Things To Do
in Segovia
Segovia is a mining town in Antioquia set in a warm tropical valley with riverine scenery. Its history is deeply tied to gold and emerald mining, which shapes the architecture and local stories. The surrounding landscapes feature lush forests, friendly communities, and river views that invite outdoor exploration.
Visitors can experience authentic regional culture through markets, crafts, and nearby natural attractions while learning about the region's resilient heritage.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Alcázar of Segovia, where you can marvel at its fairy-tale architecture and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. After exploring the castle, stroll through the picturesque Plaza Mayor, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and the sounds of local life. Don't forget to stop by a nearby café for a traditional Colombian breakfast featuring arepas and fresh fruit juice.
In the afternoon, make your way to the Segovia Cathedral, an impressive example of Gothic architecture that dominates the skyline. Spend time wandering through its interior, admiring the intricate stained glass and grand altarpieces. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, sampling the famous cochinillo (suckling pig), a regional specialty.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk along the ancient Roman aqueduct, which is beautifully illuminated at night. Find a cozy spot at a nearby bar to unwind with some local craft beer or a refreshing mojito. Conclude your evening with a traditional Colombian dinner at a restaurant featuring live music, immersing yourself in the local culture.
Begin your day with a peaceful walk in the gardens surrounding the Alcázar, where you can enjoy the meticulously landscaped grounds and beautiful views of the mountains. Take your time to appreciate the various plant species and the serene atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely morning. Capture some memorable photos of the castle from different angles as you stroll through the gardens.
After a relaxing morning, enjoy a guided tour that delves into the rich history of the Alcázar and its significance in Spanish royalty. Following the tour, indulge in a delightful lunch at a nearby café, sampling local delicacies such as empanadas and bandeja paisa. Spend the afternoon visiting the nearby Casa de la Moneda, where you can learn about the history of currency in Colombia.
As night falls, return to the historic center and find a charming restaurant to experience the traditional Segovian cuisine. Enjoy a leisurely dinner accompanied by local wines while listening to live music or enjoying a quiet ambiance. Wrap up your evening with a stroll through the illuminated streets, taking in the beauty of the city's architecture.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-9 |
| 🚖Taxi ride (short distance) | $1-3 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $15-40 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-3 |
| 🍽️Lunch for two at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic rural Colombian experience with genuine hospitality
- Lower costs and fewer crowds than major cities
- Accessible nature and river scenery within easy reach
- Rich mining history and local culture to explore
- Limited English in some areas, so language basics help
- Varied infrastructure outside the town center
- Smaller selection of nightlife and international dining
- Certain areas near mining activity may require caution and local guidance
- "¿Dónde está la oficina de turismo?" - Where is the tourist office?
- "¿Puede hablar más despacio, por favor?" - Could you speak more slowly, please?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Qué recomienda comer aquí?" - What do you recommend eating here?
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Hablo un poco de español" - I speak a little Spanish
Places to Visit in Segovia
Visit one of these nice places.
Early morning or golden hour light on colonial façades, locals at market stalls, and decorative balconies make for classic street photography.
Sunset color over the river and distant hills; a great place for landscape and silhouette shots.
Textures of brick façades, ironwork, and hillside streets provide gritty, historical scenes at human scale.
Food in Segovia
Segovia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty platter featuring beans, rice, ground meat or chorizo, plantain, avocado, pork cracklings, and a fried egg—often available at local diners.
Must-Try!
Thick corn cake served plain or with cheese; a staple accompaniment for breakfast or a quick snack.
A comforting soup made with corn on the cob, yucca, plantain, and meat; great for sharing with locals at family-run eateries.
Leftover beans and rice reheated with eggs or meat; popular for a budget-friendly, filling meal.
Grilled chorizo served with arepa and lime; a common street-food pairing in town squares.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Central market where locals shop for produce, cheeses, meats, and prepared foods; great place to sample daily fare with modest prices.
Empanadas, arepas, fruits, freshly grilled meats, and local beverages sold by friendly vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm hello and a handshake or cheek kiss among familiar contacts; address people with señor/señora and use polite phrases.
Ask before photographing people or private spaces; some scenes or families may prefer not to be photographed.
Safety
Tipping in Segovia
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of around 5-10% is customary if service is not included. Small tips (1000-3000 COP) to taxi drivers or hotel staff are appreciated but not required.
Cash in Colombian pesos is widely accepted in markets and small eateries. Many larger establishments accept major credit and debit cards; carry some cash for rural or informal vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mostly sunny days with lower humidity; ideal for outdoor exploration, photography, and longer walks. Evenings can be pleasantly cool.
Regular afternoon showers and higher humidity; carry a light rain jacket and quick-dry footwear. Trails can be muddy but lush scenery is at its best.
Segovia at Night
Hiking in Segovia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short to moderate hikes to waterfalls and viewpoints with river and valley vistas; suitable for most fitness levels with guide if possible.
Forest trails that offer birdwatching and nature photography opportunities near Segovia’s outskirts.
Airports
How to reach Segovia by plane.
Major gateway for international travelers; located near Rionegro/Medellín region; drive to Segovia varies with road conditions.
Medellín’s domestic airport; convenient for short domestic hops and as an alternative to MDE.
Bogotá’s large international hub; often the first international connection for travelers coming from abroad before connecting to regional flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A diverse mix typical of Antioquia’s Bajo Cauca region, with shared regional traditions and crafts.
Small presence in surrounding areas, contributing to cultural practices and crafts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Colombia, with local leagues and informal play in public spaces.
Common in schools and community centers; pickup games appear in some neighborhoods.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Segovia.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes center on beans, corn, yuca, plantains, and vegetables; communicate dietary needs clearly to cooks; look for vegetarian versions of sancocho or rice bowls, and request oil-free options when possible.