Calle Real Carrera 6
The vibrant heart of Salento, Calle Real (Carrera 6) dazzles with colorful colonial buildings, artisan shops, and delicious cafes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Calle Real Carrera 6
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The vibrant heart of Salento, Calle Real (Carrera 6) dazzles with colorful colonial buildings, artisan shops, and delicious cafes.
"This is genuinely one of the best restaurants I’ve ever been to. The food was incredible, the service is amazing."
🚶♀️ Stroll and Soak It In
Take your time exploring Calle Real; the charm is in the details. Many colorful buildings are perfect for photos!
☕ Coffee Break Bliss
Stop at one of the many cafes for a delicious Colombian coffee and people-watch.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Colorful Colonial Architecture
Calle Real (Carrera 6)
Wander down this iconic street, marveling at the brightly painted buildings and charming balconies. A feast for the eyes!
Artisan Crafts and Souvenirs
Calle Real (Carrera 6)
Discover unique handmade crafts, local art, and souvenirs in the many shops lining the street. Perfect for finding a special memento.
Culinary Experiences
Calle Real (Carrera 6)
Savor delicious Colombian cuisine and international dishes at the diverse range of restaurants and cafes. Many offer spectacular views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Colors of Salento
Dining Delights on Calle Real
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Stroll and Soak It In
Take your time exploring Calle Real; the charm is in the details. Many colorful buildings are perfect for photos!
☕ Coffee Break Bliss
Stop at one of the many cafes for a delicious Colombian coffee and people-watch.
🛍️ Shop for Local Crafts
Find unique handmade souvenirs and gifts from local artisans.
🍽️ Dine with a View
Many restaurants offer stunning views, especially during sunset. Consider booking ahead.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Stroll and Soak It In
Take your time exploring Calle Real; the charm is in the details. Many colorful buildings are perfect for photos!
☕ Coffee Break Bliss
Stop at one of the many cafes for a delicious Colombian coffee and people-watch.
🛍️ Shop for Local Crafts
Find unique handmade souvenirs and gifts from local artisans.
🍽️ Dine with a View
Many restaurants offer stunning views, especially during sunset. Consider booking ahead.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Calle Real in Salento is widely celebrated for its stunning, colorful colonial architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Visitors rave about the delicious food, particularly at highly-rated restaurants like Camino Real, and the abundance of unique artisan shops. While generally a positive experience, some reviewers noted issues with smoke from restaurants and found certain dishes to be disappointing.
"No trip to Salento would be complete without dining at Camino Real. This was our third visit over the past 4 years. Everything that my family has ordered is always cooked to perfection and top quality ingredients. The views are spectacular, the drinks are amazing and the service is great. I always have The Grilled Baby Beef that is arguably the best piece of Beef in Colombia. Shrimp Cocktails, Pasta Dishes, Patacones are all World Class. I highly recommend this restaurant. It is my favorite restaurant in Salento."
David G
"The service was really friendly and helpful, which we appreciated right away. And the fish, wow! It was absolutely perfect and came in a surprisingly large portion. I was the only one hungry at first, but the dish was so generous that we ended up sharing it between the two of us. A pleasant surprise and a delicious meal!"
Aneta
"The burger was horrible and the meat dish my friend had was miserable too. Good service tho. The smoke was so strong it took days for the smell to go away"
Krystal Phuar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Calle Real, also known as Carrera 6, is the main street in Salento and is easily accessible on foot once you are in the town center. If arriving in Salento by bus from cities like Armenia or Pereira, you can typically walk from the bus terminal to Calle Real within 10-15 minutes.
Parking can be challenging in the immediate vicinity of Calle Real, especially during peak hours and weekends. It's often best to park a few blocks away and walk, or rely on public transport if available.
The best way to explore Calle Real is by walking. This allows you to fully appreciate the colorful architecture, browse the shops, and stop at cafes and restaurants at your leisure.
Yes, many tours of Salento and the Eje Cafetero region include a stop or a walk along Calle Real. These tours often highlight the town's history and culture.
While the main street is generally flat, some of the older buildings and cobblestone sidewalks might present challenges. It's advisable to be prepared for uneven surfaces.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Calle Real is a public street and does not require an entrance ticket. You are free to wander and explore its shops and cafes at your own pace.
Most shops and restaurants on Calle Real are open daily, typically from around 9 AM to 6 PM or later, especially on weekends. Some may close for a siesta in the early afternoon.
While the street itself is free to access, individual shops, restaurants, or cafes will have their own pricing for goods and services.
Yes, Calle Real is accessible at night, and many restaurants and bars remain open, offering a different, often more romantic, ambiance.
Salento often hosts local festivals and events, which can bring extra vibrancy to Calle Real. It's worth checking local event calendars if you're planning a visit during a holiday period.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire street is a photographer's dream! Focus on the colorful facades, flower-adorned balconies, and the unique doorways. The intersection of Calle Real with other streets also offers great perspectives.
Early morning offers soft light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the street's charm. Late afternoon also provides beautiful golden hour light.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local ordinances before flying a drone in Salento to ensure compliance.
It's polite to ask for permission before taking extensive photos inside private establishments. Many shop owners are happy to have their colorful displays photographed.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the streetscapes, while a prime lens can be useful for detail shots of architecture and people. A smartphone camera is also perfectly adequate for most visitors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Don't miss trying local specialties like 'trucha' (trout), 'patacones' (fried plantains), and of course, excellent Colombian coffee. Many restaurants offer delicious brochettes and local stews.
While traditional Colombian cuisine can be meat-heavy, many restaurants are increasingly offering vegetarian options, such as vegetable-based 'patacones' or salads. Inquire about vegan possibilities.
Prices vary, but you can find a range from budget-friendly cafes to more upscale dining experiences. Expect to pay around $10-$25 USD for a main course at a mid-range restaurant.
Camino Real is frequently praised for its food, views, and service, with dishes like grilled baby beef and shrimp cocktails being favorites. Other highly-rated spots often mentioned include those serving brochettes and local stews.
Absolutely! Salento is in the heart of Colombia's coffee region, and Calle Real is lined with charming cafes offering freshly brewed local coffee.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the morning or early afternoon to avoid the biggest crowds. While the street itself is walkable, keep an eye on younger children as it can get busy. Look for cafes that offer kid-friendly snacks or juices. The overall atmosphere is relaxed and safe, making it a pleasant outing for the whole family.
📸 Photographers & Instagrammers
Don't just focus on the buildings; capture the local life, the artisan crafts, and the delicious food. Look for unique angles, play with leading lines formed by the street, and don't be afraid to get up close to capture the textures and details. Remember to be respectful of locals and businesses when taking photos.
🛍️ Shoppers & Souvenir Hunters
Take your time to browse and compare prices. Haggling is not as common as in larger markets, but polite negotiation might be possible in some smaller shops. Look for items made from local materials like coffee beans or tagua nuts. It's a great place to find authentic gifts for friends and family back home.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Salento's Colonial Streets
As you stroll down Calle Real, you'll encounter a delightful array of artisan shops selling handmade crafts, local artwork, and unique souvenirs. It's the perfect place to find a memento of your Colombian adventure. The street is also dotted with cozy cafes serving the region's renowned coffee and restaurants offering a taste of authentic Colombian cuisine, from fresh trout to hearty stews.
Culinary Delights on Calle Real
Popular menu items that receive high praise include the grilled baby beef, shrimp cocktails, and various brochette options. Even simple dishes like 'patacones' and 'crema del dia' are often highlighted for their exceptional flavor. Don't forget to sample the local 'trucha' (trout), a regional specialty. For those seeking lighter fare or a caffeine fix, numerous cafes along Calle Real offer delicious Colombian coffee and pastries.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit