Ultimate 3-Day Cali Itinerary: Best Things to Do & See
Cali, Colombia’s salsa capital, pulses with vibrant street life, colonial charm, and a contagious energy that invites you to dance, dine, and discover at every corner.
Day 1: Historic Cali & Local Flavors
Morning
Begin your Cali adventure in the heart of the city at Iglesia La Ermita, a neo-Gothic church famed for its intricate facade and stained glass windows. This city landmark is a peaceful spot to admire Cali’s history and architecture.
Iglesia La Ermita
Stroll to the nearby Bulevar del Río, a lively pedestrian boulevard along the Cali River lined with cafés, street performers, and sculptures—perfect for people-watching and a morning coffee.
Bulevar del Río
Afternoon
Enjoy a traditional Pacific lunch at Restaurante Platillos Voladores, a pioneer in Cali’s fusion cuisine, renowned for its creative flavors and beautiful garden setting.
Restaurante Platillos Voladores
Walk off your meal at Museo del Oro Calima, a small but fascinating museum showcasing pre-Columbian gold artifacts and the history of the region’s indigenous cultures.
Museo del Oro Calima
Evening
Head to the bohemian neighborhood and grab a drink at La Colina de San Antonio, where you’ll find panoramic sunset views over Cali, local food vendors, and street performers in the park around the charming San Antonio Church.
La Colina de San Antonio
Day 2: Art, Salsa, and Local Markets
Morning
Start your day at Parque de los Gatos, a whimsical park along the river featuring the iconic El Gato del Río sculpture and dozens of feline-inspired artworks by local artists.
Parque de los Gatos
Pop into La Topa Tolondra for a coffee and to check out this legendary salsa bar by day before it comes alive at night—get a sense of Cali’s deep dance culture in a laid-back atmosphere.
La Topa Tolondra
Afternoon
Wander through Galería Alameda, Cali’s vibrant market, to sample exotic fruits, drink fresh juice, and experience the city’s daily life—don’t miss the stalls serving local empanadas and champús.
Galería Alameda
Visit Museo La Tertulia, Cali’s premier modern art museum, to see cutting-edge Colombian and Latin American art, and enjoy the sculpture garden along the river.
Museo La Tertulia
Evening
Take a salsa class or simply soak up the electrifying energy at TinTinDeo, a legendary salsa club where locals and travelers mingle on the dance floor to the irresistible rhythms of Cali’s favorite music.
TinTinDeo
Day 3: Nature, Views, and Hidden Eats
Morning
Escape to nature at Parque Nacional Natural Farallones, the lush mountain park on Cali’s edge, for a guided hike, birdwatching, and stunning Andean vistas (book a half-day tour or arrange private transport for an early start).
Parque Nacional Natural Farallones
Afternoon
After your hike, lunch on local delicacies at El Rincón de Heberth, a hidden gem specializing in hearty Valle del Cauca cuisine and famous for its mouthwatering sancocho de gallina (traditional chicken stew).
El Rincón de Heberth
Stop by Sebastián de Belalcázar Monument, one of Cali’s best viewpoints, for sweeping city panoramas and a glimpse of the iconic conquistador statue overlooking the city.
Sebastián de Belalcázar Monument
Evening
Dine at Ringlete, a chic eatery in San Antonio serving beautifully-presented, innovative takes on classic Colombian dishes in a cozy, art-filled space.
Ringlete
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