Medellín, the city of Eternal Spring, is rapidly emerging as a global hotspot, now rubbing shoulders with the likes of London, Paris, and New York. Thanks to the digital nomad visa and a packed social calendar, it’s become an alluring destination for travelers. With a vibrant array of activities—from hiking up Cerro de las Tres Cruces to picnicking in Parques del Río or dancing the night away in Poblado—choosing the right bar can be as thrilling as it is daunting.
In a city that’s constantly buzzing with events, how do you find a bar that matches your mood and fits your budget? Much like any major tourism-centric city, Medellín offers a mix of remarkable watering holes and a few you might want to skip. Whether you’re here for a weekend fling, searching for the next great love, or setting down roots, here’s a curated list of the best- and not so best – bars in Medellín.
Bogotá Beer Company (BBC) – Laureles
Beer lovers, rejoice! Bogotá Beer Company in Laureles is your laid-back sanctuary amidst Medellín’s hustle. With its no-nonsense menu across branches in Colombia, you simply pick your color—negra, rosada, roja—and let the beer aficionados do the rest. The staff, true connoisseurs, will guide you to your perfect pint, whether you’re in the mood for deep caramel notes or a refreshing fruity twist. The Avenida Jardín location is an ideal spot to catch up with friends or watch the latest football game with quiet indignation.
Address: Av. Jardín No.39b-90, Laureles – Estadio
Mosquito – Poblado
Poblado is Medellín’s glitzy playground, a neighborhood where the nightlife is as vibrant as the skyline. Amid the dizzying array of bars, Mosquito stands out as a rooftop retreat just off the main drag. This intimate, red-lit haven offers sweeping 360-degree views of the city, making it a perfect backdrop for a Friday night out with friends or even a solo adventure in search of new acquaintances. Prices are on the higher side by local standards, but reasonable given the upscale ambiance.
10th floor. Calle 10A No.40 – 19, El Poblado
Uva – Bello
For those willing to stray off the beaten path, Uva in the northern town of Bello offers a slice of authentic Medellín culture. This bar, a world away from the tourist traps of Laureles and Poblado, serves up deliciously affordable cocktails, live music, and a welcoming vibe that invites you to linger. Sip on a tequila sunrise, or if you’re steering clear of alcohol, choose from an extensive selection of teas, coffees, and milkshakes.
Calle 32 No.55-3, La Florida, Bello
La Octava Maravilla Mirador – Sabaneta
Perched high in the mountains of Sabaneta, La Octava Maravilla Mirador is a destination in its own right. The neon lights and pier that juts out over the mountain make it a fantastic choice for special occasion drinks. The food is reasonably priced, and the drinks menu is extensive. Be sure to visit at night for the best western views of the city, but make a reservation—this spot fills up fast on weekends.
Note: This location accepts only cash or Bancolombia transfers.
Cra 32B No.63B sur – 33, Sector, La Bahia, Las Lomitas, La Doctora, Sabaneta.
Notable Mention: El Abrazo in Poblado – perfect for Friday night English and Spanish karaoke.
And the Not So Best?
Los Patios
Once upon a time, Los Patios was the crown jewel of Medellín’s hostels, with the awards to prove it. But those glory days are gone. The Poblado-based hostel, once known for its dual-building setup, has scaled back, closing its better Manila location and expanding into less appealing locales. The rooftop bars now come with a cover charge for non-guests, steep prices, and an energy that feels more frat house than chic. It might still appeal to a certain crowd, but for many, it’s a pass.
Los Patios Cool Living, Calle 32F No.66b 38, Laureles – Estadio, Belén and Cra. 43E No.11 – 40, El Poblado.
Licoexpress Black
Parque Lleras in Poblado is a place of contradictions: a mix of inflated prices, petty crime, and the occasional gem. Licoexpress Black, unfortunately, doesn’t fall into the latter category. This bar, with its all-black decor, is notorious for quoting prices higher than those on the menu, insisting on bucket purchases for beer, and tacking on a hefty 30% tip—often without a receipt or your consent. Consider yourself warned.
Cra. 40 No.9A-10, El Poblado.
Panorama Rooftop Bar
Panorama Rooftop Bar tries hard to capture a boho-chic, beach town vibe, but falls short in both ambiance and service. The Poblado branch’s decor is tired and in need of a refresh, while the Laureles location offers a marginally better experience but still lacks the customer service that might make the high prices worthwhile. In a city known for its stunning views, you can do better without the risk of feeling shortchanged.
Cra. 73, Laureles – Estadio, Medellín and Clle 8 No.34-33, El Poblado.
Sport Wings – Food & Drink
Sport Wings could have been a contender—a prime spot to catch the game with its spacious layout and abundance of flat-screen TVs. But a lack of cleanliness and inconsistent service have dashed those hopes. Spilled drinks often linger on uncleared tables, and customers perceived as low-income are treated with cold indifference, if acknowledged at all. Orders are frequently mixed up or forgotten, making for an experience that leaves much to be desired.
Centro Comercial Viva Envigado.
Medellín’s bar scene is as diverse as the city itself, offering a taste of everything from laid-back beer havens to rooftop escapes with a view. Whether you’re here to sip, savor, or socialize, choose wisely—and perhaps give the less desirable spots a miss
