Welcome to Medellin, the city of eternal spring and vibrant nightlife! Located in the heart of Colombia’s Andean region, Medellin is known for its beautiful weather, friendly locals, and of course, thriving party scene. Medellin nightlife is considered some of the best in Colombia, and for good reason. With tons of reggaeton clubs, salsa bars, electronic dance clubs, and unique local dive bars and most within walking distance, you’ll be guaranteed to have a good time here.
If you’re planning a trip to this exciting destination, you’ll want to make sure to experience all that the Medellin nightlife has to offer. In this guide, we’ll take you on a tour of the best places to party in Medellin, from trendy bars and clubs to hidden gems and local hangouts. Whether you’re looking to dance the night away or just sit back and enjoy a few drinks with friends, you’ll find plenty of options to choose from.
So let’s get started and explore the best of the Medellin nightlife!
Where to Party in Medellin
A city of 2 and a half million people, there are more than a few areas to party in Medellin. Because this is a guide to help you make the most of your time here, we’ll cover only the most popular spots where you’re sure to have a good time.
Starting off is of course El Poblado, hands down the most popular area to live and party in Medellin. Most fancy hotels, budget hostels, bars, restaurants and nightclubs in the city will be found here. Most of El Poblado is within walking distance, though read our safety tips if you’re planning on walking alone at night.
Within El Poblado you’ll find the two main party spots: Parque Lleras and La Provenza. Parque Lleras has by far the largest concentration of nightclubs and bars, all along one circular street. Often time you’ll find people drinking and partying within the park with their own drinks, or out front of shops.
La Provenza is more upscale, with fancier dining options and bars, not as many clubs here. The main road is now blocked off and it’s become a walking street.
The next most popular area to party in Medellin is Laureles. It’s a more upscale neighborhood located in the northwest of the city. It’s known for its quieter atmosphere and well-to-do locals. It has the most salsa clubs and latin-style nightclubs in the city especially along La 70 – a long stretch of bars and clubs.
Last but not least is Envigado, a smaller municipality located just south of Medellín. It’s known for its traditional Colombian bars and clubs, and it’s a great place to go if you want to experience a more authentic side of the city’s nightlife scene. You can find a variety of traditional bars and clubs, and it’s a good place to go if you want to experience some live music and dancing.
Medellin Nightlife and Safety Tips
Medellin is considered one of the safest cities in Colombia, however, there are many reports of rampant pickpocketing, and the occasional mugging on the streets – especially since the pandemic. So stay alert.
– Do not walk alone at night, no matter what. It’s best to get a taxi or walk with a group of friends. When walking back stick to well-lit areas, don’t walk in the dark.
– If a lady at a bar approaches you, be on guard. Many prostitutes have been known to spike drinks or drug an unsuspecting victim with scopolamine or ‘devil’s breath’, which is a drug that makes the victim unconscious or ‘blacked-out’ but still responsive. They will then use this to steal your stuff, or even take you to an ATM where you’ll withdraw money for them (unwittingly).
– Don’t carry a lot of cash, and carry one credit card. This is pretty much standard for any cities around the world when going out late.
– Do not drink on the streets. However, drinking in a park or in front of a tienda (convenience store) is typically fine. The worst thing that will happen if caught drinking on the streets is the police will tell you to throw it out.
How Expensive is it to Party in Medellin
Colombia is one of the cheapest countries in the world, with prices similar to Thailand or Egypt for reference. Local beers such as Poker, Pilsen or Aguila will run you around 3,500 – 10,000 COP (.75 cents to $2.15) at a bar depending on where you are. Craft beer (eg. Bogota Brewing Company) is going to be more pricey. Cocktails are typically quite more expensive, starting around 12,000 COP.
The cost of going out depends on where you are. If you’re going out in El Poblado, Provenza or Laureles at high end clubs and bars you will probably spend more. If you’re drinking at the local watering holes, say in Envigado, you’re going to be spending much less.
Here is a basic overview of what you can expect to pay to enjoy the Medellin nightlife scene:
Bottle of beer: 3,500-15,000 COP ($0.75 – $3.20 USD)
Craft beer: 15,000-30,000 COP ($3.20 – $6.40 USD)
Cocktail: 12,000-50,000 COP ($2.50 – $10.50 USD)
Best Bars in Medellin
La Octava Bar
One of the funnest bars in the city and a great spot to start a night out with friends, La Octava Bar in Parque Lleras in the heart of El Poblado is one of our favourite pre drinking spots. As you enter and head downstairs, you’ll see a pool full of plastic balls and a DJ playing in the background. Feel free to jump in and let loose!
ZIRUMA TIKI BAR
Ziruma Tiki Bar offers a tropical escape in the heart of Colombia. This lively bar captures the essence of island vibes with its exotic cocktails, beach-inspired decor, and friendly atmosphere. From refreshing mojitos to creative tiki concoctions, Ziruma Tiki Bar provides a unique and immersive experience, making it the perfect spot to unwind and savor the taste of paradise in Medellin. Cheers to a tropical oasis in the midst of urban excitement!
BERLIN BAR 1930
If you’re into dive bars with cheap drinks, and a nice old school atmosphere, head to Berlin Bar 1930 and play a game of pool with friends.
Shupa Shots
While there are many ‘shot bars’ in Medellin to choose from, this is one of our favourites. They have an outrageous selection of different flavoured shots, and even a ‘shot wheel’, spin the wheel and see what shot you need to drink. The shots are also cheap!
La Charcu 70
Located on the popular La 70 street in Laureles, La Charcu is the perfect spot for those looking to relax with friends, enjoy a drink, and people-watch. The bar offers an excellent selection of craft beers from around the world and their cocktails are also noteworthy. Experience the true Medellin nightlife by visiting this spot now.
Panorama Rooftop
Panorama Rooftop Bar in Laureles is an upscale nightspot in Medellin that offers exceptional views, making it a great option for groups. The atmosphere is lively and attracts some of the city’s top nightlife crowds. It is a popular spot for those looking to be seen, particularly among the Medellin nightlife elite. The bar is open from Thursday to Saturday.
Alambique
For those looking for something more high-end for a good Medellin nightlife, head to Alambique. Be prepared to search around a little before finding this beautiful spot!
The cocktails are amazing – don’t forget you can grab some food (which is amazing) too if hunger strikes while sipping on your favourite cocktails.
Bar El Blue
If you love live rock music then you’ll love Bar El Blue in El Poblado, one of the few live rock bars in the city. The drinks are reasonable and the atmosphere is great, full of locals and tourists rocking out all night long!
Best Nightclubs in Medellin
Salon Amador
Salon Amador, located right downtown El Poblado is perhaps the best nightclub in Medellin, especially if you’re into electronic music, from progressive house to even trance some nights. The place can get very crowded on the weekends, but it’s spread out over two floors so there is plenty of room. The sound system is one of the best in the city!
Vintrash
If you’re looking to dance the night away on a sweaty dancefloor, grinding with strangers and friends to a variety of Reggaeton music and electronic music spread across several floors, then you’ll love Vintrash located in La Provenza. Tee place is typically open untila 3am everynight. Cover is typically around 20,000 pesos.
Son Havana Laurelas
It’s impossible to talk about the best Medellin nightlife without mentioning at least one salsa nightclub. The area of Laureles has the highest concentration of salsa bars and latin music clubs in the city. The place is a little small, but somehow everyone finds room to dance salsa and have a good time late into the night.
Sonorama
If you’re looking for some techno and house music then head to the lively Sonorama in Parque Lleras. Head up to the second floor for a good view of the DJ and party below.
Cover is about 80,000 COP and drinks can get pricey (around 60,000 for a vodka redbull), but for the amazing party atmosphere and top-tier music it’s worth it.
Medellin Pub Crawl
There are several options for Medellín Pub Crawls, and we highly recommend this site for a curated selection of the best experiences the city has to offer after dark. From the chic rooftop bars in El Poblado to the authentic, local vibes in Laureles, these guided adventures come complete with welcome drinks, local culinary treats, and invaluable insights from knowledgeable bilingual guides.
Whether you’re grooving to the latest reggaeton hits, enjoying artisan cocktails with panoramic city views, or tasting traditional Colombian drinks like aguardiente, each pub crawl is tailored to showcase the rich diversity of Medellín’s nightlife. With customizable options and special themed nights like Techno Thursdays or Wet Sunset Sundays, there’s a Medellín pub crawl that’s perfect for every traveler looking to explore the city’s dynamic evening scene.
Medellin Nightlife Summary
The Medellin nightlife scene offers something for everyone, whether you’re into salsa clubs, techno clubs or just a chill rooftop bar, you’ll find it here. Safety can be an issue in some areas (watch out for overly-friendly women) it’s mostly safe, however do not walk home late at night. No matter what your preferences, Medellin has something for everyone when it comes to nightlife.
