In Medellín, the locals know how to party. The city’s nightlife is ever evolving, and “la fiesta paisa” is seemingly never-ending. Check out these fun places to grab a drink, from neighborhood brew-pubs to sultry salsa bars.
## Unveiling the Vibrant Nightlife of Medellín: A Comprehensive Guide
Medellín, a city that pulses with an irrepressible energy, boasts a nightlife scene that is as diverse and captivating as the city itself. This vibrant metropolis, Colombia’s second largest, offers a plethora of options to suit every nocturnal inclination. Whether you’re a seasoned salsa dancer, a craft beer aficionado, or simply seeking a sophisticated cocktail under the stars, Medellín’s after-dark offerings are sure to delight.
On weekends, the epicenter of Medellín’s nightlife, **Parque Lleras**, becomes a magnet for travelers and locals alike. Located in the heart of the trendy **El Poblado** neighborhood, this bustling hub is a kaleidoscope of sights and sounds, offering everything from pulsating salsa and _bachata_ clubs, where you can lose yourself in the rhythm of Latin music, to refined gastropubs serving up gourmet fare and lively sports bars broadcasting the latest games.
However, venturing beyond the well-trodden paths of Parque Lleras reveals a more authentic side of Medellín’s nightlife. Stepping away from this popular hotspot increases your chances of mingling with the city’s residents, sharing stories and laughter over aguardiente, and experiencing the true essence of Colombian culture. You’ll discover hidden gems frequented by locals, offering a glimpse into the everyday life of the “City of Eternal Spring.”
So, prepare to immerse yourself in the after-dark magic of Medellín. The following is a curated selection of top bars and lounges, each offering a unique ambiance and experience to cater to every taste and preference. Each of the establishments offers a unique glimpse into what makes this city so special, and provides a memorable experience that extends far beyond just a drink.
## Alambique: A Retro Rooftop Retreat
Hidden away above an art gallery, just a short distance from Parque Lleras, lies **Alambique**, a relaxed and atmospheric rooftop bar that exudes a retro charm. Situated on the third floor, this unassuming gem offers a welcome escape from the bustling streets below.
With its warm wooden interior and casually elegant garden-style decor, **Alambique** evokes the free-spirited vibe of San Francisco’s Haight-Ashbury district. This unique space provides a comfortable atmosphere to indulge in their extensive list of expertly crafted cocktails. But **Alambique** is more than just a bar; it’s also a destination for fine-dining enthusiasts. The bar’s fusion menu is filled with culinary delights like octopus carpaccio, and succulent pork served with raspberries and roast potatoes. The restaurant provides the perfect blend of exquisite flavors and unique setting, creating an immersive experience for all visitors.
Adding to the allure of **Alambique** is its penchant for live music. The bar showcases talented jazz musicians, drawing a lively crowd on Thursday and Saturday nights. The air comes alive with the improvisational sounds of jazz, making for an unforgettable evening. Finding **Alambique** can be an adventure in itself. There is no prominent sign to guide you; instead, look for the discreet blue double doors marked with the number 10-6.
*Carrera 41 #10-6, El Poblado, Medellín*
## Alta Gracia: Bohemian Vibes and Fruity Concoctions
By day, **Alta Gracia** is a laid-back bohemian café, but as night descends, it transforms into a cozy and intimate bar celebrated for its specialty cocktails. Located in the **Provenza** section of El Poblado, **Alta Gracia** exudes a relaxed and inviting ambiance.
The space has a unique charm with its converted garage aesthetic. Plush leather seating and vibrant red and blue neon lights create a playful and inviting atmosphere. **Alta Gracia** draws a diverse crowd of night owls who come for the sounds of blues, jazz, and house beats spun by talented DJs.
The cocktail menu is a star in its own right, highlighting fruity creations that tantalize the taste buds. The lychee sangria, with red wine, lychees, and strawberries, is a crowd favorite. The lychee martini is equally delicious, and the citrus vodka with apple and kiwi offers a zesty and refreshing option. For a truly unique experience, try the Calychee, a concoction of vodka, lychee, pineapple, and vanilla.
*Carrera 35 #8A-81, El Poblado, Medellín*
## Calle 9 + 1: Dance the Night Away Under the Stars
Another atmospheric watering hole nestled in Parque Lleras, **Calle 9 +1**, deserves a prominent place on your late-night bar-hopping adventure. However, don’t even consider arriving before 11 pm, as this is when the party truly begins.
This no-frills establishment centers around a covered courtyard, attracting a massive alternative crowd who come to dance to the beats of the weekend DJs. The music selection is eclectic, spanning everything from 80s pop to funk and techno, but rarely includes cumbia or other classic Colombian sounds.
**Calle 9 + 1** is a great place to dance, especially under the stars thanks to the retractable canopy roof. Adding to its appeal, **Calle 9 + 1** is an LBGT-friendly venue that serves excellent cocktails. The frosty mojito is a popular choice. The venue also provides a valuable cover charge that includes free beer on Friday and Saturday nights.
*Carrera 40 #10-45, El Poblado, Medellín*
## Envy: Where the Elite Meet and Mingle
If you’re curious about where the A-list of Medellín’s monied class gathers, prepare for a night of clubbing at **Envy**, a chic two-level bar perched atop the Charlee Hotel, just off Parque Lleras. This upscale space attracts those who appreciate the finer things in life and offers breathtaking panoramic views of Medellín from 18 floors high.
**Envy** has an elegant swimming pool illuminated by neon lights, which hosts daytime pool parties. During the week, there’s live salsa and on Saturday DJs spin house and electro music. Be prepared to pay a premium for your drinks and adhere to a strict dress code to gain entry past the discerning doormen, but the extraordinary cocktail menu is well worth the effort. The menu features worldly staples, from Manhattans to pisco sours.
*Calle 9A #37-18, El Poblado, Medellín*
## Panorama: A Secluded Rooftop Oasis
You’d expect a bar called **Panorama** to offer stunning views, but this stylish rooftop watering hole in **Los Laureles**, (there’s a sister bar in El Poblado) is surrounded by lush foliage, offering a sense of seclusion and privacy instead.
The abundance of greenery enhances the laid-back mood as you savor expertly crafted cocktails on the open-air patio. The location makes it perfect for Sunday brunch. It offers a diverse menu with arepas and baklava to wontons.
On weekend nights, the bar comes alive with live _trova_ and salsa music. **Panorama** is popular for its sangria (served with a popsicle in the glass) and craft cocktails, such as their gin and tonic, which is prepared tableside with fresh herbs.
*Carrera 73 con circular #3-8, Los Laureles, Medellín*
## Son Havana: Salsa Sensations and Cuban Rhythms
Considered by insiders to be one of Medellín’s best salsa clubs, the Cuban-themed **Son Havana** is a high-energy nightspot. Located slightly off the beaten path on the edge of the **La 70** party zone in Laureles, this bar is _the_ place to enjoy live cumbia, salsa, merengue and Cuban _rueda de casino_.
Attend the free salsa lessons and rueda practice on Wednesday evenings. A Cuban house band, the Son Havana All Stars, performs Wednesday to Saturday. While not renowned for elaborate cocktails, **Son Havana** serves excellent mojitos. It’s best to arrive and leave by taxi, as the surrounding streets can be iffy at night.
*Carrera 73 #44-56, Los Laureles, Medellín*
## Tres Cordilleras: A Brewpub Haven for Beer Lovers
Move over Bogotá Brewing Company, Medellín’s own artisanal brewpub will delight any beer fan. Its five artisanal beers include Rubia (a refreshing pale ale), and Negra (a rich English-style porter). Located downtown in edgy **Barrio Colorado**, **Tres Cordilleras** offers brewery tours on Thursdays, with beer-tasting in the industrial-style bar.
Live bands play the last Thursday of the month, but there’s always classic rock music and a lively atmosphere. _Cheveré._
*Calle 30 #44-176, Barrio Colorado, Medellín*
## Woka Lounge: A Jungle Fantasy Rooftop Bar
Imagine a blend of Disney fantasy with Philippe Starck industrial design, and you might envision **Woka Lounge**. This rooftop bar, atop **La Triada Restaurant** in Parque Lleras, features jungle-cavern design. The design features faux trees, Spanish mosses, a waterfall, flaming sconces, and rainforest noises.
A retractable roof opens on clear nights, and leather seating and colored lights create a classy ambiance. The kitchen serves international dishes like pad thai, Peruvian ceviche, and sushi. The drinks list includes martinis, margaritas, and tiki cocktails.
*Carrera 38 #8-8, El Poblado, Medellín*
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