The hype
Travelers love the massive rooms and the heated pool, but the decor is starting to feel like a 2010 time capsule.
San Fernando Plaza
$95-150/ night
Book this if You want the 'Wolf of Wall Street' Medellin vibe—business luxury on the Golden Mile—without the Manhattan price tag.
Why People Love It
- Prime Golden Mile location near La Strada and Oviedo malls
- Heated rooftop pool that actually stays warm (82°F+)
- Breakfast buffet that guests consistently rate as 'best in class'
Quick Take: A polished, slightly aging business hotel that feels like a steal until you get hit with the strict guest registration fees.
Reviewed by @cvvergara1: Checking into San Fernando Plaza felt like a total upgrade. My room had incredible city views, and that sunset by the pool with a glass of wine was the perfect reset. It’s right on the Golden Mile, so the location is unbeatable for a luxury solo trip.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The '5-star' rating is more of a solid 4-star by international standards; don't expect ultra-modern tech or brand-new carpets.
- You need a reliable workspace and fast Wi-Fi
- You want to be close to El Poblado's nightlife but sleep in a quiet zone
- You appreciate a classic, old-school hotel service style
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.8
- Housekeeping: Diligent but aggressive. They clean thoroughly but will knock early if you don't have the sign up.
- Bathroom hygiene: Generally sparkling, though some guests have reported slow-draining sinks or minor grout wear in older rooms.
- Maintenance: Good overall, but watch out for 'tired' AC units and the occasional reported ceiling leak in top-floor rooms.
- Linens & towels: Crisp white cotton, hotel-standard. Towels are plentiful but not overly plush.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells of fresh flowers and polish; rooms are neutral, though some lower floors can smell of exhaust if windows are open.
Sleepability™
7.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Rumbly in-room air conditioning units
- Hallway noise from early-rising housekeeping staff
- Distant traffic hum on lower floors
Before you book
Good to know
- Tourists are exempt from 19% VAT, but you MUST show your passport and tourist stamp at check-in.
- The 'heated' pool is outdoors but warm enough for evening swims.
- Uber works perfectly here, but taxis are always waiting at the entrance.
What to pack
- Universal travel adapter (Type A/B plugs used in Colombia)
- Light jacket for the 'Eternal Spring' evenings (it gets breezy on the terrace)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Grand Suite (for the private terrace and valley views)
- High-floor rooms (8th floor and up) facing the mountains for less noise
Rooms to avoid
- Rooms near the elevator bank (audible dings)
- Lower floor rooms facing the street (traffic noise)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would appreciate a room on a high floor (8+) facing the mountains/valley for the quietest stay. Please avoid rooms directly adjacent to the elevator.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is it guest friendly?
Yes, but strictly regulated. You must register any guest at check-in and pay the ~99,000 COP fee if they stay overnight.
Is the pool actually heated?
Yes, it is consistently heated, which is rare for Medellin rooftop pools.
How far is Lleras Park?
It's about a 15-20 minute walk or a 5-minute Uber ride. Close enough to party, far enough to sleep.
Does the hotel offer airport shuttle?
Yes, but it's a paid service (~$40 USD). Uber or a white airport taxi is often cheaper.
Is breakfast included?
Usually yes, and it's a highlight—huge buffet with local arepas, fresh tropical fruit, and eggs to order.
Is the Wi-Fi good for video calls?
Yes, speeds are generally reliable (20Mbps+) in rooms, suitable for Zoom/Teams.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 'Spezia' restaurant has a great wine list, but service slows down significantly after 8 PM.
- ✨
Ask for a 'turndown service' explicitly if you want evening towel refreshment; it's not automatic.
- ✨
The gym is better than average, with free weights and decent cardio machines, but go early (6 AM) to beat the business crowd.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'cleaning lady' starts rounds very early (around 8 AM)—use your Do Not Disturb sign religiously.
💡There is a $100 USD fine for smoking that they will charge without hesitation if they smell smoke.
💡The hair dryers are old-school wall-mounted units that overheat; bring your own if you have thick hair.
💡You can walk to 'San Fernando Plaza' (the mall next door) without really going 'outside'—great for rainy afternoons.
💡The lobby bar makes a killer Gin & Tonic that isn't on the main menu—ask the bartender.
Local Playbook
Map
See where San Fernando Plaza is located and what's nearby.