Exploring Colombia’s Historic Towns

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Issue Oct 16-22 2024: Tourists are increasingly interested in traveling to small towns in Colombia, according to a survey conducted by Booking.com. Reporting for El Tiempo of Bogotá, Angie Tatiana Rodríguez Bernal wrote about this new phenomenon and recommended three popular historical towns for readers to visit.

For those living in big cities, the need for a change of environment and routine is leading them to seek out nearby small towns and rural areas to visit. “Pueblear,” as this type of travel is known as in Colombia, seems to be the perfect plan for those who want to explore local gastronomy, colonial architecture, and picturesque landscapes.

A survey by Booking.com, which involved 1,000 travelers who recently visited or plan to visit a Colombian town, revealed that 52% associate “pueblear” with weekend getaways or short trips.

The survey highlighted that 62% of respondents find towns with cultural heritage to be the best places for relaxation away from city noise, while 46% are drawn to lesser-known destinations. Additionally, 54% of tourists expressed interest in unique experiences related to local cuisine, culture, and nature.

Discover the three most popular towns among respondents, all conveniently located near major cities like Bogotá and Medellín:

Located 130 kilometers from Medellín, the town of Jardín in Antioquia is one of Colombia’s 17 heritage towns, renowned for its colorful architecture and coffee culture. Visitors can tour coffee farms to learn about the cultivation process, enjoy traditional cuisine, and explore local attractions like the Cascada del Amor or the Camino de la Herrera.

Villa de Leyva is a favorite among Bogotá residents. Its Plaza Mayor is the largest in Colombia, spanning 14,000 square meters. Known for its colonial charm, the town also features prehistoric museums with fossils, adventure activities such as visiting the Pozos Azules or quad biking, and events like the International Jazz Festival, Astronomy Festival, and Independent Film Festival.

Santa Fé de Antioquia, a 90-minute drive from Medellín, is another town known for its colonial history. Visitors can explore landmarks like the Puente de Occidente, Parque Plaza Mayor Simón Bolívar, and the Catedral Basílica Metropolitana de la Inmaculada Concepción. Cultural events include the Fiestas del Tamarindo in August and the Film and Video Festival in December.