Colombia is a wonderful country that we sometimes dismiss as a tourist destination for fear of what might happen. Series like "Narcos" have made us have the feeling that it is not a safe place, although the truth is that over the years the situation is normalizing.
In this article I will talk about what in my humble opinion are the 7 most beautiful cities in the country, although obviously there are more cities that are worth visiting.
Medellin
Its climate is its main claim, but neither can we stop the gastronomy of Medellín or the festivals that are celebrated there. The latter explains why many tourists visit the city during the Flower Fair, a celebration that has evolved a lot, since it was once a peasant tradition, and now it is the perfect excuse to celebrate parades, concerts and all kinds of gastronomic events. . On the other hand, its cobbled streets and colorful houses are well worth a long walk.
Bogota
The capital of the country is the largest city in Colombia, and also the one that receives the most tourism precisely because of its importance. La Candelaria and La Macarena are the two neighborhoods in the center of Bogotá that you should not miss. Spending a Sunday at the Usaquén fair is also a good idea, while another recommendation is to go to Zona T and Parque de la 93, which are places that everyone talks about.
Cartagena
For many it is the most beautiful city in Colombia. Cartagena, not to be confused with Cartagena in Murcia (Spain), has practically everything to dazzle you. There are beautiful beaches, interest in gastronomy, parties, a lot of culture and a history that no one will be able to erase. The Castillo San Felipe de Barajas , considered one of the seven wonders of Colombia, is a must for anyone who decides to set foot there.
Manizales
Between Medellín and Bogotá, specifically in the Andes mountains, this city boasts what is considered one of the best coffees in the world. In addition, it is also the home of numerous universities and has the advantage of being very close to the Los Nevados National Natural Park, something that speaks for itself of its privileged location.
Saint Andrew
It is true that San Andrés is an archipelago, not a city itself. However, I think I could not leave it in the pipeline considering that it is one of the most sought after destinations by both foreign tourists and national tourists. The simple fact of being in the Caribbean Sea allows you to boast of coasts full of dreamy beaches, where one can find parties and tranquility in equal measure.
Santa Marta
From Santa Marta it must be said that it is the oldest city in the country. It is at the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, which is the coastal mountain range located at the highest altitude in the world. In fact, there is the highest mountain in Colombia. Its colonial history is breathed in places such as the Plaza Simón Bolívar, the Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino, the Tayrona Gold Museum or the Cathedral of Santa Marta.
Cali
Cali is not just a perfect city to do business. There is also time to party there, although it is true that at certain times and in which neighborhoods you must be careful. The most touristic neighborhoods are those of San Antonio and Granada, where you won’t get tired of listening to good music. Festivals such as the Petronio Álvarez of music from the Pacific or the International of Art are a true spectacle, although almost everyone who travels to Cali asks about the Cali Fair , where a carnival is held, there is a salsodrome, people dance around the streets …
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