A step back in time
Founded in the early 1500s, Santa Fe de Antioquia was once the capital of the region. Today it is a beautifully preserved colonial town where you can walk cobbled streets lined with whitewashed houses, visit old churches, and relax in shaded plazas. It sits at a lower, warmer altitude than Medellin, which gives the day a different, tropical feel.
What to see
- The colonial old town, white houses, churches, and a classic central plaza
- Puente de Occidente, a historic suspension bridge over the Cauca river
- Local sweets, the town is known for tamarind and fruit candies
- Quiet courtyards, step into hotels and museums to escape the heat
Prices and options
| Tour Type | Price | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Group Day Trip | From $50 | Transport, guide, town and bridge |
| Private Day Trip | From $108 | Private car and flexible timing |
Tips for the day
- Dress for heat, it is much warmer than Medellin down in the valley
- Start early, explore the town before the midday sun is at its strongest
- Bring cash, for the local candies and a cool drink in a shaded plaza
- See the bridge, the old suspension bridge is the photo highlight
Visit colonial Antioquia
Book a day trip to Santa Fe de Antioquia. Free cancellation on most tours.
Frequently asked questions
Santa Fe de Antioquia is about 55 kilometers northwest of Medellin, roughly a 1.5 to 2 hour drive through a long mountain tunnel and down into a warmer valley. It is an easy day trip leaving in the morning and returning in the evening.
The town is one of the best preserved colonial settlements in Colombia, with whitewashed houses, cobbled streets, old churches, and a central plaza. The famous Puente de Occidente, a historic suspension bridge over the river, is the other highlight just outside town.
Yes. Santa Fe sits at a lower altitude than Medellin so it is noticeably hotter, often into the low thirties Celsius. Bring sun protection, light clothing, and water, and plan to seek shade or a pool during the hottest part of the day.
