3 Best Bars in Medellín, Colombia

A bit off of the usual tourist track, this is a pure salsa bar with low ceilings, simple decor, and lots of positive energy all around. Live bands kick off at about 11 pm, but arrive an hour or so beforehand to warm up and sample the mojitos.

In the industrial district near the Medellín Modern Art Museum, this brewpub offers some of Colombia's best craft beers on tap, as well as a number of their excellent house microbrews. A popular fixture on the Medellín nightlife scene, they stay open till 2 am on weekends and occasionally host live bands on Sundays. There are some top clubs nearby, making this a great spot to begin your evening.

Dominated by a long, clean-cut bar, with hanging greenery, wood details, and exposed-brick walls, Salón Amador is one of the best locales in El Poblado to get a well-made drink and dance deep into the night. Mustachioed mixologists serve up oversized gin drinks and tasty house cocktails while DJs play a range of electro and house music. There's also an occasional live rock show; check the website for details.