Where to Stay in Medellin – Best Neighborhoods & Hotels
Looking for where to stay in Medellin, Colombia? Keep reading for the best neighbourhoods to keep on your radar and the best hotels and apartments in each.
Colombia’s second-largest city Medellin, is a hotspot for travellers, backpackers and digital nomads today looking for a brilliant food scene, trendy spots and great nightlife. Medellin should definitely be on your Colombia bucket list and for me, it’s probably the best city in Colombia.
The main draw to Medellin and the best area for travellers is the area of El Poblado, a trendy area with parks and leafy streets that make you feel like you’re in a jungle not in a large city. Here so are many boutique stores, chic cafes, amazing restaurants and nightlife too. If you’ve come to Colombia to sample some great food, Medellin is where you need to be.
So where to stay in Medellin while exploring this wonderful cosmopolitan city? Where are the best areas to stay? and the best hotels? Keep reading to find out more.
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Where to Stay in Medellin: The Best Areas
The main areas in Medellin where tourists and digital nomads tend to stay are El Poblado, Laureles, Envigado and the Centro Historico. While there are probably a few other areas to stay in Medellin that might work for travellers, these are the most popular and the safest so in this where to stay in Medellin guide, I’ll just be focusing on those.
In a nutshell:
- El Poblado– the most popular neighbourhood, good for eating and nightlife
- Laureles – A safe and quiet neighbourhood to the north of the city best for local budget accommodation
- Envigado – a nice, family-friendly neighbourhood to stay just south of El Poblado
- Centro Historico– the commercial heart of the city. Many tourist sights to see are here.
I’ve personally visited Medellin twice now and both times I stayed in El Poblado and Manila (right next to El Poblado). I would personally recommend staying in El Poblado as a first-time traveller to Medellin.
El Poblado
As mentioned previously, El Poblado and the surrounding area is really where you want to be in Medellin, especially if you’re in Medellin for a short time and want to experience the best nightlife and eating scene in the city. El Poblado also has the best choice of hotels in Medellin.
El Poblado is still very close to the other sights of the city and the city’s metro system makes it very easy to get around. Staying in El Poblado means that you have all the best breakfast cafes and restaurants right around the corner yet it’s still central enough to make it easy to move around during the day. It’s also safe to move around at night.
It’s worth noting however that El Poblado is a pretty noisy and rowdy area, especially at night- it is a party place after all. During the day it’s fairly quiet. If you don’t want to be in the thick of the party and don’t want to have to sleep with earplugs in, I highly recommend not staying in the centre of El Poblado but instead around its edges where things are much quieter.
Manila for example is a small area right next to El Poblado and it’s much quieter at night. In fact, that’s where we stayed and we found it to be very quiet and chilled but close enough to El Poblado to never be far from the action.
Laureles
Another very popular neighbourhood to stay in Medellin is Laureles. Located to the west and over the river from the historical center, Laureles is a relaxed neighbourhood with a lot to offer.
With more affordable accommodation options than El Poblado, Laureles is a great choice for budget travellers. There are many hipster cafes, restaurants, boutiques and hotels to explore too. Staying in Laureles also means that you’re closer to the historic center, potentially saving you some time when moving around the city and getting to know its major sights.
Envigado
Located just south of El Poblado, Envigado is a large, mostly residential part of Medellin. It actually used to be its own town but later was incorporated into the city of Medellin as it expanded. If you’re thinking about where to stay in Medellin for a longer stay, Envigado is a great option.
It’s still close to all the sights and not far from the happenings of El Poblado yet it’s much cheaper and sustainable for longer stays- especially if you’re also looking for somewhere quieter and more local.
There aren’t too many choices when it comes to hotels in Envigado but there are quite a few Airbnbs and VRBO rentals in the area. If you are a digital nomad looking for a monthly stay in Medellin, I’d highly recommend looking for a rental in Envigado.
Historic Center
The historical center or La Candelaria as it’s also known is the historical and commercial heart of Medellin. It’s one of the oldest neighbourhoods in the city and it’s brimming with local commerce, hustle and bustle and action.
In this neighbourhood, you’ll find some of Medellin’s most famous sights such as Botero Square and the Antioquia Museum among others. From here, El Poblado and all other areas of the city are within easy reach.
If you’re someone who’s looking for a really local experience or you’re staying in Medellin for less than 24 hours or you’re not particularly bothered by nightlife, staying in El Centro might be a good option for you.
Note: Areas around the Historic Center can get dangerous at night. It’s not a particularly nice area to walk around at night either and it does get pretty noisy. If you’re going somewhere after dark make sure to take an Uber. For this reason, I highly recommend staying in El Poblado, Manila or Laureles over the Historic Center/La Candelaria.
For reference check out this map for all the neighbourhoods of Medellin:
Read more: The BEST Things to do in Medellin for First-Time Travellers
Where to Stay in Medellin: The Best Hotels
El Poblado & Manila
Landmark Hotel
Landmark Hotel is a brand new hotel, apartment complex and cafe located in the Manila neighbourhood right by El Poblado. This beautiful boutique hotel wins major points for its beautiful design-focused lobby and rooms that focus on chic yet functional living.
The rooms are cosy, beautifully designed and feature all the mod cons. They also come with a balcony, modern bathroom and wifi with speeds that exceed 200 Megas making Landmark perfect for digital nomads or anyone for who the internet is a priority.
What is unique about Landmark however is their conscious and sustainable approach. Each room is fitted with a filtered water tap so instead of buying bottled water, you can refill your reusable water bottle as many times as you like during your stay reducing plastic consumption.
On the roof, you’ll find a long, heated pool, a jacuzzi and a terrace with gorgeous views of Medellin. This was definitely our favourite place to hang out and we started the day with a swim and finished it with a soak in the jacuzzi to rest those tired legs.
Landmark has also just opened a cafe downstairs focused on fast yet healthy food options- a great place to grab breakfast before exploring more of the city.
I would highly recommend staying here and without a doubt, this was our favorite stay during our entire Colombia trip!
Check rates and availability here
Hotel Quinta Ladera
With all the wooden, natural feels don’t miss this brand new boutique property in El Poblado.
Full of natural light, earthy tones and textures and all the plants and vegetation this hotel feels simple yet homely. Rooms are comfortable and stylish, staff are friendly and are there to help during your stay in Medellin.
The beds here are super comfortable, it’s amazingly clean and tidy and just the perfect place to stay to make you feel at home.
Check rates and availability here
Marquee Medellín
If you’re looking for where to stay in Medellin and you love pure luxury and gorgeous design, Marquee is El Pobablo’s swankiest hotel.
From the moment you enter the lobby, the hotel’s classic style and great service already hint at what a fantastic stay it will be. With stunning, classic rooms with marble bathrooms and brilliant views of the city, filtered water outlets in the rooms, a bar, cafe, great morning breakfast and a rooftop terrace with an outdoor, heated pool, there is literally nothing stopping us from booking a stay right here for our next time in Medellin.
Check rates and availability here
The Somos Hotel
Another great option for travellers wishing to stay in El Poblado, The Somos is a super hip space that allows travellers to rest, work and relax.
With a real trendy industrial feel, rooms still feel cosy and comfortable and have everything you need for a great stay. There’s also a beautiful rooftop bar and a downstairs cafe giving guests a variety of places to relax outside their rooms.
Check availability and rates here
23 Hotel Medellin
With a modern, geometric, ‘flintstones’ vibe, 23 Hotel Medellin is one of the most unique properties in this post.
Warm, natural tones aid to help you find sanctuary after a long day of exploring the city and the rooftop terrace, bar and pool is another place to relax and watch the city go by.
Rooms are beautifully decorated with interesting nooks that beg to be explored. The staff are lovely, the morning breakfast is tasty and the location on the edge of El Poblado means it’s quiet yet not far from all the best restaurants, cafes and nightlife.
Check availability and rates here
The Click Clack Hotel
Cutting-edge architecture, exceptional service and design-focused spaces are just some of the things you can expect from the Click-click hotel, one of Medellin’s trendiest hotels. Located in the heart of El Poblado, this hotel has everything you need for a beyond-comfortable stay from large, luxury beds to an excellent breakfast.
Even if you’re not staying here I highly recommend coming into the cafe for a drink when wandering around El Poblado as it’s one of the most Instagrammable places in Medellin, especially for the design-obsessed.
Check availability and rates here
Los Patios Hostel
For those looking for a hostel to meet other travellers, Los Patios Hostel is one of the best choices in central El Poblado. With serious swoon-worthy, industrial vibes, many spaces to relax, socialise and work including a cafe/bar, gym, rooftop pool and terrace and coworking space this is a great option for the young, free-spirited travellers.
Opt for one of the many sized dorms sporting bunks with private curtains, or if you prefer even more privacy, the private on-suite rooms are roomy and comfortable.
Check availability and rates here
Laureles
3H HOTEL
Located in Laureles, just 15 minutes walk from Laureles Park this local, welcoming hotel is one of the best picks in the area for both budget and comfort.
All rooms include a desk, a flat-screen TV, a private bathroom, bed linen and towels. They also feature air conditioning and a closet. American breakfasts are also served every morning to guests.
Rooms are clean, bright and inviting and bathrooms are modern and have been recently renovated. All in all, a great choice for this side of town.
Check availability and rates here
Hotel Dorado
Another great, clean and local option, Hotel Dorado provides guests with a lovely affordable place to relax after a day of exploring. Clean, modern rooms, comfortable bed, satellite TV, a desk, and air-con are what you can expect to see in every room.
The hotel also has a gym for guests to use and a buffet breakfast is provided each morning. This is another great budget choice in Laureles.
Check rates and availability here
Hotel Casa Mayor
Probably our top pick in Laureles this pretty hotel has everything needed for a great stay; friendly, attentive staff, comfortable room, modern, natural decor and a cafe downstairs to relax in and try some local Colombian coffee.
While rooms are a little on the small size, they are cosy, clean and have everything you might need including good wifi, TV, safe and extra linen. A great location right next to the metro too.
Check rates and availability here
Envigado
Hotel York Luxury Suites Medellin
Easily the best hotel in Envigado (Envigado doesn’t have too many hotels) this modern, luxury chic hotel is perfect for anyone looking for where to stay in Medellin.
With a grand, modern lobby, rooftop pool with breathtaking views over the city, and spacious and well-lit rooms, this is a gem of a hotel in Medellin. Equipped with a rooftop bar, on-site restaurant and gym as well as the rooftop pool, you can easily spend the evenings relaxing in this lovely, unique space.
The staff are super friendly and helpful and often go out of their way to make guests feel at home. A rooftop drink here after a long day exploring the city is one of the highlights of the stay.
Check rates and availability here
Arame Hotel
If you’re after something simple and affordable for a couple of nights, the Arame Hotel in Envigado is another great option. It’s a simple, no-frills hotel but it has everything you’ll need for a good stay; large comfortable beds, quiet rooms, good breakfast, friendly staff and a great location.
The hotel is also super clean, has good wifi, is great value for money and is only a 7 minute walk from the local shopping mall, Viva Envigado.
Check rates and availability here
Historic Center
Hotel Gallery
A good choice just a block from Botero Square, this lovely hotel is one of the best choices when staying in the Historic Center. With a uniquely painted facade, large, contemporary rooms and a rooftop bar with great views this hotel definitely makes for a comfortable stay.
Rooms are large and equipped with desks, TV, wifi, conditioning and many come with large jacuzzi style baths, perfect for relaxing in after a long day.
The best thing about this hotel, however, is definitely the rooftop lounge and bar, with comfortable sofas and an urban vibe, a great place to grab a drink and contemplate the day.
Check rates and availability here
Where to Stay in Medellin: Apartment Rentals
El Poblado
Edificio Meridiano
For a brilliant bed and breakfast option in the heart of El Poblado you’ll want to give Edificio Meridiano a closer look. Located right by Lleras Park, an idyllic green, jungle space right in the middle of the city, this vibey stay is clean, comfortable and beautifully decorated full of industrial accents.
If you’re looking for a short apartment rental in El Poblado, you can’t go wrong with these beautiful, dark interiors with clean lines and plenty of space and natural light.
Rooms and studios here are comfortable and come with a bedroom, living and kitchen area perfect for couples or families.
Check rates and availability here
Beautiful Luxurious Apartment Suite
For a beautiful 2 bedroom apartment in the Southern part of El Poblado, this modern, spacious apartment is perfect for all travelers needs. Sporting a contemporary open-plan living, dining and kitchen area with a balcony with great views of the city.
The two bedrooms are spacious and the whole apartment sleeps 5 if you include the sofa bed. The 3 bathrooms mean that there’s plenty of space for the whole family to get ready.
The apartment also comes with a washer/dryer, high-speed wifi and has a great location close to many malls, bars and Medellin’s best restaurants. If you don’t feel like going out there’s a 70 inch 4K TV to enjoy Netflix and movies on. This is a great choice for apartment rentals in El Poblado, Medellin.
Check rates and availability here
Modern, Aparta-Studio, Poblado Medellin
For the couple looking for a long stay in Medellin or a little more privacy, this gorgeous one-bedroom apartment is a really great choice. Located not far from the heart of El Poblado, this one-bedroom, one bathroom apart-studio is fully equipped with everything you might need during a short or long stay.
With an open plan kitchen and living area, and separate bedroom this modern apartment is made for modern living. High-speed wifi, a desk for working and a large TV and balcony for entertainment this apartment is aesthetically pleasing, modern and super comfortable.
The building also has a gym and rooftop terrace with a heated pool- perfect for a morning swim or evening soak.
Check rates and availability here
Laureles
Origen Local Suites
One of the best apartment rentals in Laureles, these beautiful yet simple modern studios are a great place to stay when in Medellin for a short or even longer stay. With ample space to open up luggage, good sized and equipped kitchens for preparing coffee and simple meals and comfortable double beds there’s little else you’ll need for a great stay.
Origen also offers a front desk service, great wifi and some of the rooms also come with balconies- perfect for watching all the action on the streets of Medellin below.
Check rates and availability here
Spectacular Double-floor Penthouse with Jacuzzi
Looking for the perfect, unique apartment for a group? Look no further than this incredible double floor penthouse in the heart of Laureles with incredible views of the city from the living space and balcony.
With a large open, living area and kitchen and three spectacular, ample bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms and private balconies with city views, this space has everything you’ll need for a great stay.
Perfect for cooking and entertaining or relaxing, this gorgeous apartment still allows people to spread out and have their own space. The modern design and brightly painted walls are vibrant and agreeable and the apartment gets lots of natural light.
To top it off there’s also a jacuzzi, steam room, a hammock to swing in and a moving roof to enjoy the rays any time of day or night. There’s probably no place like this anywhere else in Medellin.
Check rates and availability here
Envigado
Espectaculares Apartamentos Deluxe
One of the best modern apartment complexes in Envigado, these deluxe apartments are perfect for both long and short stays in the city.
Each apartment is large and has three bedrooms- perfect for families and couples who want to spread out and they come with everything you might expect when renting a furnished apartment.
A fully equipped kitchen makes making meals easy and there’s also a large living area with a desk for the odd bit of work.
Bedrooms are spacious and feature both double and twin bed set-ups. There’s also a nice balcony allowing for views of the city. The apartment also comes with wifi, free parking a reception desk which makes check-in easy. Staff are there to also help with your questions and queries about the city.
Check rates and availability here
Light, airy one bedroom w/ balcony
Just a little north of the heart of Envigado, you’ll find this gem of an apartment rental perfect for a couple. This simple, minimally decorated, large apartment is affordable, has everything you might need during your stay and is close to El Poblado and the rest of Medellin by metro.
There is also a park and an outdoor gym right opposite. The apartment has a small kitchen good for preparing coffee, snacks and light meals, it has a separate dining area and living room. The sole bedroom with a double bed is large and has space for plenty of luggage. There’s also a desk for work and good wifi. This apartment is also pet friendly.
It’s walking distance of everything you’ll need and the neighbourhood is safe and friendly with easy access to the metro, taxis and Uber.
Check rates and availably here
Envigado La Magnolia
Simple, cute and functional, this gem of an apartment is a great stay for a small family or friends. It’s ample, light-filled and bright and minimally decorated to maximise space fully.
The two bedrooms are light, white and large and perfect for two couples. The kitchen is small but big enough for preparing light meals during your day. The apartment comes with all the mod-cons like a coffee maker, washer dryer and great wifi. The patio is great for nights of great conversation and a few drinks.
Check rates and availability here
Top Tips for Visiting and Staying in Medellin
↠ Safety– I generally get a lot of questions over on my Instagram about safety in Colombia. In general, Colombia is a safe place to travel, more so in recent years, providing you stay on the tourist trail. Medellin is a city like any other where petty crime and robbery do happen occasionally just like it might in New York or LA. In general, Medellin is no longer a dangerous city.
Just like any other big city you visit you’ll need to exercise caution and use common sense but generally violent crime toward tourists is not common. Make sure to also leave your valuables in your hotel, don’t walk around with large amounts of cash on you (you don’t need to do this as most places in Medellin accept cards) and don’t walk around with your phone in your hand.
Also, you’ll want to be careful of passing motorbikes- they are the general culprits for snatching phones and bags out of your hand as they drive by. A good tip is to make sure to use the pavement as far away from the road as possible and ladies, wear your handbag on the opposite shoulder that’s facing the road. For this reason, a crossbody bag is the best option for Colombia.
↠ It’s common to get asked to show ID when entering museums, public places and tourist attractions in Colombia. You don’t need to carry your passport with you though as they accept copies so just have a photo of your ID saved on your phone.
↠ Medellin’s public transport is excellent and the city’s citizens are very proud of it. I highly recommend using the metro for getting around. It’s safe, affordable, easy to work out and most importantly it avoids all the city’s traffic. El Poblado station is just a short walk away from the heart of El Poblado. Uber and taxis are also great ways of getting around.
Check below for some more excellent organised tours in the area:
In conclusion:
Medellin has many great areas for travellers to stay. My prefered area in Medellin is El Poblado and Manila and I always recommend it to first-time travellers to Medellin. It has everything you need around, cafes, bars, restaurants, supermarkets, it has the best choice of hotels in the city and it’s safe. Given the efficiency of the metro in Medellin, it’s also not far from other places like Plaza Botero and the Botanical Gardens.
So, have you figured out where to stay in Medellin? Let me know your questions and comments below, I’d love to hear from you.
Planning a trip right now? These are just some of my favourite websites I use to book everything from hotels to rental cars!
Rentalcars.com for quick and easy car rentals worldwide
Booking.com for great deals on hotels
Agoda also for great deals on hotels
Get Your Guide and Viator for tours and adventures around the world
Related posts you might like:
The BEST Things to do in Medellin for First-Time Travellers
12 Best Places To Visit in Colombia You Don’t Want To Miss
The Very Best Things to Do in Bogota Colombia
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