CityBuddy
Iglesia de San Antonio
Best time to visit
Late afternoon, arriving around 4:30 PM. You'll catch the church in good light and can stay for sunset views over Cali from the plaza.
Budget tips
Entry is free, and there is no ticket or reservation needed. The nearby street vendors sell snacks and drinks for a fraction of what you'd pay in the city center.
Recommended for
Photography enthusiasts, Couples, Solo travelers, Sunset chasers
Plan your visit
30-45 minutes
About
Quick facts: Perched atop a hill in one of Cali's oldest neighborhoods, this 18th-century church offers sweeping views of the city below. Its single bell tower and whitewashed facade have made it a beloved symbol for locals, who gather at the small plaza out front every evening as the sun sets over the valley.
Highlights: The gilded wooden altarpiece inside is hand-carved with intricate colonial-era details, yet the church almost never appears in guidebooks from outside Colombia. Locals know to visit during the evening mass when the low golden light streams through the windows and illuminates the altar in a warm glow that has remained unchanged for over 250 years.
Insider tips
- Wear comfortable shoes; the walk up the hill from the nearest bus stop is steep but short.
- The best photo spot is from the northwest corner of the plaza, where you can frame the bell tower against the sky.
- Skip the Sunday morning crowds by visiting on a weekday instead.
- Arrive a few minutes before 6 PM to hear the bells ring from inside the tower.
Where to Stay in Cali
Selected by City Buddy based on guest reviews and proximity to top attractions
Search all hotels in CaliPowered by agoda
Have you heard of free walking tours?
After traveling to 30+ countries, there's one thing I wish someone had told me from day one, and it completely changed how I experience new cities.
Free walking tours. Yes, actually free. No credit card needed. No catch.
Local guide, 2-3 hours
Major sights, hidden gems, local stories
100% tip-based
Guides earn only tips, so they give their absolute best
You tip what feels right
At the end, just tip whatever you feel is right
I've done these in dozens of cities and they've been the highlight of almost every trip. If you're visiting Cali, Colombia, do this on your first day. You'll thank me later.
