities generally enjoy much lighter congestion.
Traffic Winner: The smaller cities and pueblos in Colombia
9. Pollution – Choosing a City
Bogotá and Medellín lose in this category even though both have dropped in their pollution rankings. IQAir’s 2023 report shows that Bogotá was 45th for particulate matter concentration but improved to 63rd in early 2024, signaling progress. However, this still necessitates better environmental measures. The World Health Organization (WHO) previously also ranked Medellín #9 and Bogotá #10 among the most polluted cities in Latin America, highlighting the ongoing need for action.
Medellín faces a significant challenge due to its location in a canyon, surrounded by mountains. This geography causes pollution to linger in the metropolitan area, a situation reminiscent of Denver’s air quality issues. However, Medellín benefits from frequent rainfall, which helps to cleanse the atmosphere. In contrast, during visits to Bogotá, a large city, I have often observed thick layers of gray smog hovering over the skyline, particularly during thermal inversion events.
But Medellín and Bogotá don’t have the worst pollution in Latin America. According to WHO, Santiago, Chile; other towns in Chile; Lima, Peru; Monterrey, Mexico; Cubatão, Brazil; and some cities in Costa Rica all have worse pollution levels than Medellín or Bogotá.
The winners in this category are unmistakably the small cities like Bucaramanga, Armenia, Manizales, and Pereira, which boast significantly lower population levels than Bogotá, the Coastal cities, and Medellín. Colombia’s numerous smaller towns and towns also enjoy the advantage of not facing several pollution problems.
Pollution Winner: The smaller cities and pueblos in Colombia
10. Job Opportunities
Larger cities naturally offer more job opportunities, and Bogotá, the largest city in Colombia with a population exceeding 7.4 million, stands out as the business and political capital. It hosts the local headquarters of numerous multinational companies and generally experiences lower unemployment rates compared to other cities in the country.
However, even in Bogotá, job opportunities for foreigners can be limited, especially for those who are not fluent in Spanish. Proficiency in Spanish is often essential for securing the best positions in Colombia. For native English speakers, there are opportunities to teach English in Bogotá and other Colombian cities. However, these positions may not offer high salaries, and competition is intense.
Overall, Bogotá is the top choice for job seekers due to its size and job availability, with Medellín and Cali following as the second and third largest cities in Colombia, respectively.
Job Opportunities Winner: Bogotá
11. Expat Community - Choosing a City
Bogotá is Colombia’s capital and business center and likely has a larger expat population than Medellín with all the multinationals located there. But Medellín also has a sizable expat population that seems much better organized.
Medellín has several large expat groups on Facebook that are very active, highlighting the Medellin Guru Events & Discussion Forum.
The bottom line is that the two largest cities in Colombia have thousands of expats living there and thousands more visiting each month. Other cities in Colombia, such as Cali, Cartagena, and Santa Marta, have strong expat communities, with other minor cities generally having small expat communities.
Expat Commmunity Winner: Medellín and Bogotá
12. Things to Do - Choosing a City
Larger cities in Colombia undeniably offer a wealth of activities and experiences. As the largest city, Bogotá stands out with a vibrant array of concerts and festivals, far surpassing those in other cities each year. Unsurprisingly, major international acts, like the Rolling Stones, choose to perform in Bogotá rather than Medellín.
Each city, however, caters to different preferences, influenced by weather, nature, and geographical features. Ultimately, what appeals to you in each city is a personal choice, creating a unique sense of attraction for both locals and expats alike.
It would be unfair not to mention that once marked by turbulence, Medellín has evolved into a modern, innovative city with a pleasant climate, earning it the nickname “City of Eternal Spring.” Visitors can explore Comuna 13, the mountains via the Metrocable, relax in the Botanical Garden, or hike in Parque Arví. It’s also rich in art and culture, highlighted by the Museum of Antioquia and Pueblito Paisa, making it a warm and welcoming destination.
Cali, known as the “salsa capital of the world,” brims with rhythm and nightlife, offering vibrant salsa performances in numerous clubs. Attractions include the Zoológico de Cali and stunning Cerro de las Tres Cruces views. La Tertulia Museum showcases contemporary art, while the famous Cali Fair celebrates the city’s salsa heritage, appealing to dancers and visitors seeking a lively atmosphere.
Barranquilla, famous for its UNESCO-recognized Carnival, embodies a festive spirit with parades, music, and dancing. Beyond the carnival, the Museum of the Caribbean offers cultural insights, and the Metropolitan Park is ideal for outdoor activities. Nearby beaches in Puerto Colombia provide a relaxing escape, making Barranquilla a vibrant coastal destination.
Cartagena is a blend of history, beaches, and colonial charm. Its Walled City, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features stunning architecture and vibrant squares. Key sites include the San Felipe Castle and beautiful beaches like Playa Blanca. The Getsemaní neighborhood is known for its lively street art, perfect for those seeking a cultural and coastal experience.
Bucaramanga, dubbed the “Beautiful City,” offers a peaceful retreat with breathtaking mountain views. Adventurers can explore Chicamocha National Park and enjoy activities like zip-lining. Charming parks and cuisine make it family-friendly, while its serene atmosphere invites relaxation amidst Colombia’s natural beauty.
Santa Marta is the perfect blend of beaches, history, and adventure. It is the gateway to Tayrona National Park, known for its lush jungles and pristine beaches. Historical attractions include the Gold Museum and Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino, the resting place of Simón Bolívar. Trekking opportunities, including the challenging hike to Ciudad Perdida, attract nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Pereira is a city known for its lush landscapes and coffee plantations, making it ideal for coffee lovers. Visitors can explore the National Coffee Park to learn about coffee-making, while nature enthusiasts will enjoy the Otún Quimbaya Flora and Fauna Sanctuary, home to diverse species. Cerro Canceles or the Santuario de la Virgen Milagrosa are ideal for stunning city views. Though smaller than other cities, Pereira offers a peaceful and rewarding experience near coffee-growing regions and natural attractions.
Manizales, also in the Coffee Triangle, is renowned for its mountain views and outdoor adventures. The Los Nevados National Park provides incredible hiking opportunities, while the Cable Aéreo offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. The Cathedral of Manizales and Recinto del Pensamiento are cultural highlights, making the city a blend of history and natural beauty.
Armenia, the capital of Quindío, is the gateway to the Coffee Triangle. Visitors can explore the National Coffee Park and nearby coffee farms for an authentic experience. Just a short drive away, Salento is a picturesque town known for its colonial charm and access to the Cocora Valley, home to Colombia’s iconic wax palms. Salento offers hiking, horse riding, and vibrant artisan markets, making it a perfect complement to Armenia’s laid-back vibe.
In conclusion, Colombia’s cities provide a diverse array of activities and experiences that cater to different personalities, tastes, and comfort levels. Regardless of its size and population, each city has unique offerings that make it worth exploring. By considering what each location offers, you can confidently choose the city that resonates best with you.
Things To Do Winner: All Cities
13. Internet Availability - Choosing a City
High-speed Internet is readily available in all major cities across Colombia. However, in smaller cities and towns, you might encounter some challenges regarding Internet speed.
Impressive speeds are available in the largest urban centers, with Claro, Tigo, and Movistar offering up to 300 Mbps. The best Internet speeds are typically found in newer apartment buildings, as older structures may limit your options.
Cities like Bogotá, Medellín, Cali, Barranquilla, Cartagena, Bucaramanga, Santa Marta, Pereira, and Manizales are the top contenders for high-speed Internet access. If you’re considering moving to a smaller city or pueblo in Colombia, verifying that high-speed Internet is available there is essential.
Internet Availability Winner: No clear winner
Medellin Guru's comprehensive Colombian culture series
In Medellin Guru, we love Colombia, and we usually write many blogs about Colombian culture, places to visit, and other tips for all expats to have a reliable guide and valuable and relevant information about Colombia. Read our blogs about Colombian Culture here:
- Top Tourist Attractions in Colombia: Top Things to Do
- Top Things to Do in Medellín and Nearby: Top Tourist Attractions
- How to be an Expat in Colombia: 12 Tips to be a Successful Expat
- Top Things to Do in Cali and Nearby: Top Tourist Attractions
- Celebrating July 20th: Colombia Independence Day
- Norte de Santander: 5 Escapes for a Weekend Adventure
- Unlock Ipiales in 24 Hours: Your Essential Adventure Blueprint!
- Pasto: Discover the wonders of the Surprise City
- Top Popular Colombian Drinks to Try When You Visit Colombia
- Villa de Leyva: A Colonial Gem in the Colombian Andes
- Traditional Colombian Food Dishes You Must Try in Colombia
- Medellin Guru Launch 2023: Gentrification, Tourism and Investment
- Popular Colombian Desserts You Must Try While in Colombia
- Exotic Tropical Fruits of Colombia a Fruit Lovers Paradise
- Popular Colombian Soups to Try When You Visit Colombia
- Día de las Velitas: Day of Candles Tradition in Colombia on December 7
- Things in Colombia That May Be Strange for Foreigners
- Things Colombians Do That Foreigners May Find Weird
- Popayán: A Well-Preserved Colonial Gem in Colombia Worth Visiting
- Tejo: A Colombian Game That Rewards You for Explosions
Other things to see and do in Colombia
- Caño Cristales – the most beautiful river in Colombia, which has also been called the most beautiful river in the world by some people.
- Carnival in Barranquilla – the second largest carnival in the world.
- Cartagena – Oozing history, romance and sun-drenched beaches, the allure of historical Cartagena is hard to resist.
- Ciudad Perdida – the site of an ancient city in Colombia that is older than Machu Picchu in Peru.
- Colombia’s Pacific coast – often overlooked by tourists visiting Colombia but offering untamed nature and undiscovered beauty that is off the beaten path for most foreign tourists.
- Desierto de la Tatacoa – the second largest arid zone in Colombia is Tatacoa Desert, which has surreal desert landscapes and some of the best stargazing in Colombia.
- Guatapé – a picturesque pueblo near Medellín known for its huge rock and lake. And it’s likely the most visited pueblo in Colombia by foreigners.
- La Guajira Peninsula – one of the most visually stunning places in South America, which is located on the northern tip of Colombia where the desert meets the sea.
- Las Lajas Sanctuary – the most beautiful church in Colombia, which has also been called the most beautiful church in the world.
- Medellín’s Christmas lights – Medellín’s annual world-class Christmas lights known as Alumbrados Navideños.
- Feria de Las Flores Medellin – Medellín’s world-famous flower festival each year.
- Parque Nacional Natural Los Nevados – a popular national park in Colombia located in the heart of the Colombian coffee region.
- Parque Tayrona – known for its beautiful beaches and the world’s highest coastal mountain range.
- Popayán – a colonial gem in Colombia best known for its white buildings and churches, it’s a city off the beaten path for foreign tourists but is definitely worth visiting.
- Rio Claro Nature Reserve – located about three hours from Medellín, Rio Claro is the perfect place to unplug from hectic daily life and enjoy a picturesque crystal-clear river, canyon and tropical rainforest.
- Salento and the Cocora Valley – Salento is a picturesque pueblo in Colombia’s coffee region and the nearby Cocora Valley is one of the most striking landscapes found in Colombia.
- San Agustín Archaeological Park – the largest group of pre-Columbian monuments and megalithic statues in South America and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- San Andrés – Colombia’s Caribbean island which is a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve featuring many beaches, islets and coral reefs that are filled with flora and fauna.
- San Gil – Colombia’s adventure capital that is full of things to do including white water rafting, paragliding, caving, rappelling, hiking and much more.
- San Jose del Guaviare – a hidden gem and eco-tourism location off the beaten path and offering wildlife watching, jungle trekking and delving into Colombia’s prehistoric past.
The Bottom Line: Guide to Choosing a City to live in Colombia
So, this unscientific and somewhat subjective Guide to Choose a City in Colombia, with its comparison of 13 categories, definitely has much to consider when making this decision.
Small cities and pueblos win 3 of 13 categories
Bogotá wins in 3 of our 13 categories
All cities win two categories
No clear winner tie in two categories
Medellin and Bogotá tie in two categories
Medellin win in one categorie
The above guide looks at 13 different categories and no city in Colombia is a winner in every category or even a winner in a majority of categories. Every city has pluses and minuses. For example, Medellín has a good climate, good healthcare and good public transportation. But Medellín has issues with pollution and traffic.
The ideal place to live is subjective and varies for everyone. To find the Colombian city that suits you best, immerse yourself in it. While the guide covers 13 categories, there’s no single winner—it’s about your personal preferences. Connect with other expats for insights, and ensure experts like expatgroup.co manage your immigration status. This will help you fully embrace your new home in Colombia.
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8 thoughts on “Guide to Choosing a City in Colombia to Live in Colombia”
A question:
If most of the writers lives in Medellin, can you truly say that the way it’s written It’s for the favor of all cities and not only Medellin? As the blog called gurumedellin and not gurucolombia…
The blog is Medellin Guru. And we cover the entire country of Colombia. We try to be unbiased and objective where possible. Where possible we provide statistics from reputable sources to back up our ratings.
For example, see our comparison of Medellín vs Bogotá where Bogotá wins six categories and Medellín wins six categories. https://medellinguru.com/medellin-vs-bogota/
As i can’t read this article “Choosing a City in Colombia” i just wondering how fair is the article with the others cities… i live in Colombia in about 10 years so it is interesting to find an objective article about the cities in Colombia.
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Out of 13 categories in this article, Medellín is a winner in only 3 and Bogotá is a winner in 6.
Dear all
Yea you have a lot of choices in Colombia. Since close to 10 years I am living in Capurgana. Capurgana is a small Pueblo at the border to Panama. You only can reach it either by boat or charter flight.
Some expat choose to visit this place in going quickly to Porto Obaldia to stamp in and out to Panama to extend the Colombia Visa.
Capurgana ist the first place you have to stamp in coming from Panama.
If you need more informations just type Capurgana into google and you will get a lot of articles and photos.
If you don’t find what you are looking for then also check out Hostal Capurgana in Booking.com or TripAdvisor.
My name is Silvio. I am Swiss Citizen and running the Hostal.
Best regards to All new expats who are looking around where to stay in Colombia.
Excellent Article . Excellent!
Thanks, glad you liked the article.
Great article. It’s so true about preferences. I live in Cali now but it’s so hot! I prefer Bogotá weather. And for the salsa culture and nightlife, Cali is the only option. (Some people visiting Colombia think it’s the same throughout Colombia and even South America). 🙂