Colombia's nightlife offers something for everyone, from sipping mojitos in the plazas of old Cartagena to dancing the night away in the salsa clubs of Cali. Every big city features a host of theaters for inexpensive live music and dance performances. The rural pueblos in Colombia offer the opportunity to escape the noise and relax.

Table of Contents
Nightlife Guide
Each Colombian city features a Zona Rosa, or central nightlife district, with the highest density of bars, discotecas (clubs), and restaurants. If you're visiting for the first time, this is the best place to start your night.
The center of Medellin's nightlife is Parque Lleras in El Poblado. And in Cali, it's La Sexta. The more popular pueblos, such as Guatape and Jardin, can have a surprisingly lively bar scene, usually around the central plaza.
When to Go Out
Colombia nightlife is pretty quiet Sunday through Wednesday unless you know the best areas to go (ask the locals for the latest hotspots). Otherwise, Wednesdays and Thursdays offer ladies' nights at certain discotecas, which can help bring out the local people.
Friday nights are popular. And like much of Latin America, Saturday nights are the busiest. Arrive early at the best bars and discotecas (before 11 PM) to get a good table and avoid any lines to get in.
Closing times vary by location. However, most regular bars close by 2 AM, while discotecas stay open until 4 AM. Some late, late-night venues in big cities remain open until dawn.
What To Wear
Dress codes apply to a tiny minority of high-end bars and clubs in big cities, such as Envy Rooftop bar at the Charlee Hotel in Medellin (gorgeous views).
Most of the time, you won't need to worry about dressing up for a night of partying. Jeans, t-shirts, and sneakers are typically acceptable. Colombian women take great care of their appearance and dress up more than men.
Crossover Clubs
Lots of bars and discotecas in Colombia play what's known as "crossover" music. This means the DJs mix up various genres of Latin music, including salsa, merengue, vallenato, reggaeton, bachata, and cumbia.
This can be a little confusing if you're unfamiliar with Latin music. However, the variety is appreciated by most Colombians (versus going to an all-reggaeton or all-salsa club). A DJ usually plays crossover music between sets if a bar or discoteca features a live band, like Trilogia in Medellin.
If you're into EDM, know that larger cities like Medellin, Bogota, and Cali also have electronic music clubs where you can get your fix.
Social Dynamics
Many Colombians go partying in groups with friends, boyfriends/girlfriends, and family. It's not unusual to see women drinking with their sisters, cousins, aunts, and moms.
At the start of the night (9 to 11 PM), everyone will be inside the bar or discoteca, drinking and talking within their social groups. As more alcohol is consumed and the venue fills up, there's a tipping point where more and more people start getting up to dance.
If you get to a club early, don't be surprised if you see everyone sitting around. Give it time; an hour or two later, you may see women dance on the tables and chairs. Who needs a dance floor?
Due to the group dynamic, it can be challenging for travelers to meet Colombians at bars and the best clubs. The best approach is to be friendly and straightforward.
The guys can ask women to dance or start casual conversations. It's helpful if you can speak Spanish. You can also offer the people at the table next to you shots of Aguardiente to help break the ice. When all else fails, have fun and go with the flow.
Dancing
Dancing is central to Colombian nightlife. Take a few salsa lessons to get the most fun out of your nights (private dance classes cost $10- $12/hour). Colombians are polite, and most will dance with someone when invited (out of proper etiquette).
For the guys, reggaeton music is easy to dance to—ask a woman to dance (Bailamos?). For foreign women, even if you're used to inviting guys to dance in your home country, it's not customary in Colombia. The Colombian guys might be caught off guard if you ask them.
Related: Nightlife in Ecuador
Dating Tips
Colombian Women
Overall, Colombian women have a positive reputation for being friendly and approachable. The prettier the woman, the more important it is to speak Spanish if you expect to talk with her and build rapport.
The most beautiful people know this and may not be patient with foreigners who don't speak the local language.
Unlike in some English-speaking countries, Colombian women freely give out their phone numbers, but this is in no way an assurance that you'll see her again. The man is expected to initiate calls and texts, at least initially.
Colombian Men
Colombian men are known for being passionate. Colombia has a high degree of infidelity (which works both ways). While foreign women date (and marry) Colombian men, most foreign women I've talked to are not interested in local guys. Of course, there are always exceptions.
Sex in Colombia
Most Colombians live with their parents or extended family until they are married. Unless you're dating a professional, it's unlikely you'll spend the night at a Colombian man or woman's home.
Out of necessity, love motels are widely available nationwide and offer privacy and comfort for couples seeking intimacy. Condoms are available at all pharmacies and drug stores. Bring your favorites from home, as the selection is limited. You may even want to consider bringing a small sex toy for a lady to make the night unforgettable.
In all seriousness, many Colombian women are left to raise children as single parents, supported by their parents and grandparents, and this contributes to a generational cycle of poverty.
Once you understand Colombia's nightlife, it can be a lot of fun.
Best Hostels for Nightlife
Medellin
Hostel Rango - Arguably one of the most popular hostels in Medellin. It is a bit more expensive, a minute's walk from Parque Lleras, but it also has nightlife all on its own.
Hostal Lleras Calle 8 - Located just one block from Parque Lleras, this hostel offers dorms for $12, and private rooms are available.
Cartagena
Republica Hostel - Located in the old walled city. It has a swimming pool, bar, and patio with great music and vibes. Breakfast is included. Dorms start at $16, and private rooms are also available.
Bogota
The Cranky Croc - A favorite spot with backpackers, it has a bar and cafe on site, lots of social events, and is nicely located in the city's La Candelaria district. Dorms from $11 a night, privates available.
Casa Bellvista Hostel - Nightlife surrounds this fun and social hostel in La Candelaria. The hostel is split over two buildings located a block apart. It offers a complimentary continental breakfast daily. Dorms and private rooms are available, starting at $9 a night.
Cali
Local House Hostel - This hostel offers complimentary breakfast and free salsa lessons. It's in Barrio Granada, near the La Sexta party district. Dorms cost $8.50 a night, and private rooms are also available.
El Viajero Cali Hostel & Salsa School - This is a great place to stay. There's an on-site salsa school, entertainment on a stage in their bar area, and an outdoor swimming pool. Breakfast is included. The hostel is located in San Antonio's historical center. Dorms start at $11.
The 138-page, all-original Medellín Travel Guide by David Lee is available for Kindle and PDF.