Manizales
Manizales
Manizales is a vibrant city tucked away in Colombia's Coffee Axis region. Located at the base of the Nevado del Ruiz volcano, it boasts impressive mountain views and comfortable spring-like weather year-round. The city's architecture has a strong Spanish influence, with many colorful colonial buildings lining its hilly streets.
Founded in 1849 by Antioquian settlers, Manizales rose to prominence as a major coffee producing hub. Today, the surrounding coffee plantations are still thriving and form an important part of the local economy. The city hosts the annual Feria de Manizales, a lively festival celebrating coffee culture with parades, traditional dancing, and of course, plenty of coffee tasting opportunities.
Besides coffee, Manizales offers visitors access to natural wonders like Los Nevados National Park, thermal hot springs, and incredible biodiversity. The Chipre lookout provides panoramic views of the city and surrounding valleys, while the striking Manizales Cathedral with its 106-meter tower stands as an impressive landmark downtown.
The locals, known as Manizaleños, are friendly and welcoming to visitors. University life brings a youthful energy to the city, with several higher education institutions creating a mix of tradition and modernity. Despite being less known internationally than Medellín or Bogotá, Manizales offers an authentic Colombian experience without the heavy tourism of other cities.
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Things to do in Manizales
Top things to do in Manizales by theculturetrip.com
Where to stay in Manizales
Best hotels in Manizales:
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Benidorm Hotel (budget hotel)
Benidorm Hotel in Manizales is a modern and comfortable hotel located right next to Autonoma University. The rooms are clean and well-equipped with amenities like flat-screen TVs, minibars, and free Wi-Fi. Some rooms even offer great views of the city.
Guests can enjoy a delicious American breakfast each morning, and the hotel's location is convenient—just over a mile from the city's convention center and Fundadores Shopping Mall. Free airport shuttles are also available, making travel easier for guests.
One of the standout features of Benidorm is its friendly and helpful staff, who are always ready to assist. The hotel also offers free parking and has an on-site restaurant. It’s a great option for anyone looking for a comfortable and affordable stay in Manizales.
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Termales El Otoño (luxury hotel)
Termales El Otoño is a beautiful retreat located in the mountains near Manizales, offering breathtaking views and lush gardens that make it feel like you're in the heart of the jungle. The highlight of the property is the 24/7 thermal pools, providing a relaxing experience in a natural setting.
The rooms are cozy, and some even feature private thermal pools right on the patio, adding a unique touch to your stay. The on-site restaurant offers a variety of local and international dishes, though it can be on the expensive side. However, the thermal pools are the true draw, with multiple locations on the property, some offering more privacy than others.
Whether you prefer unwinding in the warm waters, enjoying a massage at the spa, or simply taking in the stunning environment, Termales El Otoño is the perfect place for a peaceful escape. Just keep in mind it tends to get busy on weekends!
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Hotel Carretero (medium range hotel)
Hotel Carretero in Manizales is conveniently located in the city center, making it easy to walk to key attractions like Parque Fundadores and other local landmarks. Its central location offers easy access to the city's main sights and activities.
The rooms are modern and well-appointed, featuring parquet floors and large windows that let in plenty of natural light. Many rooms also offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and city, providing a great atmosphere for relaxation.
The food at Hotel Carretero is a standout, especially the breakfast buffet, which includes a variety of local specialties. There is also a restaurant serving regional dishes and a couple of bars for drinks. With additional dining options nearby, the hotel is a great base for enjoying the best of Manizales.
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Best hostels in Manizales:
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Golden Frog Manizales (boutique hostel)
Golden Frog Manizales is a great spot located right in the city center, making it easy to walk to the main attractions. With a cable car station nearby, you can easily explore the city and enjoy some amazing views.
The hostel has a relaxed atmosphere with plenty of comfy spaces to unwind. There’s a large common area with couches and a dining table, plus a rooftop terrace that’s perfect for relaxing in the evenings. The rooms are clean and comfortable, and free WiFi is available throughout.
One of the standout features of Golden Frog is the staff. They are friendly and always ready to help with local tour arrangements or offer tips on things to do in Manizales. The hostel also has a shared kitchen if you want to prepare your own meals. It’s a fantastic place to base yourself while exploring the city.
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Casa Mama Hotel (hostel)
Casa Mama Hotel in Manizales offers a cozy stay with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Its central location, just a short walk from the cable car station, makes it easy to explore the city and nearby attractions.
The rooms are simple but comfortable, each equipped with private bathrooms and cable TV. The real highlight of the hotel is the common areas, especially the terrace, where you can relax and enjoy panoramic views while meeting other travelers. The staff are friendly and always happy to share recommendations for things to do in the area.
Guests appreciate the included breakfast, which receives positive feedback. While it’s not a luxurious place, Casa Mama offers a welcoming and affordable base for those looking for a local experience. The location is convenient, though some guests mention street noise at night. It's a great choice for budget-conscious travelers.