Cúcuta, a Colombian city near the border with Venezuela, is known for its warm climate and commercial importance; this vivacious city serves as the capital of the Norte de Santander Department. To begin uncovering the best areas to stay in Cúcuta, look no further.
Accommodation Options in Cúcuta
Founded in 1733, Cúcuta boasts historical attractions such as the Casa de Santander Museum and the historic San José Church. Although most of its tourist industry is fueled by its status as a border town and it isn’t exactly a tourist destination, Cúcuta offers plenty of accommodations, including world-class luxury options.
When exploring Cúcuta, don’t miss out on attractions such as Parque Santander, Ventura Plaza Shopping Center, and the Cúcuta Zoo. Despite its reputation as a mere border hotspot, Cúcuta’s streets are lined with green spaces such as the Malecón – a picturesque area along the Pamplonita River.
Whether you’re interested in discovering Colombia, visiting Venezuela, or looking for a perfect “visa run” spot, keep reading this post to find out more about the best areas to stay in Cúcuta.
Where to Stay in Cúcuta, Colombia: Best Districts
1. Calle 10 & Ventura Plaza
The Safest area to stay in Cúcuta
Calle 10 and Ventura Plaza in Cúcuta are highly attractive destinations for those seeking accommodation within the city. The area is often called Cúcuta’s “Golden Mile.”
Located in the heart of Cúcuta, Calle 10 is a bustling commercial area characterized by its thriving shops, restaurants, and bars. The atmosphere of this sector is lively and vibrant, particularly during the daytime when locals frequent its numerous boutiques and shopping outlets.
Ventura Plaza Mall, situated nearby, offers an even more extensive shopping experience. As one of the largest shopping centers in Cúcuta, it is home to dozens of shops, dining options, and entertainment facilities, including a movie theater and children’s play area.
While no significant historical landmarks exist in this particular vicinity, the area’s central location enables easy access to some of Cúcuta’s most notable sites. Attractions nearby include the central park of Santander, Julio Pérez Ferrero Library, and San José Cathedral.
Several bus routes run through the area, including taxis and transnational “por puesto” services to the San Antonio del Táchira in Venezuela.
Accommodation options in the “Golden Mile” include modern hotels with exclusive services as well as affordable options.
Best Hotels near Ventura Plaza, Cúcuta
Holiday Inn Cúcuta, an IHG Hotel
Offering an outdoor pool and a restaurant, Holiday Inn Cúcuta, an IHG Hotel, is located across the Ventura shopping center and a 5-minute from the emblematic Santander Park.
Hotel Arizona Suites Cúcuta
Featuring a swimming pool, spa, and sauna, Hotel Arizona Suites Cúcuta offers rooms with air conditioning and free WiFi in central Cucuta. Breakfast is provided, and there is a restaurant.
ibis Cucuta
Located in Cúcuta, a 5-minute walk from Biblioteca Pública Julio Pérez Ferrero, ibis Cucuta has accommodations with a garden, free private parking, a shared lounge, and a restaurant. With a bar, the 3-star hotel has air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi.
Hotel Zaraya
Offering an outdoor pool and a restaurant, Hotel Zaraya is located in Cúcuta. Free WiFi access is available.
2. Cúcuta Bus Terminal
The Cheapest area to stay in Cúcuta
Cúcuta’s main bus terminal, located north of the city center, offers a convenient base to stay. This area may not be the most visually appealing part of the city; however, its proximity to transportation options makes it ideal for those planning to travel by bus to other cities.
The bus terminal provides international connections to Venezuela, Ecuador, and Peru, as well as national services covering nearly every destination in Colombia. It also serves as the hub for small buses with destinations such as El Zulia, Chinácota, Pamplona, and Bucaramanga.
As for accommodations, the hotels near Cúcuta’s bus terminal are generally budget-friendly options.
Best Hotels near Cúcuta’s bus terminal
Hotel Manoa
Hotel Manoa offers accommodation in Cúcuta. This 3-star hotel offers a 24-hour front desk, a tour desk, and free WiFi.
Hotel Gueicer Cucuta
Hotel Gueicer Cucuta has accommodations with free WiFi and free private parking. The property provides room service and a 24-hour front desk for guests.
3. Camilo Daza Airport
Best area for a layover
Camilo Daza International Airport is the main airport in Norte de Santander. It serves several domestic and international destinations, including Bogotá, Medellín, and Panama City. Important airlines operating at the airport include Avianca, LATAM Colombia, and Copa Airlines. The airport is strategically located just 4 kilometers east of Cúcuta’s city center.
In terms of transportation, Camilo Daza International Airport offers easy access to various buses and taxis.
Best Hotels near Cúcuta Airport
Aveiro Hotel
Aveiro Hotel is a 3-star hotel with room service and a tour desk. The property provides a 24-hour front desk, airport transportation, a shared lounge, and free WiFi.
4. Venezuelan Border
A Convenient Area for Transnational Travelers
For travelers looking to stay near the Colombian-Venezuelan border, Cúcuta offers convenience. This city serves as a strategic point for crossing to Venezuela through two main bridges: the General Santander Bridge, linking Cúcuta with Ureña, and the Simón Bolívar International Bridge, connecting La Parada to San Antonio del Táchira. The latter is notably busier and more significant for travel between the two countries.
Cúcuta’s area near the border is historically important, as it encompasses Villa del Rosario, a municipality known for being the birthplace of the Colombian constitution, and it houses the historic La Casa de la Bagatela and The Church of Cúcuta parks.
The border region offers a lively atmosphere due to its commercial activities, and travelers will find several affordable hotels around the border area.
Best Hotels near the Colombia-Venezuela Border
Posada El Abuelo
Posada El Abuelo offers accommodations with access to a public bath. Among the facilities of this property are a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk, full-day security, and free Wifi throughout the property. Private parking can be arranged at an extra charge.
5. San Antonio del Táchira
On the Other Side of the Border
San Antonio del Táchira, located on the Venezuelan side of the Venezuela-Colombia border, is situated 11 km (7 mi) from the bustling Colombian city of Cúcuta and serves as a gateway between the two neighboring nations.
Transportation options in this border region include buses to Cúcuta and other major cities in Venezuela. Moreover, air travel via Cipriano Castro Airport makes reaching popular destinations such as Margarita Island and Caracas possible.
Best Hotels in San Antonio del Táchira
Hotel Casa Colonial
Located in San Antonio del Táchira, Hotel Casa Colonial provides air-conditioned accommodations and a garden. The property has a 24-hour front desk, airport transportation, room service, and free WiFi.
