Colombia has earned another international recognition for its hotel industry. In the 2026 selection of the Michelin Guide, 11 hotels across the country were awarded Michelin Keys, a distinction that highlights accommodations for the quality of their services, design, character and overall experience. The list includes properties in Cartagena, Bogota, Antioquia, Medellin and the Coffee Region, with options ranging from restored colonial houses to lodgings integrated into natural surroundings.
This year’s selection comprises three hotels awarded Two Michelin Keys and eight receiving One Michelin Key. One of the main developments was the promotion of Hotel Casa San Agustin in Cartagena, which moved up from One to Two Michelin Keys. In addition, four properties received the distinction for the first time, expanding Colombia’s presence in a guide internationally recognized for its travel and hospitality recommendations.
Cartagena leads the list of Colombian hotels awarded Michelin Keys in the 2026 guide
Cartagena has a prominent place in the 2026 selection, thanks to hotels that combine architectural heritage, design and services tailored to high-end tourism. Among them is Hotel Casa San Agustin, located in the Historic Center, which was promoted to Two Michelin Keys. The property occupies several restored colonial houses and preserves elements of Cartagena’s traditional architecture.
Casa Pestagua also retains its Two Michelin Keys. Housed in an 18th-century mansion, the property combines the city’s history with a boutique hotel experience. Both Cartagena hotels share the Two Michelin Keys distinction with Cannua Lodge, located in Marinilla, Antioquia, which stands out for its relationship with the natural landscape and its architectural approach.
Cartagena is also home to accommodations recognized with One Michelin Key. These include Cinco Quintas Hotel Boutique, which received its first key in 2026 after previously appearing in the guide without the distinction; Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Cartagena, located in the Getsemani neighborhood; and Sofitel Legend Santa Clara, housed in a former convent in the Historic Center that combines the building’s heritage value with contemporary services.
The presence of these properties highlights the diversity of the city’s hospitality sector, where historic buildings adapted for lodging coexist with boutique hotels and luxury developments seeking to connect visitors’ experiences with Cartagena’s cultural identity.
@aivangutierrez Four Seansons hotel & Residences Cartagena no solo redefine el lujo en Colombia, lo eleva a una experiencia donde la arquitectura, el arte y cada detalle hablan por sí solos. Una cadena que no construye hoteles… crea lugares que se sienten. Abre sus puertas el 2 de abril. #fourseasonscartagena ♬ sonido original – Aivan Guti
Bogota and other regions also feature in the selection
Colombia’s capital received three recognitions on the list. Four Seasons Hotel Bogota and Four Seasons Hotel Casa Medina Bogota received their first Michelin Key in the 2026 edition. The former is part of the luxury hotel offering in the Zona Rosa district, while Casa Medina is known for its historic architecture and a concept that combines traditional elements with modern services.
Hotel Casa Legado also retained its Michelin Key. This boutique property offers a more personalized experience, with residential-style spaces and individually designed rooms. The selection reflects the different types of accommodations available in Bogota, a destination that combines business tourism, cultural activities and urban travel.
Outside Cartagena and Bogota, the list includes El Cielo Hotel & Restaurante in Medellin, which combines accommodation with a culinary concept associated with the Elcielo brand, and Hacienda Bambusa in Quindio, where the lodging experience is integrated into the rural landscape of Colombia’s Coffee Region. Both properties retained One Michelin Key.
@dlfpassport BEST Hotel in Colombia Four Seasons Hotel BOGOTA Casa Medina @Four Seasons Hotels #colombia #hotel #travel #architecture #fyp ♬ Mortals – Warriyo
What does the Michelin Guide evaluate when awarding its Keys?
Michelin Keys are distinctions awarded by the guide to hotels that offer outstanding experiences. The system was introduced in 2024 as a hotel classification independent of Michelin Stars, which are known for recognizing restaurants. The evaluation is not based solely on luxury or a property’s commercial category, but rather on the overall experience offered to guests.
Inspectors consider five main criteria: the quality of the architecture and interior design; consistency of service; the hotel’s personality and character; value for money; and the property’s contribution to its surroundings. Visits are conducted anonymously and independently to assess establishments according to consistent standards.
The classification has three levels. One Key identifies a very special stay; Two Keys recognize an exceptional experience; and Three Keys represent the highest distinction, reserved for extraordinary stays. The recognition should therefore not be confused with conventional hotel star ratings or Michelin’s culinary distinctions.
In addition to the 11 hotels awarded Keys, the guide includes another 40 recommended Colombian accommodations that have not received this distinction. These properties are located in destinations such as Guatape, Barichara, Cali, Palomino, Bahia Solano and Armenia, among others. The inclusion of hotels from different regions broadens the range of options for travelers seeking to discover the country through its hospitality offerings.