The church viewpoint is fine, but it's already a war zone
Going up to San Antonio on a Sunday afternoon is an experience many know: the main park packed with people, the line to go up to the church viewpoint, street vendors selling bracelets, and the constant noise of motorcycles. That viewpoint has a spectacular view, yes, but it's no longer a secret. It's the place every tourist visits, the one that shows up on Instagram, and the one that by 6 pm feels like a rock concert. If you're reading this, you've probably already experienced it and want something more. Something calmer, more authentic, more your own.
San Antonio has another side: the hidden rooftops, those terraces that only open on certain days, where you can sit with a beer or a glass of wine, watch the sunset without elbowing for space, and listen to the silence broken only by parrots flying by. In May 2026, these views are still the best plan for those seeking a real connection with Cali. Here's how to find them.
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Why San Antonio's rooftops are the real treasure
San Antonio is not just a colonial neighborhood with cobblestone streets and colorful houses. It's a labyrinth of slopes, balconies, and stairways leading to private terraces. Most of these rooftops belong to hostels, family homes, or cultural spaces that, by tradition or business, open their doors to those who know to ask. There are no big signs or social media ads. Word spreads among locals, among backpackers who stay for weeks, and among photographers who know the exact angles.
What makes these terraces special is not just the view of the city, but the feeling of being in someone else's home, of sharing an intimate space. There's no loud music or lines. There are hammocks, plastic chairs, and sometimes a dog licking your feet. That's the Cali that doesn't make it into the guidebooks.
The 5 secret rooftops you must know
I've been exploring San Antonio for years, talking to hostel owners, neighbors, and artists. These are the terraces that open to the public, but only at specific times. Note the coordinates and days because they don't bend the rules.
1. Casa del Virrey Terrace: Thursdays only, 4 to 7 pm
This is the crown jewel. Casa del Virrey is a restored colonial mansion, located at Carrera 4 # 4-23, half a block from the main park. Its rooftop offers a 360-degree view spanning from the San Antonio church to the Cerro de las Tres Cruces. Access is free, but it's only open Thursdays from 4 to 7 pm. The owners, a family that has lived there since the 80s, offer coconut lemonade for $5,000 COP. There is no public restroom, so plan accordingly. Arriving before 5 pm guarantees you a spot in the largest hammock.
2. Hostal Casa Colonial: rooftop open Saturdays and Sundays
At Calle 5 # 3-45, this hostel has a terrace that is normally for guests only, but on weekends it opens to the public from 5 to 9 pm. Entry costs $10,000 COP and includes an Águila Light beer. The view is directly over downtown Cali, with modern buildings contrasting against the neighborhood's tiled roofs. The atmosphere is relaxed, with background music at a low volume. Perfect for reading or chatting. If you want to stay longer, you can order a bottle of red wine sold for $35,000 COP.
3. La Azotea del Artista: Wednesdays and Fridays, 6 to 9 pm
At Carrera 3 # 5-12, this is the home of a local painter who decided to share his space. The terrace is decorated with his works, and sometimes there are outdoor painting sessions. Entry is free, but a voluntary tip is recommended (locals usually give $5,000 COP). Hours are Wednesdays and Fridays from 6 to 9 pm. The view isn't as wide, but it has a bohemian charm: plant pots, hanging lights, and an orange cat that jumps on the tables. Ideal for couples looking for a quiet plan.
4. Hostal El Patio Terrace: every day from 5 to 8 pm
This hostel at Calle 4 # 4-45 has the most accessible terrace of all. It's open every day, but the trick is to arrive after 5 pm, when guests go out to dinner and there's space. Entry is free if you consume something from the bar (beers from $6,000 COP, natural juices for $4,000 COP). The view faces west, perfect for watching the sunset over the Farallones. There are large sofas and low tables. However, the restroom is for guests only, so use the one in the park before heading up.
5. El Balcón de Don Carlos: Saturdays 3 to 6 pm (by appointment)
This is the most exclusive one. Don Carlos is a 78-year-old gentleman who lives at Carrera 2 # 6-78, in a house with a balcony overlooking the entire city. He opens his terrace on Saturdays, but only if you call ahead to the number posted on the door (no social media). The experience is intimate: he makes coffee himself and tells stories about San Antonio in the 1960s. Entry is free, but it's appreciated to bring something to share (fruit, cookies, or a bottle of wine). There's no time limit, but he closes at 6 pm because he gets tired. It's a plan for those who value conversation more than the photo.
Where to eat and drink before or after the terrace
The rooftops don't always have food, so it's a good idea to arrive with a full stomach or know where to go afterward. San Antonio has options ranging from traditional to gourmet.
Quick and cheap food
At Calle 5 with Carrera 3, you'll find Doña Martha's arepa stand. It's open Tuesday to Sunday, 6 pm to 11 pm. Cheese arepas cost $4,000 COP and chicharrón arepas $6,000 COP. It's a must-stop before heading up to any terrace. There's also the San Antonio bakery, at Carrera 4 # 4-10, selling pandebonos for $2,500 COP and coffee for $3,000 COP. It's open from 7 am to 8 pm.
Restaurants with their own terrace
If you want to combine food with a view, the restaurant El Solar, at Calle 4 # 4-30, has a small but cozy terrace. Dishes range from $25,000 COP (bandeja paisa) to $45,000 COP (grilled salmon). They are open Tuesday to Sunday, 12 pm to 10 pm. Another option is La Casa de la Cerveza, at Carrera 3 # 5-20, with craft beers from $8,000 COP and a partial view of the city. It's noisier, but ideal if you're going in a group.
Bars for the after-party
After the terrace, you can head down to the main park and sit at El Bar de la 4, at Carrera 4 # 4-15. They have cocktails from $15,000 COP and live music on Fridays. Or if you prefer something quieter, Café San Antonio, at Calle 5 # 3-10, closes at 10 pm and offers specialty coffee and desserts.
How to get to San Antonio and get around the neighborhood
San Antonio is on the western slope of Cali, about 10 minutes by taxi from downtown. If you're coming from the south (Ciudad Jardín or Chipichape area), the taxi costs between $12,000 and $18,000 COP. From the north, around $20,000 COP. You can also take the MIO: the nearest station is San Antonio, on the Troncal Oriental line, but from there it's a 15-minute uphill walk. I don't recommend taking the bus if you have heavy luggage.
Once in the neighborhood, everything is walkable. The streets are cobblestone and steep, so wear comfortable shoes. There are no Ubers or Didis that go up to the highest houses, but local taxis do. If you come by private car, the public parking lot at Carrera 4 with Calle 5 costs $5,000 COP per hour. It's better to leave the car below and walk up to enjoy the scenery.
Local tips to make the most of it
- Bring your own wine or beer: Many terraces don't sell drinks, but they allow you to bring your own. A $20,000 COP bottle of red wine from the supermarket on Calle 5 is enough. Don't forget a bottle opener.
- Don't make noise after 8 pm: These rooftops are in family homes. If you talk loudly, the neighbors complain and the owner may ask you to leave. It's about respecting the space.
- Bring a light jacket: In the afternoons, the wind on the terraces can be cool, even in May. A denim jacket or a hoodie will save you.
- Wear non-slip shoes: The stairs in colonial houses are old wood and can be slippery, especially if it has rained. No heels or flip-flops.
- Always ask before entering: Some terraces don't have a sign. If you see an open door, knock and ask if you can go up. The people of Cali are friendly, but they don't like people entering without permission.
- Bring cash: Most of these places don't accept cards or Nequi. The nearest ATMs are in downtown, a 15-minute walk away.
- Don't take the plants or decorations: It sounds obvious, but I've seen tourists pick flowers for photos. They are part of the home, not souvenirs.
Why these views are more authentic than the main viewpoint
The San Antonio church viewpoint is nice, but it's designed for mass tourism. It has metal railings, a cement floor, and a view that, although wide, feels cold. In contrast, the rooftops of these houses have soul. You see the city from the perspective of someone who lives there: the clotheslines, the water tanks, the patios with mango trees. You hear the neighbors talking, dogs barking, children playing. That's the real Cali, not the one from postcards.
Furthermore, on the rooftops there's no rush. You can stay for two hours watching how the light changes, how the city lights turn on, how the sky turns orange and then purple. It's a moment that is never repeated the same way anywhere else. And if you're lucky, Don Carlos will tell you what San Antonio was like when there were no tourists, when only those who lived there went up and the streets were dirt.
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to go up to San Antonio at night?
Yes, the neighborhood is generally safe, but as in any tourist area, don't walk alone on dark streets after 10 pm. The terraces close before that time, so you won't have a problem. If you walk down, stick to Carrera 4 or Calle 5, which are the most lit and busy.
Can I bring children to these terraces?
It depends on the terrace. The one at Hostal El Patio and the one at Casa del Virrey are suitable for children, as long as they are supervised. Don Carlos's is not, because the space is small and he prefers a quiet atmosphere. The Artist's terrace also doesn't have safety barriers, so it's not recommended with small children.
Do I need to book in advance?
Only for Don Carlos's terrace, because he receives small groups. For the others, there is no reservation. Arrive early, especially on weekends, because space is limited. If you arrive after 6 pm at Casa del Virrey, you probably won't find a spot.
Are there public restrooms on the rooftops?
Not on most. Only Hostal El Patio has a restroom for guests, but they don't always lend it out. Use the restroom in the main park before going up or at a nearby restaurant if you consume something. Bring toilet paper just in case.
Can I take photos with a drone?
No. The homeowners don't allow it because the noise bothers the neighbors. Also, many terraces are near the hill, where there are birds. Better use your handheld camera or cell phone. Photos from the rooftops are just as spectacular without needing a drone.
Save this guide on your phone or print it out. The next time you go up to San Antonio, avoid the crowds at the viewpoint and look for these terraces. I promise you the view will be the same, but the experience will be completely different. And if you find a new rooftop, tell someone else. That's how we keep the secret alive.
Historical or contextual introduction
San Antonio, one of the most emblematic neighborhoods of Cali, has witnessed the city's cultural transformation over the years. Its history dates back to the colonial era, when the first constructions began to emerge in the 18th century. This neighborhood, which sits on a hill, is not only famous for its colonial architecture and cobblestone streets, but also for being a cultural and artistic meeting point.
The San Antonio church viewpoint, dating from 1772, offers spectacular views of the city and is an ideal place to enjoy the sunset. However, the experience in San Antonio goes beyond just appreciating the view; here you can find art galleries, charming cafes, and a vibrant local life that highlights the warmth of the Valle del Cauca culture.
For those seeking a deeper experience, exploring the rooftops of this neighborhood can reveal hidden secrets. Many of these rooftops have been transformed into cultural spaces where events, exhibitions, and community gatherings are held, offering a unique perspective on life in Cali.
Remember that San Antonio is not just a tourist spot; it's a living neighborhood where people share their daily lives. Talking to locals can enrich your visit and offer you perspectives on the history, traditions, and gastronomy of the region.
What to do
Mirador de la Igle
This is the most famous viewpoint in San Antonio, and for good reason. From here you'll get an impressive view of Cali, especially at sunset. Insider Tip: Arrive early to avoid the long lines and enjoy a coffee on the terrace of a nearby café before heading up. That way, you'll have plenty of time to appreciate the view without rushing.
Mirador de la Casa de la Cultura
Less known than the previous one, this viewpoint offers a different perspective of the city. It's ideal for those looking for a quieter spot. Insider Tip: Ask about the cultural events held at Casa de la Cultura, as there are often art exhibitions or live performances that enrich the visit.
Azotea del Hotel Intercontinental
If you're looking for a viewpoint with a touch of luxury, the rooftop of the Hotel Intercontinental is perfect. It offers a panoramic view of Cali and the Cauca River. Insider Tip: Visit during happy hour to enjoy cocktails at a good price while contemplating the city lit up at night.