27/11/2025
This Is How You Should Experience the Magic of Christmas and the Manizales Fair
For travelers, this season offers a unique contrast: the calm of the traditional novenas followed by the cultural intensity of the parades. However, the success of your trip does not depend only on the schedule, but on smart planning and a place to rest that guarantees comfort and efficiency.
At Hotel Benidorm, we?ve prepared the ultimate guide to help you plan your arrival, maximize your stay, and avoid common mistakes?ensuring your only concern is enjoying the "city of open doors."
1. Smart Planning
The key to enjoying peak season is anticipation. The high demand in December and January makes booking a logistical priority.
The most common mistake is waiting too long. Accommodation demand in Manizales rises between 80% and 100% during Fair week (early January).
Plan ahead: Not only do you secure availability, but you also avoid last-minute rates. Start your booking process as soon as you know your travel dates.
The Benidorm Advantage: By booking directly on the Hotel Benidorm website, you gain access to benefits not available on external platforms, including an exclusive 5% discount. This ensures your base of operations is both the most comfortable and the most cost-effective.
2. Air Logistics
Manizales has La Nubia Airport (MZL), smaller and closer to the city center. However, many travelers choose Matecaña International Airport (PEI) in Pereira, about an hour and a half away.
If you fly into Matecaña (PEI): Arrange your ground transportation in advance. Shuttle services fill up quickly during the Fair.
If you fly into La Nubia (MZL): Congratulations! You chose the most efficient option. Our standout service is free transportation to La Nubia Airport. We eliminate arrival and departure stress so you can stay focused on your business or leisure plans.
3. What to Pack
Manizales is known as ?the city of four seasons in a single day.? The weather is unpredictable.
- Always carry an umbrella or waterproof jacket?rain can be sudden.
- Layered clothing: Pack light clothing for daytime and a warm jacket for the evening, especially if you plan to visit the Chipre viewpoint or enjoy the Christmas lights.
4. The Golden Logistics: Maximizing Your Stay with Benidorm
Your hotel is not just a place to sleep?it's your command center. Location and services make the difference between a smooth stay and a stressful one.
The central location of Hotel Benidorm is critical during the Fair and Christmas season.
- Prioritize walking. During the Fair, traffic becomes chaotic and many roads close for parades. Staying downtown allows you to walk to Plaza de Bolívar, the Cable Car, and shopping areas.
- Avoid relying exclusively on private vehicles or taxis during parade peak hours. Plan your movements using the Cable Car as both a tourist attraction and local transportation.
5. Your Free Amenities
For business travelers taking advantage of the season or tourists who value efficiency, these services are essential:
- Free minibar: No hidden costs. Enjoy drinks and snacks whenever you need a quick break or to rehydrate before heading back to the Fair.
- Flawless connectivity: We guarantee free high-speed Wi-Fi. Whether you need to close deals or upload your pictures of the Christmas lights, your connection won?t let you down.
6. Safety and Well-being
Manizales is a safe city, but during peak season, precautions are always necessary.
- During the Fair: Avoid carrying unnecessary valuables in crowded areas. Use front pockets and stay alert.
- At the Hotel: Our team is available 24/7 to assist you. If you need help with routes or late-night transportation, we?re your safe point of support.
Must-See Events
This season offers a split agenda, each with its own charm.
The Magic of Christmas
The city lights up with a warm and festive atmosphere, ideal for families and couples.
- Don?t miss the Christmas light displays along the main avenues and Plaza de Bolívar.
- Visit the Cathedral viewpoint for a panoramic view of the illuminated city?a unique blend of Gothic architecture and mountain serenity.
- December is also perfect for visiting nearby coffee farms. Fresh air and the aroma of local coffee are the best antidote to year-end stress.
Manizales Fair
Declared National Cultural Heritage, the Fair is an explosion of color, music, and tradition.
- The parades are the heart of the Fair. Being near the city center allows you to enjoy them, return to your room to rest or change clothes, and head out again without wasting time in long commutes.
- Explore the fondas and casetas set up around the city, where you?ll experience local music, food, and the festive atmosphere characteristic of Caldas.
- Enjoy a cultural tour visiting artisan markets across the city.
Christmas and the Manizales Fair are experiences that demand energy and impeccable planning. By choosing Hotel Benidorm, you?re not just reserving a room?you?re selecting a strategic partner that offers:
- A 5% discount for direct bookings
- Logistical efficiency through free transportation to La Nubia Airport
- A central location that lets you enjoy parades and Christmas lights on foot
Your trip to the Capital of the Coffee Region will be unforgettable. We look forward to welcoming you as your oasis of rest amidst the celebration and magic.
