×
Interested in our Partner Program for businesses or our Local Guide Program for experienced expats and digital nomads? Click here to learn more.
Expat Exchange - Discovering the Best of Manizales 2024
Expat Exchange
Free MembershipSign In


Discovering the Best of Manizales

By Betsy Burlingame

Colombian Visa Services
Colombian Visa Services

Summary: Living it Up in Manizales: Your Insider's Guide to Top Attractions, Culinary Hotspots, Nightlife, and More. Discover the Best Recreational Activities, Connect with Friendly Locals, and Experience the Charm of the City.

Welcome to Manizales! If you're planning to move to Manizales, congratulations on taking the first step towards a new adventure. While there are many things to think about before you leave, such as visas, housing, and transportation, it's important to remember that once you arrive, the fun really begins. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best sites, restaurants, and nightlife that Manizales has to offer, as well as provide tips on recreational activities and making friends in Manizales.

Manizales, is a city rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. One of the most popular tourist attractions is the Nevado del Ruiz, a snow-capped volcano that offers breathtaking views and hiking opportunities. The Los Nevados National Natural Park, where the volcano is located, is also home to a variety of wildlife and unique flora. Another must-visit is the Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, one of the tallest cathedrals in Latin America. Its stunning architecture and panoramic views of the city from its rooftop are truly awe-inspiring. The city is also known for its coffee plantations. A visit to the Hacienda Venecia Coffee Farm offers a chance to learn about the coffee-making process and taste some of the best coffee in the world. The Recinto del Pensamiento is another site of interest, featuring beautiful gardens, a butterfly house, and a hummingbird observatory. For art lovers, the Museum of Gold offers a glimpse into the region's pre-Columbian history through its collection of gold artifacts.

The restaurant and nightlife scene in Manizales is vibrant and diverse. One of the most popular restaurants is La Suiza, known for its traditional Colombian dishes and cozy atmosphere. Another favorite is Restaurante Román, which offers a fusion of Colombian and international cuisine. For seafood lovers, Restaurante Pescadero is a must-visit, serving fresh seafood in a relaxed setting. The nightlife in Manizales is equally exciting, with a range of bars and clubs to choose from. La Puerta del Sol is a popular bar that offers a wide selection of drinks and live music. For those who prefer a more laid-back atmosphere, the Irish Pub is a great choice, known for its friendly staff and extensive beer selection. For a night of dancing, Discoteca Fahrenheit is one of the most popular clubs in the city, playing a mix of Latin and international music.

Manizales offers a variety of recreational activities for both locals and tourists. Hiking is a popular activity, with numerous trails in and around the city. The Los Nevados National Natural Park is a favorite among hikers, offering trails of varying difficulty and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. For those interested in bird watching, the Rio Blanco Reserve is a must-visit, home to over 300 species of birds. The city also offers a variety of sports facilities, including the Palogrande Stadium, which hosts football matches and other sporting events. For those who enjoy golf, the Manizales Country Club offers a challenging course with beautiful views of the city. The city also hosts the annual Manizales Fair, a week-long festival featuring bullfighting, parades, music concerts, and other cultural events.

Colombian Visa ServicesColombian Visa Services
Connect

We have over 10 years of experience helping foreigners obtain visas, invest, and do business in Colombia. Take the stress out of immigrating to Colombia by working with an experienced, bilingual immigration attorney.

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Colombian Visa ServicesColombian Visa Services

We have over 10 years of experience helping foreigners obtain visas, invest, and do business in Colombia. Take the stress out of immigrating to Colombia by working with an experienced, bilingual immigration attorney.
Connect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Insider Tips from Expats in Manizales: Making the Most of Life and Connections

"Expats in Manizales often join various clubs and activities to meet new people and immerse themselves in the local culture. These include language exchange clubs, where they can practice their Spanish and help locals with English. They also participate in salsa dancing classes, a popular activity in Colombia, which is a fun way to socialize and learn about the local culture.Outdoor activities are also popular among expats in Manizales, given the city's location in the heart of Colombia's coffee region. Hiking clubs are common, with groups often exploring the nearby Los Nevados National Park. There are also coffee tasting tours and workshops, where expats can learn about the coffee production process and meet other coffee enthusiasts.Expats also join local sports clubs, such as football, cycling, or yoga, which are great ways to stay active and meet locals and other expats. Volunteering is another way expats meet people, with opportunities ranging from teaching English to helping out at local charities.In addition to joining clubs and activities, expats in Manizales often meet people through social events and gatherings. These can be organized by local expat groups, language schools, or even through social media platforms. Attending local festivals and events is another great way to meet people and experience the local culture.Networking is also important for expats in Manizales, especially for those looking to work in the city. Business networking events and meetups are common and can be a good way to make professional connections.Finally, simply exploring the city, visiting local markets, cafes, and restaurants, or taking part in city tours can lead to unexpected encounters and friendships. The people of Manizales are known for their friendliness and hospitality, making it easy for expats to feel welcome and make new connections," said one expat living in Manizales.

Colombian Visa ServicesColombian Visa Services
Connect

We have over 10 years of experience helping foreigners obtain visas, invest, and do business in Colombia. Take the stress out of immigrating to Colombia by working with an experienced, bilingual immigration attorney.

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Colombian Visa ServicesColombian Visa Services

We have over 10 years of experience helping foreigners obtain visas, invest, and do business in Colombia. Take the stress out of immigrating to Colombia by working with an experienced, bilingual immigration attorney.
Connect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Manizales is vibrant and culturally rich. The city is known for its friendly locals, making it easy for newcomers to feel welcomed and integrated into the community. The cost of living is relatively low, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle with access to good healthcare, food, and entertainment. The city is also known for its safety compared to other Colombian cities.Manizales offers a variety of coworking spaces and cafes with reliable internet, making it a suitable place for digital nomads. The city is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including coffee plantations and the snow-capped Nevado del Ruiz volcano, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities during downtime.The city has a pleasant climate, often referred to as an 'eternal spring', which makes it comfortable to live in year-round. The local cuisine is diverse and delicious, with plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables, and local dishes to try. Learning Spanish is almost a necessity as English is not widely spoken. However, locals are patient and willing to help foreigners practice their Spanish. The city also has a lively arts scene, with numerous festivals and events taking place throughout the year, providing a chance to immerse oneself in the local culture.Despite being a smaller city, Manizales has a good public transportation system, making it easy to navigate. It's also in close proximity to other major cities, providing opportunities for weekend trips and exploration of the wider region. Overall, life for expats and digital nomads in Manizales is relaxed, affordable, and culturally immersive," commented an expat living in Manizales.

Colombian Visa ServicesColombian Visa Services
Connect

We have over 10 years of experience helping foreigners obtain visas, invest, and do business in Colombia. Take the stress out of immigrating to Colombia by working with an experienced, bilingual immigration attorney.

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Colombian Visa ServicesColombian Visa Services

We have over 10 years of experience helping foreigners obtain visas, invest, and do business in Colombia. Take the stress out of immigrating to Colombia by working with an experienced, bilingual immigration attorney.
Connect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.


Colombian Visa Services
Colombian Visa Services

Colombian Visa Services
Colombian Visa Services

Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health

Get a quote in 2 minutes from our partner, Cigna Global Health.
Get Quote

Cigna Global HealthCigna Global Health

Get a quote in 2 minutes from our partner, Cigna Global Health.
Get Quote

Contribute to Colombia Network Contribute
Help others in Colombia by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Colombia.

Colombian Visa Services
Colombian Visa Services

Copyright 1997-2024 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal Partners & Local Guides