How are Cali and Medellin similar/different? Which should I visit: one or both cities? How do they compare?

Question

How are Cali and Medellin similar/different? Which should I visit: one or both cities? How do they compare?

Answer 1

I have been to Colombia 3 times and 3 different cities.

I have never been to Cali but I have been told this is the most city best for salsa in the entire country. So, if you LOVE salsa music, this might be the best place. Otherwise, I just get the impression this is just a big city with churches and museums like any other. If you are short on time, and depending on how many other places you are visiting, I'd probably skip it.

Medellin is fantastic! I really recommend it. It is known for the best nightlife with Mangos being the most famous club with salsa, merengue, regaetone, as well as beautiful club dancers (male & female) and midgets in various costumes.

Medellin is also known for having the most beautiful women (& plastic surgery) in Colombia. So far I agree.

Find some restaurants in the hills/mountains to get a beautiful night view of the city. Pueblito Paisa is a great recreation of a typical small town on a hill in the middle of Medellin with beautiful views of the city and the surrounding mountains.

Birthplace of one of Colombia's most famous artists (paintings & sculptures), Botero, with a great museum.

Santa Fe de Antioquia (historic small town) and Guatape/El Penol are very worth it day trips close to Medellin. I recommend Guatape/EL Penol.