Where to stay

Medellin's history stretches back hundreds of years, from its days as a colonial hub to its artistic revolution during the 20th century. Accommodations in La Candelaria, the city's downtown district, give visitors direct access to major monuments including the Museo de Antioquia and Plaza Botero, both of which host works by famous Colombian artist, Fernando Botero. For those looking to immerse themselves in the region's colonial history, try booking a hotel along the cobbled streets of Santa Fe de Antioquia, about a 90-minute drive from Medellin. Rionegro is also a good place to stay beyond the city. Its fascinating Convention House Historic Museum is where the country's national constitution was written in 1863.

Medellin's central neighborhoods such as Laureles are filled with traditional restaurants serving rustic Colombian dishes, plus stylish international restaurants offering everything from pizza to Peruvian delicacies. El Poblado is one of the city's largest and safest districts to stay. Here you'll discover the majority of Medellin's more upscale restaurants. For a foodie haven beyond the main tourist stretch, consider making a hotel reservation in Itagüí. This small city sits just south of Medellin and is lauded as one of the best spots to enjoy authentic Colombian cuisine in the Aburrá Valley.

Surrounded on all sides by the mighty Andes Mountains, Medellin is the ideal destination for those wanting a scenic vacation. With a great mix of culture and the outdoors, the city's San Diego neighborhood is a terrific option because of La Asomadera hill and its incredible viewpoints. For accommodations with jaw-dropping waterside vistas, head to the stunning Peñol-Guatapé reservoir, less than a two-hour drive east of Medellin. There are a handful of hotels to choose from in Guatapé and El Peñol, with popular activities including Jet Skiing and hikes up the giant Piedra del Peñol rock.