Things To Do
in Amalfi

Amalfi, Colombia is a small mountain town in Antioquia known for its scenic hills and coffee culture. Colorful houses line narrow lanes, creating a charming backdrop for strolls and conversations with friendly locals. The town serves as a gateway to lush cloud forests, waterfalls, and panoramic viewpoints.

Visitors come for fresh air, authentic rural life, and the warmth of its community.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Colombian arepas and fresh coffee. After breakfast, take a guided walking tour through the cobblestone streets of Amalfi, where you'll admire the colonial architecture and vibrant street art. Don't miss the chance to visit the beautiful Plaza de la Independencia, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and history.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, enjoy a hearty lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling authentic Antioquian dishes like bandeja paisa. Afterward, visit the local museum to learn more about the town's rich heritage and the coffee-growing process that defines the region. Stroll through artisanal shops, picking up handmade crafts and locally produced coffee as souvenirs.

evening
:

As evening falls, relax at a rooftop bar with panoramic views of the town while enjoying a refreshing cocktail. Enjoy a leisurely dinner at a local restaurant, where you can indulge in grilled fish or a traditional Colombian sancocho. Cap off the night with a stroll through the illuminated streets, soaking in the lively atmosphere.

day 2
Coffee Farm Tour and Tasting
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at your accommodation before embarking on a scenic drive to a nearby coffee farm. Upon arrival, take a guided tour of the coffee plantation, where you'll learn about the cultivation and harvesting processes of one of Colombia's most famous exports. Participate in a hands-on coffee picking experience, allowing you to appreciate the hard work that goes into producing the perfect cup.

afternoon
:

After the tour, enjoy a delicious lunch at the coffee farm's restaurant, featuring dishes that pair well with their freshly brewed coffee. Post-lunch, engage in a coffee tasting session, where you can savor different blends and learn to identify unique flavors. The knowledgeable barista will guide you through the tasting process, enhancing your appreciation for Colombian coffee.

evening
:

Return to Amalfi in the evening and unwind with a casual dinner at a local eatery known for its fresh ingredients. Savor the flavors of local cuisine while mingling with friendly locals. If you’re up for it, explore nearby parks under the stars, enjoying the cool evening air.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$5-10
🥗Local lunch or plato del dia$6-12
🏨Hostels/guesthouses per night$15-40
🚗Taxi starting fare$2-5
Coffee and snack$2-6

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Tranquil mountain setting with authentic Colombian culture
  • Good value for money and friendly locals
  • Rich coffee heritage and scenic hikes
  • Compact town center that is walkable in the day
  • Limited international dining options and nightlife
  • Hilly terrain and uneven sidewalks can be tiring
  • Smaller medical facilities; major care accessed in larger cities
  • "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hello, how are you?
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Me puede recomendar un lugar para comer" - Can you recommend a place to eat?
  • "Gracias" - Thank you

Places to Visit in Amalfi

Visit one of these nice places.

Mirador del Valle

Panoramic valley views with coffee farms dotting the hills; golden hour is ideal for photography.

Calle Principal Colorida

A hillside street with vibrant houses and decorative doors ideal for portrait and street photography.

Puente Colgante sobre el Río

Suspension bridge crossing a river with scenic backgrounds and local life in the frame.

Cascadas y Bosque Nublado

Short hike leads to misty waterfalls and cloud forest scenes perfect for nature shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Amalfi

Amalfi's cuisine reflects rural Antioquia with hearty staples, fresh produce, and strong coffee notes. Expect generous portions, farm-to-table ingredients, and simple but satisfying flavors.

Amalfi Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bandeja Paisa

A regional platter featuring beans, rice, ground meat or pork, chicharrón, fried egg, plantain, avocado, and arepa; a filling showcase of the region.

Must-Try!

Aborrajados

Ripe plantain stuffed with cheese and lightly fried, a popular street-side snack.

Arepa Antioqueña

Thick corn arepa served with butter or cheese, perfect as a quick bite or accompaniment.

Sancocho Paisa

Hearty stew with yuca, plantain, corn, and meat, common in rural eateries.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de Amalfi

A busy local market offering fresh produce, dairy, baked goods, and ready-to-eat snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

The town sits at altitude in a tropical montane climate. Expect mild daytime temperatures, cooler nights, and relatively high humidity. Rain can occur year-round, with drier windows during the dry seasons.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Greet with a warm hello and a handshake; use Señor/Señora with first name in formal settings. Personal space and politeness are valued.

Respect in public

Modest dress in churches and secular spaces, especially for women. Avoid loud behavior in sacred places.

Safety Guide

Safety

Petty theft can occur in crowded market areas; keep valuables secure and be aware of surroundings. Use registered taxis or ride-sharing where available, especially after dark. Stay on well-lit paths and avoid isolated areas at night.

Tipping in Amalfi

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

A 10% tip is customary in sit-down restaurants if service is not included. Rounding up to the nearest 5000–10000 COP at casual spots is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted; many shops and restaurants also take debit cards. Some small vendors may prefer cash only; carry small bills for markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (Dec–Feb; Jun–Aug)

Sunny days and clear skies make outdoor activities reliable. Evenings can be cool at altitude; pack a light layer.

First Wet Season (Mar–May)

Afternoons are prone to showers; mornings are often drier. Trails can be muddy, so bring waterproof footwear.

Heavy Rain Period (Sep–Nov)

Rain is common; plan flexible itineraries and carry a waterproof jacket. Some viewpoints may be obscured by clouds.

Transition Periods

Weather can shift quickly; be prepared for sun, rain, and overcast skies in the same day.

Nightlife Guide

Amalfi at Night

Amalfi offers a relaxed nightlife scene centered on plazas, small cafes with live local music, and casual bars. Expect intimate venues rather than large clubs; evenings often revolve around conversation, coffee, and occasionally acoustic performances.

Hiking in Amalfi

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cascadas Route near Amalfi

A scenic hike to several waterfalls through a lush rainforest setting with occasional viewpoints.

Pico del Valle Viewpoint Trail

Ridge trail offering sweeping valley and coffee plantation scenery; moderate difficulty.

Airports

How to reach Amalfi by plane.

Jose María Córdova International Airport (MDE)

Major airport serving Medellín; about 1.5–2.5 hours by road to Amalfi depending on traffic.

Olaya Herrera Airport (EOH)

Smaller airport in Medellín for domestic flights; useful for quick connections when available.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is compact and walkable, with most sights accessible on foot. Expect steep sidewalks and steps in many areas, which add charm but require good footwear and energy.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local families

Residents rooted in farming and small business communities, maintaining strong community ties.

Young professionals

People working in services, hospitality, and agriculture who complement the town's growth.

Tourists

Visitors drawn to coffee culture, nature, and authentic small-town life.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

The most popular sport; local matches and community leagues are common in plazas and schools.

Cycling

Hilly terrain makes for challenging road and mountain biking routes with scenic backdrops.

Hiking

Trail networks around Amalfi attract hikers seeking forest, viewpoints, and waterfalls.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is generally light to moderate. Buses and shared taxis connect Amalfi with nearby towns; roads can be winding and narrow, especially on hillside routes. Plan extra time during market days and holidays.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Amalfi.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most restaurants can prepare vegetarian versions of local dishes; opt for platters with beans, rice, plantains, and arepa; ask for vegetable sides and avoid pork-heavy preparations.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Local clinics and pharmacies provide basic care; for emergencies or specialized treatment, travel to Medellín is common. Carry adequate health coverage and know the nearest facility locations.

Discover Colombia

Read more in our Colombia 2025 Travel Guide.

Colombia Travel Guide