Expat Guide To Medellin Nightlife: Best Clubs, Party Areas, Bars, and Dancing

With a thriving Latin music and salsa dancing scene, as well as venues for electronic music, Medellin offers a variety of options for those seeking a night on the town. Whether you’re into brewpubs, techno clubs, or just a chill rooftop bar, you’ll find something to suit your tastes.

Medellin nightlife is clustered in 5 main zones, with the main tourist entertainment center in El Poblado’s Zona Rosa by Parque Lleras. Locals and expats here start the night late and stop at 4 AM. 

To help you plan your night out, the guide breakdown the main nightlife areas in the city and gives you an overview of my recommended bars, pubs, and clubs in Medellin.

El Poblado, also known as Zona Rosa, consider the tourist heart of Medellin nightlife. As the area of El Poblado housing Lleras Park (Parque Lleras), the site is dubbed Gringolandia for the influx of tourists and foreigners renting apartments here. 

Most locals consider the area a tourist trap and stay away due to higher drink prices, safety concerns, and an alarming number of prostitutes. But Zona Rosa has its moments- after experiencing it once, you either love the vibe or want to shower and never return. 

Regardless of individual opinions, for foreigners experiencing Medellin’s nightlife for the first time, El Poblado’s entertainment hub rarely disappoints those looking for a memorable party night out.

Located in the vicinity of Parque Lleras, Provenza presents a distinct and sophisticated nightlife atmosphere compared to its vibrant neighbor. While Parque Lleras attracts a lively crowd, including hostel backpackers and bachelor parties, Provenza offers a more relaxed and upscale ambiance.

In Provenza, you’ll discover numerous bars, nightclubs, and restaurants that provide a fun-filled nightlife without the prominent presence found in Parque Lleras.

Acknowledged as one of the “World’s Coolest Streets,” Provenza is renowned for its elegant wine bars, DJ lounges, and trendy cocktails. Though the prices may be higher due to the upscale setting, Provenza guarantees a fashionable and enjoyable nightlife experience in Medellin’s el Poblado area.

While Laureles grows in popularity as a residential area for long-term expats fleeing the tourist crowds in Poblado, La Setenta (La 70) remains an authentic Colombian night entertainment hotspot. La 70 attracts locals and expats alike because of its lively bar scene. 

Stroll down La Sententa and hear the Latin rhythms bumping from renowned salsa bars like Son Havana and El Tibiri, two of the most well-known salsa places in Medellin, or head for the laid-back and cozy ambiance of La Charcu for some wonderful cheese and meat plates and tapas. 

Cheaper drinks and fewer tourists make La 70 a great place to go bar hopping or hang out with Paisas over a chilled beer and a football game.

Locally known as La 33, in Laureles. This vibrant avenue teems with exciting clubs and chill bars that cater to locals and offer more authenticity than touristy nightlife areas. Soak in the weekend atmosphere as you stroll down Calle 33. 

Enjoy affordable cocktail lists and fewer crowds than its counterpart, El Poblado. Embrace the local culture, mingle, and make unforgettable memories at La 33!

Topping the list of the best bars in 33 Street Laureles are Addict Shots 33, Ping Pong Drinks, and one of my favorite alternative bars, La Rockola Videobar.

INSIDER TIP: Leave your car at the apartment. Not only is Uber cheaper and safer, but Colombia has the strictest DUI laws in Latin America. There is a Zero Tolerance policy, and just a .02% BAC is considered under the influence. There is no reason to drive your car in Colombia under the influence.

Las Palmas, located near the metro station “Expositiones” in Medellin, offers a variety of nightlife, from lively atmospheres and live music to stunning rooftop views. 

Whether you’re looking to dance the night away, enjoy a relaxing drink under the stars, or have a unique and playful experience, these bars have something for everyone. Las Palmas shows that there is more to Medellin’s nightlife than just El Poblado and Laureles.

Las Palmas in Medellin is a remote and exclusive neighborhood known for its lively nightlife scene. It attracts partygoers with its trendy atmosphere, diverse music scene, and creative cocktail bars. With luxurious nightclubs, breathtaking views of the city, and cooler temperatures, 

Las Palmas offers a unique and appealing experience for nightlife enthusiasts.

Seeking an iconic nightlife scene in Medellin? Las Palmas is your go-to district! This luxurious hilltop neighborhood, known for its fantastic night city views, boasts some of Medellin’s finest nightclubs and bars.

INSIDER TIP: Brush up on your Spanish skills- The more local and authentically “Colombian” you get, the fewer people around you will speak English. Less than 4% of Colombians speak English, and that number drops further outside of El Poblado. 

To blend in or make friends with the local crowd, brush up on your Spanish lessons. You’ll need at least survival-level Spanish; otherwise, even routine things like ordering drinks or reading a menu will be a struggle

Welcome to the vibrant and captivating world of Medellin’s bar scene!

1. Kick off the evening at Berlin Bar, serving delicious beers till 2 AM.
2. Elevate your experience, literally, at the Envy Rooftop, which boasts an astonishing view.
3. Missing non-Latin music? La Octava Bar breaks the monotony till 4 AM on weekends.
4. Tikuna Bar delights with inviting staff, deep house music, and frequent DJ sessions.
5. Pet-friendly El Social impresses with its open-air ambiance.
6. For the posh-night seekers, Alambique and Envy Rooftop at the Charlee Hotel are must-visits.
7. 20 Mission Cerveza and Bogota Brewing pour delicious brews.

Nestled in the heart of El Poblado, the Blue Bar (Bar El Blue) is a haven for rock genre enthusiasts. This bar stands out from the rest with its energetic ambiance and regular live rock performances. 

Seat yourself near the stage for live bands on Fridays for a loud and unfiltered experience.

The reasonably priced drinks and signature cocktails (especially considering the proximity to Parque Lleras) add to the appeal of this establishment. 90s rock is a Blue Bar staple, making it a favorite among the older crowd looking to rock out all night long.

Located on La 70 Street, La Charcu is a laid-back and relaxed bar for a casual night out in Laureles. This spot provides the perfect setting to unwind with friends, enjoy a drink, and people-watch. 

La Charcu stands out for its excellent selection of craft beers from around the world, making it a haven for beer enthusiasts. In addition to its impressive beer menu, La Charcu serves tapas and delicious sandwiches to share with your friends.

Looking for a break from the snooty high-end bars of La Provenza? This classic neighborhood dive bar pulls in a mixed crowd with its irresistible old-school charm, affordable drinks, and live music.

Step into an inviting ambiance where the blend of cold beers, a game of pool, and upbeat tunes keep the vibe cozy and engaging. This pillar of nightlife in El Poblado is appreciated for its wallet-friendly prices and fantastic service. It’s not just a bar; it’s an experience! 

Don’t miss out – Berlin Bar stays open till 2 AM, so plan your evening well. Remember, this place is not just about booze – it’s about mingling in a relaxed atmosphere with both locals and tourists.

Nestled in the heart of Provenza, Alta Gracia is a laid-back bohemian café by day that transforms into a cozy little bar at night. With its leather seating, red and blue neon signs, and an inviting party mood, Alta Gracia is the perfect venue for night owls seeking great blues, jazz, and smooth house beats.

Their specialty cocktails steal the show with fruity concoctions like the lychee sangria made with red wine, lychees, and strawberries. Other delectable options include the citrus vodka with apple and kiwi and the Calychee featuring vodka, lychee, pineapple, and vanilla.

A favorite place in Provenza to kickstart the night, El Social is a small bar with a relaxed and inviting vibe. It’s the perfect venue to enjoy a meal and a few beers while engaging in lively conversations with friends. This bar offers excellent people-watching opportunities as the night unfolds.

With its prime location in the bustling nightlife district, El Social Tienda Mixta desde 1969 is a great place to meet both tourists and Colombians alike. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and enjoy the entertainment that this bar has to offer.

For beer enthusiasts, Fugitivo Laureles is a must-visit. This remarkable venue allows you to serve yourself draft beers by the glass, giving you complete control over the quantities. 

With a card system in place, you can choose the beers you want to try and enjoy at your own pace. The laid-back ambiance and friendly staff make it a great place to relax and enjoy a few drinks.

In Medellin’s nightlife scene, the prices of drinks vary depending on your preference. For example, beers from popular average clubs like Club Colombia or Aguila would cost you around 4000 COP.

If you prefer artisanal beer, a 330 ml bottle of 20 Mission IPA at their microbrewery would be priced at 10500 COP, which is approximately 2.50 USD.

Cocktails, especially those made with imported liquors, tend to be more expensive. You can expect to pay around 30,000 COP for a cocktail at most bars or clubs.

Ping Pong Drinks bar on La 33 in Laureles combines entertainment and delicious libations. This unique establishment offers patrons the opportunity to play table tennis and billiards while enjoying their favorite drinks. 

With three ping pong tables and a billiard table, Ping Pong Drinks is the perfect venue for those who want a little friendly competition. Their affordable hourly rate of 10k includes rackets and a ball, ensuring an enjoyable experience for all. 

Remember to try their signature cocktails, such as the Ping Pong Martini or the Billiards Brew, which perfectly complement the lively atmosphere.

A nostalgic haven on La 33, La Rockola Videobar takes you back in time with its music videos from the 70s, 80s, and 90s. This bar provides the ultimate throwback experience, allowing you to sing along and dance to the iconic tunes of yesteryears. 

The ambiance is delightful, with a cozy and pleasant vibe that encourages patrons to let loose and enjoy the music. While it may lack a parking lot, the convenient location makes it easily accessible by public transport. 

Sip on reasonably priced drinks as you indulge in the unforgettable jukebox video bar experience.

La Octava Bar is the perfect venue to kickstart your night with friends near Lleras Park. As you descend into the bar, you’ll be greeted by an old-school ball pit and a DJ spinning tunes in the background. 

Feel free to let loose and jump into the ball pit, adding an element of fun and playfulness to your night. La Octava Bar’s playful atmosphere serves as an ideal pre-drinking spot before hitting the clubs. It’s a place where you can unwind, socialize, and get in the party mood.

This quirky bar stands out with its Mexican-inspired decor and lively atmosphere. The vibrant crowd and live mariachi band create an incredible ambiance. 

While there may be a cover charge, the evening entertainment, including dancing and drinking, sets the right mood for a memorable night. Make sure to arrive after 10:30 PM to fully experience the fun. 

Remember to try their delicious cuisines and drinks, including their homemade rum punches.

Step into the exuberant world of Andrés Carne de Res, the haut monde of Medellin’s electrifying night scene. Located in the heart of El Poblado, this pulsating club isn’t just a place; it’s an experience.

With its flamboyant decor radiating Colombian flair, it magnetizes an enthusiastic crowd eager for infectious tunes and scintillating performances. But what sets it apart is its melding of a vivacious club with mouthwatering gastronomy, offering a memorable evening right at the crossroads of pleasure.

Las Palmas offers a unique and appealing experience for nightlife enthusiasts.

INSIDER TIP: Arrive early to grab a coveted table, prep your taste buds for tantalizing Colombian flavors, and don’t forget your dancing shoes – you’re in for a rambunctious fiesta!

If you’ve got a penchant for starlit skies, towering city views, and tantalizing cocktails, Medellin’s rooftop bars are just the ticket for you! Let’s swing around to some of the city’s elite hotspots, where the nightlife is in full bloom.

Envy Rooftop bar is a luxurious gem nestled in the heart of Parque Lleras. Unique for having the best panoramic views of Medellin, luscious cocktails, and an enticing sushi menu, it’s a paradise at the upper level of the famous Charlee Hotel.

Expect an upscale crowd buzzing to the rhythm of live DJs, relishing the delightful atmosphere. Its unique features, such as the rooftop pool – though rarely used at night, add to its exclusivity.

Dive in for that glorious sunset paired with a cocktail or dance the night away, but remember to bring your wallet, as this premium experience comes with a price tag. Trade your flip-flops for dancing shoes for salsa nights on Wednesday.

Welcome to Panorama Rooftop Bar, the ultimate oasis for those seeking Latin American fusion dishes and crafted drinks. With two locations in Medellín, it’s a lush and green escape from the concrete jungle. 

While the views may not be the city’s best, Panorama uniquely offers a rooftop pool, innovative cocktails, delectable dining, and thumping music from Thursday to Saturday.

The Panorama opens for sunset, so come early to avoid crowds and take full advantage of Golden Hour hitting Medellin’s skyline. Come prepared- Prices reflect the upscale atmosphere and the cost of mingling with Medellin’s high-end crowd.

20Mission is a lively and vibrant place to enjoy a beer. The interior is spacious and stylish, and there’s a large outdoor patio that’s perfect for people-watching. There’s also often live music playing, which adds to the atmosphere. 

And they use only the highest quality ingredients to brew their beers, and it shows. Their beers are flavorful, well-balanced, and consistently good. They offer a wide variety of styles to choose from, so there’s something for everyone. Also, they don’t just serve beer. They also have a menu of delicious food that pairs perfectly with their brews.

While the name says Bogota, this classic English brew pub-inspired bar is still one of Medellin’s most famous breweries.

BBC Pub pours a wide selection of 100% natural Colombian craft beer and seasonal brews. The indoor and outdoor spaces provide ample seating options, and guests can even enjoy a game of pool. 

While the crowd tends to lean more towards foreigners than locals, the relaxed atmosphere, good music, and extensive drink options make BBC a fantastic choice for a night out.

Medellín boasts numerous venues where salsa enthusiasts can dance the night away to high-energy tropical beats. Three popular spots stand out for their authentic environments and vibrant salsa scenes: Buena Vista, Son Havana, and El Tibiri.

Buena Vista lives up to its name with a massive dance floor perfect for showcasing traditional and modern salsa styles.

The iconic Son Havana offers intimate venues in Laureles and El Poblado for dancing alongside talented live musicians.

For a truly nostalgic experience, El Tibiri’s basement location reverberates with classic “Old Guard” salsa sounds that transport dancers back in time.

To know more about ideal places in for salsa, try to see and read our Best Salsa Bars in Medellin.

Salón Amador reigns as the flagship club for electronic music in Medellin. Prepare for an electrifying night filled with heart-pounding techno, trance, and house beats mixed by renowned international DJs.

Plants and chandeliers hang from the ceiling, portraits adorn the wall space between arched windows, and an omnipresent disco ball illuminates the city’s hardcore ravers shuffling across the checked dance floor. 

EDM lovers will appreciate the two-level dance floor, bass-heavy sound system, and immersive light show that sets the stage for an exhilarating night out on the town.

While the venue may be a bit more pricey and packed, the experience of dancing alongside a good-looking crowd in one of Medellin’s hottest underground dance floors is worth it.

Las Palmas offers a unique and appealing experience for nightlife enthusiasts.

INSIDER TIP: Bouncers and the velvet rope- Doormen here will judge you and try to keep a balanced gender ratio. Single men are scrutinized, so they come in a mixed group. Even women will get judged for dress code. 

Look the part and avoid any outfits that screen urban ghetto. For most parties, the first 100 people don’t pay an entry fee or cover change. Doors open at 10 PM.

A quintessential Medellin reggaeton club, Black Dog Club is a trendy nightclub in Provenza that packs a good-looking crowd ready to grind the night away. The DJs keep the energy high with a popular mix of reggaeton hits, while the doorkeepers ensure a local vibe by keeping big groups of guys at bay.

Single guys, you’ll need to strategize your entry. Note there are plenty of working girls looking for sponsors to get them in. With its shoulder-to-shoulder crowd, beach-themed decor, and infectious energy, Black Dog Club is the place to be for a memorable night of dance and fun.

Even celebrities like Bad Bunny have been know to party at Perro Negro.

It gets crowded post 11 PM, so arrive early and enjoy the freedom to shake to your heart’s content.

Step into the vibrant and wild world of Dulce Jesús Mío, Medellin’s ultimate party destination. Nestled in the lively El Poblado neighborhood, this iconic nightclub oozes eccentricity and pure entertainment. 

Brace yourself for a sensory overload of vivid colors and quirky decor that sets the stage for a wild night of pulsating dance music.

Designed to be strikingly kitschy, the club plays host to an array of performances that gradually segue into a full-blown clubbing experience as the night ebbs. Let loose on the dance floor as the irresistible rhythms of salsa and Latin tunes ignite the atmosphere. 

Immerse yourself in the tropical beach Caribbean-themed ambiance and sip on exquisite cocktails while embracing the city’s zest for life at Dulce Jesús Mío.

Tired of salsa and reggaeton? Pack your dancing shoes and head to Calle 9+1. This backpacker hangout thumps electronic music to the tourist masses near Parque Lleras.

Calle 9+1 gets your heart pounding with its eclectic mix of alternative and funky beats. It’s the perfect place to showcase your unpolished dance moves. Here, it’s not about the steps but about letting your spirit loose on the dance floor.

LGBTQ friendly and no dress code- this eclectic hangout welcomes you regardless of pronouns or your flip-flops and tank tops!

INSIDER TIP: Ladies’ Evening- Take advantage of ladies’ night: Every Thursday in Medellin is ladies’ night, which means many nightlife destinations offer free admission for women and sometimes even free drinks. 

This not only saves you money but also attracts a more balanced crowd, making for a better overall experience.

The nightlife in Medellin typically starts by Thursday and carries on through the weekend, with action every day if you know where to go.

• Sunday – Envy Rooftop Bar- Last Sunday All You Can Eat Brunch
• Monday – 20 Mission Brewery- Beers for No Reason
• Tuesday – Panorama Rooftop Bar- Sunset Drinks
• Wednesday – Son Havana – Free Salsa Classes and 2 x 1 Cocktails
• Thursday –Dancefree- Free Salsa Classes
• Friday – Dulce Jesus Mio – Latin Music
• Saturday – Salon Amador – EDM

INSIDER TIP: Payday Parties- Colombian love to let loose on paydays. Crowds and energy spice up when they cash their paychecks on the 1st and the 15th of every month, regardless of the day of the week. 

If payday falls on a Friday or Saturday, prepare your dancing shoes because Paisas will be out to party.

When comparing the nightlife, Bogota and Medellin offer unique experiences that cater to different tastes. While Bogota’s Zona T takes the nightlife crown, Medellin’s Parque Lleras ranks second. But the vibe between the two cities is drastically different.

Bogota is the capital and financial hub of Colombia. With a population of 8 million people, it is almost four times the size of Medellin. The crowds in Bogota are more sophisticated and have a more cosmopolitan attitude. 

Upscale or elite clubs here enforce a dress code, and wearing a t-shirt will prevent you from getting in or standing out with Bogotanos wondering, “Who brought the Gringo?”

Medellin is much more of a tourist destination. The crowds are more relaxed and, especially outside of El Poblado, more open and friendly. 

While many clubs have dress codes, it’s less about being pretentious and more about not allowing sportswear. It’s more acceptable to wear a nice T-shirt in Medellin and not require a button-up shirt to fit in.

Bogota’s nightlife is authentic and mainly for locals, but tourists are welcome too. They can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere alongside a diverse mix of international visitors at popular venues throughout the city.

On the other hand, Medellin nightlife has this gringo bachelor’s night out vibe; this is because it caters to backpackers and tourists, which contributes to a lively and international ambiance. This vibe is particularly evident around Parque Lleras, attracting a younger and more free-spirited crowd.

Bogota’s nightlife, oh boy, it’s pulsatingly intense! Its infamous Zona T, fueling wild adventures, will leave even the bravest tipsy and battered. But at nearly four times the size of 

Medellin, you’ll find more bustling venues serving various tastes, from grungy rock to pulsing techno clubs. Its music? A kaleidoscopic medley of Latin beats – reggaeton, bachata, cumbia, salsa, vallento, and merengue.

Oddly, even with the financial capital, going out at night in Bogota is cheaper than in Medellin. Since Medellin has more expats and tourists, prices, especially in bars and clubs catering to foreigners, are about 25% higher. 

At an average neighborhood bar, a bottle of Club Colombia beer would cost you 4000 COP ($1) in Bogota vs. 5000 COP ($1.25) in Medellin.

An easy way to generalize this comparison is to say that Medellin nightlife is more touristy and casual but has a more hooky-and-druggy element than Bogota. 

Using the same comparison, Cartagena has the most tourists, the most relaxed atmosphere, and the most prostitutes and open drug deals of the three major Colombian cities.

The atmosphere in Cartagena is much different than in Medellin (or Bogota, for that matter). This is not a cosmopolitan big city; Cartagena is and feels like a Caribbean island tourist hub.

During peak season, tourists from 30 cruise ship lines flood Cartagena’s UNESCO old town for fun, sun, and a night on the town. The cruise ship industry generates 40-60 million dollars for Cartagen’s tourism annually. 

Cartagena’s historic charm and warm sea breeze create the perfect backdrop for a tropical party. While it’s easy to picture yourself sipping cocktails in hip bars tucked into 17th-century mansions, dancing to sultry salsa beats in vibrant clubs, or enjoying beachfront venues with sand between your toes.

Nightlife in Cartagena is centered around the historic walled city, particularly in the vibrant Getsemani neighborhood. Here, you’ll find a mix of late-night restaurants, open-air bars, and trendy clubs with a casual island atmosphere. 

The music in Cartagena’s clubs leans more towards Caribbean and tropical beats, including salsa, reggaeton, and champeta. Dress codes are rarely enforced. Shorts and t-shirts are standard, as even at night, Cartagena is hot, sticky, and sweaty.

The city’s seductive blend of historic allure and party beach vibes also attracts the seedy side of tourism. At night, all the parks and pedestrian streets in the tourist areas are flooded with dressed-up working girls cooing at drunken foreigners. Dealers collect money and palm drugs to willing tourists openly.

Think of all the crappy parts of Medellin’s Lleras Park, multiply it by 3, and ploop it on the Carribean coast. Plus, the prices for everything are about 30% higher in Cartagena. That bottle of Club Colombia beer you paid 4000 pesos for in Medellin is 7000 COP in Cartagena.

While Bogota has a reputation as Latin America’s mecca for gay nightlife, Medellin is no slouch. Medellin still offers a plethora of gay hangouts, primarily located in the Poblado neighborhood.

Medellin boasts several LGBT clubs that offer unforgettable experiences. Donde Aquellos Bar, Bar Chiquita, and Cantina de Javi are popular Medellin gay-friendly bars, while Industry Club and Viva Auditorium are a couple of the most popular LGBT clubs in the city. 

These venues feature different types of music, ensuring that the party continues until dawn. With luxury shows featuring impeccable imitations of iconic LGBT artists, internationally renowned DJs, drag shows, and top-notch service, these clubs guarantee nights filled with aesthetics and fun.

Located in the city core one block from Plaza de Bolivar, La Calle Barbacoas is a street dedicated exclusively to the LGBT community. Since the 1980s, this street has been the heart of the LGBT movement in Medellin. 

With a diverse range of rhythms, such as salsa, cumbia, guaracha, electronics, and tango, visitors cannot resist the joy that fills the dance floor. The street is divided into two sections of bars, one catering to gays and lesbians and the other to trans women, ensuring a welcoming and inclusive environment for all.

Enjoying Medellin’s fun and affordable nightlife is one of the main reasons expats are flocking to live in Colombia. Whether you’re looking to dance the night away at a lively club, enjoy drinks at a rooftop bar, or indulge in a delicious meal at a restaurant, Medellin has it all.