Hotels, Apartments, or Hostels? Comparing Stays in Colombia on Booking.com

Colombia is one of those destinations that genuinely surprises you — and your choice of accommodation in Colombia is often where that surprise begins. From the sun-baked streets of Cartagena to the eternally spring-like air of Medellín and the misty hillsides of the Colombian Coffee Region, every corner of this country offers a different kind of stay, and picking the right one can make all the difference.

Here is the thing, staying in a hotel in Colombia should not be considered as the only option, and a hostel in Colombia is not only for backpackers with limited budget. Renting an apartment in Colombia could actually be the best decision you make, depending on the duration of your stay and the people you are travelling with. Each choice presents a totally different story.

This guide explains all three options, frankly, practically, and without the fluff, so you can go to Booking.com with a clear idea of what to look for. Whether you are a newbie or a return visitor, the perfect accommodation is nearer than you imagine.

Why Your Accommodation Choice in Colombia Matters

Colombia is a multifaceted destination that cannot be described singly. The necessities of a backpacker travelling the route from Cartagena to Medellín differ drastically from those of a couple who are celebrating their anniversary by staying in a small villa in Santa Marta. Furthermore, a family enclosed within a tight budget planning a trip to Bogotá will consider accommodation in such a way that is very different from a business traveller who lands in Cali for a conference.

That is the reason, looking at the disparity between hotels, apartments, and hostels should not be limited to price only; it is about the kind of travel experience through Colombia you want to create. Your accommodation is your base, your sanctuary, and very often, your initial real experience of Colombian hospitality.

Let’s analyse the potential of each option to help you make the most informed decision for your trip.

Hotels in Colombia – Comfort, Convenience, and Everything In Between

Hotels are what most people picture first when they think of travel accommodation, and rightly so. In Colombia, hotels can be anything from glossy, internationally branded chains in Bogotá to quaint boutique eco-hotels in the Colombian coffee region, and they all have one feature in common: a ready-to-go experience from the moment of check-in.

What Do Colombian Hotels Actually Offer?

The majority of hotels in Colombia provide several services such as daily housekeeping, a 24-hour front desk, on-site security, and usually, a restaurant or bar within the hotel premises. Many upscale hotels in Cartagena even go beyond this by having rooftop pools with the stunning view of the historic city walls, a great combination of peace and magnificent scenery.

In Medellín, mid-range and budget hotels offer basic accommodation such as clean rooms, Wi-Fi, and breakfast at prices significantly lower than in Europe. Well-known neighbourhoods like El Poblado and Laureles are not only great for public transport, but they are also rich in restaurants and very comfortable for a carefree stay.

Best Scenarios for Booking a Hotel in Colombia

Hotels are a great choice for solo business travelers, short stays with busy schedules, or anyone seeking comfort and reliability. They work especially well in major cities like Bogotá, Cali, and Barranquilla, where central locations make getting around easy. For first-time visitors, hotels provide a reassuring level of safety and support during the initial days.

In Colombia, hotel prices vary widely. Budget options start around $20–$30 USD per night in smaller cities. Boutique hotels in Bogotá usually range from $60–$150 USD, while luxury five-star hotels in Cartagena can exceed $300 USD per night during peak seasons.

Apartment Rentals in Colombia – The Home Away from Home

If you are staying in Colombia for more than a few days — or travelling with family or friends — a short-term apartment rental in Colombia might genuinely be the best decision you make. There is something deeply satisfying about having your own kitchen, living room, and the freedom to live on your own schedule.

Why Apartments Make Sense for Longer Stays

Staying in a furnished apartment in Medellín or Bogotá lets you experience Colombia like a local in a way hotels never can. You shop at nearby mercados, cook fresh arepas for breakfast, and connect with the neighbourhood around you. This deeper level of immersion transforms a simple trip into a lasting, meaningful memory.

Vacation apartments are ideal for families and digital nomads alike. Families enjoy extra bedrooms, kitchens, and laundry facilities that reduce food and laundry costs over longer stays. Meanwhile, remote workers benefit from affordable monthly rentals, especially in Medellín’s El Poblado, with fast internet and co-working spaces close by.

What to Look for in a Colombian Apartment Rental

When booking an apartment in Colombia, the neighbourhood matters as security can vary widely. Always read recent guest reviews and look for features like 24-hour concierge service, gated access, and nearby supermarkets or pharmacies. Essentials include hot water, dependable Wi-Fi, and air conditioning in coastal cities such as Cartagena or Santa Marta.

Prices are generally affordable. Well-furnished apartments in Bogotá average $35–$60 per night, while studios in Medellín’s El Poblado or Laureles start around $30. Larger Cartagena apartments for families typically range from $80–$200, depending on location and views.

Hostels in Colombia – Social, Fun, and Budget-Friendly

Let’s be real — if you have never stayed in a hostel, you are missing out on one of travel’s most underrated experiences. And hostels in Colombia are genuinely some of the best in the world. They are lively, welcoming, and packed with travellers just like you who are hungry for adventure and good conversation.

What Makes Colombian Hostels Stand Out?

Colombia’s hostel scene has evolved dramatically over the past decade. Gone are the days of basic, rundown dorms. Today, top-rated hostels in Medellín and popular backpacker stays in Cartagena feature stylish common spaces, rooftop bars, social events, and even private en-suite rooms for travellers who want comfort alongside a social atmosphere.

What truly sets hostels apart is the sense of community. It’s easy to connect with fellow travellers and locals, leading to spontaneous city tours or salsa nights. Medellín’s El Poblado, Envigado, and Laureles, along with Cartagena’s walled city, now host some of South America’s most memorable hostel experiences.

Who Should Stay in a Colombian Hostel?

Hostels are a great choice in Colombia if you’re a solo backpacker, a budget-conscious couple, or someone who enjoys social travel. They’re especially ideal for multi-city routes covering Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena, and the Coffee Region, as hostels help keep costs low while making it easy to meet fellow travellers and stay socially engaged.

However, travellers seeking quiet, workspace privacy, or family-friendly comfort may prefer other options. Many boutique hostels now bridge this gap with private rooms. Dorm beds usually cost $8–$18 per night, while private rooms range from $25–$50, rivaling budget hotels.

Hotels vs Apartments vs Hostels in Colombia – A Direct Comparison

Not sure which one wins for your specific trip? Here is a quick head-to-head breakdown to help you decide.

Privacy and Space

Hotels offer private rooms with en-suite bathrooms, room service, and professional housekeeping — great for couples and solo travellers who value their own space. Apartments offer even more space, especially for groups or families, with separate bedrooms and living areas. Hostels, depending on whether you choose a dorm or private room, range from minimal privacy to decent solitude.

Cost Efficiency

For pure budget travel in Colombia, hostels win hands down. Apartments become the most cost-efficient option for stays of a week or more, especially for groups splitting costs. Hotels offer the least bang for your buck but deliver the highest consistency and service standards.

Social Experience

Hostels are unbeatable for meeting other travellers. Apartments give you an authentic neighbourhood life and local interactions. Hotels tend to be the most isolated in terms of social connection, though some boutique hotels in Colombia build community through rooftop bars or common dining experiences.

Flexibility and Amenities

Hotels offer the most flexible cancellation policies and 24/7 guest support. Apartments give you kitchen access, laundry facilities, and more independence. Hostels often have the most flexible booking terms and helpful staff who double as local tour guides — a huge bonus for first-time visitors navigating the Colombia travel scene.

Best Cities in Colombia for Each Accommodation Type

Best Hotels – Cartagena and Bogotá

Cartagena’s historic centre is home to some of the most stunning boutique hotels in the Caribbean, many of which are housed in beautifully restored colonial buildings. Think cobblestone courtyards, hammocks by the pool, and staff who treat you like a visiting dignitary. In Bogotá, the La Candelaria and Zona Rosa neighbourhoods offer everything from heritage hotels to modern business-class properties.

Best Apartments – Medellín and Santa Marta

Medellín’s El Poblado and Laureles neighbourhoods are arguably the best places in South America to rent a short-term apartment. They are safe, walkable, filled with restaurants and cafés, and offer a range of serviced apartment options in Medellín at highly competitive prices. Santa Marta, as the gateway to Tayrona National Park, also has an excellent selection of beach apartments and villas — perfect for a nature-based holiday.

Best Hostels – Medellín and the Coffee Region

Medellín is hands down the hostel capital of Colombia — a title it has earned through years of incredible traveller reviews and a thriving social scene. The Coffee Region (Eje Cafetero), including Salento, Filandia, and Armenia, is equally beloved for its charming eco-hostels and family-run posadas that connect you deeply with rural Colombian life.

Tips for Booking the Right Stay in Colombia

Before you hit that ‘confirm booking’ button, here are a few things worth keeping in mind when securing your Colombia travel accommodation.

Always Read Recent Reviews

Colombia is a country where standards can vary significantly between properties and neighbourhoods. Reading guest reviews from the last three to six months gives you a much more accurate picture than the listing description alone. Pay particular attention to comments about security, noise levels, cleanliness, and staff responsiveness.

Book Early for Peak Seasons

Colombia’s peak travel season runs from December through January (over Christmas and New Year) and again in June through August. During these windows, hotel rates in Cartagena and Medellín spike sharply and popular hostels sell out weeks in advance. Booking early — even if you choose a property with free cancellation — saves you from the last-minute price surge.

Use Filters Smartly

When searching for a place to stay, use accommodation filters for features like free cancellation, air conditioning, swimming pool, or breakfast included. These small details make a massive difference to your day-to-day comfort — especially in hot coastal cities or during Colombia’s rainy season.

Prioritise Location Over Price

In Colombia, where you stay within a city matters enormously. A $15 per night saving is not worth it if your accommodation is in an unsafe or inconveniently located area. Spend a little extra to stay in well-reviewed, well-connected neighbourhoods — your stress levels and your safety will thank you.

Conclusion – Find Your Perfect Stay in Colombia on Booking.com

Are you more into the refined service of a hotel, the intimate comforts of a short-term apartment, or perhaps, the energetic social buzz of a hostel? Well, Colombia offers the kind of choice that suits any one of these perfectly. At present, this country ranks among the most vibrant and diverse destinations in the world; hence, your accommodation will play a major role in shaping the experience beyond what most travellers assume.

Booking.com is hands down the most clever way to figure out your perfect accommodation. This is a website that puts all 3 accommodation types together. You can filter according to your exact needs, and it provides you with honest, verified reviews from real guests. Whether you are planning a weekend getaway or a month-long trip, Booking.com Colombia makes the whole process simple, clear, and very enjoyable.

So, what are you waiting for? Browse those listings, weigh your options, and prepare to discover Colombia exactly the way you want. Your perfect accommodation is already there for you.

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Last Updated on: February 11, 2026