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Accommodation

Colombia is definitely an amazing place to travel or live, and your choice of accommodation can really depend on your lifestyle. In this section, we're excited to share what we've learned since moving here, starting with short-term stays and then transitioning into our life as expats.

Colombia is perfect for:

  • Budget Travelers: If you're exploring with a limited budget, you're in luck! There are plenty of budget-friendly options, including popular hostels and rooms in shared flats.
  • Remote Workers: If you're looking to work from a new location, you'll find many options for monthly stays. And believe it or not, the internet here is often better than in Europe!
  • Luxury and Nature Enthusiasts: For those who want to immerse themselves in Colombia's unique landscapes while enjoying luxury, you won't be disappointed. Many destinations offer stunning hotels that will leave you impressed.
  • Potential Expats: Whether you're considering moving to Latin America solo or with your family, Medellín is definitely the city to watch. It's a fantastic place to start a new chapter in your life!

We'll dive into each of these topics to give you the full scoop on accommodations in Colombia.

Let's revisit a topic that's likely at the forefront of your mind: SAFETY.

Rest assured, you'll generally feel safe in Colombia, especially in areas that are tourist-friendly or well-developed.

Both hotels and Airbnb properties always feature 24/7 security, ensuring there's always someone available to assist you. Plus, Colombians are avid users of social media. This means you can easily find reviews of accommodations on platforms like Instagram, Google Maps, or Booking.com, giving you a quick sense of how reliable and comfortable a place is.

Hotels vs. Airbnb

In big cities like Medellín, you'll find great Airbnbs with spacious rooms and nice views. However, you might miss out on amenities like breakfast, a gym, or a pool, which hotels usually offer. Plus, many upscale buildings don't allow Airbnb guests, so you could end up in a building full of tourists.

For small villages like Minca or Tayrona, we recommend hotels for a more authentic experience. Our tip? Open two browser tabs—one for hotels and one for Airbnb—to compare your options.

Best Hotels in Medellin?

Whether you're staying for just three nights or extending it to a month, Medellín offers something for everyone. For those seeking a great spot to work, eat, and relax, this city is one of Colombia's best options.

But if you're eager to explore more of Colombia, consider using Medellín as your base to discover the surrounding Region of Antioquia.

Here are our top 7 hotel picks in the city—see if any catch your eye!

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If you are planning to stay more than a month we’re happy to host you in our own coliving. Yes, we have a Coliving too in the heart of Poblado. Best location ever. I promise!

Popular Areas to Consider Staying in Bogotá

Maria lived in Bogotá for six years, and much of her family still calls the city home. So, we feel pretty confident recommending the following neighborhoods:

  1. Chapinero Alto or Zona G - Known for its safety and bohemian vibe, this area is teeming with restaurants.
  2. La Cabrera - A posh and exclusive neighborhood, albeit more expensive.
  3. Around Park 93 - Ideal for business travelers; it's close to embassies and full of dining and shopping options.
  4. Zona T - The go-to spot for nightlife, packed with bars, discos, and eateries.

Note: While La Candelaria is the historic center and convenient for sightseeing, we find it less secure at night due to homelessness. It's the only area in Colombia where we've felt uneasy.

Popular Areas to Consider Staying in Medellín

We both moved to Medellín three years ago, and it's where we first met. Even after all this time, our love for this city hasn't waned a bit. Here are our top neighborhood picks for staying in Medellín:

  1. El Poblado - This upscale, dynamic area is perfect if you want everything within walking distance. Note that "Poblado" refers to a large mountainous area, so it's expansive. Carrera 35 here is touted as one of the coolest streets in the world by Timeout. Check our map recommendations to see why!
  2. Manila - Technically part of El Poblado, Manila is in the southern section and offers a quieter, more artsy and European vibe. It's brimming with delightful restaurants and is our personal favorite!
  3. Laureles - Often dubbed the "second El Poblado," Laureles is more affordable and laid-back. It has fewer high-rises and a more local feel. Many digital nomads choose to stay here for the cost-effectiveness, and many of El Poblado's famous restaurants have branches here.
  4. Belen - Adjacent to Laureles, Belen offers a similar experience but at a lower cost. It's a very local area but still conveniently close to El Poblado.
  5. Envigado - Located 20 to 45 minutes away from El Poblado depending on traffic, Envigado has grown rapidly enough to touch Medellín's borders. With a landscape and architectural style akin to El Poblado, it's a locale worth considering if you're looking for a more authentic Colombian experience.

Whether you're a budget traveler, remote worker, or someone looking to start a new life in Latin America, Colombia has something to offer. And for those planning trips to Bogotá or Medellín, we hope our area guides and hotel recommendations make your stay as memorable as our years here have been for us.

Continue to explore the guide: