Food and Shopping in Colombia
Food in Colombia is part of everyday life, and each region brings something different to the table. On a Finest Journeys tour, you’ll experience meals that reflect where you are, whether it’s the mountains, the coast, or a small town in the countryside. In Bogotá, traditional dishes like ajiaco are served alongside international menus, but many people still stop at their local bakery or café for something homemade and familiar.
In the coffee region and around Medellín, meals tend to be simple, generous, and made with ingredients grown nearby. Grilled meats, rice, beans, and fresh fruit are common. Along the coast, especially in Cartagena, seafood is a regular part of the menu. Coconut rice, fried plantains, and fish cooked with light spices are typical. In places like Yopal or La Macarena, food often reflects the land, with open-fire cooking and strong local traditions.
Shopping is just as varied. In Pereira or Barichara, you’ll find markets selling handmade ceramics, leather goods, and textiles, often crafted by families who have been in the trade for years. Bogotá has a mix of small shops, design studios, and galleries, while Medellín and Cartagena offer everything from casual stalls to boutique stores.
Markets play a big part in local life. They are where people shop for fruit, vegetables, snacks, and small goods, and are usually relaxed and easy to walk through. Many travelers enjoy stopping at these places to pick up something made locally or just to see what people are buying.
Your guide will help you find places that feel right for the pace of your trip, with food and shopping that add depth to the experience.
Recommended Tours in Colombia
Opening Hours in Colombia
Shops in Colombia usually open between 9 and 10 in the morning and close by 6 or 7 in the evening. In smaller towns, some stores close midday for lunch. Weekend markets are common and typically open in the morning, wrapping up by early afternoon. Opening hours can vary by region and the type of shop.
Dining Hours in Colombia
Lunch is the most important meal of the day and is generally served between noon and 2 in the afternoon. Dinner is often lighter and starts around 7 or 8 in the evening. In more rural areas, both lunch and dinner may be served a little earlier, depending on local routines and daily schedules.
Paying in Colombia
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. In smaller towns, taxis, or open-air markets, it is helpful to carry pesos in smaller notes. ATMs are common in cities and airports, though it’s a good idea to withdraw cash before traveling into remote regions.
Tax Free Shopping in Colombia
Travelers who do not live in Colombia can request a VAT refund on certain purchases made at registered stores. To qualify, you’ll need to ask for a tax-free form when paying and keep your receipts. Refunds are processed at airport counters before departure, so it’s best to allow extra time.
What to Buy in Colombia
Shopping in Colombia is often about finding something that feels connected to place. Many of the most interesting items are made by hand, using materials and techniques that have been passed down over time. In Cartagena and Barichara, local shops carry mochila bags, hammocks, pottery, and decorative items that reflect regional identity. Each piece is made with skill and intention, often by artisans who live nearby.
In Bogotá, shopping leans more contemporary. Leather bags, woven scarves, and handmade jewelry are easy to find, along with art that blends Indigenous patterns and modern design. For those interested in something more traditional, emeralds are one of Colombia’s best-known exports. Reputable jewelers in the capital and other large cities offer certified stones in a range of settings.
In the coffee region, locally roasted beans are a popular gift. Many travelers also bring back small jars of panela, blocks of raw sugar, or handmade chocolate. These items are easy to carry and often have a personal connection to the places visited.
Weekend fairs and public markets often include stalls run by family businesses or cooperatives. Your guide can help you find quality items with a clear origin and fair pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drink the tap water in Colombia?
In larger cities like Bogotá and Medellín, tap water is generally safe to drink. In rural areas or smaller towns, it’s best to stick with bottled water, which is widely available. Your guide can always advise based on where you are.
Do I need to speak Spanish to shop or order food?
English is spoken in many hotels and restaurants, especially in tourist areas. In markets or smaller towns, some Spanish is helpful. Your guide will be there to assist with translation and help you feel comfortable in any setting.
Are there good vegetarian or gluten-free options?
Yes, especially in cities. Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, and most meals are made with fresh, local ingredients. Let your guide know your preferences in advance so meals can be arranged to suit your needs.
Is it appropriate to barter in markets?
Polite negotiation is sometimes expected in street markets and informal stalls, especially when buying crafts or souvenirs. In shops with fixed prices, bargaining is not common. Your guide can help you understand what’s appropriate in each setting.
Can I bring food or drink products back home?
Roasted coffee and packaged goods like panela or chocolate are usually fine to bring home. Fresh produce, meat, and dairy are often restricted. It’s a good idea to check customs rules for your home country before packing food products in your luggage.
Our local expert in Colombia
How Finest Journeys Enhances Your Food and Shopping Experience in Colombia
With Finest Journeys, every stop is thoughtfully planned. Your local guide helps you discover trusted places to eat, shop, and connect with everyday life. We focus on quality and authenticity, so the meals you try and the items you bring home reflect the real character of Colombia.