Medellín, Colombia is quickly becoming a top travel destination for backpackers and luxury travelers alike. The city offers a little bit of something for everyone – trendy cafes in Poblado, cheap street food in el centro, and enough green space to make you forget you’re even in a city. It’s certainly one of the best places to visit in Colombia.
Colombia’s second city (as compared to the capital city of Bogotá) is known for it’s charm, year-round good weather, and friendly paisa people. But like any city, Medellín is made up of many different barrios, or neighborhoods, each with their own distinct personality. As a first-time visitor, it can be hard to choose where to stay, especially if you only have a few days to spend and want to see as much as possible.
That’s why I’ve put together this ultimate Medellín Hotel Guide. Here, I’ll break down where to stay in Medellín – we’re talking about the honest pros and cons of different neighborhoods – as well as give you options for every budget.
But why should you trust me? Well, I’m currently on a mission to explore all 32 Departments of Colombia with Medellín as my home base. I’ve explored the ins and outs of this city and beyond, and can’t wait to share them all with you.
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Colombia Quick Links
✈️ Flights – Use Kiwi.com or WayAway to find the cheapest and fastest flights to Colombia
🛏️ Accommodation – Find the best places to stay throughout Colombia on Booking.com and Hostelworld.com
✅ Get Insured – I personally use Safety Wing Nomad Insurance for my travels all around the world! VisitorsCoverage is another great option.
🚗 Rent a Car – Find the best deals for a Colombia road trip on RentalCars.com
🗺️ Find Things to Do – Check out Get Your Guide, Viator, and Tripadvisor for exciting adventures all around Colombia
☎ Buy a Sim – Airalo offers eSIMS for over 200 countries and regions
Visiting Colombia for the first time? Check out my full 3-week itinerary!
The Best Hotels in Medellín: Quick Links
Looking for some quick recommendations for your budget and travel style? TLDR, here are some of my top-recommended hotels in Medellín by traveler type.
👩❤️💋👨 Best hotel in Medellín for couples: Rango Hostel Boutique ($), The Charlee Hotel ($$$)
👨👩👧 Best hotel in Medellín for families: 574 Hotel ($), Sites Hotel ($$$),
👩💻 Best hotel in Medellín for digital nomads: Los Patios Hostel ($), Inntu Hotel ($$)
🎒 Best hotel in Medellín for backpackers: The Wandering Paisa ($), Viajero Hostel ($),
🧖♀️ Best hotel in Medellín for luxury seekers: Hotel Park 10 ($$$), The Landmark Hotel Medellín ($$$)
🚌 Best hotel near the Medellín bus station: Spring Hostel ($), Hotel Eco 44 ($$)
✈️ Best hotel near the Medellín airport (MDE):
Craving some beach vibes? Check out some of my guides to Colombia’s coastlines, from the colonial streets of Cartagena to the island paradise of San Andres!
Where to Stay in Medellín: The Best Neighborhoods for Tourists
Choosing a neighborhood in Medellín is half the battle! From the swanky streets of El Poblado to the leafy neighborhood of Laureles, where to stay in Medellín depends entirely on what you’re seeking. Here, I’ll break down some of the best neighborhoods to stay in Medellín to get you started.
Want to learn more about neighborhoods in Medellín? Check out my full neighborhood guide for a more extensive breakdown of each part of the city!
1. El Poblado
Located in the south of the city, El Poblado is arguably Medellín’s most trendy neighborhood. It’s known for its hip cafes, restaurants, and nightclubs, as well as being the “backpacker hub” of the city, home to the majority of hostels and budget hotels. It’s great for first-time visitors and digital nomads.
PROS: Nearby lots of restaurants, great nightlight, on the metro line
CONS: Not a very local atmosphere, food can be pricey, can be loud at night
🏠 Browse all hotels in El Poblado
QUICK TIP: Poblado is my top recommended neighborhood if you have limited time in Medellín! It’s well connected to the city while still close to the airport. Check out my 24-hour guide to Medellín for more tips!
2. Laureles
Green, leafy Laureles is the perfect laid-back neighborhood for someone looking for a local feel with a bit of an upscale vibe. The neighborhood is one of the quietest and most walkable in Medellín, and home to a number of diverse cafes and restaurants for the foodies among us. It’s a great place for families or those looking for longer-term accommodation.
PROS: Quiet, lots of cafes and restaurants, good for walking, lots of urban parks
CONS: Off the metro line, higher prices
🏠 Browse all hotels in Laureles
3. Envigado
Envigado is a residential neighborhood to the south of the city. It’s known to be the safest area to stay in Medellín and is actually its own municipality – not technically a part of the city though well-connected. It’s very community minded, home to a number of cafes, restaurants, and parks, and great for those looking for a more relaxed, local stay.
PROS: Safest neighborhood, walkable, lots of cafes, local atmosphere
CONS: Far from the city center, can be pricier
🏠 Browse all hotels in Envigado
4. San Javier
San Javier, located to the far west of the city, is a great neighborhood for those looking for a truly local experience. Home to the popular Comuna 13 barrio, the neighborhood has undergone extensive transformation in recent years and is now a safe and affordable place to get a true local feel of the city.
PROS: Budget-friendly, on the metro line, near tourist attractions, local atmosphere
CONS: Far from the city center, not many dining options, can be loud at night
Not sure what else to do in the region? Check out my extensive guide to the best day trips from Medellín!
The Best Budget Hotels & Hostels in Medellín
No need to break the bank while traveling in Medellín! Here are the best budget hotels and hostels in Medellín for all kinds of travelers – from the backpacker to the budget-conscious.
Los Patios Hostel (⭐️ 8.7)
This boutique hostel is home to a rooftop pool, a trendy bar, and a terrace featuring panoramic views of the city skyline. Located in the heart of El Poblado, it’s just steps from some of the city’s trendiest restaurants and bars, and the perfect place for a backpacker looking to connect with other travelers.
PRICE RANGE: Dorms starting at $15 USD, Private rooms starting at $60 USD
LOCATION: El Poblado
FACILITIES: Rooftop terrace and pool, bar, skyline view, events, shared and private rooms
Viajero Hostel (⭐️ 9.2)
The Viajero Hostel chain is known throughout Colombia for their vibrant buildings, unique events, and party scene. This hostel is best for those who know they want to meet other travelers and embrace the vibrant, dynamic energy of Medellín. Located in El Poblado, the Medellín location features two rooftop jacuzzis, a terrace, and a bar just steps from some of the city’s most popular restaurants.
PRICE RANGE: Dorms starting at $21 USD, Private rooms starting at $93 USD
LOCATION: El Poblado
FACILITIES: Rooftop jacuzzi, terrace and bar, skyline views, backpacker events, shared and private rooms
Rango Hostel Boutique (⭐️ 9.1)
Rango Hostel Boutique offers something for every traveler – from fully equipped dorm rooms to private suites with your own whirlpool tub. The property also features a rooftop terrace with a pool, bar, and sweeping views of the city skyline. Located in El Poblado, it’s just steps away from the nightlife center of the city, but the perfect place to come back and relax.
PRICE RANGE: Dorms starting at $25 USD, Private rooms starting at $93 USD
LOCATION: El Poblado
FACILITIES: Rooftop terrace and pool, onsite bar, skyline views, shared and private rooms
The Wandering Paisa (⭐️8.4)
Located in leafy Laureles, The Wandering Paisa is a celebration of paisa culture, from the colorful murals on the walls to the traditional paisa architecture. The hostel hosts a number of events for travelers as well as offers bike rentals, so you can explore the city of Medellín on two wheels. This is a great place for a traveler looking to connect with the local culture.
PRICE RANGE:
LOCATION: Laureles
FACILITIES:
Yellow House Hostel (⭐️ 9.2)
True to its name, The Yellow House Hostel is located in a cozy yellow house in the Laureles district. The hostel has a laid-back vibe, offering a communal kitchen and a shared garden space. It’s the perfect spot for someone looking to travel for a longer period while still staying on a budget.
PRICE RANGE: Dorms starting at $12 USD
LOCATION: Laureles
FACILITIES: Communal kitchen space, shared rooms, hostel events
574 Hotel (⭐️ 8.9)
This budget hotel is the perfect place for someone wanting to stay in the Poblado district without the hostel vibe. Featuring beautiful private rooms equipped with televisions, AC, and balconies, it’s the perfect place to get real rest while still enjoying the energy of Medellín. Continental and American style breakfast is also available.
PRICE RANGE: Private rooms from $64 USD
LOCATION: El Poblado
FACILITIES: Private rooms, AC, balconies, breakfast included, televisions in every room
The Best Mid-Range Hotels in Medellín
Have a little more money to spend on your trip to Medellín? Here are the best hotels in Medellín for a mid-range budget.
Hotel Diez (⭐️ 8.9)
Inspired by Colombian culture, Hotel Diez is a stylish and affordable option with unique touches. Each room features beautiful imagery of the landscapes and traditions of Colombia, all with sweeping mountain views. The hotel also offers two on-site restaurants, a sauna and wellness spa, and a coworking space.
PRICE RANGE: Private rooms from $165
LOCATION: El Poblado
FACILITIES: Two on-site restaurants, wellness spa, sauna, coworking space, breakfast available
The Somos Bold Hotel (⭐️ 8.9)
This unique and stylish hotel is located in the heart of El Poblado, just steps from Medellín’s nightlife scene. With distinct art deco design and a rooftop restaurant, it’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy a holiday in Medellín. Each room is equipped with a flat screen TV and airconditioning, and American and Continental breakfast are available.
PRICE RANGE: Private rooms starting from $122
LOCATION: El Poblado
FACILITIES: Rooftop restaurant, on-site coffee shop and bar, central garden, flat screen TV, air conditioning in rooms
Hotel Estelar Milla De Oro (⭐️ 8.7)
Located in the heart of El Poblado, Hotel Estelar Milla De Oro is the perfect place for a traveler on business or a short stay. The hotel is home to an on-site restaurant and bar serving Colombian specialities as well as an on-site fitness center and massage room. The rooftop terrace is also home to a hot tub with sweeping views of Medellín.
PRICE RANGE: Private rooms starting at $135
LOCATION: El Poblado
FACILITIES: Rooftop hot tub, on-site restaurant and bar, fitness center, massage room, breakfast included
Hotel BH (⭐️ 8.7)
This modern hotel is perfect for those looking for a comfortable stay in the heart of El Poblado. Especially good for travelers on business, the hotel is home to a board room for conferences and each room is equipped with its own workspace. A fitness center and rooftop terrace are also available to all visitors.
PRICE RANGE: Private rooms starting at $97 USD
LOCATION: El Poblado
FACILITIES: On-site workspace, board room for conferences, on-site fitness center, air-conditioned rooms
Inntu Hotel (⭐️ 8.2)
Inntu Hotel is an eco-conscious hotel located just steps from the 2nd Laureles Park. The hotel is home to a bar, beauty salon, Turkish bath, rooftop jacuzzi, and therapeutic pool, all created with sustainability in mind. Its location is perfect for those seeking a more tranquil stay in Laureles, especially if conscious living is a highlight.
PRICE RANGE: Private rooms starting at $71 USD
LOCATION: Laureles
FACILITIES: Rooftop jacuzzi, therapeutic pool, on-site bar, beauty salon, Turkish bath, sustainable property
Urbit Social Lofts (⭐️ 8.7)
These trendy, modern lofts are the perfect place for someone seeking a unique stay in Medellín. Located in Laureles, the lofts come fully equipped with a kitchenette, and living space to help you feel at home. The lofts are also home to an on-site restaurant, serving up Asian-fusion and world flavors for guests and visitors alike.
PRICE RANGE: Private rooms starting at $57 USD
LOCATION: Laureles
FACILITIES: Fully equipped lofts, on-site restaurant, city views, air-conditioning, tour desk
The Best Luxury Hotels in Medellín
Want to travel in style? Medellín is home to a number of luxury hotels and unique accommodations for those seeking luxury travel experiences. Here are some of the best luxury hotels in Medellín.
The Charlee Hotel (⭐️ 8.3)
This glamorous hotel in the heart of El Poblado will have you feeling straight out of a movie, with panoramic city views and a rooftop pool. The hotel is also home to a designer nightclub, perfect for those who want to experience the nightlife of the city without having to go far! Rooms feature private balconies, grills, flat-screen TVs, and a minibar. A full-buffet breakfast is offered onsite, and the property is home to a fine-dining restaurant serving up specialty Italian dishes.
PRICE RANGE: Private rooms starting from $187 USD
LOCATION: El Poblado
FACILITIES: Rooftop pool, private balconies, on-site restaurant and bar, designer nightclub, barbecue facilities
Hotel Park 10 (⭐️ 8.8)
Hotel Park 10 offers a cozy, luxurious vibe just minutes from Medellín’s trendy center. The hotel is home to an on-site bar and restaurant serving specialty cocktails and unique dishes. The property is also home to a bar, sauna, and hot tub, perfect for relaxing after a long day. It’s the perfect spot for a high-end business trip or family stay.
PRICE RANGE: Private rooms starting from $117 USD
LOCATION: El Poblado
FACILITIES: On-site restaurant and bar, sauna, hot tub, fitness center, room service, breakfast
Sites Hotel Medellín (⭐️ 8.8)
Sites Hotel is the perfect place for a family stay with a touch of luxury. Located in a safe, quiet part of El Poblado, the property offers a number of features including a rooftop pool and terrace, a hot tub, and barbecue facilities. The modern and bright interior is trendy while remaining comfortable, and the on-site restaurant serves up a number of delicious international dishes.
PRICE RANGE: Private rooms starting from $159
LOCATION: El Poblado
FACILITIES: Rooftop pool, terrace, hot tub, barbecue facilities, on-site restaurant, fitness center, room service
Landmark Hotel Medellín (⭐️ 9.3)
The Landmark Hotel is truly a landmark of Medellín, featuring a stunning rooftop pool and terrace with views of the city. The hotel is equipped with an on-site spa and hot yoga studio, as well as a continental, American, or vegetarian breakfast for every guest. Relax at the on-site bar and restaurant, or work up a sweat at the fully equipped fitness studio.
PRICE RANGE: Private rooms starting from $130 USD
LOCATION: El Poblado
FACILITIES: Rooftop swimming pool, city views, hoy yoga studio, breakfast, on-site bar and restaurant, fitness studio
Intercontinental Medellín (⭐️ 7.5)
This luxury hotel chain goes all out in Medellín, with an Olympic sized pool, an extensive breakfast buffet, and multiple on-site restaurants, serving up everything from fine wines to stone-oven pizzas. The on-site wellness facility is home to a steam sauna and a hot tub, as well as a fully-equipped gym and massage treatments. Each room is also home to a fully-equipped kitchen for those who prefer to cook on their own.
PRICE RANGE: Private rooms starting from $229 USD
LOCATION: El Poblado
FACILITIES: Two on-site swimming pools, on-site bar, two on-site restaurants, spa, room service, fully equipped rooms, hot tub, sauna
The Click Clack Hotel (⭐️ 9.0)
This unique property is shrouded in green, the modern architecture filled to the brim with plants and luxury touches. Enjoy a craft cocktail at the on-site bar or check out one of the many unique restaurants on-site. You’ll forget you’re in a bustling city as you co-work in one of the gardens and sip on a freshly pressed juice. This is truly one of the most unique hotels in the city.
PRICE RANGE: Private rooms starting from $197 USD
LOCATION: El Poblado
FACILITIES: On-site cocktail bar, restaurant, outdoor swimming pool, room service, breakfast, laundry services
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Still have some questions about where to stay in Medellín? Hopefully you’ll find the answer here!
Is Medellín safe for tourists?
While Medellín was once the center of conflict in Colombia, the city has made significant strides in recent years to increase safety. These days, the city stands as a testament to the transformation and resilience of Colombia, and is safer for locals and tourists alike than ever before. If you’d like to read more, I’ve actually written an entire guide to safety in Colombia which you can check out here.
What is the best neighborhood to stay in Medellín?
The best neighborhood to stay in Medellín depends fully on what you’re looking for. If nightlife and restaurants are your thing, I recommend El Poblado, if you’re looking for a more tranquil stay I recommend Laureles, and if you really want to live like a local, I recommend venturing out to San Javier. Check out my neighborhood breakdown above to help you make your decision!
How much does a hotel cost in Medellín?
Medellín offers a number of accommodations at different price points, from budget-backpacker friendly to luxury hotels and resorts. No matter your travel style, you’re sure to find a number of options available for your price point.
Where should I book a hotel in Medellín?
I recommend using Booking.com to begin your hotel search in Medellín. You’ll find hotels from a variety of price points and have the opportunity to read reviews from other travelers.
If hostels are more your speed, Hostelworld is the best place to start. You’ll be able to find photos, reviews, and view properties on a map to make sure you’re where you want to be.
Are Medellín hotels pet-friendly?
Many hotels in Medellín are pet friendly, but I highly recommend confirming with your hotel before your stay if you plan to travel with your pet. You can actually sort by pet-friendly accommodation on Booking.com, so that’s a great place to start.
When is the best time to visit Medellín?
Medellín is beautiful year-round, with sunny, mild weather 365 days a year! However, there are some special events that take place in the city that draw travelers from all around. La Feria de Flores takes place every August, a 10-day celebration featuring parades, events, and concerts that draws visitors from all around the country. If you plan to visit during this period, I recommend making an effort to book your accommodation in advance.
Annual and religious holidays also draw more visitors to the city. Christmastime and Semana Santa (Lent) both draw many visitors to the city, so keep this in mind if you plan to visit during these times of year. Carnival season (usually February) also brings visitors to the city, though the largest Carnival celebrations take place in Barranquilla.
What are the safest hotels in Medellín for solo travelers?
If you’re a solo traveler (especially a solo female traveler!) safety is everything. If you’re traveling solo, I highly recommend prioritizing hotels and hotels that have a concierge or 24-hour front desk access. This will keep you safe around the clock and give you access to help if needed.
Stick to neighborhoods like El Poblado and Laureles that are popular with other travelers, and don’t be afraid to shell out a little extra for a private room – it’s always worth it.
Why Visit Medellín?
Medellín is a vibrant, dynamic, and exciting city, a can’t-miss destination on any trip to Colombia. From the trendy streets of El Poblado to the Paisa charm of San Javier, there are a million experiences to be had in Medellín, truly something for every traveler.
As the capital of the Colombian department of Antioquia, Medellín is one of the most popular places to visit in the country. Trust me – whether you’re visiting Colombia for its pristine Caribbean beaches or the lush hills of the coffee region, Medellín is always worth a stop. Who knows – you might just decide to stay forever!
I hope this guide helped you narrow down where to stay in the city, and hey, if you still need advice, don’t hesitate to drop me a comment below! Happy traveling!
What to Pack for Colombia
Planning a trip to Colombia? Consider adding some of these essentials to your suitcase or check out my ultimate Colombia packing guide!
💧 Filtered Water Bottle – Save on the single-use plastic and protect from parasites!
🧥 Heavy-Duty Rain Jacket – For the ever-changing Colombian weather!
🎒 Anti-theft Backpack – Perfect for exploring big cities or trekking in the jungle
🧖♀️ Microfiber Travel Towel – A go-to travel essential anywhere in the world!
🔌 Portable Charger – Keep your phone charged out on the go
🔐 Mini Padlock – Perfect for securing your backpack or locking up your items at the hotel
🔋 Universal Travel Adapter – Charge all your devices anywhere in the world!
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Virginia Taylor (Ginna) is a travel writer and photographer exploring the world until her boots wear through. She’s currently on a mission to explore all 32 departments of Colombia, though she formerly called the Middle East home. Want to know more? Visit the About Page.