Santa Fe de Antioquia is a charming colonial town located about 57 km (35 miles) northwest of Medellín, nestled in the scenic mountains of Colombia. It’s renowned for its cobblestone streets, white-washed colonial buildings, and warm, temperate climate, making it an ideal destination for a day trip or weekend getaway from Medellín. The town, with its well-preserved historical architecture, offers visitors a glimpse into Colombia’s colonial past while providing a relaxing and authentic experience away from the more heavily touristed areas of the region.
Santa Fe was founded in 1541 by Jorge Robledo and has a population of around 23,000 inhabitants.
Getting there
Santa Fe de Antioquia is easy to reach from Medellín. Whether you opt to drive a rental car, which is the fastest way to get there, or take a bus, the trip only takes around two hours. The town’s proximity to Medellín makes it a popular spot for locals looking to escape the bustling city. Surprisingly, it remains somewhat off the radar for international tourists, providing a more authentic and less commercialized experience compared to nearby attractions like Guatapé.
How to get there from Medellin?
By bus from Terminal del Norte. The terminal is right next to the Metro station Caribe.
Price for the bus: A one way bus bus ticket will cost you around 9,000 pesos. Buses run regularly
Duration: approximately 2 hours
The trip begins with a picturesque bus ride through the stunning Antioquian mountains. Along the way, you’ll have plenty of time to take in the breathtaking landscapes that stretch between Medellín and Santa Fe de Antioquia. Upon arriving in Santa Fe, you’ll quickly notice that the climate is warmer than in Medellín, which is due to its slightly lower elevation compared to the capital of Antioquia. Santa Fe is a popular weekend destination for Colombian families, and it becomes especially busy during Christmas and Semana Santa (Easter), when many families rent fincas (country houses) to spend quality time together.
Santa Fe de Antioquia may not have an abundance of individual landmarks, but the city itself is a living, breathing attraction. The best way to experience it is by leisurely strolling through its charming cobblestone streets. Be sure to visit the expansive and picturesque Plaza Mayor, the heart of the town, where you can admire the stunning colonial architecture. Surrounding the Plaza, you’ll find a variety of cafés and restaurants serving traditional dishes such as grilled meats, fish, rice, and patacones (fried plantains), all at reasonable prices.
If you find yourself in Medellín, a trip to Santa Fe de Antioquia is a must for anyone wanting to experience the authentic charm of a Colombian colonial town.
Where to stay in Santa fe de Antioquia?
If you want to spend the night in Santa Fe I will have here some recommendations for you:
Lower price range
Green Nomads Hostel
Calle 9 # 7 – 63, Santa Fe de Antioquia, Colombia
Price: Dormitory €11,55 Double bedroom from €39,60
Check the latest prices on Hostelworld.com | Booking.com
Upper prize range
Hotel Colonial Nueva Granada
Calle 9 # 7-47, 057050 Santa Fe de Antioquia, Kolumbien
Price: Double bedroom from €109,00
Check the latest prices on Booking.com
Things to do in and near Santa Fe de Antioquia
Here’s an exciting list of the top things to do in Santa Fe de Antioquia:
- Walk Across the Puente Colgante de Occidente
Once South America’s longest suspension bridge, this iconic structure offers breathtaking views of the Cauca River and the surrounding countryside. You can walk across or take a tuk-tuk, but only small vehicles are allowed to preserve the bridge. For the best experience, visit around sunset! - Cool Off by the Pool
The warm climate of Santa Fe de Antioquia makes it a perfect place to relax by the pool. Many hotels offer refreshing pools to cool off after exploring the town’s colonial streets. Don’t forget your swimsuit! - Stroll the Cobblestone Streets
Wander through the narrow, colorful streets lined with white-washed buildings, vibrant flowers, and colonial charm. Santa Fe’s streets give a perfect glimpse into traditional Colombian life outside the big cities. - Relax at Plaza de Bolívar
As with many Colombian towns, the central square is the heart of Santa Fe de Antioquia. Visit Plaza de Bolívar to grab lunch, people-watch, and soak in the lively atmosphere. Enjoy a typical Colombian meal by ordering the menu del día. - Shop at the Local Markets
Santa Fe de Antioquia’s markets offer a variety of artisanal goods, souvenirs, and local snacks. Be sure to try the town’s famous tamarind candy and pick up some buñuelos at the local bakeries! - Explore Nearby Sucre
Take a short tuk-tuk ride to the nearby town of Sucre, where you can explore a smaller plaza, visit its church, and have lunch at a local restaurant. While it’s a quiet town, it’s worth the short trip for a peaceful break. - Visit Museo Juan del Corral
This free museum offers insight into the history of the region, including artifacts from the indigenous people and items dating back to the colonial period. Don’t miss the historic room where Antioquia’s independence was declared! - Discover La Chinca Park
Relax in this peaceful park with a lovely church, Our Lady of Chiquinquirá, and enjoy a quiet moment under the shade of trees. The market nearby sells artisanal crafts and local delicacies. - Marvel at Filigree Work
Stop by one of the tiendas de filigrana (filigree shops) to admire intricate silver jewelry. Santa Fe de Antioquia is famous for this type of delicate metalwork, and you might find a beautiful handmade piece to take home. - Admire the Churches
Santa Fe de Antioquia has no shortage of beautiful churches. Visit the cathedral or explore smaller temples like Templo de Santa Barbara or Nuestra Señora de Chiquinquira to admire their architecture and peaceful atmosphere. - Tour the Historic Center with Turantioquia
Learn more about the town’s hidden gems by taking a guided tour of the historic center. Even if you don’t speak Spanish, this tour offers a deeper look into the town’s culture and history. - Enjoy Coffee at Café Canelo
Visit this trendy café, located inside Hotel Mariscal Robledo, to enjoy a locally roasted coffee with notes of chocolate and panela. The café’s mission is to educate visitors about the coffee-making process, and the cozy atmosphere makes it a perfect stop for coffee lovers. - Stay at Hotel Mariscal Robledo
Explore the beautiful colonial-style courtyard of the fanciest hotel in town. The hotel features vintage decor, antiques, and a restaurant where you can enjoy traditional arepas or pizza. - Dine at La Casa Solariega
This historic villa-turned-restaurant offers a unique dining experience with beautifully restored vintage decor. After your meal, stop by the neighboring Belgian ice cream shop for a sweet treat!
When is the best time to visit Santa Fe?
The best time to visit Santa Fe de Antioquia is during the dry season, which typically runs from December to March. During this period, the weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for strolling through the town’s charming cobblestone streets and exploring the surrounding countryside. If you prefer a quieter experience, avoid visiting during popular holidays like Christmas, Semana Santa (Easter), and long weekends, when Colombian families flock to the town for vacations, making it busier. However, if you enjoy a lively atmosphere, visiting during these times can give you a glimpse into local celebrations and traditions.
Santa Fe de Antioquia is a perfect blend of relaxation, history, and culture. From exploring the picturesque streets to enjoying a sunset at the Puente de Occidente, this charming town is an ideal getaway from Medellín!
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