Cali is one of the most important cities in Colombia and the Valle del Cauca department’s capital. This great city is located in the Andes mountains and is famous for its Carnival celebrations, its joyful atmosphere, and one of the cradles of salsa music. In this post, we will discover the best areas to stay in Cali, Colombia.
Cali’s founding dates back to July 25, 1536, which makes it one of the oldest European settlements in the Americas. Some of the main tourist attractions in Cali include the Ermita church, Los Gatos Park, Cayzedo Square, Calima Gold Museum, La Merced Museum, and the San Francisco church. All these places of interest are located in the Historic Quarter. See accommodation in Cali’s Historic Quarter.
Not far away, you’ll find the lively neighborhood of San Antonio. Its colorful houses, numerous bars and hostels, and interesting murals make it one of the city’s favorite areas among foreign tourists. Neighboring El Peñón is home to the La Tertulia Museum, the Caliwood Museum, and the Sebastián De Belalcázar viewpoint. See accommodation in San Antonio & El Peñón.
Other unmissable attractions in Cali include the hilltop Cristo Rey viewpoint, Tres Cruces mountain, and Parque del Perro.
Cali has a warm summer tropical climate. Averaging 77 ºF / 25 ºC, temperatures are high all year round. The rainy seasons are from March to May and September to November. The best time to visit Cali is during the dry months (December to February and June to August).
You can get to Cali by air via the Alfonso Bonilla Aragón Airport. Located 12 mi (20 km) northeast of the city, this airport, the fourth-busiest in Colombia, offers direct services to most major cities in Colombia and international connections to destinations in Ecuador, Venezuela, Panama, the United States, and Spain. Cali also has excellent long-distance bus connections to destinations throughout the country and the nearby Ecuadorian border. You can book long-distance bus services here.
Keep reading to learn more about the best areas to stay in Cali, Colombia.
What are the best areas to stay in Cali, Colombia?
The best area to stay in Cali is San Antonio. This lively neighborhood is full of cafes, bars, and restaurants. Thanks to its many accommodations, which range from backpacker hostels to luxury hotels, it also has an international vibe. Other areas to consider when looking for accommodation in Cali are the nightlife district around San Fernando, upscale North Cali, and the Historic City Center.
1. San Antonio
The liveliest barrio to stay in Cali
San Antonio is one of Cali’s most popular barrios, especially among foreign travelers.
Located west of the city center, San Antonio is known for its colonial architecture, vibrant arts scene, and strong connection to salsa culture. Its narrow, sloping streets are filled with colorful houses, artisan shops, and independent galleries, while the hilltop location offers some of the best views of the city.
At the heart of San Antonio is Parque San Antonio, a green space that provides panoramic views of Cali. Street performers, musicians, and vendors selling traditional snacks often gather here, creating a lively atmosphere, especially in the evenings. Nearby, the Iglesia de San Antonio, built in 1746, is one of Cali’s oldest churches. Its white façade and red-brick bell tower stand out against the surrounding colonial buildings, and the area around the church frequently hosts cultural events and outdoor performances.
San Antonio’s connection to salsa is unmistakable. The barrio is home to renowned dance schools like Swing Latino, where travelers can learn the fast-paced steps of Cali-style salsa. At night, salsa clubs such as La Topa Tolondra and MalaMaña fill up with dancers, offering live music and a chance to experience Cali’s famous nightlife.
Nearby barrios El Peñón and San Cayetano also offer important attractions. El Peñón, located just west of San Antonio, features attractions like the Cali Zoo, known for its diverse collection of native wildlife, and the Museum of Modern Art La Tertulia, which showcases contemporary Colombian artists. Scenic walks along the Cali River Boulevard offer views of public sculptures and green spaces. To the south, San Cayetano offers landmarks such as the Cristo Rey monument, towering over the city with panoramic vistas, and the Cali Botanical Garden, a peaceful space filled with tropical plants.
Reaching San Antonio is easy. Cali’s MIO bus system connects the neighborhood to other parts of the city, with the closest station, Manzana del Saber, within walking distance. From there, feeder route A03 provides direct access to San Antonio. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also widely available, with a ride from the city center typically taking around 10 minutes. For those staying nearby, walking is a convenient way to explore the area’s colonial streets.
With its historic charm, artistic atmosphere, and thriving salsa scene, San Antonio is one of the best areas to stay in Cali.
Our hand-picked accommodations in San Antonio, Cali
Hotel Boutique Casa Vecchia – San Antonio
Hotel Boutique Casa Vecchia – San Antonio provides rooms in Cali. With a shared lounge, the 3-star hotel has air-conditioned rooms, an indoor pool, a hot tub, and room service.
2. North Cali
The best area to stay in Cali for business travelers
One of the safest areas to stay in Cali, the upscale North End offers excellent transport connections, elegant nightlife, business districts, and access to nature reserves.
North Cali refers to the neighborhoods directly north and northeast of Cali’s Centro Histórico. Known for its upper-middle and upper-class vibe, the area is also home to the city’s financial district and lively nightlife in the Zona Rosa, known for its upscale bars, clubs, and restaurants.
Some of the most famous neighborhoods in North Cali, which extends to the Yumbo municipality border, include Versalles, Granada, Juanambú, and Prados del Norte.
Attractions in the area include Parque Simón Bolívar, a green space with walking paths and monuments; MULI Museo Libre de Arte Público de Colombia, which features public art installations and exhibitions; and Teatro Calima, a cultural venue known for its theater performances and concerts. For shopping, options range from the fashion-focused La Pasarela to larger malls like Chipichape and Calima Mall, offering retail stores, dining, and entertainment.
Additionally, North Cali is one of the city’s financial hubs, with modern office buildings and corporate headquarters that began developing rapidly in the late 20th century. The area’s distinctive skyline includes buildings like Torre de Cali, one of Colombia’s tallest skyscrapers at 629 feet (192 meters), which houses offices and a hotel, and the World Trade Center, a 387-foot (118-meter) tall complex completed in 2014.
Nightlife in North Cali is centered in Barrio de Granada’s Zona Rosa, which features rooftop bars, stylish restaurants, and live music venues. On the other hand, Versalles and Juanambú offer a more laid-back atmosphere, while Prados del Norte features casual, family-friendly restaurants.
Beyond the urban setting, the area provides easy access to the Hill of Three Crosses and Parque Bataclán, two expansive natural wild areas ideal for hiking and birdwatching.
Transportation-wise, North Cali is very well connected. Most MIO stations are located along Avenida 3 Norte, providing easy connections to the rest of the city. Other key roads include Avenida de las Américas, Avenida 6 Norte, and Avenida 8 Norte, all served by city buses. Importantly, North Cali is home to the Terminal de Transporte de Cali, the city’s main bus terminal. This major bus depot offers regional and long-distance routes that make traveling in and out of the city convenient.
Our hand-picked accommodations in North Cali
Hotel 9.5 San Fernando
Sonesta Hotel Cali is a modern hotel in the north of Cali. Its rooms have elegant lighting and décor. They are all equipped with LCD and cable TV, air conditioning, and a coffee maker. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel.
3. San Fernando & Parque del Perro
The best area to stay in Cali for nightlife and food
Safe and relatively central, San Fernando offers restaurants, nightlife, and access to public transportation, making it one of the best areas to stay in Cali.
San Fernando is a neighborhood in Cali known for its cultural landmarks and nightlife. Located south of the city center, it is home to the Iglesia de San Fernando Rey, a mid-20th-century church, and the Manzana del Saber, an educational and cultural complex.
YAWA Centro de Ciencia, Arte y Tecnología de Cali is also nearby. This massive cultural institution is home to the Centro Creativo Digital and the Cali Planetarium.
Parque del Perro, located within San Fernando, is a popular area for dining and nightlife. Its name, meaning “Dog Park,” comes from a statue of a dog named Teddy, a neighborhood legend. The park is surrounded by various restaurants, bars, and cafes. Notable establishments include Mr. Wings, known for its variety of chicken wings, and Blondie, a restaurant bar offering a diverse menu and live music. The area is busiest in the evenings, especially on weekends.
San Fernando is accessible via Cali’s MIO bus system. The closest stations, Estadio and Manzana del Saber are both about a 10-minute walk from Parque del Perro. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available. Walking is another option for those nearby, as the neighborhood is generally considered a safe area in Cali.
Our hand-picked accommodations in San Fernando, Cali
Hotel 9.5 San Fernando
Hotel 9.5 San Fernando has a garden, terrace, restaurant, and bar in Cali. This 4-star hotel offers a concierge service and a tour desk. It also has a 24-hour front desk, airport transportation, room service, and free Wi-Fi throughout.
4. Historic City Center & Downtown Cali
The best areas to stay in Cali for backpackers and budget-conscious travelers
Both a colonial settlement and a financial district, the City Center is one of the best areas to stay in Cali, Colombia.
Located on the south side of the Cali River, Centro includes both the city’s historic heart and Cali’s original financial district. Here, colonial-era buildings and contemporary skyscrapers often stand side by side, creating a striking visual contrast of the city’s evolution.
Cali’s Centro Histórico traces its origins to the colonial period when the city was founded in 1536 by Sebastián de Belalcázar. During Spanish rule, the town developed as a center of governance and commerce. Today, the area features cobblestone streets, traditional architecture, and cultural landmarks.
At its center, Plaza de Caicedo, one of the most beautiful squares in Colombia, is surrounded by landmarks such as the neoclassical Cali Cathedral and the early 20th-century Otero Building, which showcases French-inspired Republican-style architecture.
Other notable historic sites include the 16th-century La Merced Church, the Municipal Theater, the Calima Gold Museum, which displays pre-Columbian artifacts; the Plazoleta de San Francisco, known for its open square and colonial architecture; the Capilla de la Inmaculada, notable for its intricate Moorish-style design, and the Ermita Church, a neo-Gothic structure known for its white facade, stained glass windows, and role as one of Cali’s most iconic landmarks.
In addition to being the city’s historic core, the area’s development as a business district began in the early 20th century with the first commercial buildings and corporate headquarters, such as the 1930s Edificio Coltabaco. By the 1950s, Centro de Cali saw the rise of the city’s and the country’s first high-rises, including the rationalist Banco de la República and Colseguros buildings. Notable examples from later decades include the 427 ft (130 m) Corficolombiana Tower, completed in 1974, and the 1980 Banco Popular Building, which stands 377 ft (115 meters) tall.
In line with its status as Cali’s heart, transportation in Centro is well-developed, with MIO stations like Centro and Plaza Caicedo. Major roads, such as Calles 13 and 15 and Carreras 1 and 10, connect the area to surrounding neighborhoods, and the Terminal de Transporte de Cali, located just north of the center, offers regional and national bus routes.
Offering affordable hostels, guesthouses, and small hotels, Centro is among the best areas to stay in Cali for backpackers and budget-conscious travelers. While Central Cali is safe during the day, travelers, especially foreign tourists, should stay aware of their surroundings, avoid poorly lit areas, and use reputable transportation services at night.
Our hand-picked accommodations in Cali City Center
Gran Hotel Cali
Located within a 4-minute walk of La Ermita Church and 200 yards of Saint Peter Cathedral, Gran Hotel Cali has rooms with air conditioning and a private bathroom in Cali. This 3-star hotel offers room service, a 24-hour front desk, and free WiFi.
Hotel Boulevard del Río
Hotel Boulevard del Río has rooms in Cali, a short distance from attractions such as Cali’s City Theater, Caycedo’s Square, and The Poet’s Park. The property provides a 24-hour front desk, airport transportation, room service, and free WiFi.
Faranda Collection Cali
Faranda Collection Cali, a member of Radisson Individuals, offers concierge services, a restaurant, free WiFi, and a bar. This 5-star hotel offers room service and a 24-hour front desk, as well as a spa and wellness center with a fitness center, sauna, hot tub, and terrace.
5. South Cali
A quiet area for tourists visiting Cali
With its shopping centers, university atmosphere, and natural surroundings, South Cali is one of the best areas to stay for families and those seeking a quiet and luxurious environment.
South Cali is known for its upper-middle and upper-class neighborhoods, featuring gated condominiums, suburban single-family homes, and luxury mansions. The areas around the Club Campestre de Cali, particularly Pance and Ciudad Jardín, are especially popular among Cali’s wealthiest residents.
The district is also considered an educational powerhouse in Colombia, home to institutions like Universidad Santiago de Cali, University of Valle, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, ICESI University, Universidad de San Buenaventura, and Universidad Autónoma de Occidente.
Some of the most well-known barrios in South Cali, which extends to the border with Jamundí, include Limonar, Campestre, and Ciudad Jardín. The area’s main attractions are the Unicentro Cali Shopping Mall, known for its range of shops and dining options, and Palmas Mall, a smaller but upscale center with boutique stores.
Some of the many outdoor attractions nearby include Ingenio Park, popular for jogging and picnics, and Humedal La Babilla, a wetland and natural habitat for local wildlife. Additionally, the area provides access to larger nature preserves like the Ecoparque Río Pance, known for its riverside trails, and the Farallones de Cali, an extensive nature park featuring a mountain range with hiking routes and panoramic views.
Public transportation in Cali Sur is well-developed, with MIO Line 1 running along Calle 1 and Carrera 100. Key stations include Universidades and Unidad Deportiva. Additionally, Calle 15 is served by MIO line 6, with the Simón Bolívar Terminal as a central hub.
Additionally, MIO Cable (L7), also known as the Vía Turística, connects the Terminal Cañaveralejo (across from the Unidad Deportiva Station on Line 1) to Brisas de Mayo, improving transportation to hillside communities. Opened in 2015, the 2.2-kilometer route has four stations and takes about 10 minutes to climb the 361 ft (110 m) incline. The journey offers panoramic city and mountain views.
Our hand-picked accommodations in South Cali
Alko Hotel Integrado
Set in South Cali, Alko Hotel Integrado features air-conditioned rooms with flat-screen TVs and private bathrooms. Certain rooms feature a seating area. The hotel offers free Wi-Fi throughout.
6. Eastern Cali & Agua Blanca
The best locations in Cali for a more down-to-earth experience
With its popular barrios and traditional amenities, Eastern Cali provides a more local experience for travelers looking to explore a different side of the city.
The Agua Blanca District and Eastern Cali are densely populated areas known for their mix of popular residential neighborhoods, local markets, and cultural diversity. Initially developed in the mid-20th century, the area has grown into a vibrant community.
Attractions in the area include Parque Longitudinal 72W, a green space with walking paths and recreational facilities, and Centro Cultural de Cali Este, which hosts events, workshops, and performances showcasing local talent.
Furthermore, the award-winning, community-led project Bulevar de Oriente is an urban development initiative in eastern Cali that focuses on reclaiming public spaces while promoting environmental awareness. It offers recreational activities designed to connect the community with nature and foster a sense of local pride and environmental stewardship. A few miles from here,
Shopping options include Centro Comercial Río Cauca, featuring local shops and affordable goods, and Plaza de Mercado Alfonso López, where vendors sell fresh produce, traditional foods, and household items. Nature enthusiasts can visit Laguna de Charco Azul, which is known for its walking trails and birdwatching opportunities.
In addition, families traveling with children will enjoy places like Acuaparque de la Caña, which is perfect for escaping the often oppressive humid heat of the Caucan capital. It offers water slides, pools, and kid-friendly attractions.
Eastern Cali is well-connected through the city’s MIO system, with key stations like Andrés Sanín and Nuevo Latir providing convenient access to other districts. Major roads such as Carrera 8 and Calle 70 offer bus routes that connect residential neighborhoods to commercial areas.
Regarding safety in Cali’s Oriental Comunas: While the Eastern districts offer a less glitzy side to Cali than most other areas on this list, their lower-income profile also comes with extra safety warnings for tourists: travelers should take additional precautions during the day but especially after dark. It’s advisable to stay clear of isolated areas, use taxis, and avoid flashy jewelry or expensive tech out in public.
7. Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport
The best location for travelers on a stopover
The Alfonso Bonilla Aragón Airport surroundings are convenient areas to stay in Cali for travelers on long stayovers or early flights.
Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport (CLO), located about 12 miles (19 km) northeast of Cali, is the country’s fourth-busiest airport and serves as the main gateway to southwestern Colombia. It was opened in 1971.
Direct routes from CLO include flights to major cities across Colombia and international services to the United States, Spain, Panama, Ecuador, Venezuela, and Peru. Airlines such as Avianca, LATAM, Satena, Copa Airlines, American Airlines, and Iberia operate most flights.
The airport has a main passenger terminal divided into domestic and international areas. Its modern facilities include duty-free shops, restaurants, lounges, and car rental services.
Transportation between the airport and Cali is accessible via shuttle buses, taxis, and ride-hailing apps. The airport is connected to the city center by the Palmira-Cali highway. Several hotels are within a short drive for travelers seeking accommodations nearby, making its surroundings a recommended area to stay in Cali during long layovers or business trips.
Cali’s Airport’s surrounding area offers commercial services and amenities, including shopping centers such as Centro Comercial Llanogrande Plaza in Palmira. The airport’s proximity to major highways like the Palmira-Cali Highway (Route 25) ensures easy access to Cali and nearby cities.
Our hand-picked accommodations near Cali Airport
Hotel Royal Elim International
Located less than 1 mi from Cali Airport, Hotel Royal Elim International offers accommodations with an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, and a restaurant. The property also provides a 24-hour front desk, airport transportation, room service, and free Wi-Fi throughout.
Read this in other languages:
- |ES| Mejores zonas donde alojarse en Cali, Colombia.
- |PT| Melhores áreas para se hospedar em Cali, Colômbia.
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