medellin for tourism

The Top 12 Things to Do in Medellin, Colombia

Medellin, the City of the Eternal Spring, knows how to reinvent itself. The former base of Pablo Escobar and current haven of digital nomads, there's much more to do here than visit the sights made famous by Netflix's "Narcos." Learn the holistic history of the city by visiting its museums, like the Museo Casa de la Memoria and the Museo Antioquia. See firsthand where formerly dangerous areas have shifted due to innovation and community pluck by touring the graffiti walls of Comuna 13 or riding the Metrocable. Walk its beautiful gardens and attend its flower parade. Stay out all night dancing salsa or clubbing in Poblado. Ground yourself in Barefoot Park, and paraglide high above the streets filled with tropical fruit vendors. To truly appreciate it, allow yourself to see this city not just for what it was or what it is, but also for what it's becoming.

Ride the Metrocable to Parque Arví

Take Linea L on the Metrocable from the Santo Domingo interchange to Parque Arví, a vast forested nature reserve and a pre-Hispanic archeological site. Entry to the park is free, though certain activities such as bicycle tours, boating excursions, and the butterfly farm charge a fee. Hike the 13 trails, go birding, and browse the small market of food and craft stands. The ride to and from the park over the hills of Medellin provides stunning aerial views of the city’s comunas (districts) and the Medellin River. An attraction in its own right, the Metrocable is part of the Medellin Metro, Colombia’s only metro system.

Bless Yourself at Plaza Botero

The 23 plump bronze statues of Fernando Botero's spread throughout Botero Plaza are said to bring luck and love to all who rub them, known as the "Botero legend." Botero, a famous painter and sculpture from Medellin, developed Boterismo, a style of art combining neo-renaissance, figurative, and contemporary elements, resulting in bulbous people and animals. Botero sculpted and donated all of the plaza's statues, ranging from a plump horse to a voluptuous lounging woman. Located downtown in Medellin's Old Quarter, find it sandwiched between the Museum of Antioquia and the Rafael Uribe Uribe Palace of Culture. It's free to enter, photograph, and rub the statues in the plaza.

Dance Salsa

Dance salsa every night in Medellin with every level of dancer, from beginner to pro. Venues range from salsa nights in bars like Son Havana and El Eslabon Prendido (some even with live bands) to formal dance schools like DanceFree in Poblado. You can also find lots of informal dance meetups in city parks. If your budget’s tight, attend the free classes or pay a small entry fee at one of the salsa bars, but if you have the money and the time, pay for a few classes at DanceFree, as you’ll progress much quicker during your stay.

Learn Colombian History at the Museo Casa de la Memoria

Courtesy of El Museo Casa de La Memoria

A solemn, educational memorial on the wars, armed conflicts, and other violence in Colombia, the Museo Casa de la Memoria serves to document the stories of victims while educating visitors on the past and ongoing violence in the country. A touchscreen timeline allows visitors to read in-depth about the narco cartels, the paramilitarios, the former dictatorship, and the present-day reforms in the country. Other exhibits contain stories and photos of victims, as well as messages from their families. Concerts, workshops, and other events help visitors understand present-day Colombia through the context of its past. Free to visit, find it in Parque Bicentenario.

Geek Out at Parque Explora

See over 300 species of fish at South America’s largest freshwater aquarium, and check out the over 300 interactive exhibits in the attached science museum. A series of four red cube buildings with outdoor display spaces, a vivarium, a planetarium, and a small television studio, the Parque Explora complex offers activities for kids of all ages. Record your own podcast episode, learn about the history of radio in Colombia, and make life-size pin art. Walk through the dinosaur exhibit, create graffiti, and see massive snakes and reptiles in the vivarium. General admission costs the equivalent of about $5. Reach it by taking the Metro to the Universidad station in Zona Norte.

See Art at the Antioquia Museum

The Museo de Antioquia displays Pre-Colombian, colonial, and modern art and creates art by collaborating with resident artists. The permanent collection includes many clay pieces from the region, as well as works by Fernando Botero, the local artist turned international superstar for his curvy Boterismo figures. Colombian artist Pedro Nel Gomez, a pioneer of the Colombian Muralist Movement, also features prominently. Though known for its collection, the museum’s work in the community has given it fresh relevance, demonstrated by its award-winning cabaret of sex workers entitled “No One Knows Who I Am,” with performance artist Nadia Granados. Entry to the museum cost the equivalent of about $5. Take the Metro to Parque Berrío to reach it.

Walk Amongst the Flowers

Bountiful in blooms, the reason behind Medellin’s nickname as “the City of the Eternal Spring” can be seen in full display during the Feria de las Flores when a parade of 500 flower vendors march the streets with overflowing bouquets and massive flower arrangements overtake the city’s balconies, billboards, and malls. If you can’t make the festival in early August, experience the flower abundance by going to the flower market at Placita de Flórez, the biggest plant market in the city. Alternatively, picnic in the Joaquín Antonio Uribe Botanical Garden, where 4,500 flowers grow in rows of yellows, pinks, and reds. Free to enter, the garden also contains a natural rainwater collection system, the Orquideorama, doubling as a protective shield for the butterfly and orchid gardens.

Eat Tropical Street Food

An incredibly bio-diverse country with a fantastic array of fruits, Colombia is one of the best places in the world to eat healthy street food. Sip on a sweet, frothy guanábana (soursop) shake or limonada de coco (coconut milk mixed with lime). Sample sour yet sweet borojó (thought to be an aphrodisiac) or snack on guava, star fruit, or yellow dragon fruit. Street vendors throughout Medellin cut up fruit salads, like green mango with salt, for a hydrating, light lunch, or as a palate cleanser for those who’ve opted for the heavier street fare like arepas and buñuelos.

Go Clubbing in Poblado

The most famous district for nightlife, Poblado contains the greatest number of the city’s dance clubs, Parque Lleras, and the bar street Via Provenza. With a beer in hand, take in the incredible views of the city from Envy rooftop at The Charlee Hotel, or head to Vintrash to dance to reggaeton. For those that want a chill club with good DJs and no dress code, Calle 9+1 is the place to go, while The Blue Bar serves reasonably priced drinks and the speakers blast rock and electronic music. If you’re unsure where to start, buy an Aguila from a convenience store near Parque Lleras, then chill on at the park to see where people are heading from there.

Relax in Barefoot Park

Parque de Los Pies Descalzos invites visitors to take their shoes off and experience nature more intentionally through bare feet. Free to enter and explore, the park offers guides to lead patrons through installations and activities centered around the elements of water, air, and land. Stick your feet in the Well of Sounds for water jets to massage your feet, or walk on the Zen Garden’s stones to stress your foot fascia. Work your balance by walking on the beams of the Level Towers, or go through the Maze with eyes closed, using your other senses to guide you. Open every day but Monday, reach it by taking the Metro to the La Alpujarra station.

Slide Through Comuna 13's Graffiti Murals

Previously one of the city's most dangerous areas due to violence committed by guerillas of urban militia groups, Comuna 13 has transformed into a bastion of graffiti art and a testament to the city's innovation and rebirth, complete with a giant slide and famous series of escalators. Wall-sized colorful murals cover the streets next to the escalators, installed to aid in transportation and access to job opportunities for residents. Tours by resident guides happen daily, explaining the significance behind each mural and speaking about Comuna 13's past conflicts. To visit, take a tour or take the Metro to the San Javier station, then bus 221i or 225i. Despite recent changes, it is not advised to visit this area at night.

Paraglide Over the City

Courtesy of Medellin Paragliding

Take off from the hills of San Felix to paraglide over the lush Aburrá Valley and the red-roofed houses of Medellin. Located about 40 minutes from Medellin proper, Medellin Paraglide offers tandem 15-minute day flights, as well as certification courses for those wanting to learn how to fly on their own (a commitment of 40-plus hours and multiple flights). Started by the father of paragliding in Colombia, Ruben Dario Montoya Vargas or "Ruben Fly," the school has internationally certified instructors, all bilingual in English and Spanish. Take your own transportation via taxi from Medellin or the Metrocable to La Aurora, or book directly with the school for door-to-door pick-up service.

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Home » Travel Guides » Colombia » 25 Best Things to Do in Medellín (Colombia)

25 Best Things to Do in Medellín (Colombia)

The second city of Colombia, Medellín has transformed itself perhaps more than any other city in the world. Though its violent, tumultuous past is well-known, today the city is modern, innovative, and just generally lovely.

Nicknamed the “City of Eternal Spring” for its nearly perfect weather, you’ll find plenty of parks and plazas where you can enjoy the sunshine with a fresh juice from a street food vendor and a couple of empanadas.

Make sure you learn all about the city’s past in order to appreciate how far it’s come – there are plenty of museums and tours that’ll educate you, along with authentic markets and neighborhoods to explore. The city is also home to great restaurants, cafes, bars, and even clubs that’ll have you salsa dancing the night away… or trying to anyway.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Medellín :

1. Museo de Antioquia

A former city hall turned museum, this place houses a great collection of works by Fernando Botero.

He’s one of Colombia’s most famous artists, and he had a penchant for painting all things chubby.

Born in Medellín, the artist patronized his hometown museum by donating many of the works himself.

Guides recommend starting on the top floor with his earlier pieces and making your way down to see his evolution as an artist.

The museum also houses works by international artists and offers an audio guide if you want to learn even more.

There’s a small cafe and courtyard here where you can take a break.

2. Free Walking Tour

The free walking tour in Medellín by Real City Tours is one of the most popular walking tours in the world.

Learn all about the city’s difficult past from an insightful and experienced guide.

This is a good way to get out of Poblado and see more of the city, taste some local foods, and hear how the local people really feel about Pablo Escobar.

You’ll see places like Parque Berrio, the Forest of Lights, and Parque San Antonio.

Do this tour at the beginning of your stay in Medellín so you’ll have lots of historical background on the city – plus your guide will give you great food and nightlife tips! Be sure to sign up ahead of time so you get a spot, and know that it’s not totally free – you’re supposed to tip at the end of the 4-hour tour.

There’s also a Pablo Escobar tour in Medellin.

3. Take the Metrocable Up to Parque Arvi

The metro and metrocable system of Medellín has received lots of praise for bringing a city of many different neighborhoods together.

You can get all over the city with your metro ticket, and if you want to venture up for great views and fresh air, pay a little more to take the metrocable from Santo Domingo to Parque Arvi.

The 15-minute ride provides great views of the city and neighborhoods below.

At the top, there are places to stop for some snacks made from local Colombian products (like grilled mushrooms) while you enjoy the views.

Check out the tents and street vendors selling trinkets and then head out onto the walking trails of the park.

Related tour : Medellin Innovation: 4-Hour Metro Tour

4. Santo Domingo and Biblioteca España

If you take a ride up the metrocable, you’ll get a glimpse of a few of the poorer barrios on your way up and down.

It’s an authentic look into life in these colorful neighborhoods which were once in the center of a warzone.

During the day it’s fine to stop in Santo Domingo to have a look around – maybe grab a beer and some fried chicken and arepas from one of the small local restaurants.

Many people also get off here to check out the Biblioteca España, a massive, modern library built from black slate that’s become like a local community center.

5. The Botanical Gardens

A natural oasis in the center of Medellín, they city’s botanical gardens contain more than 1,000 species of wildlife and 4,500 flowers.

There’s a butterfly garden, a cactus garden, and a huge collection of orchids.

Entry is free and you can go explore the area to find critters or just lie on the grass in the sun with a book.

There’s even a 65-foot-high wooden mesh structure called the Orquideorama which collects rainwater and protects the orchids and butterflies below.

Have a picnic, check for live events, and be sure to visit if you’re here during the city’s Festival of the Flowers, it’ll be even more impressive.

6. Parque Explora

Everybody loves Parque Explora, even adults and those folks without kids.

It’s an interactive science museum combined with South America’s largest freshwater aquarium.

There are over 300 interactive exhibits housed in the building’s four red cubes, plus a planetarium, 3D auditorium, and a television studio.

Located in Zona Norte near the botanical gardens and shopping malls, it’s easy to spend a whole day here playing and learning about science and technology, but it’s also a convenient stop on your way to other attractions.

Parque Explora is totally interesting and fun, and you’ll enjoy it even more if you do have kids with you.

7. Check Out Poblado

Chances are you might be staying in this upscale neighborhood anyway because it’s where most of the gringos, expats, and backpackers in Medellín choose to rest their heads.

It’s a beautiful area of shady streets with a solid café culture and a range of different types of international food options.

Coffee shops and free wifi abound, plus there are bars, spas, gyms, and all the other comforts from home here.

Whether you want to do a serious coffee tasting (try Cafe Toucan) or hit the clubs for the night (check out Calle 9), you’ll find it in Poblado.

8. Casa de la Memoria

This museum is both upsetting, enlightening, and informative, and it’s the place to go if you want more insight on Colombia’s dramatic and violent history.

From drug cartels and gangs to a terrible civil war, Casa de la Memoria aims to amplify the voices of victims and preserve their history so that we might learn more about it and avoid these pitfalls in the future.

Entry is free, and the whole place is well-curated – the interactive exhibits, emotional photography, and artwork are all sure to inform and move you.

9. Visit Guatapé

It’s the must-do day trip from Medellín, but it’s even better if you’ve got a night or two to spare there.

Guatapé is a picturesque, colorful lake town about two hours outside the city.

Take photos of the vibrantly painted exteriors of homes here, and visit the Plaza de Zocalos for the most colorful town square in Colombia.

Along the lake and throughout town you’ll find cheap street foods like empanadas and churros, and of course, the restaurants will supply you with plenty of freshly cooked lake trout and fish soup.

The most popular activity in town, however, is climbing the 740 steps up El Peñol, a giant rock, for an amazing view of the islands and water beneath.

Recommended tour : Guatape: Full-Day Tour from Medellin

10. Parque Lleras

Poblado is one of the biggest hotspots for nightlife in Medellín, and for locals and tourists alike, Parque Lleras is often the place where you start out the night.

It’s just a little park filled with trees where you’ll find vendors selling art by day and crowds of folks drinking by night.

The park is surrounded by bars, restaurants, and clubs, plus it’s close to many of the hostels in the area, so there’s always young people around.

Grab a bottle of the anise-flavored Colombian spirit, Aguardiente, or just a few Aguila beers and head to this lively park to hang out before heading out.

11. Go Salsa Dancing

Whether you’re an old pro or just want to learn a few steps, this city is the place to do it.

While Cali might be the salsa capital of Colombia, Medellín can get you started with salsa lessons or local bars and clubs filled with salsa music and dancing.

DanceFree in Poblado is a super popular place for private or group classes, and on the weekends they have a bar with dancing too.

For live salsa music and dancing (with locals and tourists alike showing off), check out the Son Havana or El Eslabon Prendido.

Available workshop : Medellin Salsa Like a Local Evening Workshop

12. Plaza Botero

A great place for people watching and art appreciation, check out the lively Plaza Botero for some larger than life sculptures by the square’s namesake, Fernando Botero.

There are 23 voluptuous bronze statues scattered about the plaza, all donated by the artist himself.

It’s a great place to meander around or sit with a fresh juice or empanada from one of the street vendors before or after visiting the Museo de Antioquia.

The area has transformed an otherwise run-down part of town, and you’ll find street performers, trinket salesmen, and food stalls all around.

13. El Castillo Museo y Jardines

Wait, there’s a castle in Medellín? Yep, for a small entry fee you can check out this French-inspired, 20th-century castle and its gardens, fountains, and pathways.

Take a little tour to see the inside as well, with its four-poster beds, porcelain collection, and giant dining room table.

It was built in 1930 and it opened as a museum in 1971, but in between those years it served as a home for the wealthy and a place for entertaining high society visitors from Europe.

14. Go Paragliding

This area of Colombia is renowned for paragliding, or parapente in Spanish, and it’s easy to arrange trips from Medellín, even on short notice.

The experience of leaping off a mountain into thermal currents with incredible deep green views beneath you is exhilarating (and maybe a little nerve-wracking), but professional guides will put you at ease.

They provide transportation out to the launching point, strap you to your guide, and teach you how to take off.

Some companies allow you to pay a little extra if you want GoPro footage of your adventure – check out Dragon Fly and Paragliding Medellín.

Book online : Paragliding the Andes from Medellín

15. Plaza Minorista Market

Get an authentic look at Medellín food culture by visiting one of the city’s markets.

Plaza Minorista is a huge farmer’s market filled with local vendors selling everything from fresh produce and fish to just-butchered meats and ready-made corn arepas.

It’s a great place to bring your camera to capture all the bright colors and characters here.

Take a tour to do some fruit tasting or just buy some of what looks good for yourself – prices are cheap! There are plenty of little restaurants in Minorista where you can grab a set meal or a full breakfast, plus things like fish stew, coconut rice, and freshly squeezed fruit juice.

16. See a Fútbol Match

Football (soccer) in South America is close to religion, drawing excited and loyal fans to the stadiums to watch their teams play.

Medellín is no exception, and if you want to attend a sporting event doubles as a cultural experience, go see one of the city’s teams play.

Atlético Nacional and Independiente Medellín are the two local clubs, and you can usually get tickets between $12 and $25 USD. Buy them a couple days in advance and get advice on where to sit, depending on if you want things to be rowdy or (relatively) calm.

Even if you’re not a soccer fan, go for the energy of the stadium – the rambunctious fans, the singing, the shouting, banners, and even firecrackers going off during games are a one of a kind experience.

17. Parque Berrío

A plaza with fewer people trying to sell you things and ask for money and more folks just trying to meet up and hang out, Parque Berrío feels very local.

Tons of people gather here in the afternoon to sit and listen to street musicians play after buying beers and snacks from local vendors.

Old men gather to play games like dominos, and the locals here are pretty friendly.

Once the site of the old public market and home to public executions, the park was transformed in the early 90s when the area made way for the nearby metro station.

You can visit the old Iglesia la Candelaria on one side and a few blocks away is the much more touristy Plaza Botero.

18. Eat Colombian Food, Especially Bandeja Paisa

If you don’t know much about Colombian food, Medellín is the perfect place to get acquainted.

From the many exotic fruits to mondongo (tripe soup) to cheese-filled arepas, you’ll have no shortage of options.

The one thing you must try here is the local specialty, bandeja paisa, a gut-busting combination of meats like sausage and pork cracklings alongside beans, plantains, rice, a fried egg, and a few avocado slices they’ve thrown in for good measure.

Hatoviejo, Hacienda Junin, and Mondongo’s are all great places to try local cuisine.

19. Comuna 13 and Las Escaleras

Once part of the city you’d never even consider visiting, the government and local artists have joined forces to make Comuna 13 a better place to live.

The addition of colorful artwork, escalators, and increased safety measures have opened the neighborhood up to tourism and brought the community closer together.

Comuna 13 used to be so dangerous that only its residents would think of climbing the steep slopes to enter, but the addition of escalators as a form of social and democratic infrastructure have made it more approachable.

Visit to see the many murals, people, police officers, colorful hillside homes, and transformation that has taken place here.

Recommended tour : Medellín: Comuna 13 Neighborhood Tour

20. Go Biking or Ride ATVs Outside the City

The lush surroundings, hills, and mountains around Medellín make it a great playground for adventure-seekers.

To explore them, head out with a tour company who’ll set you up with a mountain bike or ATV, transport you about an hour outside of town, and let you speed around challenging trails.

It’s a great chance to go off-road and visit some sites that not a lot of tourists make it out to see.

Guanabana Tours will combine biking and ATV riding with parasailing, river rafting, and even trips to Guatapé.

Medellín Adventure Trails will take you around the rugged terrain on bikes or ATVs (or both) and include a stop for lunch at a trout farm.

Available tour : Medellin Off-Road Adventure Tour by Quad Bike

21. Museo de Arte Moderno Medellín

A very cool work of modern architecture itself, this small but edgy museum is home to modern artwork by Colombian and other Latin American artists.

While somewhat compact, the MAMM features several permanent and temporary exhibits, including paintings, videos, sculptures, and 3D creations both inside and out.

Modern art isn’t for everyone, so the museum does a good job providing explanations of each of the pieces.

The theater here shows movies occasionally, and the gift shop sells super unique souvenirs created by artists.

There’s a great terrace with views of the city, and a restaurant downstairs where you can have a drink.

22. Mercado del Río

A popular spot for eating and socializing, check out Mercado del Río for a choice of over 40 restaurants.

It’s a lively food court with a cool ambiance and many trendy options located near the MAMM. This place is packed at lunchtime and dinnertime with young professionals from nearby office buildings, so getting a seat might be a challenge.

A cool spot to come with friends, you’ll have your pick of everything from sushi, hamburgers, and paella to mexican, vegan, and mediterranean dishes.

You can also grab beers, cocktails, or a glass of wine and hang out over a few shared plates.

23. Go Shopping

Medellín is a great place to do some shopping, whether you’re after dirt-cheap knock offs or luxury stores.

El Hueco is where you’d go for a little bit of chaos, haggling, and lots of shops and street vendors selling fake brand-name goods and other odds and ends you might need.

For a more modern mall experience with a broad range of stores, check out the huge Centro Commercial Santa Fe or Oviedo.

For a unique, high-end experience just a few blocks away, check out Río Sur, a group of repurposed buildings which now contain upmarket boutique shops, salons, and lots of nightclubs, restaurants, and bars.

24. Cañón Del Río Claro Reserva Natural

This little piece of paradise is about three hours outside Medellín, and it’s a great place to spend a few nights relaxing in nature and exploring.

You can go hiking, ziplining, rafting, birdwatching, or cavern trekking around the Río Claro Valley and reserve.

As far as accommodation, there’s an eco-friendly lodge, plus cabins and camping available – be sure to bring cash! It’s a rustic place, but it’s surrounded by pure natural beauty, like the river which cuts through a marble canyon and jungle-like forests.

You’ll spot plenty of exotic wildlife here too, with monkeys, scorpions, massive butterflies, and tons of birds from parrots to toucans to hummingbirds, all at your doorstep.

25. Palacio de la Cultura Rafael Uribe Uribe

You won’t be able to avoid seeing this unique and imposing building, because of course you’ll be visiting the Plaza Botero.

Chances are you’ve never seen anything like its intricate and dizzying black and white facade though.

The architect who built it received so much public criticism for his work that he walked off the job (totally insulted), and the city finished his work in a completely different style (you’ll see, it’s very obvious). If it’s open, head inside to see the lovely courtyard with its fountain and gardens.

While the interior has fallen into disrepair a bit, there is some artwork to view and you can climb to the top for views of the city and plaza below.

25 Best Things to Do in Medellín (Colombia):

• Museo de Antioquia
• Free Walking Tour
• Take the Metrocable Up to Parque Arvi
• Santo Domingo and Biblioteca España
• The Botanical Gardens
• Parque Explora
• Check Out Poblado
• Casa de la Memoria
• Visit Guatapé
• Parque Lleras
• Go Salsa Dancing
• Plaza Botero
• El Castillo Museo y Jardines
• Go Paragliding
• Plaza Minorista Market
• See a Fútbol Match
• Parque Berrío
• Eat Colombian Food, Especially Bandeja Paisa
• Comuna 13 and Las Escaleras
• Go Biking or Ride ATVs Outside the City
• Museo de Arte Moderno Medellín
• Mercado del Río
• Go Shopping
• Cañón Del Río Claro Reserva Natural
• Palacio de la Cultura Rafael Uribe Uribe

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14 Things to Do in Medellín (and the ONE thing NOT to do!)

Once considered one of the deadliest cities in the world, Medellín has undergone a transformation over the last fifteen years that has made it one of the most modern places in all of Colombia .

The city has become a lot safer, and there is a fantastic metro and cable car system that could rival the best in Europe. Medellín is filled with lots of parks, new buildings, libraries, restaurants, and a growing tech scene.

The city has changed a lot, and you can tell the residents are very proud of everything they’ve accomplished. There’s a palpable sense of possibility in Medellin. Optimism and excitement are in the air.

Medellin is one of the best destinations for remote workers and is now one of “it” cities in the world. Tourists swarm here, and foreigners ( especially young digital nomads ) are settling and retiring here in droves. It was the most cosmopolitan and international city I visited in Colombia.

I spent close to a total of three weeks in Medellín and lvoed my time there. Here is a list of my favorite things to do and see after spending so much time there:

Table of Contents

1. Explore the Numerous Parks and Plazas

2. wander parque arvi, 3. explore jardín botánico, 4. see a soccer match, 5. take a day trip to guatapé, 6. take a free walking tour, 7. tour comuna 13, 8. visit the museo de antioquia, 9. wander the cementerio museo de san pedro, 10. see the casa de la memoria, 11. visit the museo de arte moderno, 12. take a food tour, 13. visit a microbrewery, 14. visit comuna 8, finally, don’t do the escobar tour, where to eat in medellín, is medellín safe.

Medellín’s year-round temperate climate makes it a perfect place to spend a lot of time outdoors, where people are always lounging around and vendors are peddling food and drinks. Two must-visit parks are:

• Plaza Botero – Botero is a famous artist from Medellin known for his drawing and statues of oversized people. This plaza is home to 23 Botero sculptures and is always packed with people taking photos, street performers, and artists. Located in the Old Quarter, you’ll find a couple of museums in the square too.
• Parque Lleras – Located right in the center of Poblado, this park is full of people all day and night. There are street vendors, food sellers, musicians, and people drinking into the wee hours of the night. It’s a wonderful place to people-watch and one of the best places to have fun in the city!

The park spans 16,000 hectares (almost 40,000 acres) and includes trails that date back over 1,500 years. At the park entrance, you’ll find a small market where local vendors and farmers set up shop as well as trails to hike. Most hikes are relatively easy too.

Admission is free, though if you want to take a guided tour, it’s 60,000 COP (in Spanish only).

The botanical gardens, a quiet retreat from the noise and chaos of the city, hosts numerous events, concerts, and festivals throughout the year. It covers over 14 hectares (35 acres) and is home to around 4,500 flowers and some 139 different bird species.

There’s also a nice (if not overpriced) restaurant in the center called Restaurante In Situ if you feel like spending more time here relaxing and taking in the scene. There’s also a more casual eatery with local dishes called Del Bosque Restaurante Café nearby as well. The Gardens are open 9am-4pm daily.

Soccer is religion here, and if there are games when you’re visiting you should really try to see one. Medellín has two local teams: Atlético Nacional and Independiente Medellín. Supporters of each team occupy bleachers at opposing ends of the stadium since things tend to get rowdy and violent when they are near each other.

Ticket prices are 20,000-50,000 COP. For a guided group experience, you can also join a tour that includes tickets, a jersey, beer, face painting, and a bilingual guide who will share their love and knowledge of the sport. Joining a group is a great way to meet other travelers too!

The main attraction is El Peñol, a granite monolith with over 700 concrete stairs etched in its side. For a few thousand pesos, visitors can climb to the top for breathtaking 360-degree views of the region.

Guatapé is a long day trip from Medellín (hostels in the city organize trips throughout the week, or you can pre-book with a local tour company online . I recommend trying to spend at least a night here so you aren’t rushed and can enjoy the area a little more. If you do the day trip, it’s around 11 hours, and includes both Guatapé and El Peñol, lunch, and a cruise. Expect to pay around 122,000 COP.

Real City Walking Tours has a great free tour that will give you an informative introduction to the city. You’ll get a lot of information, and the guides are wonderful. It’s the best free walking tour in town. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!

However, thanks to its street art (which was a reaction to heavy-handed police raids) there has been a huge influx of tourists. That has made part of the area safer and led to a rise in business and commerce. It’s really changed the fabric of the community. Local residents are even coming here now, figuring that if the tourists are going, it must be good!

You can visit by yourself or go on a tour (where a guide will explain the history of the area and the artists). There are a ton of companies offering tours here. Some of the better ones are:

• Comuna 13 Graffiti Tour – This four-hour tour runs daily at 10am and 3pm. Tickets are 90,000 COP per person.
• Zippy Tour – This tour lasts two and a half hours and runs every day at 10am, 2pm, and 4pm (no 4pm tours on Sundays). While technically free, don’t forget to tip your guide at the end!
• Medellín City Tours – Tours offered daily 9am and 2pm. Tickets are around 118,000 COP per person.

Founded in 1881, this interesting art museum is home to numerous pre-Colombian works as well as national and international works by famous artists (there are a bunch of Boteros here too) and a wide variety of photographs and sculptures. There are a lot of works by native muralist Pedro Nel Gómez as well. It was the second museum established in the entire country (and the first in the Antioquia region).

Cl. 52 #43, +57 4-251-3636, museodeantioquia.co. Open Monday-Saturday 10am-5:30pm. Admission is 30,000 COP per person.

Built in 1842, this cemetery is also a museum where you can see the monuments and graves of many famous Colombians while learning about their lives and contributions. There’s a lot of large marble mausoleums and statues here. Keep an eye out for special events such as midnight tours and movie nights. The cemetery is small but it’s also close to the botanical gardens so you can do both one after the other.

Cra. 51 #68-68, +57 4-516-7650, cementeriosanpedro.org.co. Open daily 8am-5pm. Admission is free.

The Memory House Museum opened in 2012 and examines the history of armed conflict in Colombia, including all the conflicts with the drug cartels that plagued the city for decades. It sheds light on the struggles the people of Colombia have had to overcome to get where they are today. There are lots of multimedia displays, including photos, videos, and recordings from people who experienced the conflicts and massacres. It’s a very sobering and solemn place but it offers some important insights into the city and its people. Don’t miss it.

Parque Bicentenario, +57 4-520-2020, museocasadelamemoria.gov.co. Open Tuesday-Friday 9am-5:30pm and weekends 10am-3:30pm. Admission is free and includes a free audio guide. Guided tours are available on Tuesdays and Fridays (contact the museum for details).

The Museum of Modern Art, located in a refurbished industrial building, is an awesome work of art in itself. There’s a ton of open and exposed space, giving it a really charming feel. Many people have a love-hate relationship with modern art (it’s not my personal favorite, I admit) but even I enjoyed my visit here.

The collection is small, but there’s also a beautiful photography section on the bottom floor. Even if it’s not your thing, it’s worth spending a couple hours here to get a sense of the modern art scene in the city.

Cra. 44 #19a-100, +57 4-444-2622, elmamm.org. Open Tuesday-Friday 9am-7pm, on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays 11am-6pm. Admission is 24,000 COP per person.

If you’re looking to taste a sample of what Medellín has to offer, there are a couple of food tour companies that can help. It’s a great way to get a taste for the local cuisine while learning about the country’s traditions in the process. There are plenty of options, including:

• Food Tour with Medellín City Tours – Choose to experience breakfast, lunch, or dinner on daily tours at 9am, 2pm, and 6pm. Tickets start from 176,000 COP.
• Street Food and Poblado Rooftop Tour with a Local – On this tour of the Poblado neighborhood, you’ll enjoy five street food snacks while learning about the area. Tours start at 129,000 COP.
• Coffee Tour With Tastings and Lunch – Visit D’arrieros Coffee Farm just outside the city to learn about the coffee production process and taste some of the farm’s coffee. You’ll get to take home a bag as well. Tours start at 195,000 COP and include round-trip transportation from Medellín.

If you find yourself parched after an afternoon of sampling the city’s delicious cuisine, consider taking a brewery or craft beer tour to quench your thirst. There is an up-and-coming craft beer scene in Colombia, and Medellín has dozens of breweries and microbreweries. These are some of the best places to try a local beer:

• 3 Cordilleras – Runs tours Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings, offering five samples for 50,000 COP per person.
• OlBroder Cerveza Artesanal – A community-oriented brewery and taproom founded by two brothers. They focus on using local ingredients and regularly host live music and tasting events. Tastings are around 25,000-30,000 COP per person and advanced booking is required.
• 20 Mission Cerveza – Has great beer, tasty food, and is a fun place to hang out and meet people. They offer tours of the brewery and they also host music events and DJs. It’s super popular and one of the best places in town to grab a beer.

Much like Comuna 13, this area was one of the poorest in Medellín — and it still is. This district was really isolated until the city built a gondola from downtown, allowing people to get to work a lot more easily.

La Sierra runs a tour to teach people about the history of the area, and, unlike Comuna 13, it’s not overrun with tourists. It’s a small district and the tour doesn’t last long, but you get a much more authentic look at the city and its people and history than you do in Comuna 13 (where the focus is more on street art). I highly recommend it; it was one of the most insightful experiences I had in Medellín. Reservations are required.

The locals here are not fans of Pablo Escobar. His violent life and legacy caused untold amounts of harm to the city and its population, and while it’s always good to learn about the history of a destination, glorifying this is not something I want to support. You can learn about his life online in a way that doesn’t spit in the face of the locals, many of whom don’t even speak his name. Out of respect for them, I encourage you to skip the Escobar tour.  

• Restaurante Mondongo’s El Poblado – Traditional Colombian food in a relaxed atmosphere. Try the mondongo , a traditional tripe soup. It comes with a ton of side dishes (including giant avocados). Come early, as this place gets packed. Try to avoid the weekend. (Cl. 10 #38-38)
• Carmen – High-end gastronomy with some of the best food in all of Colombia. It’s expensive but worth it. It was the best splurge meal I had in the country. (Cra. 36 #10a-27)
• Mercado del Rio – An awesome food court offering all sorts of delicious food from dozens of vendors. There’s something for everyone here. (Cl. 24 #48-28)
• 20 Mission – A great microbrewery with delicious food too! Try the IPA. (Cl. 16 #43f-66)
• Pergamino Café – A chill café with some of the best coffee in town. I spent a lot of time working here. They make great breakfast food, BLTs, and empanadas. (Cra. 37 #8A-37)
• 37 Park – Another great bar and restaurant with a rustic outdoor garden. (Cra. 37 #8A – 4)
• Hatoviejo – This is one of the best places to get traditional Colombian food. It’s pricey when compared to some of the hole-in-the-wall restaurants you’ll find throughout town. (Cl. 16 #28-60)

“No dar papaya” is a common saying in Colombia, which translates as “don’t give papaya.” It means don’t give anyone the chance to steal your stuff by walking around and being flashy or reckless. You should be cautious here.

That means no walking around with your phone out, never keeping anything in your pockets (especially when on public transport), and always keeping hold of your bag. If you are eating out, keep your backpack on your lap or place your foot or a chair leg through your strap. It is very common for someone to try to do a bag swap (meaning they swap their empty bag for yours).

For more in-depth coverage of how to stay safe in Colombia, check out this post that answers some frequently asked questions and concerns.

Lastly, make sure to purchase good travel insurance before you go. I recommend SafetyWing if you’re on a budget and just need basic coverage and World Nomads if you want something more comprehensive.

I was never bored in Medellín . In a country full of hype, this hyped-up city is all that it’s cracked up to be. It has enough activities to fill weeks on end. Combined with the low cost of travel and living, it’s no wonder more and more people are visiting the city.

(And, while it’s easy to get lost in Gringoland here, try to get out of Poblado or Laureles and see the locals’ side of town. That’s where the magic of Medellín happens!)

Book Your Trip to Colombia: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. Two of my favorite places to stay are:

• The Wandering Paisa

If you’re looking for more places to stay, here are my favorite hostels in Medellín !

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (for everyone below 70)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Colombia? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Colombia for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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16 Top-Rated Things to Do in Medellin

Written by Mark Johanson , Lana Law , and Michael Law Updated Feb 15, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Authors Michael and Lana Law have visited Colombia on several occasions and were in Medellin most recently in the fall of 2022.

If ever there was a city brimming with 21st-century optimism, it's Medellin. With a comfortable, mild climate and cosmopolitan feel, this city of 4 million — the second largest city in Colombia after Bogotá — hasn't always had an easy time of it.

In 1988, Time magazine declared Medellin "the most dangerous city in the world." In 2013, The Wall Street Journal called it the most innovative metropolis on the planet. Today, Medellin is a hot spot for digital nomads and remote workers who come here to enjoy the city for more than just a holiday.

Needless to say, much has changed over the last few decades, and this is no longer the city once in the grip of the famed narco-trafficker Pablo Escobar. Far from it, Medellin is overflowing with things to do for all types of travelers and packs a way bigger punch than most cities of its size.

Unlike other large South American cities where the old town area typically has the majority of sights, many of Medellin's main attractions are quite spread out. This coupled with significant traffic means that it takes time to see and do things, so plan accordingly.

1. Wander the Streets of El Poblado

2. the medellin metrocable, 3. plaza botero, 4. the museum of antioquia, 5. shopping in downtown medellin, 6. comuna 13, 8. mamm: medellín museum of modern art, 9. the botanical garden and parque explora, 10. museo casa de la memoria (house of the memory museum), 11. palacio of culture rafael uribe uribe, 12. barrio manila, 13. plaza cisneros, 14. museo del agua epm & barefoot park, 15. pueblito paisa, 16. el castillo museo y jardines.

Medellin's star attraction is the neighborhood of El Poblado. Shady streets lined with huge leafy trees are home to restaurants, cafés, and boutique shops. Walking along some of the roads leaves you feeling like you're in a park, with a giant canopy of leaves over top and a small river tumbling below the sidewalk. It's a wonderful area to explore by day or to go for nightlife, and a good place to base yourself in the city.

Calle 10 is the main street through El Poblado and is always a busy, happening area. Smaller roads leading off this street are where you'll find interesting places to eat or hang out. Wander down Carrera 37 for a quaint and quiet atmosphere of restaurants and shops, or head to the pedestrian-only Carrera 35 for a more lively atmosphere and music.

Restaurants in El Poblado

You'll find no end of restaurants in El Poblado, from fine dining to street-side patios, and even grab-and-go fast-food places. For a great atmosphere and outdoor patio dining, as well as excellent food, try Bonhomia on Carrera 37.

For something a little more casual, head across the street to 37 Park Medellin . This restaurant has the look and feel of a tree house and is a good place to meet international travelers.

Mondongos is a restaurant that many Colombians will recommend and is a good option if you want to try some traditional dishes, like tripe soup. It's right on busy Calle 10 and easy to find.

Coffee Culture in El Poblado

Colombia is the world's third-largest coffee producer , and many of the beans come from the hills of Antioquia surrounding Medellin. Of course, you don't need to leave town to experience the distinct flavors of Colombian coffee. The trendy El Poblado neighborhood is a hub of coffee culture and absolutely brimming with hip cafés grinding strong local roasts.

The granddaddy of them all is Pergamino , with hot and cold beverages made largely from beans grown on the owner's family farm. Right across the street, you'll find the equally recommended Café Velvet , while on the far side of the neighborhood (and much closer to the El Poblado metro stop) lies Urbania Café , which has rotating art exhibitions on the walls and a great selection of Colombian design and fashion magazines to read with your latte.

Each of these cafés makes its own blends from regional beans and sells them by the bag for prices you're unlikely to find back home.

Medellin lies in a big Andean bowl, and the best way to take in the panorama is simply to hop on public transportation and connect to the Medellin Metrocable.

These futuristic cable cars soar above the city into the surrounding hills, offering unrivaled views that are perfect for avid photographers. One option is to ride Line J over social housing towers and smaller shantytowns to an outstanding overlook near the final station at La Aurora .

A more popular thing to do, however, is take Line L up to Arvi Park , an urban oasis of forested hills that feels a world away from the city center. This vast park is the perfect getaway for nature lovers, with peaceful walking trails and plenty of food and craft vendors to satisfy your every need.

Hometown hero Fernando Botero donated 23 of his larger-than-life sculptures to the city of Medellin, and you'll find them sprinkled around the aptly named Plaza Botero (near the Parque Berrio metro station).

From rotund Roman legionaries to overstuffed animals, these portly figures have become symbolic of downtown Medellin and are surely some of the most photographed artworks in all of Colombia. Their setting against the ornate black-and-white patterns of Rafael Uribe Uribe Palace of Culture only highlights the overall appeal.

This is a busy square with a bit of an edgy feel to it. It's best to go during the day and ensure all your valuables are out of sight.

You'll find even more of Botero's works — including famed paintings like La Muerte de Pablo Escobar ( the death of Pablo Escobar ) — in the Museum of Antioquia (Museo de Antioquia).

Located along the western edge of Plaza Botero, this three-story facility is the second oldest museum in the country. It includes a wide spectrum of art from pre-Columbian Colombia right up to modern masters like Botero. Other items in the collection include ceramics, furniture, and pre-Colombian pottery.

If you only go to one museum in Medellin, make it this one.

Address: Carrera 52 # 52-43, Medellín, Antioquia

Official site: http://www.museodeantioquia.co

The area south and west of Plaza Botero is a veritable shopping paradise. Just wander down the pedestrian-only Calle 52 , and you'll soon be in the heart of it. The entire area is jammed full of shops selling just about anything you can imagine. Many of the buildings have long galleries that create an almost warren-like area of small shops. Wander into one, and you aren't quite sure where you'll exit.

Fortunately this huge shopping area is well organized by item. If you are looking for fabric for curtains for example, all the fabric sellers are located together. Need a power tool? All the hardware stores are right next to one another.

One building that is not to be missed is the National Palace Mall . This spectacular building has been wonderfully restored to its former glory complete with massive chandeliers and skylights. This is the place in Medellin to come to for the latest fashions.

Comuna 13 was once the most dangerous neighborhood in Medellin. Now it's fast becoming one of the city's top tourist attractions, with tour groups wandering through its graffiti-filled streets . Why? An ever-growing system of open-air escalators linking together Comuna 13's cliff-clinging communities has helped drive down crime and elevate community pride.

Many of the escalator operators are also street artists who've livened up the edges of the escalator route with colorful murals that both reflect the neighborhood's tough past and offer hope for a promising future. To get the most out your visit, it's best to take a tour with an English-speaking guide from a company like Comuna 13 Tours .

Official site: http://www.comuna13tours.com

There is so much to see and do within Medellin that it can be hard to leave. However, one of the top attractions among most visitors actually lies 90 kilometers out of town. El Peñón de Guatapé is a monolithic rock formation that soars 200 meters above the surrounding landscape.

Climb the 750 concrete steps to the top, and your reward is 360-degree views over the Guatapé Reservoir , a manmade lake that has numerous tentacles lined with vacation homes and hotels. The viewing platform up top has plenty of drink vendors and shaded tables to cool off at before huffing it back down to the bottom.

The best way to visit is by a Full-Day Guatapé (Pueblo de Zocalos) from Medellin that includes lunch and a boat trip out onto the turquoise lake to view El Peñón from afar.

If you go on your own, count on a minimum of four hours of travel time to get there and back.

This modern art museum is, without a doubt, the star attraction of the up-and-coming Ciudad del Rio neighborhood, a former industrial area along the Medellin River that has been gentrified in recent decades and is now home to artists' lofts, sculpture-filled gardens, and top-tier dining.

Built within (and all around) the refurbished confines of a 1939 steel mill, MAMM showcases some of the stars of Colombia's contemporary art scene, including pop artists Beatriz González and expressionist Débora Arango. Ride the elevator up to the top floor of this five-story building and wind your way down for the best experience.

Address: #19A, Cra. 44 #16 Sur100, Medellín, Antioquia

Official site: http://www.elmamm.org

Need a break from the city noise? Head to the Botanical Garden near the Universidad metro station, where 14 hectares of green space awaits. This sprawling and free-to-enter garden not only showcases more than 600 species of trees and plants, but also has a herbarium, lagoon, and popular butterfly enclosure.

Just across the street from the botanical gardens, you'll find another must-see attraction: Parque Explora . This family-friendly complex boasts a vivarium (for reptiles and amphibians), a planetarium (for stargazing), and Latin America's largest freshwater aquarium (which showcases many critters from the Amazon Basin). There are also three interactive areas, with educational exhibits on physics, neuroscience, and communications.

You can explore Medellin's sordid past, collective progress, and promise for a brighter future at Museum House of the Memory. This striking (and free-to-enter) complex opened in 2012 to offer a space for victims of Colombia's armed conflict to amass and dignify their memories.

The archival collections depict the history of drug and paramilitary violence in the country as well as the fight for peace and unity. It is, perhaps, the best place in Medellin to come to grips with Colombia's headline-making history and put a face to the victims of Latin America's longest-running armed conflict.

Address: Calle 51 # 36-66 Bicentennial Park, Medellin

Official site: http://museocasadelamemoria.gov.co

As you wander around Plaza Botero, the one building that keeps drawing your eye again and again is the checkerboard patterned Palacio of Culture Rafael Uribe Uribe. This building, done in the Gothic Revival style first started in 1925, was abandoned for many years and was finally finished in 1982.

The building is open to the public with no admission charge, so feel free to wander in and take a look around. The massive dome is quite spectacular, and the Rafael Uribe Uribe Museum room is worth a look.

Exceptionally green and effortlessly chic, this pocket-sized barrio on the edge of El Poblado offers a quieter alternative to its neighbor. Home to a number of fantastic accommodation options across all budgets, Manila is also your go-to spot for some of the trendiest open-air restaurants in the city, including Tal Cual and Malevo (for chargrilled meats).

Want a healthy breakfast? Head to Café Al Alma for a big bowl of granola and yogurt with local fruits. In the mood for an afternoon pick-me-up? Try Hija Mia for one of the silkiest americanos in town.

Plaza Cisneros is yet another example of a section of Medellin that was once full of drugs and violence but is now a relatively safe and popular destination for sightseeing.

Walk by during the day, and it might not look like much, but head back after dark and the 300 light poles scattered throughout the plaza will surely leave an impression. These 24-meter-high beacons are like giant Jedi lightsabers brightening up the night sky.

More than just pretty lights, this plaza is also home to some spectacular architecture, including the angular Biblioteca EPM , a library with a small museum and free Wi-Fi. Head across Avenida San Juan for even more architectural marvels like the bumblebee-colored towers of Plaza de la Libertad.

Address: Cl. 44 #52-50, Medellín, Antioquia

The Museo del Agua (Museum of Water) is, as the name suggests, all about water, from its origins to modern-day uses. You have to explore the museum on a guided tour, so be sure to check in advance to see when tours are starting.

Immediately outside the museum is Barefoot Park, a zen-inspired public park designed by local architect Felipe Uribe de Bedout. You can take off your shoes and wander through its green gardens, sandy pits, and bubbling water fountains to experience the different textures and contemplate how they feel. The idea is to reconnect with nature in a way humans lost when we started wearing modern footwear.

Equally enjoyable for both kids and adults, the park has plenty of shady nooks and cooling waterways to beat the heat on a scorching afternoon.

Address: Cra. 58 #42-125, Medellín, Antioquia

This mock town atop Cerro Nutibara is like a living museum, where you can walk back in time to the turn of the century and experience life in rural Antioquia. The village centers around a traditional town square with a church, mayor's office, barbershop, and one-room schoolhouse.

Its hilltop setting also makes it a great spot simply to get a bird's-eye view of the city below. You'll find plenty of souvenir and handicraft shopping here alongside some excellent restaurants where you can try the paisa cuisine of the Colombian Andes, including classic dishes like bandeja paisa, a belly-busting platter of ground meat, fried plantains, and avocados served with rice and refried beans.

You may not expect to find a castle in Medellin, but one does exist and it's spectacular. Once a private residence, and then for many years an entertainment venue for VIPs, today the castle and grounds are an attraction open to everyone for a modest admission fee.

One-hour, Spanish-only tours leave on the hour. Knowledgeable guides provide the background and history of the slightly dated but still sumptuous interior. The grounds display tropical plants, fountains, and large trees.

A popular pastime is to grab some takeout from a restaurant in nearby Poblado and have a picnic. A small restaurant on-site also provides food and beverages.

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Cartagena : No visit to Colombia is complete without some time spent wandering the historic streets of Cartagena, the jewel of Colombia's tourist scene . Plan a stay in one of the luxurious, centuries-old hotels in the walled city, or scope out where to stay in Cartagena to see different neighborhoods or even save some money on accommodation.

Plan out the rest of your trip to this incredible country with our guide to the top attractions and places to visit in Colombia .

More on Colombia

Wander-Lush

30 Things to Do in Medellin, Colombia’s City of Eternal Spring

30 of the very best things to do in Medellin, Colombia’s spellbinding second city.

The second-largest city in the country and capital of the north-western Antioquia Department, Medellin ( Medellín ) is indisputably a must-visit place in Colombia .

I knew Medellin was my kind of city even before I arrived – which is why I booked a three-week stay to kick-start my Colombia trip. Just as I had predicted, it took me all of two minutes on the airport bus to decide that I loved the ‘City of Eternal Spring’.

Medellin is a hub of vibrant Paisa culture , with an incredible food and local coffee scene, great museums and galleries, public sculptures and street art, bustling fruit markets , colourful neighbourhoods , and lots of urban green spaces.

It’s a city that has undergone dramatic changes in recent decades. I would describe it as a city with an old soul and a young, energetic, creative spirit.

This list of the 30 best things to do in Medellin brings together quintessential Medellin must dos, alternative attractions in Medellin, immersive experiences for food and coffee lovers, and outdoor adventures to help you enjoy Medellin to the max.

• First time in Medellin? Copy my 2-day Medellin itinerary for the perfect visit.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

Medellin Quick Links

Where to stay in Medellin: The Wandering Paisa (hostel); 574 Hotel (mid-range); Quinta Ladera (boutique hotel); Sites Hotel (luxury). Pre-book your airport transfer: 24/7 transfer to any hotel in Medellin , operated by Impulse Travel (from $25). Best city walking tour: Private City Tour with Metrocable and Comuna 13 (from $53). Best Comuna 13 tour: Comuna 13 Graffiti Tour with Local Guide (from $25). Best coffee experience: Coffee Tour With Tastings and Lunch (from $42). Best day trip from Medellin: Guatape & El Peñol Rock (from $37).

Essential things to do in Medellin

Let’s start with the top Medellin attractions and must-have Colombia experiences .

If you have just one or two days in Medellin, prioritise these 15 activities to ensure you leave with a holistic picture of the city.

1. Take the Free Walking Tour

A city walking tour is one of the best free things to do in Medellin and the perfect way to get your bearings when you first arrive. There is only one company worth mentioning, and that’s Real City Tours .

This is honestly one of the best free walking tours I’ve done anywhere in the world (and I’ve done a lot!). Groups are small (currently capped at six people) and the local guides are very engaging.

If you’re lucky enough to get Caro, you’re in for a real treat: She knows everything there is to know about Medellin and is truly one of the most memorable guides I’ve had the pleasure of meeting.

The itinerary focuses on Medellin’s downtown (El Centro) . Whilst covering the major streets, parks and plazas, you’ll pick up lots of information about Medellin’s history and social change.

The tour runs twice a day Monday-Friday and once in the morning on Saturday (no tours on Sundays). It lasts 3.5-4 hours, and payment is based on tips. Bookings are essential – reserve a place online .

Specialty city tours:

• Private 5-hour city tour of Medellin with hotel transfers & a metrocable ticket. Includes Botero Square, Comuna 13, Pueblito Paisa, the Botanical Gardens and more. From $53 per person.
• 4-hour (20km) e-bike tour of Medellin . Includes El Poblado, Ciudad del Río, Laureles and a Colombian coffee experience. From $42 per person including bike hire.
• 5-hour Medellin gastronomic tour with my favourite tour company, Impulse Travel. Includes local food tastings and markets. From $150 per person.

2. Ride the iconic Medellin Metrocable

The Metrocable (cable car system) is a symbol of Medellin. For locals, it’s a way of life: The cable cars are the only practical way to access the hillside barrios where the streets are too steep and narrow for buses.

For us tourists, soaring above the rooftops in a gondola is a fun and affordable way to get spectacular views. It’s definitely a must do in Medellin.

The Metrocable has six lines that connect downtown Medellin in the Alburra Valley basin with different  settlements in the surrounding hills. My favourites are the K/L Lines to Parque Arvi (more on that later), and the J Line from San Javier (the location of Comuna 13 – see the next section for more) to La Aurora.

The gondola stations connect up to the Medellin metro system for seamless travel around the city. See #16 on this list for more info about the metro and how you can use it to go on a self-guided ‘tour’ of Medellin.

A single fare for the Metrocable costs 2,750 COP (around 70 US cents) or 2,430 COP if you have a (free) rechargeable Civica card. The L Line to Parque Arvi costs 10,600 COP. For more tips, see this comprehensive guide to using public transport in Medellin .

3. Explore Comuna 13 with a local guide, a Medellin must-do

The Comuna 13 commune is home to the most well-known of Medellin’s hillside barrios. Once considered the most dangerous place in the country (and one of the deadliest places in the world), the neighbourhoods that make up Comuna 13 have undergone immense transformation in recent decades thanks in no small part to projects such as the escaleras electricas (outdoor escalators) that ‘reconnected’ the area with the rest of the city.

Today, Comuna 13 is known for its vibrant street art and large-scale murals. Walking through this open-air gallery is an immersive history lesson: You’ll learn a lot about the events of the past, including Medellin’s gang violence, and most of all witness how hopeful people are for a brighter future .

I highly recommend visiting Comuna 13 with a local guide who can add context and narrative to the experience. This small-group tour lasts 4 hours and will lead you to the most important street art pieces and the best viewpoints . Here is a private tour option if you prefer.

Before you go, read my 13 tips for visiting Comuna 13 so you know what to expect.

4. Eat Bandeja Paisa at Hacienda

There’s a whole food-focused section of this guide coming up later, but I have to mention one foodie experience now: Eating Bandeja Paisa! Colombia’s national dish and a regional specialty in these parts, it’s one of the top things to do in Medellin not just for foodies, but for all travellers.

A worker’s lunch born on the coffee plantations of Antioquia Department, Bandeja Paisa is a work of culinary art. I didn’t know it was possible to cram so many flavours and textures (and calories!) onto one plate.

Every version is a bit different but in essence, Bandeja Paisa is a medley of beans, blood sausage, chorizo and chicharrón (deep-fried pork rind) served with rice and an arepa, and topped off with fresh avocado and a fried egg.

And everyone has their favourite rendition – mine is the finca-to-table Bandeja Paisa served at Hacienda . Their Juna restaurant near Parque Berrio is particularly nice, with its open-air dining veranda. One portion is big enough for two people, or you can opt for a single-serve ‘Mini Bandeja’.

5. See how you measure up in the Plaza Botero

The heart of Medellin’s historic Old Quarter, Plaza Botero is one of the loveliest squares in the city. You’ll find several monumental pieces of architecture and important museums around the periphery (more on those later), but the plaza itself is a great place for a stroll.

Botero Plaza is dedicated to Medellin-born artist Fernando Botero , who donated 23 of his larger-than-life sculptures to the city. I first encountered Botero’s work at the Cascade Complex in Yerevan, Armenia , so it was a real treat for me to see his works displayed in his home city.

Botero’s daring bronze forms push the boundaries of physics and political correctness alike! Some of his most iconic works include ‘Roman Soldier’ and the buxom ‘Eve’ . Rubbing the statues is said to bring good luck, so you’ll notice that many are buffed in certain ‘special’ locations.

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Medellin, wandering the Botero Plaza and admiring the bulging statues is definitely a must. For something more in-depth, this Botero-focused city tour explores the artist’s life and legacy in Medellin.

6. Ohh and ahh at the Museo de Antioquia

Located on Botero Plaza, the Museum of Antioquia (Museo de Antioquia) is my top choice of museum in central Medellin. This was the first museum established in Antioquia and is devoted to who else but two of the city’s most acclaimed artists, Botero and painter-muralist Pedro Nel Gómez .

I love Botero’s sculptures, but I adore his paintings. The work that most people make a beeline for is ‘Death of Pablo Escobar’ (1999), which depicts the infamous gangster’s demise against a backdrop of Medellin’s orange rooftops.

The museum is open 10am-5pm Monday to Saturday. Entrance costs around 18,000 COP. There is a free guided tour available every afternoon at 2pm.

If you’re planning to visit Medellin in high season, you may want to pre-purchase a skip the line ticket to avoid having to queue.

7. Stop by the Palace of Culture

Also facing onto Plaza Botero, the Rafael Uribe Palace of Culture is one of the most distinctive buildings in Medellin. The black-and-white stonework and Gothic-style arches are the work of Belgian architect Agustín Goovaerts, who designed the Palace as a venue for cultural programs and exhibitions staged by the regional government.

The building is open to the public. Inside, the Institute of Culture and Heritage of Antioquia houses a photo archive. There’s also a library, an art gallery and a cafe.

8. Shoot the breeze in Parque Berrio

Nearby Berrío Park sits smack-bang in the centre of Medellin and is therefore often thought of as the ‘nucleus’ of the city . It’s a hive of activity at all hours, a place for families and groups of friends to gather, where old men come to play checkers and vendors come to peddle their goods.

When the nearby Catholic church was first built in the 1640s (more in the next section), Parque Berrio was simply known as ‘Main Square’ . Parishioners would gather here before and after services – so you can see that meeting in this spot is a long-standing Medellin tradition.

The square has been pivotal to the city’s history through the ages: Various political announcements and demonstrations took place on these very paving stones.

Although it can be a bit rowdy (and a bit seedy at certain times of day), this is prime people-watching territory . With all the yelling and conversations going on, you might even learn some Spanish by osmosis!

For the best views down onto the square, head up to the adjacent Parque Berrio Metro Station platform.

9. Visit Medellin’s oldest church

The Basilica of Our Lady of Candelaria behind Parque Berrio dates back to Colombia’s colonial era. As well as being one of the most beautiful churches in Medellin, it’s also the city’s oldest.

Roman Catholic parishioners have been worshipping at the stone church since 1649. Outside, the Neoclassical facade is grand and austere; inside, a gold-coloured altar sits beneath a painting of the Virgin of Candelaria, Medellin’s patron saint.

You can get a great view of the church’s exterior from the platform at the nearby Parque Berrio metro station. Just footsteps from Plaza Botero and the museum, it’s a worthwhile addition to your itinerary when you’re in the El Centro district.

10. Get lost in a fruit market

Antioquia is Colombia’s fruit bowl , and Medellin is where the region’s farmers come to trade their tropical delights. There are several fruit markets in the city worth visiting . My personal favourite is the Plaza Minorista José María Villa , or The Minorista for short.

The Minorista is an atmospheric green market made up of 3,000-plus undercover stalls. Roam the aisles, chatting with the friendly los vendedores (vendors) who are usually more than happy to offer free samples of their most exotic offerings: Maracuyá, zapote, mangosteen, curuba and more.

Watch your toes as people race around the aisles with trolleys and crates of fruit. Don’t forget to look up at the beautiful hand-painted signs above some of the older stalls, family-run businesses that have been operating here for generations.

Climb the stairs to the second level to look directly down on the market floor and admire the chaos. Here’s where you’ll also find breakfast stalls and juice bars where you can pick your favourite fruit and have it blended to order.

The Minorista opens bright and early at 4.30am daily . It’s best to arrive early for the best variety and the an energetic atmosphere.

11. Hike in Parque Arvi, Medellin’s green lung

Located in a valley north-east of the city centre and reachable from downtown via the Line L Metrocable, Parque Arvi (Arví Park) is literally a breath of fresh air. The huge nature reserve and archaeological site offers walking and biking trails, waterfalls, a farmers’ market, coffee shops, and more.

You could easily spend a full afternoon here recharging your batteries.

Much of the 16,000-hectare park can be explored over 56 miles (90km) of walking trails . Marked paths range from easy strolls through wildflower groves and butterfly habitat, to more strenuous hikes.

Short guided walks depart regularly from the visitor’s centre and last from 1-4 hours. Or you can set out alone on one of the easier-to-follow hikes , such as the Trail of the hill.

Don’t miss the Mercado Arví , a daily farmers’ market next to the Metrocable station where you can buy local fruit, coffee and Colombian handicrafts.

12. Visit Pueblito Paisa, a model village in the heart of Medellin

Perched atop Nutibara Hill in the city centre, Pueblito Paisa is a miniature version of a typical Antioquian pueblo or town. If you don’t have time to travel out of the city to a real pueblo, this is the next best thing. (There’s no comparison really, but at least you can get an idea of the architectural style!)

Make no mistake, this is one of Medellin’s most popular tourist attractions and it’s very commercial as a result. I just happened to be staying nearby and wandered up one night for a look. It is worth going out of your way for, but just be prepared for the crowds.

The village is laid out like a typical town , with a central cobbled square, church and fountain ringed by white facades with colourful trims. I later learned that some of the building materials used in construction were salvaged from a real pueblo near Guatape, including original wooden doors, windows, and the church altar.

The panoramic views from the top of the hill are worth the 20-minute walk up (don’t worry, you can drive all the way if you wish). There are several viewpoints scattered around the area where you can look out over Medellin and the river.

Pueblito Paisa is open from 6am until late every day. The Medellin City Museum is also located on the hill, adjacent to the pueblo.

13. Shop for souvenirs at the San Alejo Handicraft Market

If you happen to be visiting Medellin on the first Saturday of the month, don’t miss the San Alejo Handicraft Market in Parque Bolivar.

This showcase of local food projects and crafts only takes place once every four weeks. It’s a 35-year tradition, drawing crowds who shop directly from 400 artists, makers, antique vendors and artisanal farmers .

Indigenous artisans from communities around Medellin are also represented, making San Alejo one of the few places in the city where you can buy authentic handicrafts such as hand-woven Wayuu Mochila bags and colourful Mola textiles , traditionally made by the Kuna people.

14. Go cafe hopping in El Poblado, one of the best places in Medellin for coffee & culture

Because of its proximity to Colombia’s coffee region , Medellin is the ideal place to sample local beans. El Poblado district, the hub of cafe culture , has enough specialty coffee shops and outdoor cafes to keep you humming until the very last drop.

Spend an afternoon soaking up the atmosphere of Medellin’s coolest neighbourhood (part of Comuna 14 but a world away from Comuna 13) by hopping between the many gorgeous outdoor cafes and trying different specialty brews. Pergamino is possibly the most popular venue in the city.

For a more in-depth experience, consider joining this coffee shop hopping tour of El Poblado and Laureles with Impulse Travel. It includes several specialty cafes and a behind-the-scenes look at coffee culture in Colombia. For something hands-on, learn how the Colombians percolate with a Coffee Brewing Workshop hosted by El Poblado’s Avoeden Café.

El Poblado has a very different vibe after dark when it transforms into a bar district. If you’re more of a night owl, this bar hopping tour of El Poblado will give you a local’s insight into Medellin nightlife.

15. Sip Aguardiente and listen to Tango at Salon Malaga

One of the best things to do in Medellin at night is spend a few hours at Salón Málaga, a traditional piano bar with an old-timey feel and a wonderful atmosphere. It’s been a fixture of Medellin since 1957.

Settle in amongst the jukeboxes and retro music posters to listen to live tango and salsa . It’s not uncommon for couples to get up and start cutting a rug, so remember to wear your dancing shoes if you want to join in the fun.

A neat shot of aguardiente , Colombian ‘fire water’, should get things moving. Made from fermented sugar cane, it has a pleasant anise flavour and actually goes down quite smooth (well, sometimes).

Every region in Colombia produces its own aguardiente, but the liquor made in one department can’t be sold to another – so you know this is the real-deal Antioquean stuff.

Alternative things to do in Medellin

If you have more time in Medellin, consider some of these lesser-known attractions and activities.

16. Visit the Museo Casa de la Memoria

Founded in 2006 by the Victim Assistance Program of Medellin City Hall, the Museo Casa de la Memoria (House of Memory Museum) is a unique institution developed to help people reflect on and overcome the hardships associated with the violence of the 1980s to early 2000s.

As you’re probably already aware, Medellin was a very dangerous place in the 1990s especially. Countless people lost their lives to cartel violence and the military interventions that followed. The Casa de la Memoria gives their families and friends – and the community at large – a space to share their voices and rebuild.

It’s a very moving experience as you see, read and hear first-hand accounts in the photographs, videos and hand-written materials. Though sombre, it will deepen your understanding of modern-day Medellin.

17. Smell the orchids at Medellin’s oldest marketplace

If you can’t be in Medellin for the annual Feria de Las Flores Flower Festival, which takes place every August, the next best thing is to browse the Placita de Flórez flower market.

The oldest undercover market in the city (it dates back to 1891), the Placita is a short walk from the Casa de la Memoria in Bombona district. You can quite easily combine them into one visit.

The market is a bit of an unusual combination: On one level you’ll find beautiful fresh-cut flowers interspersed with butcher’s shops. Downstairs, you’ll find the fruit and vegetable vendors.

On the back wall of the lower level there’s a wildly popular food stall you can’t miss : It’s where Medellin’s best arepas de chócolo (sweet corn arepas served with a slab of cheese on top) are served.

Back outside the market, order a freshly pressed OJ from one of the roving juice carts while you sit on a plastic stool and observe the ins and outs of Colombian commerce.

18. Take a self-guided city tour by metro

Medellin’s award-winning public transport system isn’t just a way to get from A to B – you can also use it for a DIY, super affordable city tour . The Metrocable is one thing, but even the above-ground metro station platforms afford fantastic views of different plazas and notable buildings around the city.

I suggest taking Line A from El Poblado to Acevedo , disembarking at the Industriales, Exposiciones, Alpujarra, San Antonio, Parque Berrio, Prado and Hospital stations for different views of Medellin.

You can jump on and off and in most cases, transfer underneath from platform to platform, without having to buy a second ticket.

Just avoid using the metro during peak hour (Monday to Friday between 5pm and 7pm) as the stations and trains are always very busy around this time.

19. Stroll around leafy Laureles

Laureles is probably the most livable district in Medellin . I booked an Airbnb here without realising it was one of the city’s hottest suburbs, and I was very happy to be able to explore a ‘real’ local neighbourhood.

Originally a working-class area, parts of Laureles are now quite swish. It’s extremely leafy , with old growth trees lining wide roads, tons of dog parks and outdoor exercise areas, and open-air restaurants. Primer Parque de Laureles was my ‘local’ park during my short stay.

Parts of the district are laid out with roundabouts and curved streets , so it can be a bit confusing to try and navigate on foot. But getting lost and aimlessly strolling is all part of the fun.

There are a few notable attractions to seek out, including the Fundación Aburrá gallery-museum . For more things to do, see this detailed guide to the Laureles neighbourhood .

20. Attend a Colombian football match

Football (soccer) is a way of life in Colombia just as it is in many other parts of Latin America. To feel the pulse of the city and be part of one the nation’s most beloved traditions , why not attend a local match at Atanasio Girardot Stadium.

The city has two clubs, Nacional and Medellin, and both are revered. If either are playing during your visit, don’t miss your chance to cheer on the players alongside the home crowd. Match times are usually announced a few months in advance, and tickets can be purchased online.

For a different experience, sign up for an immersive football experience where you’ll attend the game accompanied by a local and participate in the pre-game rituals most tourists miss.

Best things to do in Medellin for foodies

Medellin is a true foodie paradise, with street food, cafes and restaurants on literally every corner. I’m not exaggerating when I say that chicharrones and arepas de chocolo changed my life.

Here are my favourite food-focused activities in Medellin.

21. Experience life-changing arepas de chocolo

I already alluded to arepas de chócolo, sweet corn cakes topped with creamy queso cheese . Trust me, these babies will make you re-define your idea of ‘delicious’.

This kind of arepa is traditional to Colombia’s Andean region, but thank goodness some master chefs decided to bring their recipes up north to the big city. Steamy, sweet-salty and creamy, they go perfectly with a hot cup of black coffee for breakfast .

The best arepas de chócolo are made from fresh-ground corn and served inside the Placita de Flórez .

22. Eat like a Paisa at Mondongo’s

Mondongo’s is part of Medellin’s old guard of bistros and an integral part of the city’s food landscape. The family owned restaurant first opened in 1976 on Avenida San Juan and has since expanded to several other locations around the city including in El Poblado . (Oh, and they also have a restaurant in Miami.)

The original philosophy of using food to bring Antioquian families together around their shared heritage of Paisa cuisine still stands. Today, this is still a very family oriented restaurant, the sort of place where you expect to see at least one birthday party every lunchtime.

There are just a dozen or so dishes on the menu, all traditional to the area. The star is of course mondongo , a soup/stew of pork, tripe and chorizo. It’s zingy and deep and a bit of an acquired taste, but definitely the thing to order if you want to eat like a local in Medellin.

23. Hunt down the city’s best Menu del Dia

Another life-altering food concept, the Menu del Día or Menu of the Day is an institution in Medellin and a godsend for budget travellers. Essentially this is a set menu offered at lunchtime that allows you to stock up on a day’s worth of calories for a very respectable price .

Sometimes called Ejecutivo in Colombia, Menu del Dia came by way of Spain where the notion of a fixed-price lunch was actually written into law by fascist dictator Francisco Franco. It normally includes a cold drink, a soup or salad, a hearty main meal, and a small dessert. Typically the cost is around 15,000 COP or 3.80 USD – not bad for a three-course meal.

If you have trouble deciding what to order at restaurants, this is a saviour. Just ask for the Menu del Dia and you’ll be served up with something fresh, seasonal and nutritious .

Bandeja Paisa is a popular choice for obvious reasons, but every cafe and restaurant puts their own spin on it. They rarely serve the same thing two days in a row, so you can pick your favourite establishment and keep coming back for something new.

My favourites are Restaurante Santas Melonas near El Poblado Park for a meaty Colombian spread, and Naturalia Café in Laureles for a lighter vegetarian lunch.

24. Eat Argentinian empanadas at Salon Versalles

Located on busy Avenida Maracaibo , Salon Versalles is a real gem in Medellin and an essential pitstop on any food quest. The traditional tea house was founded in 1961 by an Argentinean expat and was the first place in the city to serve pizza!

Versalles continues to push the envelope by serving up Argentine-style empanadas . The flaky pastry and rich, slightly spicy filling is what sets them apart from their Colombian counterparts.

Versalles turns out approximately 2,000 crescent-shaped pastries every day, along with Chilean empanadas filled with meat, olives and hard-boiled egg.

For something more substantial, there’s steak churrasco and Argentinian milanesa . Save room for dessert, specifically a big slice of Torta María Luisa , a traditional Colombian layer cake, or maybe a few buñuelos (fried dough balls). Pair your sweets with a tinto coffee and you’re all set.

Dark wood, booth seating and coiffed waiters in pressed whites give the cafe a fun retro vibe.

25. Snack your way around the Mercado del Rio

The Mercado del Río is a very different kind of marketplace to the ones already mentioned on this list. Similar to the Time Out Market in Lisbon , it is a contemporary food hall where you can eat a range of world cuisines under one roof.

Think of it as the United Nations of snacks . Around 50 restaurants are represented, serving everything from sushi to waffles, pizza to traditional Peruvian ceviche.

The warehouse space is beautifully decorated with lots of seating, which makes it a favourite place for friends to meet in the evening. The atmosphere is great , especially when there’s a local football game streaming on the big screen.

26. Join a Medellin food tour or cooking class

To learn more about Colombia’s food culture, I highly recommend you join a Medellin food tour . This itinerary is led by my favourite community-focused tour company in Colombia, Impulse Travel, and includes plenty of city sightseeing to offset the snacking . They even make a special trip to the flower market for the arepas – see, I told you they were good!

If you don’t mind getting your hands dirty, a Colombian cooking class in Medellin will arm you with arepa-making skills for life . I did a cooking class in Bogota and it was one of the highlights of my trip.

27. Tour a coffee plantation close to Medellin

Colombia’s Coffee Triangle lies beyond the borders of Medellin and requires more than a day trip. If you have limited time and you still want to see the bean-to-cup process , you can visit a coffee farm on the city’s doorstep instead.

This half-day coffee plantation tour includes private transfers, a cherry-picking tutorial, and a walk through the entire process of de-pulping, fermenting, drying, roasting and grinding.

I did a proper coffee cupping for the first time in the small town of Jerico and it changed the way I think about coffee forever. In Colombia, a coffee tasting takes on a whole new significance and will give you a huge appreciation for the farmers who toil to bring us our daily cuppa.

This professional coffee tasting in San Sebastián de Palmitas , 45 minutes from Medellin, takes place on a farm. You’ll learn the history of Colombian coffee, try your hand at harvesting beans, then sit down for a coffee tasting alongside a hearty Colombian meal.

Adventurous things to do in Medellin

Another thing Medellin has going for it is its proximity to nature. Here are three adventure activities for exploring the landscape beyond Parque Arvi.

28. Go horseback riding Colombia-style

After so long being tempted by the lush mountains around the city – visible from almost every street corner – it’s time to get out and explore. Horseback riding is an immersive way to soak up the magnificent landscapes on the fringe of the city.

This riding experience includes round-trip transfers from El Poblado and around 4 hours of riding in the hills, including to secret waterfalls and along jungle tracks.

29. Go paragliding for a bird’s eye view of Medellin

After my paragliding experience in Jerico, I can confidently say that Colombia is one of the best places on earth to soar with the birds. There are tandem paragliding opportunities in Medellin just 45 minutes from the centre, where you can fly over the Aburra Valley towards the Medellin River, El Quitasol hill and Picacho hill.

I recommend going with a reputable company that uses internationally certified guides .

30. Go quad biking, one of the best things to do in medellin for adventure

Another way to explore the mountains around Medellin is by ATV . This company offers 550cc quad bikes and experienced guides to lead you through the Antioquian mountains.

BONUS: Take a day trip from Medellin to a real pueblo

If Pueblito Paisa got you thinking about a day trip into coffee country, you’ll be glad to know there are dozens of gorgeous pueblos you can visit near Medellin. Colonial Santa Fe de Antioquia (pictured above), Guatape and Jardin are all fantastic day trips from the city.

All of these historic villages feature colourfully painted houses, grand churches and plazas, and historic architecture. Each one has its own unique museums and foodie experiences.

The most popular day trip from Medellin by far is an excursion to Guatape and El Peñol Rock . It requires a short drive and combines history with nature and a boat trip for a well-rounded day out.

Where to stay in Medellin

Medellin is a big city! Public transport connections are great, but everything is very spread-out, so you need to be strategic about where you stay (especially if you’re on a short trip). Moreover, some neighbourhoods are safer than others for tourists.

I stayed in the lovely Laureles neighbourhood when I visited Medellin. It’s leafy, it’s very walkable, there are dozens of amazing restaurants and cafes – and it’s away from the busy downtown area, giving it a more local feel. The northern part of Laureles is especially convenient because it’s close to the metro line.

If you prefer to be in the thick of it, El Poblado is the beating heart of ‘new’ Medellin. It can feel a bit touristy, but at the same time that means lots of options for eating out and revelling in Medellin’s nightlife.

Here are my top picks for where to stay in Medellin:

The Wandering Paisa

• Laureles district
• Dorms & doubles

• El Poblado district
• Doubles & singles

Quinta Ladera

• Doubles & suites

Factory Lofts

• Self-contained doubles

For more ideas, check out this list of excellent Airbnbs in Medellin for apartment rentals in Laureles, El Poblado and beyond.

Medellin travel FAQ

When is the best time to visit medellin.

Medellin is an all-year destination, with pleasant temperatures throughout the seasons (hence why it’s called the ‘City of Eternal Spring’).

High season (December-March) is the driest time of year, but it’s also the busiest period. If you do visit in December, try to time your trip for the Alumbrados Navideños Christmas celebration.

June-August is shoulder season and also a pleasant time to travel, especially if you’re interested in local culture and festivals . The biggest event on Medellin’s calendar is the Feria de Las Flores flower festival, which normally takes place over 10 days in August.

Rainy season (April/May and September/November) is a great choice for budget-conscious travellers as things are quieter and you can usually find some great deals on accommodation and tours. Like in Southeast Asia, afternoon downpours are normally short and sharp, so you can still spend time outdoors.

How many days should you spend in Medellin?

You don’t have to spend three weeks in Medellin like I did. Three or four full days is time enough to get a good overview of the city. With two days in Medellin , you can see the major highlights.

If you can, I do recommend travelling slowly and lingering a bit longer. One week in Medellin would be ideal.

Is Medellin safe for tourists?

Let me start by saying that I personally felt safe in Medellin at all times. Colombia often gets a bad wrap (a leftover from the 90s), but in reality things have changed a lot in the past few decades, especially in Medellin. You certainly shouldn’t let old news reports or media stereotypes put you off travelling.

But you do need to exercise caution in the city , especially when it comes to pickpocketing. Wear your backpack on your front, be careful when using your mobile phone in public, and avoid carrying valuables or large amounts of cash on you.

One of the first things you’ll hear in Medellin (especially if you join the Free Walking Tour) is the phrase, ‘Don’t give papaya’ . It basically means don’t set yourself up for disaster. Don’t make yourself a target for petty crime. Be wary of your surroundings at all times, and don’t walk around after dark, even in the touristy areas of El Poblado and El Centro.

For more insights, I’ll refer you to Medellin expert Desk to Dirtbag who has lived in Colombia for years and knows the ins and outs of safety in Medellin.

How to get from Medellin Airport to the city?

Most visitors fly into Medellin. The city’s airport, José María Córdova International Airport, is located 13 miles (20km) from the centre of the city or around 45-60 minutes by road .

Taxis are available, but for ease, I recommend you pre-book an airport transfer to your hotel . Impulse Travel offers 24/7 transfers to any hotel in Medellin starting from $25. Someone will be there to meet you in the arrivals hall, and since payment is made online before you go, there’s no need to worry about having pesos on you.

Alternatively, the airport bus ‘busetas’ runs every 15 minutes 24/7 and costs around 10,000 COP . The buses depart from outside gates 2A and 2B. Tickets can be bought from the driver using cash.

I took this bus myself and it was packed – I almost missed out on getting a seat. If you have a large or heavy bag, I would avoid the bus as there is only room for 19 people and it’s very squished already.

The bus stops at San Diego Mall before continuing to Hotel Nutibara in the centre. From there, you’ll need to walk or take a taxi the rest of the way to your accommodation.

Is Bogota or Medellin better?

Bogota and Medellin are two very different cities. As the capital of Colombia, Bogota has amazing museums (including the Gold Museum) and impressive heritage architecture. But it has more of a big-city feel and is less intimate, in my opinion. Bogota also has a worse track record when it comes to safety.

Medellin, by contrast, is very livable, green and pedestrian friendly, with unique Paisa culture and incredible food. There are more day trip opportunities from Medellin, which makes it a better base for exploring Colombia.

In short: Neither Medellin nor Bogota is ‘better’, but most travellers I know tend to favour Medellin. Personally, I enjoyed my three-week stay in Medellin a lot more than my few days in Bogota.

If I had to choose just one big city to visit in Colombia, it would definitely be Medellin.

Have you been to Medellin? Do you have any more tips to share? Drop your Medellin recommendations in the comments below!

Colombia trip essentials

Here are some of the websites and services I recommend for planning a trip to Colombia. Remember to check out my full list of travel resources for more tips.

FLIGHTS: Find affordable flights to Colombia using the Skyscanner website .

VISAS: Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa or a Health Declaration form for Colombia and apply for your documents online.

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Insure your trip to Colombia with HeyMondo , my preferred provider for single-trip and annual travel insurance.

AIRPORT TRANSFERS: Book a safe and reliable private transfer from the airport to your hotel in Medellin , Bogota or Cartagena (prices start from $18 per group).

ESIM FOR COLOMBIA: Stay connected during your trip – pre-purchase an eSIM for Colombia and get online as soon as you arrive without having to visit a phone shop.

CAR HIRE: Use the Discover Cars website to compare prices and features across all the major car rental companies.

ACCOMMODATION: Find the best Colombia hotel deals on Booking.com .

CITY TOURS & DAY TRIPS: Browse the Viator website to find the best day trips, city tours, Colombian cooking experiences and more.

More Colombia resources

• 2 day itinerary for Medellin , a short city break itinerary
• 13 things to know before you visit Comuna 13 , Medellin’s street art mecca
• The best fruit markets to visit in Medellin , and what to try!
• 20 must-dos in Bogota , Colombia’s capital city on the fly
• 30 incredible souvenirs to buy in Colombia , from handicrafts to coffee
• Colombian cooking class in Bogota , making empanadas Colombia-style
• 30 wonderful places to add to your Colombia travel itinerary , more inspiration
• 25+ things to do in Colombia , all you need to plan your trip
• Travelling in Colombia’s coffee region , Medellin to Concordia
• Hiking in Salento , the best trekking in Colombia
• Guide to Jerico , Colombia’s best small town
• Staying at El Despertar , a heritage boutique hotel in Jerico
• Photos of Jardin , a colourful Antioquian pueblo

The minestora market is unsafe and definitely not a good tip

Hi Karsten, if you mean the Minorista, we didn’t find it unsafe at all. We went on a tour with a local guide then returned a few days later alone. Both times we felt completely safe. Recent Google Reviews seem to confirm that it is still a popular tourist destination.

Unfortunately all of the highlighted recommended tour links go to the “Getyourguide Best List” rather than the individual tours. So you don’t get specific recommendations making the article much less useful.

Hi Mark, thanks for your comment. You will have to take this up with GetYourGuide, unfortunately, as it is a feature of their platform and not a flaw with my website.

I spent hours filtering, selecting and trying out the best tours on offer in Medellin. This is how GYG has chosen to present my results – as I’m told, it is a monetary decision for them.

You will notice that the tours I have recommended are presented first and are highlighted in light blue.

If you do decide to book using my link (despite the annoying format presented by GYG), then it would be much appreciated. Affiliates are my bread and butter and allow me to keep travelling and creating free content for you.

I have shared your feedback anonymously with GYG, and I do hope they take it into consideration.

Thanks for your understanding and I hope this clarifies things!

This is so helpful! Thanks so much we can’t wait for our trip!

Thanks for this excellent guide! We just arrived in Medellin and we’re looking forward to ticking off some of these sights during our month in town.

Terrific! Enjoy your visit!

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• Laguna de Guatape
• Centro Comercial Santafe
• Guatape Tour, Piedra del Peñol Including a Boat Tour, Breakfast and Lunch
• Comuna 13 Graffiti Tour and Street Food
• Sensory spa hydric experience & Thematic relaxing massage
• Guatapé Piedra del Peñol excursion + Gastronomic tour and cruise on the dam
• Day Trip To Guatape: Boat Ride and Lunch Included

The Ultimate Medellín, Colombia Travel Guide [ 2023 ]

If you’ve been hearing a lot about Medellín and Colombia lately, you’re not alone. Not only has Lonely Planet called Colombia the 2nd Best Country to Visit, but Travel & Leisure called it “South America’s Best Kept Secret” this year.

Colombia is in that perfect tourism sweet spot between being off-the-beaten-track and right on the cusp of becoming one of the hottest destinations. And it’s easy to see why. This country has everything. Lush Amazonian jungle? Check . Beautiful tropical islands? Check . Stunning snow-capped Andes mountains? Check. Bustling cities and a thriving fashion market? Check. Charming colonial cobblestone streets and rich Latin American culture? Check.

It’s a country that’s just begging to be discovered, but the fact that it is still relatively unfamiliar to the international tourism market makes it all the more cool. Plus it means you won’t be fighting crowds to get to the best spots when you visit. Win/win. 

Colombia has a ton to offer in terms of destinations, from Cartagena , to Santa Marta, to Bogota, but… ask anyone who’s been to Colombia, is from there, or has lived there and they will give you one single piece of advice — Make sure you see Medellín. 

When I was told that, I’ll be honest, I had my doubts. I immediately questioned the idea of flying 2 hours inland to a valley in the middle of Colombia. A city instead of the beautiful Colombian coast? What could possibly be  so  cool about this place? I hadn’t read any blogs on it, seen Instagrams of it, or heard much about it at all. In fact, I’ll admit that all I naively knew about it was from Narcos.  But, my first 4-day weekend trip was all I needed to spark my love affair with the capital of Colombia’s Antioquia region, and I’ve now been back over ten times!!! I love it so much I decided to manufacture my swimwear line – Watercolors by Kenny Flowers – in a boutique, women-run factory in Medellin! ( which you can read more about here ), just so I could have an excuse to spend as much time as possible in Colombia! (and because the manufacturing here, and the people, are amazing!)

I usually choose to stay in Medellin for at least a couple weeks at a time, because it’s just so wonderful… and fun!! Oh and you can bet that I’m now one of those people here to tell you all about why you can’t go to Colombia without visiting Medellín.

Here is your guide to Colombia’s capital of cool, Medellín:

Table of Contents

What to see and do in Medellín

Visiting Comuna 13 is an absolute must for anyone coming to Medellin! This barrio, or neighborhood, used to be Medellin (and possibly Colombia’s) most dangerous neighborhoods, but in the last 10 years has completely changed to become a beautiful (and safest!) place to visit for tourists, as well as a symbol of Colombia’s urban transformation and ‘New Colombia’. It’s known for its vibrant street art, bright culture and lively atmosphere. We had so much fun here!!! 

You don’t have to do the walking tour here but I’d recommend it so you get more of the history!! This is easily one of the most popular and best tours to do in Medelin.

Day Trip to a Pueblo

One of the best parts about Medellín is the breathtaking countryside and adorable pueblos that lay just beyond the city’s reach. In Colombia, one of the most common cultural traditions is that families will have second homes, or fincas, in the countryside. They’ll travel to these fincas on weekends to get away from the city, and will spend their days in pueblos like Guatapé, Jardín, San Antonio de Pereira, or Santa Fé de Antioquia, hanging out in the beautiful towns and parks, and having long leisurely meals outside.

Shop my Colombia dress here

Is Guatapé the most colorful town in the world or what?! This adorable little pueblo about an hour and a half from Medellín is a must-do on any trip to Colombia. I recommend hiring a driver and tour guide through this company to take you there. Their prices are reasonable and their tour guides make sure you see all the beautiful parts of Guatapé.

Where to stay in Guatape:

Stay at el bosko for a super cool experience i loved it so much. great food, too..

Aside from how absolutely breathtakingly colorful the town is, the main attraction of Guatape is even more (literally) breath-taking… the “Rock of Guatape” –

El Peñon de Guatape

Zig-zagging 600 vertical steps up, this 10-million-ton rock overlooks the gorgeous lakes of Guatape. The attraction was created after a group of friends scaled the rock in the 1950s using nothing but a wooden plank, and someone got the bright idea to build a staircase in the rock’s singular, gaping crack. The best part? The freshly made mango micheladas at the top.

A little further away than Guatape (about 3 hours from Medellin), lies an adorable pueblo in the Andes mountains called Jardín. This fittingly named lush mountain pueblo is by far one of my favorite day trips from Medellín.  It’s not touristy in the least, because it is still so undiscovered by everyone except the Colombian locals, but it’s here that you can find Colombian coffee farms, waterfalls, and a beautiful colorful town and plaza surrounding a catholic church. I highly recommend you take a day tour with this company … The guide is so knowledgable about Medellín and Colombia’s history, and a tour with him is just as much about the amazing culture of this beautiful country as it is the adventure of exploring such a cool spot.

Pueblito Paisa

This pueblito or “mini pueblo”, is a little like the vibe you get from the pueblos outside of Medellin, but right in the city! It’s a great spot to have lunch and walk around.

Pueblito Paisa , Tunel av nutibara , Medellin 050030, Colombia 

Plaza Botero

This spacious (and hectic!) plaza houses 23 larger-than-life funky bronze statues by Medellín’s favorite sculptor, Fernando Botero. The open air museum is one of Medellin’s main attractions.

Plaza Botero , Carrera 52 at Calle 52

Take the Metrocable to Parque Arvi

One second, you’re taking in a spectacular bird’s eye view of Colombia’s second largest city as your cable car crawls over a mountain ridge, and the next, you are suddenly flying above a gorgeous forest with no city in sight. Parque Arvi takes you high above the city into an ecological park in Medellin’s eastern Santa Elena district.

Parque Arvi , open 9am-6pm

Where to Stay in Medellín

You’ll want to base out of the El Poblado neighborhood of Medellin . It’s bursting at the seams with cafes, restaurants, bars, clubs and hostels and is definitely the hottest (and safest!) neighborhood of the city.

The Best Hotels in Medellin

*Medellin is definitely not known for its luxury hotels, so while you won’t find a Four Seasons here, there are definitely some great (and very affordable) places to stay in the city!*

The Click Clack Hotel

Medellin’s brand new (and coolest) hotel with restaurants and bars lining its lobby. It’s a super cool space, and in the perfect location in Poblado for a Medellin hotel. The rooftop is super chic and fun for drinks, and has a swimming pool! Plus the bottomless brunch on the first floor is the place to be on weekends!

Also, even if you’re not staying here, highly recommend going to the greek restaurant EGEO for tapas, cocktails or dinner. SO GOOD! 

Check out The Click Clack

Find a hotel in Medellin: Booking.com (function(d, sc, u) { var s = d.createElement(sc), p = d.getElementsByTagName(sc)[0]; s.type = 'text/javascript'; s.async = true; s.src = u + '?v=' + (+new Date()); p.parentNode.insertBefore(s,p); })(document, 'script', '//aff.bstatic.com/static/affiliate_base/js/flexiproduct.js');

Apartamentos Loma Verde, Medellin

This is where we’ve stayed a few times when we’re in MDE! If you’re looking for more of an apartment in Medellin to stay in during your vacation to the city, this is your spot. It’s easy, comfortable and modern – and feels more like a hotel than an apartment building but you get all the conveniences of your own apartment – like a kitchen, and a washing machine!! (big win) There’s a gym and a small rooftop pool with gorgeous views. It’s also in the perfect location in El Poblado, just above Parque Lleras. This is one of my go-to places to stay when I’m basing for a week or a few weeks in the city.

Hotel Du Parc Royal Medellin

This 4-star hotel is only around $100/night and is a great more luxurious option in El Poblado. It’s right near Parque Lleras and its french luxury vibes will have you feeling like you’ve found the perfect oasis in the city.

Hotel Los Recuerdos

If you’re overnighting in Guatape, make sure you check out Hotel Los Recuerdos for a beautiful family-friendly, affordable resort with a gorgeous infinity pool that overlooks the steps of El Peñon de Guatape.

Where to eat in Medellín

Oci.mde .

This buzzy upscale restaurant in El Poblado was my favorite meal in all of Colombia. Owned and operated by a husband-wife duo, chef Laura spent eight years at culinary school and working in Europe at several Michelin-starred restaurants, and her husband, architect Santiago, is responsible for OCI’s impeccable interior design. Highlights on the menu are the AMAZING 12-hour braised shortribs, the prawns cooked in tomato and chili jam with crispy quinoa and basil (the crispy quinoa was one of my favorite things I’ve ever tasted!), the pork belly and grapefruit salad with pickled carrot and mint and of course the macadamia-nut ice cream sandwich with salted caramel for dessert.  And the best part? This may be arguably the best restaurant in Medellin, but the prices are still very much Colombian (entrees like the short ribs will only cost you around $15 USD!!!!!)

Moshi Medellin

This sleek, chic Japanese restaurant in El Poblado is another one of my favorite meals in Colombia. EVERYTHING on this “Caribbean/Japanese fusion” menu is to die for, and some of the most innovative, high-quality food you’ll find anywhere in Medellin. The chef’s choice menu is amazing – and if you order a la carte definitely get the pork bao buns and the spicy crab hand roll. I also love the Patagonia pinot noir they have by the glass on their wine list!

El Alambique

Don’t expect English menus here. This hidden gem local-favorite is my new favorite buzzy restaurant in Parque Lleras (central Poblado). It’s SUCH a cool space, the decor is amazing, and the food is some of the best Colombian-fusion in the city. The cocktails are amazing and the scene is so cool. If you guys go to one of my restaurant recs on your trip to Colombia, make it this one. Order the shrimp tacos appetizer, and the beef brisket (!!!) and thank me later. 

JETSET TIP- don’t be thrown off by the understated, speakeasy-like entrance to the restaurant, just keep walking straight and up the stairs. 

THE BEST MEXICAN IN MEDELLIN. And maybe even better than in Mexico. When I say I’m obsessed with this place, I am not exaggerating. I often go 3 times a week. This gem is the newest restaurant by the famed chef/restauranteur behind El Cielo (also a must-do in Medellin for a fancier meal, but you have to make a res 2 weeks in advance, at least). Aguafresca, on the other hand doesn’t take reservations, and serves up easily some of the best (and most affordable) gourmet Mex cuisine of your dreams. Order the hongo quesadillas (mushroom), the chilaquiles, the tacos al pastor, and some mezcal margs!

Do the tasting menu!!! Carmen is like French cuisine mixed with Asian and Colombian influences. The atmosphere is intimate and upscale, and the five-course tasting menu includes things like their delish ceviche, their solomillo de cerdo, cooked for 12 hours, glazed with tamarind and palm sugar and served with Peruvian yam, Szechuan beans with ginger vinaigrette, and a spicy pork sauce.

Criminal Taqueria

For more casual mexican in Medellin, head straight to Criminal – during the day, at night, or even for late night. It’s in the heart of El Poblado and the tacos are SOOOO GOOD. It’s also super trendy – and one of the most instagrammable spots in Medellin. 

Bonhomía Salumería

A perfect spot in El Poblado for tapas, meats, cheese and charcuterie on one of the best outside terraces in Medellín. Did I mention they have frozen Sangria?? Yeah. You gotta go here.

Pizza, delicious salads, amazing sangria, and an adorable ambiance. Olivia is your perfect casual dinner or lunch spot in El Poblado.

Restaurante Malevo

This cozy Argentinian steakhouse is a perfect dinner spot in the Manila neighborhood. Call ahead and reserve a table on their patio, and get ready to eat a lot of meat and delicious empanadas. Welcome to South America.

This super-chic restaurant is one of my favorite places to go out to dinner in the El Poblado neighborhood. Great cocktails, great food, and great for groups for a dinner pre-going out in Poblado.

The absolute best empanadas you’ll ever eat in Medellin – order them on Uber Eats or Rappi and thank me later! Ask for some spicy sauce, too! I love the chicken and the beef. YUM!

Al Alma Cafe

This is the cafe I sometimes work from when I’m in Medellin. It’s so cute, and their food is delicious! They have fresh baked pastries and lots of breakfast, brunch and lunch options. It’s a go-to.

My absolute favorite coffee shop in Colombia for the best quality Colombian coffee . I pretty much go every day when I’m in Medellín.

Go here for a glass of delicious wine and yummy appetizers before a night out in Medellin! Super chic. Tell them Jetset Christina sent you!

The App To Download as Soon As You Land in Medellín:

The first thing you’ll want to do when you land in Medellín is download an app called Rappi – this app is INCREDIBLE. I seriously wish we had something as great as it in the states. Think of it like an Uber eats for everything in your life – with VERY low delivery fees. For $2, you can have top restaurants, groceries, medicine, ANYTHING delivered right to your door, within about 30 mins. They even have Rappi shopping! So like Amazon Prime but on steroids. And Rappi stands for rápido, so they are so fast! It makes a hard case for ordering Acai bowls to your hotel room after a long night partying at Bolivar rather than getting up and going out for breakfast (my favorite bowls are Berry Good Acai – just search it in the app!)

The weather in Medellín

Safety in Colombia

I’ll start out by saying that I didn’t feel unsafe in Medellín for one second.  But, due to the country’s rocky past, I know that this is a hot-button issue for many people who are wondering just how safe the country is today. A lot of feeling safe in any big city comes from knowing the neighborhoods to stay in, and which to stay away from. Use common sense and caution, of course, but know that Colombia is not as dangerous as it is made out to be from its reputation of the 1970s and 80s. I felt completely safe in the neighborhood of El Poblado, even in the nightclubs. If you’re in the Plaza Botero (the chaotic center more toward downtown), keep your belongings close to you in the crowds.  On public transportation, stay aware and don’t flash your wealth. I would also note that as a woman, I felt much safer traveling with a man and probably wouldn’t have felt as comfortable had I been traveling alone. It also helped that we both knew how to speak Spanish, as they almost exclusively speak Spanish in Medellin.

There is still a US government issued warning against travel to Colombia, which reads: 

Tens of thousands of U.S. citizens safely visit Colombia each year for tourism, business, university studies, and volunteer work. Security in Colombia has improved significantly in recent years, including in tourist and business travel destinations such as Bogota, Cartagena, Barranquilla, Medellin, and Cali.

However , violence linked to narco-trafficking continues to affect some rural and urban areas. Despite significant decreases in overall crime in Colombia, continued vigilance is warranted due to an increase in recent months of violent crime, including crime resulting in the deaths of American citizens.

My travel philosophy has always been that dangerous crimes can happen anywhere. They happen every day in my home city of San Francisco, and are commonplace in many of my favorite travel destinations. It’s not uncommon to hear news stories or read travel advisories and feel extremely nervous about traveling to a certain destination, but I am a firm believer in not letting that fear of danger get in the way of seeing the world. While everyone’s travel experiences are different (and one negative experience or secondhand negative experience can forever affect your feelings toward safety in a certain destination), I think it is very important to see the world with an open mind, while staying optimistically cautious and aware.

What do I need to be on the look out safety-wise in Colombia?

This all being said, a lot of people ask safety-related questions like, “should I wear my jewelry in Cartagena?” and to that I say it’s best to leave your expensive jewels at home, and be as bare as possible so as to not attract attention to yourself as a potential target to criminals. I would not wear fancy jewelry in Colombia, or bring name brand luggage (such as Louis Vuitton), etc. They call it ‘don’t dar papaya’ which translates to don’t give papaya, meaning don’t give yourself up as a flashy easy target for criminals. 

If you’re a guy traveling by yourself or with a group, please also be aware that there is a crime happening often in Colombia of Colombian women drugging foreign men to rob them at night. (crazy, I know! but please watch out!)

You also might see many signs in Colombia saying “SAY NO TO THE SEX TOURIST”, many establishments have these signs up and will flat out deny service to sex tourists, which is great. Sex tourism is unfortunately a trend in certain cities in Colombia, but there is a lot of active action happening against it making it a less than ideal place for these people to travel to, thank goodness. I only mention it so that you aren’t put off if you see one of these signs at a restaurant or hotel, this is a good thing!

PS – Follow   @JetsetChristina on instagram  to keep up with all of my travels!

& don’t forget to  like jetset christina on facebook .

*Please note that this post contains affiliate links to some hotels! If you choose to book one of the hotels I recommended, I would so appreciate you using these links to do so! An affiliate link basically just means that at no cost to you at all, I get a small kickback from the booking site for bringing them your business! If you have any questions at all, please see my advertiser & affiliate policy page here .

PS – have more questions on Colombia or any other destination? Join the JETSETTERS secret facebook group to get & give travel recs to our Jetset Christina community and connect with other #JSCJetsetters!

Check out my other related posts.

Where to travel in colombia

The best airbnbs in Cartagena for a group

Must-dos in Colombia

The Ultimate Cartagena Travel Guide : Planning a trip to Cartagena

20 Photos to Inspire You to Visit Bali

The Perfect Bali Itinerary

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The Ultimate Travel Guide to Medellin, Colombia

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WRITTEN BY: Christina

Christina is a leading luxury lifestyle and travel blogger with over 2 million readers. Follow her on instagram @jetsetchristina.

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THANK YOU! This is what I needed to know and you made it vibrant.

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Great post, I will be in Medellin in just under a week and can’t wait to try out some of these restaurants and the Rappi app (sounds fantastic)!

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Home > Colombia > Medellin > Medellin Travel Guide

Medellin Travel Guide: An Instruction Manual for an Unforgettable Trip

Go Beyond the TripAdvisor Top 10

This post is part of Everything to Know Before Visiting Medellin , a collection of no-B.S., unique guides to an unforgettable stay in Colombia.

We made this atypical Medellin travel guide because we're tired of travel guides that tell us exactly what's "must do" but are really just rewrites of the TripAdvisor top 10.

Instead of telling you what to do, we're going to share with you what we think you should know about Medellin: what's where, what's unique, what's tasty, and what's nearby and worth checking out too.

We'll also make some specific recommendations, but those are more to give you an idea what's out there.

Try some things we recommend for sure, but also make your own discoveries. That's how we had our favorite experiences during our six months living in Medellin, and that's how you will too.

Ready? Listos?

Let's get into this Medellin travel guide.

Medellin Travel Guide Outline

• Before You Go – How to decide where to stay, and useful things to know before coming
• Things to Do – What's overrated and underrated, and our absolute favorites
• Food and Drink – How to stuff your face full of unforgettable goodness
• Medellin Getaways     – Hikes and towns near Medellin for fresh air, and a fresh perspective
• Elsewhere in Colombia  – Bogota, the Pacific Coast, and an epic trek
• Favorite Resources – Other online sources of Medellin tips

Before You Visit Medellin

Is medellin dangerous.

The parts of Medellin you're likely to visit are more dangerous than comparable areas in North America or Europe.

For instance, we heard no shortage of stories of friends and friends' friends and readers getting mugged, mostly when they were drunk and stumbling home alone, but even in broad daylight.

On the other hand, the vast majority of people we know and met, including many idiots who were asking for trouble, had no issues.

To stay safe, keep your valuables (including your phone) concealed in public, dress and act to blend in, heed locals' warnings about certain areas, and be extra careful at night. Common sense.

Where to Stay in Medellin

The mistake most newcomers make—we made it too—when trying to figure out where to stay in Medellin is to ask, "Should we stay in El Poblado or Laureles (or even Envigado)?"

Those districts are too huge. Your best bet is to find the barrio within one of those districts that's best for you.

Our guide of where to stay in Medellin ranks the city's top  barrios  in 12 criteria including food, safety, and affordability. That way, you can pick the ones that matter most to you and decide on the perfect place.

If you're too "busy" to go through that whole guide, here's a super-fast intro to the top 10 barrios we recommend you consider:

• Central Poblado: Most popular area for both tourists and long-term foreign residents. I sometimes almost forget I’m in Colombia when I’m in this part of town.
• Lower Poblado: More conveniently-located and low-key than Central Poblado. Still unmistakably Gringolandia.
• La Florida, Poblado: Swanky high-rise hotels and apartments, malls, and not much street-life.
• Central Laureles: Far from the metro, but full of cafés and eateries. It's where people who think El Poblado is "too gringo" go.
• La 70, Laureles: Closer to the metro than Central Laureles and more lively, for better and for worse.
• Northern Laureles: Laid-back, almost too laid-back, and well-to-do residential neighborhood.
• Central Envigado: Envigado’s small but happening “downtown” feels like you’re not in Medellin anymore, which was indeed the case not too long ago.
• El Dorado, Envigado: A true neighborhood feel, with row houses that have shops, bars, mini-markets, and other small businesses all along its narrow streets.
• Northern Envigado: Less street life than El Dorado, but a larger fine-dining / entertainment district, La Calle de la Buena Mesa.
• Downtown Medellin: On the rise and in the middle of the action. The most central for tourists during the day, but not the best at night.

Check out our Medellin neighborhood guide to decide which of these is best for what you're looking for.

Things to Know Before Coming to Medellin

Like everywhere, there are ups and downs to Medellin. And like everywhere, nobody tells you them before you get there.

Here are some of them—a quick cheat sheet of 10 good, bad, and fun things to know before coming to Medellin.

For all the details and twelve more things to know before coming to Medellin, see the full post .

Things to Do in Medellin

Our Top 10 Favorite Experiences

In the six months we lived in Medellin, we tried to see and experience everything. We gave the touristy things a go and explored all sorts of spots even locals had no idea about.

Of all our amazing (and not-so-amazing) adventures, these were our top 10 absolute favorites (in no particular order):

• Hiking Parque Arvi through the back door
• Forgetting Narcos and doing the Real City walking tour
• Gorging on as many menu del dias as we could all over the city
• Eating the most humongous piece of "mega-bacon" we've ever seen at  La Gloria de Gloria
• Heading for the hills to go hiking
• (This one's a secret)
• Escaping Medellin and visiting pueblos like Venecia , Jardin , and Jerico (NOT Guatape)
• Feeling like a superhero while paragliding
• Spending an afternoon checking out the highlights in Laureles
• Enjoying the best of El Poblado

For all the details on these amazing experiences, a handful more that just barely missed the list, and some things we recommend not to do, check our atypicial guide of things to do in Medellin .

Overrated and Underrated Medellin Attractions

We have the sometimes contentious opinion that some Medellin's "top" tourist attractions should be on the bottom of your to-do list.

They're not all terrible (except Pueblito Paisa). It's just that there are likely better ways to spend your time and money.

Here our favorite examples:

• Overrated:  Laureles, Parque Arvi, Pueblito Paisa, Uber, Poblado farmers market, Guatape
• Underrated:  Envigado, every other Medellin park, Cerro Pan de Azucar, taxis, Mercado Minorista, Jerico

Don't Overlook Envigado, Medellin's Version of Brooklyn

Located right next to the high-flying, rapidly-modernizing El Poblado district of Medellin, Envigado remains a hard-working, urban, unpretentious town that's yet to be swallowed up by globalism (or hipsters).

It's a pre-hipster Brooklyn.

We lived there for two amazing months. Here are some of our favorite things about it:

• The Neighborhood Feel: There aren't many "highlights" in Envigado, but it's a great place to wander. Kids play on the streets, old men sit on tables drinking guaro while watching life pass by, and crazy Christmas displays decorate the whole town in December. And nowhere did we feel safer.
• The Restaurants:  There's a fine-dining area called La Calle de la Buena Mesa, where you can pick where to eat based on your cravings that evening. In super neighborhoody El Dorado are some of our favorite spots like Pedacito de Amor and Pizzeria Burro . And there are La Gloria de Gloria and Trifasico with their enormous slabs of meat.
• Otraparte:  The coffee isn't that good and the WiFi sucks, but even so El Cafe de Otraparte is the cafe / hang out area we miss most about Medellin.

There's A LOT more than this, of course, which you can read all about in our comprehensive Envigado guide .

What Everybody Other Blogger Recommends for Medellin

When we moved to Medellin we read a lot of blog posts on what to do and see.

Then we had the idea of compiling all those recommendations into one.

Things quickly got out of hand.

By the end, we had consolidated tips from over fifty travel blog posts. The compilation is enormous and overwhelming, but maybe you'll find it helpful. 

Check it out .

Eating and Drinking in Medellin

Medellin's Best Restaurants for 20 Unique Occasions

We can't honestly tell you which are the "best restaurants in Medellin" because we haven't been to every one and tried every dish. Nobody has. But we can recommend some restaurants for specific occasions and cravings. For example:

• If you want to impress your partner with a romantic picnic in the park , go to In Situ
• If you need a rest, refresh, and refueling in Mercado Minorista (Medellin's city center produce market), go to Aqui Paro Lucho
• If you want Colombian cuisine with a modern, adventurous, and delicious twist , go to Alambique  (probably our favorite restaurant in Medellin)
• If you want to get high and/or eat really good gelato , go to  Nuovo Fiore

We have twenty recommendations in total. Check out our Medellin restaurant guide for all of them.

Medellin's Best Lunch Specials

Lunch is the best time to go out for food in Medellin. You can get high-quality, delicious meals including soup, a main course, a drink, and sometimes dessert for $3 to $6 USD. These specials are called menu del dias .

There are so many restaurants with menu del dias that it can be overwhelming, so Chris went a bit overboard to help you out. He went to over hundred places then made a list of his forty favorites.

See them all in his huge menu del dia guide .

The Best Colombian Coffee, Beer, Cheese, and Aguardiente

Are you sure your tastes aren't affected by branding and appearances?

And that's why do blind taste tests. In Medellin, we did some to determine who truly has the best coffee, beer, cheese and aguardiente in Colombia (or at least Medellin).

Here are the surprising blind taste test results:

• Best coffee : Rituales Cafe . Hands down. Read the full post here
• Best lager beer:  Heineken. Ugh. We can't believe it either. Read all about it here .
• Best Colombian cheese:  None. But if you force us, we'd take queso pera. Learn all about the weird Colombian cheeses here .
• Best aguardiente: Aguardiente is the local liquor and the best from our taste test (here) was Amarillo de Manzanares. More importantly, and regardless of which aguardiente brand you drink, read these nine surprising facts first.

An Intro to Colombian Drinks

You already know about Colombian coffee, but do you know what  viche ,  mazamorra , and  guarapo  are?

Here's a quick vocab lesson:

• Chicha : A fermented corn drink that was the locals' drink of choice before the Spanish came and screwed things up.
• Viche:  A home-brewed moonshine made from sugar cane that’s popular on Colombia’s Pacific Coast
• Chocolate Santafereño:  Hot chocolate with cheese inside.
• Limonada de Coco:  A hugely popular and super delicious and refreshing blend of coconut and lemonade.
• Mazamorra and Claro: Corn-infused milks that often come with your menu del dia (lunch special).
• Guarapo and Aguapanela : Drinks made from sugarcane. Guarapo is typically made by pressing the cane itself. Aguapanela is agua mixed with panela, unrefined cane sugar.

And there are even more Colombian drinks to know about. To see them all, where to get them, and how to drink them, check out our guide .

Medellin Getaways

Medellin Hikes

The quality and quantity of hikes near Medellin (many accessible by public transit!) was something we didn’t expect before coming. From waterfalls to caves to natural pyramids to Escobar’s old prison, whenever we ventured into the hills we were always rewarded for doing so. And every single time the views are incredible.

If you want to get some fresh air and develop a tight round tush the old-fashioned way (instead of artificially, like many women do in Medellin), we highly recommend it.

Some hikes are hard to find, so we've helped you out with a list of our favorite hikes in and around Medellin . For each hike, you’ll find a guide complete with directions, maps, and photos

Nearby Pueblos

Please, please, please don’t spend time in Medellin without visiting at least one of the nearby pueblos. It will completely change your understanding and perception of what Colombia and Antioquia is about.

And Guatape doesn’t count.

We went to a handful of pueblos and recommend them all highly, but there are plenty of others where you're sure to have an extraordinary travel story too. Here are the pueblos we wrote guides to:

• Jerico – A traditional town for religious pilgrammiges, it's now worth going to for an artisanal food pilgrimage, colorful sunsets, colorful waterfalls, colorful people, and colorful architecture. See what there's to do in Jerico , and what to eat on your own food pilgramage .
• Jardin  – Jardin is a bigger, lusher, and more tourist-friendly version of Jerico. Here are our favorite things we did there .
• Venecia – Venecia is for you if you don’t want to see any other tourists and/or plan to hike Cerro Tusa (the world’s largest natural pyramid). Read more here .
• Urrao  – The town itself wasn't our favorite, but it was cool for a couple of nights. Most importantly, it's close to the unbelievable and unforgettable Paramo del Sol. Check out these mind-boggling photos in our guide .

Elsewhere in Colombia

Paramo del Sol Trek

The trek to the Paramo del So is so mind-bogglingly cool that you forget to worry about how cold it can get (…well almost). Up at the highest point in Antioquia, there’s nowhere in the world with scenery like it. Read our guide here . Even if you don't like reading just go there for the amazing photos by our friend Oskar.

The Pacific Coast

Colombia's Pacific Coast was a no-go zone for a long time. It only very recently opened up for tourism again and started to appear on tourists’ radars. In other words, if you’re an adventure traveler now’s the time to go.

And from Medellin, it's an easy flight from the city center Olaya Herrera Airport .

Not knowing anything about it beforehand, we explored the Bahia Solano area for about a week. It turned out to be is a jungle, waterfall, and deserted beach paradise.

There’s so much to do that we couldn’t help but compile four different guides for the area:

• 15 travel tips for Colombia's Pacific Coast – Things you should be aware of, including how worried you should be about bugs and rain, what tour not to miss, and how not to miss your flight home.
• Where to stay around Bahia Solano – The pros and cons of all the options: remote beaches like Playa Mecana and Playa Cuevita, popular spots like El Valle and Playe El Almejal, or places in between like Playa Huina.
• El Valle travel guide –  Your extensive guide of to this small town El Valle that is so under-covered by tour guides and blogs that even Google Maps doesn’t show its streets.
• The Right Way to do the Cascada El Tigre tour – This is the only waterfall we've ever seen that falls right onto a beach. It's Chris' wet dream. And if you visit it the right way, you'll see a few more waterfalls and save some money.

You might assume Bogota isn’t worth visiting. It’s too big, busy, dangerous, and cold. That's what we thought.

We were wrong.

You might be as surprised as we were by what Colombia's capital has to offer. Check it out .

And once you've had enough of Bogota and are ready to return to Medellin, consider taking the bus and maybe stopping off somewhere along the way. We went to a town called Honda. It wasn't our favorite, but it was an experience nonetheless. Read all about how (and why) to bus between Bogota and Medellin, and what Honda's like, here .

Favorite Other Sites

Resources and communities that helped us discover many of the items on this Medellin travel guide.

• Catalyst Weekly  is the go-to resource to find out what foreigner-friendly events are going on while you’re in town.
• The Medellin Expats group on Facebook . It's full of lunatics, idiots, and self-promoters, but if you dig around you can find some truly helpful tips.
• Kinkaju Hikes and Adventures . Go on a hike, or a beer crawl, with a diverse and friendly group of people including local expats, local locals, and visitors.
• Tom Plan My Trip.  This guy went super deep with info to help you plan your trip to Colombia. You'll find lots of stuff we didn't bother to write because he already said it.
• Wikiloc.  It's the go-to app for finding and sharing hikes in Colombia. You'll have to pay $2.99 US to use it, but it's worth it.
• The Unconventional Route. That's us. Check out our extensive collection of Colombia-related advice here , ask us questions in the comments, or, if it's private, email us at info at theunconventionalroute.com.

How to Have an Awesome Medellin Trip

For all the ingredients you need to put together a magnificent Medellin trip— where to stay , what to do , what to eat , where else to visit in Colombia —see our Medellin Travel Manual.

Medellin Travel Manual

Our collection of blog posts that reveal the real Medellin.

And if you have any questions, comments, or suggestions to share with other readers, please share them in the comments!

Disclosure: Whenever possible, we use links that earn us a cut if you pay for stuff we recommend. It costs you nothing, so we'd be crazy not to. Read our affiliate policy .

13 thoughts on “Medellin Travel Guide: An Instruction Manual for an Unforgettable Trip”

You guys rock! Headed to Medellín. On Thursday, have done almost zero research, this post just made my day, and soon to be vacation! Thanks!

Nice list. Also lived in Medellin for six months, back in 2017…we have the same consensus on Pueblito Paisa. ( https://hippospit.com/2019/04/24/pueblito-paisa/ )

What did you think of Colombian cheese? I’m rather impressed that you bought 18 and did a blind taste test…once, when we were living in Envigado, the refrigeration for half of our local Carulla was out for a week. They never bothered to replace the dairy stock…many leaps of faith were made.

Also wrote a little something about safety in Botero Plaza a little while ago…in case anyone is reading and considering a visit. https://hippospit.com/2018/11/13/botero-plaza/ Be careful.

Thanks R. Your description of Pueblito Paisa is spot on. Keep up the good work!

I'd say that if anyone thinks that any description of any city encompasses the totality of reality, then they have never been to a city. There is no city that isn't variegated from places you shouldn't go to, to places that are perfectly safe…from boring to exciting, etc. I couldn't disagree more with the conclusion that one needs to quickly walk away from Plaza Botero to the metro because it's dangerous or unsavory. I guess unsavory is in the eye of the beholder, but please…cities have all sorts and varieties of people all over the place. Pointing out a transgender prostitute (perhaps not transgender at all – perhaps just a cross-dresser, and presuming that person is a prostitute seems rather judgmental.) So what? That's life in the big city, and they are hardly threatening one's security. I'd also like to point out that there is an ebb and flow over months/years as to what is happening in any particular area. What may have been a couple of years ago may be totally different today. That's also part of the danger of writing/reading reviews.

Hey Phil. I don't understand: Which pointing out of prostitutes and hurrying from Plaza Botero to the metro are you referring to? I don't believe we mentioned that on the site. Or are you using these as examples to illustrate common misperceptions about Medellin overall? I also hope we aren't giving the impression of claiming to completely explain and outline Medellin with our blog. Like you said, we can't, especially since every person's perception differs. We just want this blog to give readers the tools and motivation to explore with their own fresh and unbiased perspective, which seems to be what you believe in as well! Enjoy Medellin!

Congratulations, that's a really good post. I will add maybe having a chocolate con queso up in Las Palmas Viewpoint (Medellin).

Thanks for the suggestion, Mr. Moto!

one of the best recaps i've read on medellin! well done!

Thanks Stephanie. I'm worried it might start getting out of date. Please let us know of your discoveries and recommendations. Enjoy!

Why the f*ck would you recommend Heineken, are you nuts? Colombia has amazing domestics and for cheap. Pilsen, Club Columbia, Poker, Aguila, the list goes on. GTFO out of here with that mess.

Try a Colombian beer blind taste test, like we did. We included Heineken as an outsider and it was the clear winner. We didn't choose. Our palates did. I'm not proud of it.

And thanks for censoring your commment with the *.

Just visited Medellin, and I can say this was a pretty bad guide. Guatape is not overrated, and Medellin is safer than several U.S. cities. Trying to scare people is classic gringo behavior. Uber is also safer than some of the taxi services, even though it is technically illegal.

Fair enough. It's a bit long in the tooth. And the guide is my subjective opinion.

Don't know where you get the impression I'm trying to scare people.

What do you think? (Leave a Comment.) Cancel reply

The Complete Guide to Visiting Medellín

It was my first time visiting Medellín, Colombia. In fact, it was my first time in South America. Hearing so many wonderful things about the country of Colombia, I planned out a weeklong trip that started in Medellín first.

After spending three nights in what is known as the “city of eternal spring,” I wanted to share a bit about this city. A vast metropolis, Medellín seems to expand in every direction. As I made the descent down into the valley from the airport, it was hard to soak it all in. Towers upon towers sprawled across a lush, green city that climbed up the mountains. It was breathtaking.

Most of the time in Medellín was spent exploring El Poblado, the home base for most travelers visiting. The neighborhood is packed with bustling cafes, local boutiques, and top restaurants. One day was spent out in Guatapé, which was well worth the bus ride to soak in the views. The city is changing, at least from what the several locals shared with me. It became very apparent as to why it has started to become a traveler’s hotspot. 

With all of this in mind, I want to share some detailed thoughts on my time there. Each section below address the more common questions, what I loved about the city, and more. Take a look at what to know about visiting Medellín.

Safety in Medellín, Colombia

I am a firm believer in being transparent and I want to paint an accurate picture of my time in Medellín. Safety in Colombia is always the first question asked and for good reason. It wasn’t long ago that Medellín was the most dangerous city in the world with a violent past and drug-related problems. Today it is changing and there is a ton to love about the city, however, I walked away with mixed emotions on this. 

How I felt in Medellín was conflicted. I traveled with my male cousin and I would not consider traveling alone here as a female traveler (personally). At times I felt completely safe in Medellín and other times I was on edge, being incredibly cautious and considerate of my surroundings. Certain neighborhoods should not be entered after dark like Comuna 13 and you’ll find most travelers sticking to El Poblado. There were moments that felt tense as we would walk through certain streets to return to our hotel and then other moments where I could have been in San Francisco at a hipster cafe. 

How I felt in the city

We took a free walking tour in the center of town and it was one of the best things we did on the trip (I’d suggest doing this before anything else in Medellín.)  There is a phrase in Colombia called “no dar papaya.” Its literal translation is “do not give papaya”, which means do not put yourself in a position for someone to take advantage of you. Like walking alone, showing off valuables, and more. On our tour, our guide would let us know the level of “dar papaya” on a scale of 1-10, 10 being you need to be incredibly cautious. In some areas of the center of town, it was level 7 and others at level 2.

Those level 7 moments were the moments that were the most intense. I felt out of place, nervous, and acutely aware of my surroundings. Then that same night, we returned to a swanky hotel with a rooftop bar with drinks that rivaled a trendy cocktail bar in NYC. It was that day I grappled with the contrast more than ever. So much to love about this innovative city and yet so much to improve in terms of security. 

I am not an expert on safety and security, I can only offer up how I felt on this portion of the trip. I read a really interesting article by Skift this month titled “ Medellin’s Tourism Challenge: Telling the Right Story of Its Violent Past .” It’s worth a read and does a proper dive into the current climate with statistics, a look at the past, and more. The article covers the topic in depth, something I am not equipped to address. I hope this insight and my own story gives a portrait of the two realities that are present today. 

What to Know Before Visiting Medellín

Safety: The above section covers this more fully. I would recommend not to show off valuables, avoid walking alone at night and book accommodations that are in safe zones like El Poblado.

Transportation : The metro is the safest form of transportation. The metro is easy to use, just buy tickets before and enter the gates. Uber is also recommended or have your hotel call you a trusted taxi. 

Money : The local currency is the Colombian Peso. You will need to have cash on you for some vendors, so I would recommend pulling money out at a local ATM from a trusted bank. Most restaurants/cafes will accept a credit card as well. 

Travel Insurance:  I recommend having it. My preferred insurance is  World Nomads .

Amount of time : For Medelliín, you could spend three to four days pending on how many day trips. At least two full days are needed in the city.

What to Expect at Medellín Airport

With multiple direct flights landing at José María Córdova International Airport, it’s an easy city to reach. When you land, expect a small customs area and a baggage area. Make sure to fill out that customs form properly — it is in Spanish so ask a flight attendant to help if needed. On arrival, you’ll be confronted with drivers offering to give rides to Medellín. Please use the official taxi line or Uber (we took Uber) for a trusted driver. It’s about a 45 minute to an hour drive into Poblado area. 

On departure, security is pretty relaxed and like most major airports, the terminal is outfitted with amenities. If you’re flying domestically, the domestic terminal is rather minimal with a few cafes and shops. 

Medellín Weather

The weather in Medellín is different from the rest of Colombia due to its elevation. During the day it can get hot and humid and at night it will cool off. The winter months are cooler so be prepared for a light jacket and sweater.

Dress in Medellín is not like Cartagena. Walking around in flip flops and cut-off shorts is not recommended as you’ll stick out. The dress is very proper and rivals that of Manhattan. Men are typically in collared shirts and pants and the women dress incredibly well. I wish I had brought more pants + blouses for the dinners in Poblado especially. 

Where to Stay in Medellín 

The only neighborhood I can recommend with confidence is El Poblado. We had three nights here and it was the best base for being able to walk out at night for dinner and quick access to other sights in the city. Here are the top three hotels:

• Art Hotel : We had all three nights booked here. The rooms are basic but somewhat trendy at the same time. For the price point, I feel you get good value on the stay. With included breakfast on the rooftop, it’s a good base for visiting Medellín.
• Celestino Boutique Hotel : If you’re willing to spend a bit more, this is the boutique hotel I would opt for. It’s well located and is intimate with great design. 
• The Charlee Hotel : This is another great option in El Poblado as it has a ton of rooms and is centrally located. It comes up as the most recommended a hotel each time across guides and TripAdvisor. 

Things to Do in Medellín

• Take a free walking tour:  The best thing we did was a four-hour walking tour with Real City Tours . I would recommend doing this first on arrival and reserving. You’ll walk through a lot of the main sights in town as well, all while learning from a local about the history and present happenings in Medellín.
• Visit Museo Casa de La Memoria: This museum shares about the Colombian conflict from the viewpoint of the victims and more. It came recommended from our tour guide as an opportunity to learn more about the local history.
• Explore Museo de Arte Moderno de Medellín : If you’re looking for modern art in the city, come here. 
• Take a day trip to Guatapé : One of the best days spent on a guided tour to Guatapé. I share all about the experience in full on this post.
• See the Fernando Botero Angulo sculptures : Head to Plaza Botero to see the famous sculptures. 
• Take a gondola ride: The gondola rides in Medellín are amazing for scenery. We opted to take the one over Comuna 13, didn’t get out and came back. You can take it up to Parque Arvi as well as an alternative. 
• Try local coffee : Pergamino in El Poblado is the place to go. The menu features a wide selection of roasts from local farms they source from.
• Enjoy the Joaquín Antonio Uribe Botanical Gardens : One of the best spots that are completely free to visit is the botanical gardens. 
• Consider a Comuna 13 Tour : It’s hard to mention Medellín and not the name Pablo Escobar and Comuna 13. During the day, there are many free walking tours that explore this infamous neighborhood’s art scene. I would recommend a guided tour here during the light hours. We were going to join one and decided not to as it was too hot in the middle of the day. I would come earlier in the day.
• Head to Parque Lleras for Nightlife : If you’re in El Poblado, no doubt you’ll hear the music coming from this hotspot for salsa and more.

Best Restaurants in Medellín

• OCI.mde: This was our last meal in town and one of the favorites for a modern take on Colombian food. It’s upscale and the restaurant has a ton of energy. *Reserve in advance.
• Vaggart: This is the rooftop restaurant at the Art Hotel and the food was really good. It was more of a bar menu but loved it!
• Empanadas at the corner of Avenida Caraboobo and Calle 52 : These were my favorite, I can’t find the name on the map but if you’re headed to Plaza Botero, it is right there on the corner. 
• Burdo: Popular spot for both drinks and casual bites.
• El Tejadito : Come here for stuffed arepas, so delicious!
• Cerveceria Libre : For a local brewery, come here and try their beers on tap. The “passion” was my favorite. 
• La Bronco: Favorite cocktails were here and the food looked good as well.
• Coffee at: Pergamino, Rituales or Cafe Velvet.

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PS — Are You Booking a Trip Soon? Use My Booking Checklist!

These are the sites I use most to book my own trips. Using the links below is a great way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you . If you need help organizing your itinerary, get my free travel itinerary template here .

1. Book Your Flights

Use Skyscanner to find the best flights. It searches 100s of airlines and websites across the globe to ensure you’re not missing out on any route options or deals.

2. Book Your Accommodations

Use Booking.com for hotels and guest houses. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.

3. Book Your Tours & Experiences

Use Viator or Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check both as their inventory varies depending on the destination.

4. Book Your Car

Use Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com to find the best car rental deals. I recommend comparing rental agency reviews on Google to ensure you are booking with the best company in that destination, as the reviews are often more accurate than the car rental search engines.

5. Don’t Forget Airport Lounge Access

Get a Priority Pass membership to gain access to 1,400+ VIP lounges and airport experiences worldwide. The Priority Pass app is the first thing I check when I have a layover. I’ve been a member for over a decade, and having a comfortable place to relax before and between flights makes air travel so much more enjoyable.

6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, and cancelations, etc.). I use it frequently for my travels to stay protected.

My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:

• World Nomads (best for all-around)
• Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)

Xx, Jessica

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Best time to go to Medellín for all its amazing festivals

Oct 13, 2021 • 5 min read

From the flower festivals to the rainiest periods, this month-by-month guide can help you plan your visit to Medellín © oscar garces / Getty Images

Known as the “City of the Eternal Spring,” there is a reliable warmth to Medellín . This pleasantness extends beyond its year-round temperatures – that seldom go above the low-80s (26°C) during the day or below the low-60s (15°C) at night – and embodies the amiable spirit of its people, too. With these constants, there are some optimal times during the year to plan your Medellín adventure. This could include one of the city’s hallmark festivals that attract Colombia -wide and global audiences as well as months with higher likelihoods of rain. 

With a revitalization story like no other, thumping nightlife and incredible Andes Mountains vistas greeting you at every turn, this Colombian city is anything but typical. Let’s dig into a year in Medellín with a month-by-month guide to help you find the best time to go for you.

High season: December through March

Best time for a dry trip.

Ending and/or beginning your year in Medellín has its advantages. December is a light-filled extravaganza throughout the city, when its Christmas light spectacles – known as Alumbrados Navideños – are on full display typically through to the first or second week of January. As Colombia is a predominantly Catholic country, the Christmas spirit spills into every facet of life, whether it’s decorated public parks or massive, central displays in the city’s malls. December through March also presents the driest season of the year, with only five to 10 days of rain per month.

Shoulder season: June through August

Best time for festivals.

If you’re going to book your Medellín trip around one festival, let it be the globally unique and wildly colorful Feria de Las Flores (Flower Festival). Stretching upwards of 10 days, this festival puts Colombia’s orchid and flower growers on full display. Fun fact: Colombia is home to more than 4000 species of orchids! Amid concerts, flower shows and parties galore, the Desfile de Silleteros is the can’t-miss moment, in which locals carry floats on their backs – composed of flowers – from the small town of Santa Elena in a parade through Medellín. In addition to the Flower Festival, you can also catch the International Tango Festival , Poetry Festival and Colombiamoda fashion spectacle during the summer season.

Rainy seasons: April through May; September through November

Best time for a bargain.

If you’re looking at a weather app during these months, you’re likely to see a thunder cloud as the forecast for most, if not all, days. You can count on rain upwards of 15 to 20 days out of the month during Medellín’s two rainy seasons. With that being said, this does not mean that every day is a total washout. In fact, most “rainy days” tend to consist of a two-hours-max shower in the late-afternoon. You’ll want to pack an umbrella or raincoat, but if you forget, there will be plenty of poncho vendors selling them on the streets. The periodic shower may be worth the noticeable dough you can save on airfare and hotels.

The city hangs on to the Christmas spirit as long as possible, but the lights come down by mid-month. Be aware of the Epiphany holiday – on or around January 6 – as many businesses will shut down. In total, Colombia has 18 public holidays throughout the year, so certainly look into them ahead of time. Key events: New Year’s Day.

The pleasant temperatures keep rolling as bullfighting season (Temporada Taurina) starts. Events are held in the Plaza de Toros La Macarena, which hosts a number of big-time concerts throughout the year, too.  Key events: Bullfighting season.

A comparatively quiet month in Medellín, unless it’s the rare occasion when Easter falls in March. Key events: St. Joseph’s Day.

In line with many major cities in South America and beyond, the city noticeably shuts down for Semana Santa. So many in Medellín leave the city to spend time with their families out of the hustle and bustle. Key events: Expoartesano, Semana Santa (Holy Week).

This is Medellín’s rainiest month. Before any outdoor adventure, pack your poncho and look toward the hills for dark clouds. They can be the most reliable weather forecast around. Key events: ColomBIOdiversity Festival.

Colombia has two soccer seasons each year, with the first season coming to a close in June. Grab a bottle of aguardiente or a bucket of Aguila and catch the playoffs on virtually any television in town. If Atlético Nacional or Deportivo Independiente Medellín are playing, head to Estadio Atanasio Girardot and catch the game(s) in person! Key events: International Tango Festival.

While the temperatures remain warm, the festival season really starts to heat up in July. From fashion to salsa to poetry, Medellín takes center stage. Key events: International Poetry Festival, Colombiamoda, Colombia Salsa Festival, Pride 

Orchids and flowers are the talk of the town. Flower Festival events color the city at the beginning of the month with many local businesses showcasing flower displays of their own throughout August. Key events:  Flower Festival and Desfile de Silleteros, International Music Festival.

Love is in the air. Colombia’s version of Valentine’s Day (Día de Amor y Amistad) falls on September 18, so shower your boo accordingly. Key events: Medellín International Jazz Festival, Día de Amor y Amistad.

Typically Medellín’s second rainiest month, plan for a museum, mall and shopping day or two, for sure. Regardless of the weather, definitely get out and about for Halloween. It’s taken very seriously throughout the city. Key events:  Maridaje, Flamenco Festival, Bird Festival, Altavoz, Hip Hop al Parque, Halloween

The city’s second rainy season starts to wind down. While you may be in Medellín, the Cartagena Independence Day celebration is always a big one for the entire country, falling on November 11 or the first Monday after. The day recognizes Cartagena becoming the first city in Colombia to declare independence from Spain. Key events: Festival De Las Salsa Romántica, Colombian Women’s Day.

Medellín is a global Christmas light destination. Take a stroll along the Río Medellín or virtually any city park – you’ll see why and fall in love with this place that much more. Key events: Festival de las Luces y Alumbrados Navideños, Christmas Day of Candles, Antioquia Movie Festival.

You might also like: The best neighborhoods in Medellin: a city transformed    Find Eternal Spring in Medellin’s parks and gardens    A guide to Medellín for digital nomads   

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5 days in Medellin Colombia | Best itinerary to follow

Medellín is a vibrant city with towering buildings located in the Aburra Valley, surrounded by mountains and lush vegetation. It is the second-largest city in the country, after  Bogotá ,  and is commonly referred to as the ‘ City of Eternal Spring ’.

Known for its lively music, delicious gastronomy, and its friendly locals, Medellin has earned its place on the backpacker trail. Having spent an incredible  5 days in Medellin , I would love to return for more!

Discover the  best things to do in Medellin  Colombia in this ultimate travel guide.

History Of Medellin

Medellín in the 20th century was a city of great change and upheaval. The city experienced rapid growth and industrialisation driven by the coffee trade, as well as political violence and drug trafficking.

The drug trade, driven by the demand for cocaine in the United States, began to affect Medellín in the 1970s, and it became a major problem in the 1980s leading to paramilitary wars, corruption, and poverty. At this time, Medellin was known as the “Murder Capital of the World”.

Despite the challenges it faced, Medellín made significant progress. The city’s education system was improved, its infrastructure was upgraded, and social programs were introduced. Medellin continues to rebuild itself and is now home to many world-renowned museums, universities, and parks.

Medellín is a city that is constantly evolving. Their transformation is a testament to the city’s resilience and its commitment to becoming a thriving and prosperous city.

Getting Around Medellin

Public transport in medellin.

The  Medellin metro system  is a network that includes the metro cable cars, the tram, and the buses. Tourists will mainly use metro trains and cable cars. It is worth buying a  Medellin Metro Civica card  so you can top up as you go.

Metro de Medellín, first opened in 1995, is one of the most modern and efficient metro systems in Latin America, and it has helped to transform the city. The metro is a symbol of progress and hopes for Medellín, and it is a source of pride for Paisas, hence why the metro is spotless. No litter or graffiti will be visible anywhere.

Getting Taxis In Medellin

There are loads of taxis in Medellin, however, it is best to avoid hailing in the street.

Whilst ride-sharing apps are technically illegal,  Uber  and  Easytaxi  are commonly used, and the safest option. It is best to sit in the front in case the authorities pull the car over.

Taxis booked via ride-sharing apps at the airport and bus terminals are monitored more closely by the police and may detain the drivers. Get an airport transfer or standard cab, and agree on a price before you get in.

Where To Stay In Medellin

For backpackers and tourists, the best areas to stay in Medellin in El Poblado and Laureles, both are fairly central. El Poblado is more lively with more bars, restaurants and nightlife, whereas Laureles is a little more low-key and more expats. There are wonderful options for accommodation in these districts of Medellin to suit all budgets.

BUDGET BOUTIQUE (El Poblado) –  Rango Boutique Hostel features a garden, shared lounge, terrace with pool and restaurant – the à la carte breakfast is awesome. Having stayed in this hostel, I can recommend it.  Find the l atest deals for Rango Boutique Hostel

MID-RANGE HOTEL (El Poblado) –  Refugio del Jaguar features concierge services, a garden, and a shared lounge. Each room includes a patio with a private bathroom fitted with a shower.  Find the latest deals for Refugio del Jaguar

MID-RANGE HOTEL (Laureles)  – Hotel Boutique Casa Sonata offers a garden, a bar and air-conditioned rooms with a patio.  Find the latest deals for Hotel Boutique Casa Sonata

SUSTAINABLE HOTEL (El Poblado)  – EcoHub Hotel Medellin features accommodation with a terrace, free private parking and a restaurant. The hotel provides air-conditioned rooms with a desk, flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with shower.  Find the latest deals for EcoHub Hotel Medellin

LUXURY HOTEL (El Poblado)  – Patio del Mundo is a Hotel Boutique of 13 rooms across two properties with terraces, and a garden. Each room is decorated with local arts and crafts, some with a private terrace.  Find the latest deals for Patio del Mundo

DAY 1: Downtown Medellin

Botanical garden of medellín.

The  Jardín Botánico Joaquín Antonio Uribe de Medellín , more simply known as the Botanical Garden of Medellín, is a 14-hectare botanical garden in Medellín, Colombia. The botanical garden has 4,500 flowers and 139 recorded bird species. It has an important collection of orchids preserved in an architectural space called the “Orchideorama”.

The garden, founded in 1972, is home to a variety of gardens, including a cactus garden, a Japanese garden, and a butterfly garden. It is a great place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of the city whilst learning about plants, their importance to the environment, and Colombian biodiversity.

Watch your feet, I saw a tortoise camouflaged against the pathway that started to move as I got up close!

Botanical Garden of Medellín   is free to enter and open daily from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm. Metro stop: Universidad (Line A)

Downtown Walking Tour

When creating your itinerary of  what to do in Medellin , make sure you book a  walking tour of Medellín downtown  (El Centro) and discover the city’s dynamic culture and history, and unique architecture. Learn about the city’s role in the Colombian drug trade, its recent transformation, and the resilience of the Paisas.

The  Real City free walking tour  with a local will take you to some of the city’s most popular attractions, including the Botero Museum, the Medellín Metro, and the Plaza Botero.

Plaza Botero

Plaza Botero  is a public square in Medellín, Colombia, named after the famous Colombian sculptor and painter Fernando Botero. The square is home to 23 famous “Fatty” sculptures by Botero, installed between the Palacio de Cultura Uribe Uribe and the Museo de Antioquia. The sculptures are all made of bronze and are a variety of exaggerated sizes and voluptuous shapes.

The sculptures were donated by the man himself as part of an urban renewal program in 2002, and are now a top  Medellin tourist attraction . I loved the Botero dog, and the Roman soldier had a private area where the brass has suffered statue rubbing over the years.

I saw Botero sculptures popping up along my Colombian adventures such as  Plaza Santa Domingo in Cartagena  and the  Botero Museum in Bogota .

Bird Of Peace Statue

The  Bird of Peace “Pajaro de Paz”  is a bronze statue by Colombian sculptor Fernando Botero, located in San Antonio Plaza in Medellín.

The statue was created in 1995 and was originally meant to be a symbol of peace and hope for the city. However, in 1995, the statue was bombed by a guerrilla militant, killing 12 people. Instead of removing the damaged sculpture, Botero left it there and created an identical Bird of Peace to place right beside it as a powerful symbol of hope and resilience.

Drink In Salon Malaga

Salón Málaga is a historic bar in Medellín, Colombia. It was founded in 1957 by Gustavo Arteaga whose vision was for people to meet, socialise and listen to wonderful music together. The bar is like a vintage shop, full of photos, retro furniture, and ornaments, like time has stood still from the bohemian days.

Salón Málaga is known for its bolero music and tango dancing, and Saturdays, are the night for live music performances. I can understand why the bar has been featured in several films and television shows, and it is popular with locals and tourists looking for an authentic experience. I just stayed for a drink during the day, I bet the atmosphere at night would be incredible.

Salón Málaga  open Mon-Sat 8am-2am, Sunday + holidays 8am-12am. Metro station: San Antonio

Visit Museo Casa De La Memoria

The Memory House Museum  (Museo Casa de la Memoria) in Medellín commemorates the victims of violence in the city. The museum is housed in a former prison, and its exhibits include photographs, documents, and the personal belongings of victims. The museum also has a library and a memorial garden.

The museum is a powerful and moving place to visit. It is a stark reminder of the human cost of violence, and it is a place where people can come to remember and mourn their loved ones. I felt sad when I left the Museo Casa de la Memoria, the stories you read about stay with you.

Museo Casa de la Memoria  is free admission. Closed on Mondays (apart from public holidays).

Eat Bandeja Paises

When in Medellin, it’s a must to try the  best Bandeja Paisa in Medellin , unless you are vegetarian of course. This typical “Paisa” dish originates from the Antioquia region and typically consists of a variety of ingredients, including chorizo, chicharrón (pork crackling), beans, rice, plantain, and avocado.

On a recommendation, I went to  Hacienda  – a chain that has been around for years and is famous for its traditional Colombian dishes. The portion was generous, the decor was rustic and welcoming.

Enjoy The Rooftop Sunsets

After an emotional day of hearing about Paisa’s turbulent past and heart-wrenching stories, it was time to kick back with my welcome cocktail at Rango Boutique Hostel. A  rooftop bar in Medellin  is the perfect spot to get lost in the sunset views.

If you love a rooftop bar with a city vista then Medellin is the place to go. Rango Hostel does a cocktail-making class on the rooftop (booking in advance is advised), and you can even do a  rooftop bar crawl  if you fancy a more lively affair!

DAY 2: Escobar Tour + Art + Pizza

Not all escobar tours are the same.

Many  Pablo Escobar tours  often glorify Escobar’s life and brutal crimes, and many visitors only have the Narcos Netflix series as a reference. This is insensitive to the victims of his violence and can also contribute to the glamorisation of drug culture. Today, many people in the city do not even like to speak or hear mention of his name as the memories are still within their lifetime.

On a mission to better educate myself, I researched the Escobar Tours thoroughly. Our guide, Danny, from  Discovering Medellin  blew me away with his knowledge of Colombia’s political and economic landscape to help understand the causes of this devastating period of history, and how education and the drive for social change have enabled the transformation of the city. His unbiased approach did not glorify Escobar in any way.

The tour starts at the memorial park ‘Inflexion’ installed by the government to remember the people who lost their lives. Then on to the graveyards, the house and rooftop where he died, and Barrio Pablo Escobar. Originally called “Medellin Sin Tugurios,” or “Medellin Without Slums”, the neighbourhood was built in the early ’80s, with investment from Escobar as a way of buying their loyalty. 

Do Not Visit The Pablo Escobar Museum

Choose your tour wisely.  Many popular tours include a visit to Pablo Escobar Museum, and the opportunity to meet Roberto Escobar (Pablo’s brother). This is a complete NO for me, as the family is profiteering from their terrible crimes.

Roberto Escobar AKA “El Osito” was the former accountant, drug trafficker and co-founder of the  Medellín Cartel  who had a huge bounty on his head and served 14 years in prison. Not a man I want to donate my money to or have my photo taken with!

Watch A Match At Atanasio Girardot Stadium

The Atanasio Girardot stadium is located west of downtown Medellín (Metro station: Estadio). The stadium has a capacity of over 40,000 and is home to two of Colombia’s biggest clubs: Atlético Nacional and Independiente Medellín, which are supported by some of the most passionate fans in South America.

My accommodation (Rango Hostel) had sold out of tickets, so my plan was to buy tickets from El Tesoro shopping mall or at the stadium ticket booths. Then the heavens opened, and rain bounced off the ground, so decided to pass on the mission.

I’m not a massive football fan, but I had been told that the atmosphere inside Atanasio Girardot stadium is electric, and a  must-do in Medellin . So, book your tickets for  Atanasio Giradot stadium   early! 

The  Medellin Modern Art Museum (MAMM)  was founded in 1978 and is one of the most important museums of modern art in Latin America. The museum has a collection of over 2,000 works of art from Colombian and international artists.

MMAM is a perfect  activity in Medellin  for rainy days, and the cafe does a top hot chocolate too!

MMAM  is open daily. Nearest Metro Station: Industriales

Pizza At Café Zorba

Café Zorba is a popular vegetarian (and some vegan) pizza restaurant located in El Poblado. They are an absolute taste sensation, I loved the Espinaca and Chimichurri pizzas and mouth-watering hummus.

Expect a chilled vibe at Café Zorba, with an open kitchen providing an atmosphere as the pizzas are prepared, shovelled into the ovens, and out on the plates at great speed. They hold live music nights with sounds of jazz, and world music echoing down the street.

There is a no-reservations policy at  Café Zorba , so don’t rock up late if you are super-hungry!

DAY 3: Comuna 13

Comuna 13 tour.

Comuna 13 was once considered the most dangerous neighbourhood in Medellin. Tourists would not enter, and locals would avoid disclosing where they lived.

Today, Comuna 13 is the epitome of transformation. The barrio is a  Medellin must-see  for tourists to experience the lively street performers and break dancers, creative street art and galleries, and cultural expression in food.

The famous escalators in Comuna 13 connected the communities on the mountainside with each other and the city below giving more access to facilities and job opportunities. They are popular with tourists as they take visitors to one of the best views of Medellín.

So, which Comuna 13 tour is best?   I used  Zippy Tour Comuna 13  as they were one of the first in the district to run tours there. As all guides are from Communa 13 you get a first-hand account of what it was like to grow up there, whilst they walk you through five different neighborhoods.

Beers At Comuna 13

After the Comuna 13 tour, it’s a good idea to stick around for a few craft beers, people-watching and, of course, the wonderful views from the side of the mountain. The buzz of Comuna 13 with the sounds of the break dancers and rappers, and the hubbub of activity made this a perfect spot to pitch up.

Eat Healthy In Saludpan

Saludpan located in the Laureles district is all about conscious and ecologically sustainable eating, and I couldn’t wait to experience it.

True to form for May in Medellin, the heavens opened just as we dived into Saludpan. They have tables to dine al fresco if the weather permits.

Saludpan was a fabulously rustic place to eat our way through the healthy field-to-fork menu paired with a tasty drop of red wine. Being a health food shop makes this a busy and cheerful place throughout the day.

Saludpan  opens from 8 am – 8 pm. Nearest metro station: Estadio.  Read Salupan reviews on Tripadvisor.  

DAY 4: Guatape Day Trip

Taking a  day trip to the picturesque town of Guatapé  is a must when visiting Medellín, Colombia. The town is known for its colourful houses with zócalo detail. Wander around the town, admire the architecture, have coffee in Plazoleta de Los Zócalos, take a boat trip, or visit Iglesia de Nuestra Senora del Carmen.

One of the highlights of visiting Guatape is climbing the majestic monolith, El Peñol to see incredible views of the lagoon.

The trip to Guatape can be done by taking a 2-hour bus journey on public transport or going hassle-free with a  group tour to Guatape.

DAY 5: Communa 8

Comuna 8 coffee tour.

La Sierra (Comuna 8) was founded in the late 1970s by people who migrated en masse to the city from rural areas in search of a better life. For many years, paramilitary wars plagued the community and were considered a no-go area. Watch the  documentary on La Sierra  before you go to La Sierra to understand. Today, La Sierra has been reimagined into a colourful community with a strong sense of identity.

Our guide Aturo took us up the 577 steps through the self-built houses, up the lush mountainside, passing by the school, and continuing along the winding road to the family coffee farm. We learned about the day-to-day tasks involved in producing artisan coffee from seed to roasting.

The ‘Incredible’ coffee finca was set up many years ago as the owner used to walk the long way to avoid shootings. It turns out that the farm is in a micro-climate that is perfect for growing coffee, and the business is a growing success. An inspiring story considering the history of gangs and violence.

Aturo has worked hard in creating a strong relationship with the community in Barrio La Sierra and supports the local kitchen at La Sierra’s church. Each tour donates enough money to the community soup kitchen to feed 2 children for 2 weeks.

In my 5 days in Medellin, the visit to  Comuna 8  on  La Sierra Urban Coffee Tour  is one of the best things I did. If you are looking for an  authentic sustainable experience  and feel-good story in Medellin, don’t miss this tour!

Ride The Cable Car

Riding the cable car should be on your  Medellín itinerary . The cable car system, known as the Metrocable, is a public transportation system that links the city’s downtown area with the hillside neighbourhoods. The cable cars offer stunning views of the sprawling city and the surrounding Andes mountains.

There are six lines of the Metrocable, each of which serves a different hillside barrio, and connects to the city’s metro.

The most popular line is the Jardín line, which runs from the Acevedo metro station to the  Parque Arvi  station. The Jardín line offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains. It is also the only line that goes to Parque Arvi, a beautiful park with hiking trails, picnic areas, and a lake.

As I experienced the  Medellin cable car  when I descended from La Sierra, I didn’t make the trip to Parque Arvi.

FAQs: 5 Days In Medellin

How many days do you need in medellin.

There is so much to do in Medellin especially if you love city life! I would recommend a minimum of  3 days in Medellin  but longer would be better to get a more in-depth understanding of the city. If you can spend  5 days in Medellin  this is the perfect time to uncover the turbulent history, the vibrant culture and the welcoming people.

Is It Worth Visiting Medellin Colombia?

Visiting Medellin  is absolutely worth it. Whilst Medellin is missing a historic centre like Cartagena and Bogata, it is a place to soak up the knowledge of locals about modern history in Colombia. There are lots of  top things to do in Medellin  on your visit, it is a vibrant and exciting city with a lot to offer visitors. Medellín is known for its friendly people, its’ delicious food, and its unique city landscape.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Medellin Colombia?

The  best time to visit Medellin  is in the summer from June to August, or from December to March when the weather is pleasant, and least amount of rain.

Medellin has two wet seasons, April to May and September to November. I visited in April and it was prone to rain heavily in the afternoon for a few hours.

Popular times to  visit Medellin for festivals  are the  Feria de las Flores  (The Flower Festival) is on every year in late July / early August, and  Alumbrados Navideños  (Christmas lights) are displayed in December through to January.

Is Medellin Safe To Travel To?

Medellin is best known as a hotbed of violent crime and shootings since the 80s. Whilst the city has improved remarkably, travellers still need to be cautious as petty crimes, robberies, and druggings do happen.

Areas such as Laureles and El Poblado are where most tourists stay, and there are generally more CCTV, police, or security guards present. It’s a good idea not to wear flashy jewellery, and try not to get too drunk to keep your wits about you,

Be careful at night. Avoid Downtown Medellin areas such as Prado, Parque De Las Lucas and Parque San Antonio, and it is better to get an Uber instead of walking even if you are close to your accommodation.

What is the best travel insurance for Medellin

Be prepared with travel insurance. Here are some tried and tested options;

Get 5% off your travel insurance with HeyMondo . Benefit from 24-hour medical assistance, 365 days a year with single, multi-trip, and long-stay insurance, cover for Covid-19, and non-refundable expenses. The handy app makes this a simple process! They give a little back too by contributing to ‘Doctors Without Borders’

SafetyWing for Digital Nomads . Benefit from 24/7 assistance, comprehensive and medical cover including Covid-19. Buy insurance whilst you are travelling, with the option of global health insurance.

Where Next After Medellin?

Medellin is a major city in Colombia with great connections. Enjoy the towns near the city such as  Guatape  in Antioquia province, and Jardin to the north.

Head north to the Caribbean coast to explore  Getsemani  in the  lively city of Cartagena , as well as Tayrona National Park, Minca, and La Guajira.

Bogota  is a cool city and a big hub for travel. For those who love a real adventure, head down to the  Tataco Desert  or to  Leticia, the gateway to the Amazon .

PIN FOR LATER: 5 DAYS IN MEDELLIN

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I'm a content creator for She Wanders Miles ♡ Digital marketer, photographer, hiker, and nature lover ♡ Passion for slow, sustainable and responsible travel ♡ Join me in discovering our beautiful world across 7 continents.

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This was a very thorough post! I really appreciated your perspective and thoughts on not visiting the Pablo Escobar Museum… I wish more people did research on what they’re spending their money on, especially in regard to museums and attractions. Overall, great post!

Thank you. I was still in two minds going on the tour but the guide was so knowledgable about the whole political landscape of Medellin and Colombia, he was fascinating! And glad he didn’t agree with going to the Pablo Escobar Museum either.

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• Where To Stay In Medellin, Colombia: A Complete Guide

On our six week Colombian adventure, Medellín was undoubtedly our favorite city. So much so, in fact, that we ended up there twice. We chose to stay in two different neighborhoods to get a feel for each of them, and have some specific thoughts on where to stay in Medellín, Colombia for visitors with different styles and budgets.

Our aim is to arm you with the information you need – based on our experience – to choose the perfect place to stay in Medellín. 

But first, let’s talk a little bit about the city itself. 

Medellín is one of the most fascinating places to visit in Colombia for a history and government nerd like me (Matt). It is a lighthouse on a hill for cities looking to make drastic changes and transformations through investment in public projects.

Like every other American (and probably other countries too, to be fair) who has written about visiting Medellín, the first thing our friends and family (okay, mostly family) said when we told them we were going to Colombia was “isn’t it dangerous?” And when we were getting on the plane, it wasn’t “oh my gosh have the BEST time!” It was “stay safe, and text me every day – I mean it!” 

Once you start to learn about Medellín past, it’s easy to understand why people reacted that way, particularly older people. In the 80’s and 90’s, Medellín was the most dangerous city in the world.

But over the course of the past two decades or so, it has changed DRASTICALLY. And we took a couple of tours that helped illuminate how that transformation happened.

Now, it’s among the most innovative and forward-thinking cities in Latin America, and is an incredible place to visit. 

One important note here about “Narcos ,” and you might find it a little preachy, but I feel pretty strongly about it. I watched Narcos, the Netflix show, while we were in Colombia. It was super interesting to see the contrast between history through that lens, and the real life experience we learned about by connecting with locals. In a lot of ways, that show glorifies Pablo Escobar, who was nothing short of a cold blooded killer (yes, it might be more complicated than that, but is it really?).

Thousands of people died as a result of his actions. It’s worth remembering that before you take a “Pablo Escobar tour” with one of his former cronies who’s looking to make a quick buck off of the recent flood of foreign tourists. 

I would recommend skipping all “Escobar” tours, and instead focus on tours that highlight the positive changes Medellín has made, rather than the violence and heartbreak of the Escobar years.

Like this history and innovation tour , which we took with Sebastian and LOVED.

We also did this cooking class with an expat who has started a social project focused on teaching locals to cook healthier food using the abundance of amazing local ingredients – also a highlight of our entire Colombia itinerary . 

Planning a trip to Colombia? You’ll want to read our other Colombia travel guides that we put together to help you plan the perfect trip.

• 2 Weeks in Colombia: The Best Colombia Itinerary
• A Perfect 3 Days in Bogotá
• Where to Stay in Bogota
• Gluten Free Bogota
• Gluten Free Medellin
• The Best Places to Stay in Cartagena

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.

Where to Stay in Medellin, Colombia: Choosing the Best Area to Stay

In this guide to deciding where to stay in Medellín, we’ll take you through our experiences in two of the best places to stay in Medellín, Colombia, and give you the information you need to find the perfect place to stay for your style and budget. 

At the end of the day, you’re likely choosing between two neighborhoods here if it’s your first time in the city.

They are El Poblado and Laureles , which are both central, charming, and great places to use as a home base for exploring the city. 

You really can’t go wrong with either – both are relatively well connected to the rest of the city, central, and safe. At the end of the day, we think it really comes down to your style and preferences.

You should choose El Poblado if you have a short trip (2-3 days or less) and want to be right in the middle of all the action AND well-connected to the rest of the city with public transportation. For a relatively affordable stay (with access to a kitchen), we stayed in a private room at Los Patios Boutique Hostel for part of our trip, and would recommend it. It’s essentially a hotel with access to a shared kitchen. If you want a nice hotel instead, look at Sites Hotel or Celestino (the latter is a pretty good value for what you’re getting).

If you’ve got a little more time and want something a little more low-key and residential, stay in Laureles . There’s still plenty of good food and drinks to be had in the neighborhood, though it’s a little bit of a longer walk to the metro to get around (you might find yourself using more taxis here). If you want an affordable hostel, check out the Wandering Paisa . If you want a great value (nice + affordable) hotel, look at Casa Laureles . VPV Suites is also a good option if you’re looking for something more modern (the Lofts also have full kitchens).

The third area we’d recommend, which is one of the best neighborhoods for longer term stays (digital nomads, looking at you!) and for a second or third trip, would be Envigado . It’s much more low key, residential, and quiet, so it’s perfect if you’re looking to feel more like a local than a tourist while you’re staying in Medellin.

It would also be a good home base for families – we were told it’s generally safer than staying in other parts of the city, not that Poblado or Laureles are particularly unsafe. 

We should note that we have stayed in two of the places below that we would absolutely recommend – Los Patios Hostel and Casa Cliche – but not some of the other hotels, hostels, and Airbnbs.

Those we’ve chosen based on hours of research, reading reviews, and looking at pretty pictures. Think of this as a guide to the best place to stay in Medellin if we were heading back. Which we definitely will at some point. 

Now, onwards to giving you the information you need to decide on the best area to stay in Medellín for your trip!

El Poblado: Upscale and Tourist Friendly

El Poblado is probably the most central place to stay, which makes it the best place to stay in Medellín for tourists on a shorter trip.

You’ll be within walking distance of basically anything you could ever possibly need – coffee (miss you already, Pergamino Coffee), basically any kind of food from traditional Colombian (Mondongo’s) to Indian (Naan Sabores de India), and bars ranging from “untz-untz” to low key.

In fact, you could probably spend your entire Medellín itinerary in El Poblado, and never run out of stuff to do, see, eat, and drink. 

However, you’ll be surrounded by people just like you (tourists), which we think is the tradeoff here.

In fact, we felt like we heard more English than Spanish while we were staying here.

It’s one of the wealthiest neighborhoods in Medellín – if not the wealthiest – and it shows as you’re walking around the heart of the neighborhood near Parque Lleras. 

If you’re okay feeling a little bit like a tourist, then you’ll love El Poblado for its selection of things to eat and drink, an overwhelming number of places to stay, and its connections to the rest of the city. 

It’s super easy to get to the metro lines connecting you to the rest of of the city from El Poblado – the metro station is at the western edge of the neighborhood, and will take you north to the city center where you can connect with lines that will take you west to the rest of the city, including Communa 13 (though we recommend you take this tour with Sebastian , which we loved, because it’s so much more than just another Comuna 13 tour). 

Where to Eat, Drink, and Play in El Poblado

Here are some of the spots we discovered in El Poblado that we think you’re going to love. 

• Drink coffee at Pergamino – It’s really not hard to find good coffee in Medellín, particularly in Poblado. You guys know about my passion for good coffee (SINGLE ORIGIN OR BUST), so I think you already know that I researched and tasted coffee at the best cafes in Medellín. In my opinion, Pergamino has the best coffee in Medellín. Go to the location on Carrera 37, which is bustling and always has a line out the door, and enjoy a freshly brewed coffee out on their lovely patio. 
• If you are a tea drinker, head to the Tea Market – Long time readers know that Alysha is more of a tea drinker but allows me to drag her around a city in search of the perfect cup of coffee as long as we visit some tea places. The Tea Market started out as a store selling a selection of tea from around the world and accessories, but they’ve now opened a cafe where you can try a number of the teas for sale in hot or cold drinks. It is a beautiful cafe with quality drinks, and the staff are friendly and made good recommendations when we couldn’t decide. 
• Dance the night away at a rooftop bar or nightclub – I don’t know what it is about being on a rooftop that makes bars and restaurants more fun, but I seem to find myself on a rooftop with a cold drink no matter where I go. In Medellín, Alambique was perfect for relaxed cocktails and live music. 37 Park Medellín felt more like a rooftop beer garden with rustic log tables, and fairy lights strung between plants. 
• Browse the boutique shops and sample the restaurants and bars at Carrera 34-37 – If you are looking for shopping in Medellin, this is the best place to start. There is a great mix of local and international brands along these streets, and some great restaurants and bars for when you need a break. One of the locations of Pergamino coffee is Carrera 37. 
• Indulge your inner chocoholic at Me Late Chocolate – If you’re looking to satisfy your sweet tooth in Medellín, then this is the place to go. Me Late Chocolate sells handmade chocolates and chocolate related desserts. Sit in for a coffee or hot chocolate and cake if you have some time, but no matter what, make sure you pick up some of their amazing truffles, you will regret it if you don’t. 
• Soak up the atmosphere at the Parque Lleras Sunday Farmers Markets – Avenida Poblado is closed to cars on Sunday to create a traffic-free zone for cyclists and pedestrians around the park. If you are staying in a place with a kitchen, then buy your fresh food and bread here. If not, there are plenty of snacks to sample instead. Don’t miss the guarapo, a delicious combination of lime and fresh-pressed sugarcane, and arepas de choclo, which are a sweeter version of the Colombian staple topped with delicious salty cheese. 

The Best Places to Stay in El Poblado

Here are some of our top picks for where to stay in El Poblado. 

Hotels and Hostels in El Poblado

Los Patios Boutique Hostel : We stayed at Los Patios for almost a week, and highly recommend it. If you’re looking for a social hostel in Medellín, You can’t beat the location. It’s right among all the best restaurants and bars, and a short stumble home from the nightclubs of El Poblado. It’s also roughly equidistant to the heart of the neighborhood and the metro station, which is perfect for getting to other parts of the city, and there’s an amazing grocery store (Exito) right across the street. This is the best place to stay in Medellin if you’re on a budget but after some serious bang for your buck. It has a spectacular rooftop bar which is perfectly placed for enjoying sunsets over the city. There are also free bike rentals, a (great) shared kitchen, a gym, and free coffee. We stayed in a private room (we’re too old for dorms – I need my sleep!) which was almost closer to a boutique hotel than any hostel we’ve ever stayed at.

Sites Hotel : Located in a quiet street a hop, skip, and a jump away from the heart of El Poblado, Sites Hotel has 60 rooms that all have comfortable beds and a kitchenette. There’s even a rooftop pool where you can relax with a great view across the city below. It also has laundry that is free to use, which is fairly unusual for a hotel in our experience. 

Click Clack Hotel : This is one of the best boutique hotels in Medellín. A block and a half away from Parque Lleras and the rest of the sights, sounds, and tastes of El Poblado is Click Clack, a beautiful design-forward boutique hotel. It’s gorgeous, and they have different room sizes available from XS, where you’ll have a smaller, cozier space (not to mention cheaper) with all the same touches, to XXL, where you’ll have all the space you need to spread out and relax. There’s so much green around the hotel! Plants everywhere, inside and out. There are two rooftop bars and a rooftop pool for you to enjoy too. They have won all sorts of awards, including “Best Modern Luxury Hotel – Latin America.”

Celestino Boutique Hotel : Right along Carrera 37 in El Poblado, Celestino Boutique Hotel is a 22 room stunner. Standard rooms are the most affordable, but don’t compromise on style or design. There are three larger room types that will give you more space, but if you’re planning on spending your days out exploring the city, you probably won’t need it. Rooms are a combination of greenery and sleek modern design, which encapsulates the neighborhood around it with its tree-lined streets and hip restaurants and bars. There’s a rooftop pool too, which seems common for the hotels in El Poblado. 

Airbnb in El Poblado 

Here are three Airbnb listings that caught our eye in the neighborhood. 

King Bed with Balcony Views Close to Parque Lleras (studio) : This lovely studio has views over the city, and an open floor plan with a surprising amount of space for a couple or solo traveler. The balcony, which is where you’ll find the views, looks like the perfect spot to enjoy a cup of coffee in the morning, or a glass of wine in the evening. It’s walkable to the best spots in El Poblado, and has a full kitchen and walk in shower. 

Urban Loft with Beautiful View (1 bedroom) : Another stunning balcony view! First of all, you should know that this apartment is not in the heart of El Poblado, but further up the hill just east of the neighborhood near the popular El Tesoro shopping center. You’ll probably need to catch a taxi to get to and from Poblado from here. But that being said, this spot is beautiful. A full kitchen with granite countertops, a balcony with spectacular views and a hammock, and a spacious bedroom and bathroom. What’s not to love?

Magical Home with Lovely Garden – Designer Loft (1 bedroom) : This bright and airy apartment has an unbelievable amount of natural light. And plants. Lots of plants. The minimalist decor, complete with subway tiling, is stunning, and it’s just outside of all the action in El Poblado. It’ll take you maybe five minutes to walk to Carrera 37, where you’ll find Pergamino Coffee. 

Laureles: Low-Key and Central

We loved Laureles. The part we stayed in – the southwestern end near Primer Parque de Laureles – is everything we love in a neighborhood. It’s relatively quiet (not completely dead though), has tree-lined streets, and is packed full of great food, drinks, coffee shops, and more. That puts it at the top of the list of the best neighborhoods in Medellín in our book. 

We also noticed that Laureles’ urban planning is kind of unique, especially compared to the rest of Medellín.

In a city of grids, it’s more of a circular pattern fanning out from the University at the south end. Apparently it was a conscious choice made by German architect Karl Brenner when the neighborhood was being laid out decades ago. 

“Laureles” is a pretty big area, ranging from the Estadio Metro Station on the north side, to Avenida 33 on the south side. In general, we’d recommend staying south of Avenida San Juan , which is the more residential and charming part of the neighborhood, at least in our experience. 

The trade off is that the closest metro station, Estadio, is roughly 20 minutes away on foot, which is a journey we made multiple times to get to other parts of the city.  

The Best Places to Stay in Laureles

There are some great options in Laureles. While this neighborhood might have fewer places to stay, they will be quieter and slightly more affordable than in El Poblado.

Hotels and Hostels in Laureles

Casa Cliché : If you want a great value and a quieter experience than a traditional hostel, then Casa Cliché is where to stay in Medellín. It is full of huge common areas, including a massive patio area, where you’ll enjoy your complimentary breakfast, and a big living room. They have a couple of private rooms, which is where we stayed, and a couple of dorms. It’s not a huge hostel, which means it’s relatively quiet. A vegetarian breakfast is included in the room rate. 

Hotel Inntu : For the conscious traveler, Hotel Inntu is a perfect option. It is an eco-friendly hotel and has a spa and a swimming pool. Rooms are nothing special, but have everything you’d expect from a hotel. It is extremely central and close to all the bars and restaurants in Laureles along Avenida Nutibara, plus it has a restaurant onsite. 

Envigado: Best for Long Term Stays and Families

Envigado is a quiet, residential neighborhood south of El Poblado where you will find a slice of local life. The streets and parks will be full of young families enjoying their weekends and evenings.

It’s further out from the traditional tourist sites, so it’s not the best place to stay for a shorter visit. Though thanks to Medellín’s well-connected and efficient metro, it’ll only take you 15 minutes to get downtown. 

Envigado is perfect for travelers who want to experience what living in Medellín is actually like.

Sure, El Poblado is great for a night out, but would you want to live there? We wouldn’t.

Would we want to live in Envigado, with its tree-lined streets, parks, and cafes with outdoor seating? Absolutely. 

The Best Places to Stay in Envigado

First of all, since it’s more residential, there’s literally one hotel in the neighborhood, and that’s the Arame Hotel , which is very basic. Here, Airbnb is going to be your best friend. 

Here are two Airbnb options for you to check out in Envigado. 

Airy Penthouse Bordering Poblado : This colorful one-bedroom apartment has access to a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the city. The apartment is in a residential area, surrounded by plenty of markets to buy your fresh food from, and the hosts are only too happy to give you recommendations. 

Peaceful Oasis in Trendy Restaurant Zone : If you’re traveling with a family, this is where to stay in Medellin. It’s a huge newly renovated three-bedroom apartment in the middle of Envigado. Each bedroom is furnished with a plush bed, and the flat is professionally designed to be a comfortable oasis for your whole family. It’s right near the Envigado metro station, so you’ll be able to get between home and the rest of the city relatively easily.

There you have it – our top picks for where to stay in Medellin, Colombia, based on our own personal experience.

Don’t miss our guides to where to stay in Bogota and the best places to stay in Cartagena .

Planning a trip to Colombia? We’ve got more travel guides to help you plan an incredible trip.

• 3 Days in Bogotá, Colombia: A Perfect Bogotá Itinerary
• Where To Stay In Cartagena, Colombia: Best Places To Stay
• 2 Weeks in Colombia: How to Plan Your Colombia Itinerary
• The 5 Best Places to Visit in Colombia: South America’s Best Kept Secrets
• Where to Stay in Bogotá, Colombia: The 4 Best Places to Stay
• Gluten Free Bogota: A Celiac’s Guide to Colombia’s Capital
• Gluten Free Colombia: A Complete Travel Guide for my Fellow Celiacs

Matt is the founder and main writer behind Wheatless Wanderlust, which he started back in 2018 as a way to share his gluten free travel guides with his fellow Celiac travelers.

Since then, Matt and his wife Alysha have visited 18 national parks, spent three months in Europe and six weeks in Colombia, and have explored every corner of the Pacific Northwest, which is where Matt grew up.

He writes super detailed guides to the places they visit, bringing together personal experience and historical context to help YOU plan an amazing trip.

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Home » South America » Medellin

Is Medellin Safe for Travel? (Insider Tips)

Medellin, once one of the most dangerous cities in the world, is finally showing the world how you are more than your terrible past. After suffering with drug gangs and violent crime of the worst demeanour for so long, the cartel days are finally behind the city of eternal spring.

Medellin is really special. It’s not just changed its violent past; it’s actively embraced all its ugly parts to make something beautiful. So today, staying safe in Medellin is pretty damn easy.

But like every big city , and especially in Latin America, it’s no stranger to having its own safety problems. So, is Medellin safe for tourists these days?

Well, petty theft, traffic, and scams are all still a concern. And although it’s not something that should bother you as a tourist, of course, gangs will never be eradicated completely.

Of course, ‘narco-tourism’ is in play. And actually, you can see it and contribute towards Medellin’s ever-growing, healthy economy.

Whether you’re a solo female traveller or bringing your family, it is safe in Medellin. But we need to get the safety tips straight. Here’s your guide to staying safe in Medellin.

There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide, as things change quickly. The question of “Is Medellin Safe?” will ALWAYS have a different answer depending on who you ask.

The information in this safety guide was accurate at the time of writing. If you use our guide, do your own research, and practice common sense, you will probably have a wonderful and safe trip to Medellin.

If you see any outdated information, we would really appreciate it if you could reach out in the comments below. Otherwise, stay safe friends!

Updated April 2024

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Is it Safe to Visit Medellin Right Now?

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Yes! Medellin is safe to travel to. The city had a recorded 1,400,000 international visitors last 2022. Most of them had a relatively safe experience.

The second largest city in Colombia , visiting Medellin is definitely something I’d highly recommend to all sorts of travellers. Compared to its reputation in the 1980s, when it had one of the highest homicide rates in the world , Medellin is markedly safer these days. 

But you have to be careful while travelling. Street crime still exists, traffic is rather chaotic, and, although violent crime is increasingly uncommon, it’s no stranger to petty crime. 

Oh and then there are the earthquakes (which you’ll experience everywhere while backpacking Colombia ), and the flooding in the rainy season. Both can be pretty bad. Knowing what to do in a disaster situation makes Medellin one of the safest cities in South America.

Just like the safety in Colombia overall, Medellin’s has become a whole new person. In 1993, when Pablo Escobar was out of the picture, safety concerns started to turn around. Crime has pretty much plummeted in general and, in fact, Medellin is safer than many other cities in Latin America.

Alongside Medellin’s drug renaissance in the 80s/90s, there was also a Communist insurgency happening. And while FARC stopped being an armed group in 2017, not everyone on that side was happy. Dissidents are still active.

Gangs still operate in the city. Though there’s absolutely no reason for these to affect you as gang violence is typically inter-gang.

And let’s talk again about those earthquakes…

They’ve been INCREASING over the past few years. Usually, they’re barely a wobble, but researchers are worried that Medellin isn’t sufficiently prepared for a big one. Make sure you know the drill, therefore.

In conclusion, whilst Medellin is safe to visit right now, situations can change. Keep an eye on what’s going on in the city.

Check out our detailed  where to stay guide for Medellin so you can start your trip right!

When choosing where to stay in Medellin, a bit of research and caution is essential. You don’t want to end up in a sketchy area and ruin your trip. To help you out, I’ve listed the safest areas to visit in Medellin:

• El Poblado – One of Medellin’s main neighbourhoods, with numerous restaurants, bars, and shops; it is known for its lively night scene. There are large shopping malls and a ton of bars and clubs. It’s our top recommendation for where to stay in Medellin for nightlife or as a solo traveller. There’s also a strong police presence during the day and even at night. That means more security guards, more cameras, and less crime – at least on paper. 
• Laureles – Laureles may not be the most famous neighbourhood in Medellin, but it’s our recommendation for the safest place in Medellin. It’s quieter and more pedestrian friendly than other parts of the city while still being within easy reach of the hustle and bustle.
• Envigado – Sleep well in a peaceful and relatively safe place to stay in Medellin, Envigado has everything for comfort. Being more rural, a range of outdoor adventures are right on the doorstep. Look out for pickpocketing during the day but you should be pretty safe from gang related crimes. Just keep in mind, wandering off alone or going off the beaten track.

Places to avoid in Medellin

While the City of Eternal Spring is far from the most dangerous city in South America, it isn’t necessarily known to be the safest place to visit either. Always use common sense and stay aware of your surroundings.

Particularly after dark and late at night, nowhere is 100% safe here. When you arrive at your accommodation, ask the staff which areas are best to avoid. These people usually offer the most solid travel safety tips . 

Prado and the most historic district, El Centro (aka La Candelaria), become arguably the most desolate area of Medellin after dark . Commuters and cops leave the area and it becomes decidedly unsafe.

Although some of these places are also cool to visit during the day, these are places to avoid in Medellin for various reasons:

• Comuna 13, Parque Lleras (cool to visit but known for sex tourism)
• Parque de las Luces (NOT recommended after dark)
• Parque San Antonio (pickpockets)
• Prado (nice, but a hotspot for drugs)
• Parque Periodista
• Barrio Trinidad (this is where everyone goes to get drugs)
• and La Sierra

It’s important to know that all of the places can technically be visited. They just have a higher crime rate than others, but those crimes are usually not targeted towards tourists, besides petty theft. So these can become safer areas in Medellin for tourists to visit, too.

Keeping Your Money Safe in Medellin

One of the most common things to happen to you whilst travelling is losing your money. And let’s face it: the most annoying way for this to actually occur is when it’s stolen from you.

Petty crime is pretty much a problem all over the world.

The best solution? Get a money belt.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Medellin is no longer the crime hotspot in Pablo Escobar times. To its credit, it’s had a miraculous turnaround. From one of the most dangerous cities in the world to a modern and inviting hub, it’s a surprising change of fate.

BUT that doesn’t mean it’s 100% safe all the time. So here are some safety tips to help you stay safe in Medellin.

• Don’t walk around shady areas – Medellin is generally safe, but there are some areas to avoid. Don’t wander around after dark.
• Keep valuables close – and hide your money well – especially on public transport.
• Always keep an emergency stash of cash – Never keep all your cards/ currency in one place. And hide it all from thieves with a hidden money belt .
• Take taxis at night – and make sure they are official taxis. 
• Try to blend in – Don’t flaunt wealth. Look at what the locals are wearing. Weirdly, only tourists wear shorts in Medellin, too. 
• Don’t walk with your phone out – it’s an easy (and valuable) target for thieves.
• Watch out at ATMs – pay attention to your surroundings.
• Be aware of spiking – Always keep an eye on your drinks and food, and never accept cigarettes from strangers. 
• Take a good medical kit with you – you never know when you might need it!
• Plan your routes – looking like a lost tourist WILL make you more of a target for thieves.
• Be wary of overfriendly strangers – they’re more than likely trying to scam you .
• If someone wants your stuff, give it to them – It’s not worth it.
• Don’t look for drugs – Hey, I don’t want to be a killjoy, but drugs are the epicentre of Colombia’s dark past.
• Be careful during rainy season – Colombia has two: April-May and October-November.
• Know what to do in an earthquake – and check local news.
• Learn Spanish – at least a bit.
• Remember the national emergency number: 123

Basically, it’s all about travelling smart. Colombia isn’t the violent scourge of Latin America that many perceive it to be, but it’s a safe city for millions of people.

Yes! You can definitely travel to Medellin safely alone. 

But of course, travelling by yourself does put you at risk of being more of a target sometimes. Before you head out on your trip, here are some great tips to help you solo travel Medellin like a boss…

• Read reviews and research for the best hostels in Medellin . Staying somewhere social is good for making friends. Choosing a good, safe area will make getting around easy.
• Speaking some Spanish really is going to enhance your time . This will help with everything from reading bus timetables to getting the best recommendations, and to even…
• Make some travel buddies! There is safety in numbers and it fights the travel blues.
• Keep in touch with people back home . Let them know where you’ll be. At the very least, keep a new travel friend up-to-date.
• Get a SIM card . Maps, emergency contact, last-minute accommodation, etc.
• Don’t push yourself too much. You don’t need to burn yourself out.
• Know your limits – whether it’s drugs, alcohol, or a crazy, spontaneous motorbike adventure , know when to call it a day.

Surprisingly, it’s pretty safe in Medellin for solo travellers. Remember to pay attention to your surroundings, but if you’re not looking for trouble, it doesn’t come looking for you in Medellin.

Yes, Medellin is safe for solo female travellers – and lots of them come here. So the chance to meet cool people in this cool city is high.

Unfortunately, like most places in the world, you’re going to have to think about different safety aspects than many cis-male travellers, for example. And, like other Latin American countries, macho society still needs work in Medellin.

A few tips for travelling safely as a solo female in Medellin can’t hurt. Here we go:

• Check out reputable hostels for women . Get to know other female travellers, and share safety tips and stories. There are female-only dorms if you prefer. 
• Make friends with your hostel staff. They have all the best recommendations for cool (and safe!) places to go. 
• Free walking tours are good to get to know the city’s culture and knowing the dangerous areas to avoid.
• Ignore any catcalling. It’s not the time to break boundaries – walk on and don’t stress yourself out.
• DO NOT walk around by yourself at night time . I’ll say this to all men too – but for solo women, this is a no-no.
• Let me mention spiking again here. Keep an eye on your own drink and DON’T accept anything from strangers .
• Police will help tourists . So if you have a problem, anything from being lost to feeling like you’re being hassled, go and talk to the police.
• Use a body-tight bag – keep your belongings as close as possible.

Although Colombia has a reputation for being a macho society, it has pros and cons… This DOES mean more catcalls and comments. But it ALSO means that men look out for women. 

That said, solo women travellers in Medellin can be safe. It doesn’t mean watching over your shoulder every second, but it means staying aware of your surroundings.

Laureles is one of the safest and expat-friendly neighborhoods in Medellin. While it doesn’t offer that many attractions, it’s a great area to base yourself if you’re worried about security and getting a good nights sleep.

Yep! Medellin is safe to travel for families. In the City of Eternal Spring, the weather is GREAT – not too hot and too cold for your little ones. Perfect.

But yeah, I hear you parents: you need to know a little more than that to have a safe trip to Medellin with the kiddos.

Okay, so the city is not always easy to walk around. The pavements aren’t exactly top-notch. The drains are deep and the curbs are high, so prams or pushchairs are pretty out of the question. 

The metro is generally fine to take children on, but during rush hour things can get pretty hectic, making it not ideal. And, yeah, don’t expect things like child car seats in taxis. 

I don’t think I need to preach to the choir about finding solid, well-reviewed accommodation for the family. Airbnbs in Medellin are fairly priced and ideal for groups.

Aside from these things, Medellin IS safe for children. Your kids will probably be the centre of attention with the locals because Colombian people are all about family. The kids will be a great icebreaker and will allow you to meet even more friendly locals.

Driving is pretty hazardous in Medellin. Traffic gets bad, especially in El Poblado and El Centro. 

Motorbikes, big buses and taxi drivers seem to have little to no consideration for everyone. So, may the odds be ever in your favour. Even as a pedestrian, the roads take no mercy.

Since Medellin’s public transport is very good , I think this is the best option to get around safely. The Medellin Metro is the only one in the WHOLE of Colombia and it is a god-send. 

These have specific routes, and their own dedicated lanes, meaning traffic isn’t that much of a problem. Just watch out for pickpockets and rush hours.

There are public buses but you’ll need to speak Spanish to understand it . I advise caution using the bus at night. It’s probably best just to take a taxi.

Taxis ARE safe in Medellin … but make sure your taxi is legit. The company logo should be there and the license plate number should match up with the sticker in the windscreen. Have your accommodation call one or go to taxi ranks.

When you’re in busy areas of the city, it’s a good idea to lock the doors. And to keep yourself extra safe, call someone while riding in the cab (or pretend to) and give the license plate number – so the taxi driver understands that someone else knows where you are. 

Better yet… Uber is safe in Medellin .

In fact, Uber has a good reputation for being particularly safe in Medellin. There’s none of the usual taxi hassle (i.e. being overcharged) and you won’t have to worry about having the right small bills to pay the driver since you pay in-app.

Everyone’s packing list is going to look a little different, but here are a few things I would never want to travel to Medellin without…

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must.

Yesim stands as a premier eSIM service provider, catering specifically to the mobile internet needs of travellers.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Here are some quick answers to common questions about safety in Medellin.

Is Medellin safe at night?

No, Medellin is not safe at night, especially for solo travellers and females. If possible, stay inside after dark or stick with a large group.

Is Medellin safe for tourists?

Yes, Medellin is safe for tourists as long as they stick to the rules and respect the culture. Being aware of your surroundings is a must in Medellin, no matter where you are. Unless you’re actively looking for trouble, you shouldn’t have a problem in Medellin.

Is it safe to walk around Medellin?

Walking around during the day in Medellin is safe. Stick to the touristy areas and you’ll be perfectly fine unless you wander off alone into small side streets. We wouldn’t recommend walking around at night in Medellin.

What is the safest area to stay in Medellin?

El Poblado is the safest and best area to stay in Medellin. It’s filled with expats, great restaurants, a lively nightlife scene and plenty of affordable accommodation. This doesn’t mean that you can drop all caution. Keep your eyes open no matter where you are and watch your belongings to add another level of safety to your trip.

No dar papaya ( don’t give papaya) is a phrase famous in pretty much all of Colombia. The meaning is basically: “don’t put yourself in a situation where you will be vulnerable.” And that is how I sum up the safety of Medellin.

Medellin has quite literally come up leaps and bounds in the last few years. From being a city practically run by drug lords, to one that’s winning awards. It’s honestly mental.

Gangs and street crime do still exist though. The best way to stay safe in Medellin is to basically not give papaya i.e. put yourself in a dangerous position. Don’t walk around at night in certain areas, don’t get in a taxi with a sketchy-looking driver, don’t talk to that over-friendly stranger, don’t buy drugs; these situations can be easily avoided.

Stick to safe areas, get taxis (or better yet – Ubers) after dark, and make friends with other people exploring this cool city at the same time you are. Keep your wits about you, trust your gut, don’t make yourself vulnerable, and you’re bound to have an AMAZING TIME in this beautiful city.

Looking for more info on traveling to Medellin?

• Let me help you choose where to stay in Medellin
• Swing by one of these fabulous festivals
• Don’t forget to add an epic national park to your itinerary
• Check out my favorite Airbnbs in the centre of all the action
• Plan the rest of your trip with our fantastic backpacking Medellin travel guide!

Disclaimer: Safety conditions change all over the world on a daily basis. We do our best to advise but this info may already be out of date. Do your own research. Enjoy your travels!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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Obvious thing not pointed out is that thieves are attracted to money . Where’s the money ? Poblado and Laureles. Most dangerous places ? Poblado and Laureles

If you don’t know Spanish don’t be walking around outside the busy tourist areas at night. Keep your phone in your front pocket. Avg daily wage is $10. The streets of Poblado are overflowing with Venezuelan immigrants without jobs selling crappy cocaine

I have been solo traveling Colombia by motorcycle for 2 years with one year spent in Medellin

Most dangerous places in Colombia for tourists is easily Cartagena and Santa Marta

I’ve visited Medellin five times this year it’s safe unless you’re stupid but if that’s the case United States isn’t safe if you’re stupid

God Bless to whoever is involved with this great website. It truly makes me feel like I’ve been there already. I was nervous about Medellin but after reading this page I feel like I have the confidence of a lion. Great information thank you

What do you mean by “down that beer”?; finish it up? I’m asking because the translation you posted doesn’t make much sense to me. I’m colombian. Otherwise, very good article! Thank you

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13 Things You Should Know When Traveling to Medellin

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If you’re planning a trip to Medellin, it can be somewhat challenging because the destination is so new on the travel scene, and authentic and insightful information can be lacking. It is, however, growing in popularity and many more people are now traveling to Medellin, including a growing travel blogger community that often just visits briefly and writes superficially about the city.

I wanted to do something different though… I wanted to write about this city that I know and love from a more authentic, respectful, and honest perspective. I’ve spent a few years now living in Medellin, Colombia , I know the place extremely well, and in a way that goes beyond the surface level.

Since you’re here, I want to help you plan a better trip to Medellin with some of these important tips or insights… These are the types of things you should know when traveling to Medellin for the first time, the types of things that can make your trip amazing, unforgettable, and go beyond the stereotypes, or at least beyond the typical advice I see others writing online.

In this comprehensive Medellin travel guide, we are going to be covering a bunch of travel tips ranging from where to stay, what to eat, safety in Medellin, how to deal with money, the Spanish language, and so much more.

Are you ready? Buckle up, this is a big one… Let’s get on with these 13 things you should know when traveling to Medellin for the first time — and don’t miss #13 as it covers the critical issue of safety and security.

If you’re pressed for time, you can also get these travel tips and much more delivered straight to your inbox for future reading or reference with my FREE Medellin Travel Guide:

Where to Stay in Medellin

Ninety percent (or more) of the foreign travelers that come to Medellin stay in Poblado, but there are a number of pretty awesome barrios or neighborhoods to stay in Medellin that are worth considering.

My top picks for where to stay beyond Poblado include Laureles (my favorite neighborhood) and Envigado (although you won’t find any hostels here). The Estadio neighborhood is probably the second most popular area for budget travelers with a myriad of great lodging choices available.

Finally, there is also El Centro, which may appeal to those budget travelers who like more off-the-beaten-path type experiences that many gringos never explore or even appreciate (there are actually a lot of cool things in El Centro, to be honest).

If you’re staying in Poblado, I’d recommend the Manila or Provenza sectors, or the Golden Mile if you’re looking for the high end.

Poblado: #1 Hostel in Poblado: Los Patios Boutique Hostel (Manila)  #1 Budget Hotel in Poblado: Kolor Hotel Boutique (Provenza) #1 Mid-Range Hotel in Poblado: Celestino Boutique Hotel (Parque Lleras) #1 Luxury Hotel in Poblado: Medellin Marriott Hotel (Milla de Oro – the Golden Mile) — Read my in-depth review

Laureles : #1 Hostel in Laureles: Backpackers Inn Medellin #1 Budget Hotel in Laureles: Hotel Pomarosa   #1 Mid-Range Hotel in Laureles: Inntu Hotel  

Estadio: #1 Hostel in Estadio: Hostal Cattleya Medellin #1 Budget Hotel in Estadio: Obo Hotel   #1 Mid-Range Hotel in Estadio: El Portón de San Joaquin  

Envigado : #1 Best Hotel in Envigado: Arame Hotel (it’s actually the only hotel, but it’s good). While not technically iN Envigado, I would still recommend the Fairfield by Marriott Sabaneta for a great mid-price hotel!

El Centro : #1 Hostel in El Centro: Medallo Social Hostal (Boston) #1 Budget Hotel in El Centro: Hotel Gallery (Bombona)

For longer stays, my top recommendation is Airbnb ( new users can get a free travel credit here ), also don’t overlook travel hacking to get points for free hotel stays (like the expensive Marriott), and be sure to read my guide to finding cheap accommodation .

If you need more help trying to decide on the best neighborhood, be sure to read more about where to stay in Medellin or my comprehensive guide to the best Medellin hostels .

Look Beyond Poblado

Poblado is a popular place to stay for foreigners in Medellin… But I’ve got a little secret for you: I don’t particularly love Poblado. I’ve stayed there before, I visit every once in a while, but it just isn’t my favorite neighborhood. I mention this Medellin travel tip because it can dramatically change your perspective and experience of the city, so pay close attention.

Poblado is right for some travelers and very wrong for others.

Every travel blogger who comes through for a couple of days stays in Poblado, of course, and they go on to write about Poblado, and then everyone else who comes through after follows in their footsteps. It becomes a sort of feedback loop.

One of the most prominent travel bloggers recently traveled to Medellin for the first time and went on to write about how Medellin didn’t feel “real” and was just full of chains like Dunkin’ Donuts or Domino’s Pizza.

Another prominent travel blogger said (privately, at least) that he couldn’t see what people really liked about Medellin… And left town with a sour taste in his mouth.

I can understand their perspective because both of these guys were staying in Poblado, in the middle of gringolandia , constantly surrounded by gringos, socializing with gringos, and only left that bubble on organized tours or excursions… Seriously.

These self-proclaimed travel experts were so far from the “authentic” Medellin that they missed the real draw here and what makes this place special. Then other travelers like you read their advice about where to stay and what to do and end up leaving slightly disappointed or let down. That’s a shame.

If you are looking for any semblance of the “real” Medellin, then you should NOT stay in Poblado. Look, it’s a fine place to visit (I do go there once in a while myself!) but I wouldn’t (and don’t) make it my home base. If you do stay in Poblado (totally fine, if it’s right for you), at least make a concerted effort to get out of that bubble on a regular basis.

Medellin is not Poblado, and Poblado is not Medellin.

It all depends on what type of traveler you are… Do you like to be surrounded by English and other travelers? Do you feel uncomfortable only seeing locals and hearing Spanish? You definitely want Poblado.

Personally, I travel to interact with locals, practice the language, learn from people unlike me, etc, and not be surrounded by other travelers doing the same thing as me. That’s part of why I travel. If I wanted to hang out with other foreigners, speak English, and eat the same chain food as always, I would have just stayed home and never left.

Here’s a thought exercise to determine what kind of traveler you are:

• If you go to New York City, do you think Times Square is the best place and never leave or are you more interested in neighborhoods like the Meatpacking District, the Lower East Side, Harlem, etc? Do you want to eat where New Yorkers eat or where the tourist bus lets you off?
• If you go to Las Vegas do you prefer to stay on the Strip or in the Old Town / Fremont area?
• If you go to Cancun do you stay in an all-inclusive resort and only leave on organized Cancun tours or do you prefer to stay in town and experience more of the authentic Cancun?

If you answered the former to any of those, then Poblado is right for you, if you answered the latter, then it is wrong for you.

Poblado is great for nightlife, foodies, and people who like a little luxury at a more affordable price, but if you want to get off the beaten path (even slightly), have a more local experience, talk with Colombians, and so forth, then it is best to look elsewhere.

Honestly, you can get nightlife, food, or even a bit of luxury in almost any cool neighborhood in Medellin.

Getting Around Medellin

Public Transport: Medellin has a pretty excellent public transportation system. Granted it isn’t on the scale of places like Mexico City , but it is nonetheless quite impressive. It features a two-line above-ground metro system (subway) which connects to an integrated streetcar route, gondola system (MetroCable), and bus rapid transit (BRT) lines known as MetroPlus.

If you are staying in any of the principal areas, you will have easy access to the public transportation system. You should get a Tarjeta Civica as soon as you can upon arrival which is available from a few different metro stations like San Antonio.

You can get the Tarjeta Civica for free with your passport. This allows you to use the integrated transportation system and pay reduced prices for connecting services.

Taxis: Taxis are available basically everywhere in Medellin. You can easily flag down taxis pretty much anywhere, although this is not always recommended due to safety issues (more on that later). A better bet is to try and use either an official taxi stand or (if you have a SIM card) to use an app like Cabify to call a taxi with your GPS location.

That being said, I generally don’t worry about flagging down taxis from the street during the daytime, but I am more cautious after dark.

It is rare, but the majority of problems that people have here in Medellin happen while in taxis. There are some bad apples out there who work with robbers and tip them off when they have a good target (you) in their cab.

The rules of using taxis here are to sit in the back, keep the windows almost all the way up, lock the doors, and never use your phone or show valuables in the back seat.

Uber: Uber is actually illegal here in Colombia but that doesn’t stop people from driving for them or utilizing the service. I tend to trust Uber drivers more than taxi drivers, but using Uber can have its own complications here if drivers are reluctant to stop near you (if they see transit police nearby). Normally, they will want you to sit up front with them (like a friend) rather than alone in the back (like a taxi), which is done to avoid problems with the law.

Bike Share: There is a growing bike share service here in Medellin called Encicla. With the previously mentioned Tarjeta Civica, you can use the bike share service here in Medellin and Envigado by enrolling in Encicla online. Neighborhoods like Laureles or Estadio are much more conducive to this type of transport since it is flat and has bike lanes. You must enroll for Encicla online with your Tarjeta Civica, so it is only practical for longer stays in Medellin.

Getting to Medellin from the Airport: The Jose Maria Cordova Airport is actually about an hour outside of Medellin (don’t be fooled by that airport in the middle of town, that one is not used for international flights). Getting from the airport is pretty easy, you’ve got options for either a bus (cheapest), shared town car (cheap), or private town car (best).

I pretty much always go by private car when coming from the airport to Medellin. They go door to door, it’s a stress-free way to travel, and it isn’t expensive. The rate is fixed based on destination and you can expect to spend about $20.

Alternatively, you can ask at the airport for a colectivo (they are the same white cars) which charge about $5 (22.000 pesos) and need four passengers, and will drop you off at the San Diego Shopping Mall, from there you can grab a taxi to your final destination.

Getting to the Airport from Medellin: In terms of going to the airport from town, I prefer to go by shared town car which you can grab from the San Diego Shopping Mall at the base of Las Palmas (go here by taxi and tell the driver “ los colectivos al aerpuerto ”. The shared ride will wait to fill up with four passengers and costs about $5 per person. Unless you’ve got a really weird flight time, I’ve never had to wait more than 10-15 minutes to leave.

These cars are much better than the bus, believe me, don’t go by bus — it’s slower, more nauseating, and doesn’t save you much money. If you’re worried about the whole airport and transport thing, you can also book a private car in advance .

Eat Like a Local

There is a growing and vibrant food scene here in Medellin which is one of the things that makes it so great to live here and call this place home over the long term, but this type of food is definitely expensive for local standards (but cheaper than home standards).

One way you can save a lot of money and eat well though (instead of eating at these more upscale restaurants) is to eat as the locals do…

This is especially true for lunch and the set menus of the day “menu del dia” where you can score good food including soup, main dish (salad, rice, meat, and maybe a plantain), along with fresh fruit juice for about $3. Perhaps one of the best reasons to visit Colombia is just to try some of the incredibly exotic Colombian fruits and all the juices!

That’s a pretty hard price to beat… If you eat in a restaurant you can expect to pay around $8 just for comparison.

At these same local restaurants, you will usually find a cheap and hearty breakfast (eggs, arepa with cheese, and coffee) for about the same price as lunch.

Dinner, on the other hand, doesn’t have these cheap and affordable menus of the day, unfortunately, as they all close up shop after lunch. In this case, you’ll need to hit up a restaurant — there are some local restaurants where you can order off the menu — or go from some fast food (also very popular here) or street food.

Be sure to consider going on a traditional food tour while here if you want a great introduction to Paisa food.

The street food choices can be pretty good and definitely cheap, but it pays to ask for tips from someone in the neighborhood. What most locals do for dinner is to eat an arepa at home, but if they have to grab something, they will usually get an empanada or pastel (stuffed meat pies, basically) to eat with a coffee.

Lunch here is the biggest meal of the day and dinner is relatively modest.

Read more about what to eat with my guide to Colombian food .

Do You Need Spanish in Medellin?

Tourism in Medellin is still relatively new… This isn’t like going to Cancun or something where everybody at your resort speaks English. Now, do you need Spanish here? No, plenty of people get by. But you should try to have as much Spanish as possible before you arrive.

It will make your life here a lot easier in terms of getting around, getting what you need, etc. Not to mention the fact that the locals are friendly! People all over Colombia really like to chat with foreigners… If you’re open to it, they will chat with you.

Small talk is like a sport here, seriously. Expect people to spend five minutes greeting one another asking how they woke up, what’s new, and beyond, and another five minutes (at least) to say goodbye. It’s almost comical sometimes.

You will find that if push comes to shove, there are quite a lot of local Paisas that do speak English — often way better than your Spanish — but they are too shy or timid to use it until like 20 minutes into the struggling conversation.

In summary, you don’t need Spanish, but you should have at least the basics, and the more you have the better. Medellin is a great place to study Spanish , as well, in my opinion, thanks to the friendly locals and the relative clarity of the local accent.

Read more about the best resources to learn Spanish on your own.

About That Medellin Weather

Medellin has gotten the nickname “La Ciudad de Eterna Primavera” — the City of Eternal Spring. This nickname comes from the fact that the city is quite green, flowers are always in bloom, and the weather is supposed to be moderate thanks to its elevation of 4,905 feet.

I always joke though that it is more like the City of Eternal Summer. According to locals, the temperatures have increased quite a bit in recent years, and back in the day Medellin had truly incredible weather when it was never too hot or too cold, and that Eternal Spring name really made sense (although it still makes sense with year-round flowers).

Of course, the temperature and humidity here are nothing like it is on the Colombian coast, and for a city in the tropics, it is a pretty agreeable climate. But the daytime weather is more often between 80 and 90 degrees year-round… Those average annual temperatures of 72 or rarely exceeding 78 like you might have read online seem to be a thing of the past.

For me, as a fair-weathered Seattlite, the temperatures from about 11 am to 3 pm are way too hot and I try to avoid going out, or if I do, I stay in the shade while walking down the street. But the temperatures at night here are pretty much perfect. For reference, I basically always use t-shirts even at night and don’t sleep with anything more than a bedsheet and my underwear.

There are basically only two seasons here in Medellin: dry and rainy. They also used to be much more predictable, but have gotten a little more off-kilter and unpredictable lately. They should be:

• December to March = Dry Season,
• April to May = Rainy Season,
• June to August = Dry Season, and
• September to November = Rainy Season.

That being said, if you come to Medellin in the rainy season, it isn’t a deal-breaker, because the rain is fairly predictable, striking in the mid to late afternoon. More often than not, it rains really hard and goes away pretty quickly too. That means you can still usually get out in the evening for dinner or drinks after the rain.

Keep in mind that due to its location in the tropics, sunrise and sunset are basically consistent year-round. It gets light at about 6:30 am and dark at 6:30 pm. The early darkness can affect safety which we’ll discuss below.

Read more about the best time to visit Colombia for weather and tourist crowds.

What to Wear in Medellin

So, given the (mostly) beautiful weather here in Medellin, what should you wear? At first blush, it seems like perfect shorts and t-shirt weather… And it really is! But everyone says not to wear shorts, t-shirts, and flip-flops here because no locals wear that and you will stick out like a sore thumb.

Honestly, unless you’ve got black hair and mestizo features, you’re probably going to stick out no matter what you wear.

Beyond that though, I think the whole No Shorts and No Flip Flops thing is totally overblown. Truth is, you’ll see locals wearing shorts and flip-flops here in their local barrios.

It’s almost a sort of game for me at times where I will count how many locals I see dressed like that when I’m out. The other day on the bus I counted nine people out and about in like five minutes…

That being said, locals do tend to dress up a lot more than your average traveler. There’s a big difference between shorts and flip-flops and someone dressed like an Argentinean busker with mangy dreads, dirty clothes, and filthy feet in sandals about to fall apart. Don’t go for the homeless look.

On the flip side, you also don’t want to dress up too fancy because if you look like you’ve “got money” then you can often become a target for thieves.

Your best bet is to go middle of the road… Bring along some nice shorts, wear t-shirts all the time if you want, bring along a pair of decent jeans or long pants. That’s all you need.

Women tend to dress up even more here, but you can most definitely wear open-toe shoes or sandals and wear those tank tops or similar shirts. Many local women do so as well, just with lots of accessories, make-up, and a little bit of plastic surgery.

It’s also important to note that the place or context is also important in terms of what you choose to wear. If you’re going out for a night on the town, yeah, shorts and flip-flops are under-dressed. Nice-ish restaurant, same thing. Fancy mall, you guessed it. Wandering around doing tourist things, who cares?

If you’re the type that tends to get cold easily, then you may also want a light jacket or sweater here to use at night time. On a rare occasion, I will use one, but I’m mostly a nice pair of shorts or pants and a t-shirt kind of guy in the daytime and jeans and t-shirt kind of guy at night time. I almost never need a long sleeve shirt or jacket here for the cold (I’m from Seattle, so it always seems super hot here).

Bring DEET?

You’re going to be heading to the tropics, not far from the Equator… That means jungles and mosquitoes and all sorts of communicable diseases… West Nile, Malaria, Chikungunya, and god knows what else…

Thankfully, mosquitoes are not a big problem here. Medellin isn’t the jungle, and indeed, mosquitoes are actually pretty rare here. I’ve spent years living in Medellin now, and I only see mosquitoes occasionally, usually after a heavy rain, and usually in sectors where there is heavy vegetation or water nearby.

When they do come around, it is usually just one or two coming through your window in the evening, and not like a swarm or never-ending nightmare like other parts of the world (I’m looking at you, Cancun). If you’re in a place where the windows shut completely or have screens, you’ll probably never even see a mosquito during your trip.

Even so, from all the research and accounts I’ve read, the mosquitoes here don’t pose a significant risk of communicable diseases… That is something more common on the coast or in the jungle. Those types of diseases in Medellin aren’t a worry thanks to its climate and altitude.

Here’s the CDC malaria map for Colombia , you’ll notice there is NO known risk in the entire area surrounding Medellin. 

Don’t Drink the Water?

If there is one thing almost every traveler has heard about traveling to Latin America, it’s that you should NEVER drink the water because you will undoubtedly get sick. Having traveled through virtually all of Latin America myself, this is definitely a good rule of thumb.

But that’s just not true in Medellin. The water quality in Medellin is excellent and is one of the few destinations in Colombia where you CAN actually drink the water without concern.

I drink the water all the time, I drank the water when I first got here, and I’ve never had any problems. The tap water in the city is totally safe and quite good unless you are staying in some supremely run-down place with questionable pipes.

Ditch the plastic bottles or water bags for a while and drink the local water… It’s the rest of Colombia where you gotta be cautious. While traveling throughout Colombia and the rest of Latin America, I do keep on hand a small ultraviolet purification device called a Steripen which works great.

How to Handle Your Pesos

Cash is king here in Colombia, so you better get used to handling the Colombian Peso. A few helpful notes: the exchange rate has been around 4,400 pesos per $1 USD. Quick and dirty conversions can be done by dropping three zeros and dividing by three. So 50,000 pesos gives us 50/4, or about $12. 

The rate has been getting even better lately, but I still do the above back-of-the-napkin calculations… But prices are actually even cheaper for you in the end! The current official rate for 50,000 is about $11.30 USD. 

Money in Colombia

Paper bills are most commonly seen in denominations between 2,000 and 50,000 pesos. Keep in mind that 50,000 peso bills can be difficult to break in most small stores or with small merchants (even with taxi drivers). For one thousand and below, you’re likely to see coins (there is a 1,000 peso note, but it is increasingly rare).

Scams in Medellin

Overcharging or gouging tourists here in Medellin is NOT very common. I’d say that it’s rare, actually. As someone who has lived here for so long, I know prices, and I honestly never see any attempts to overcharge on the street. On the contrary, most local merchants here are overwhelmingly honest and will give you back money even if you accidentally overpay.

When people talk about “gringo prices” here in Medellin, they are generally referring to things like renting apartments or other things more associated with ex-pat life, which can be difficult and thus are made easier for foreigners by charging more.

The one group to watch out for is taxi drivers. They have a bad reputation all over the world, same for Medellin. Thankfully, there are taxi meters here in Colombia that display the price (unlike in other big cities in Colombia), and you can generally tell pretty easily if you are getting the run around in terms of the drive since the majority of most routes have to stick to the few main roads (the Regional, Las Vegas, Av. Poblado, etc).

If you are scammed in Medellin it will most likely be by a taxi driver. A good practice is to always pay with exact change (or as close as possible). If you have to pay with a big bill like the 50,000 peso note, try to get into the practice of holding it up to the light and acting like you are examining the bill before handing it over.

The most common scam is a quick switch of a legitimate bill with an obvious fake… Then they play nice guy showing you that you must have been duped, what is wrong with the bill, and how to avoid problems. Then they hand you the fake (when you really gave them a legit bill) and they get another big bill off of you for payment.

ATMs in Medellin

The best practice is to only withdraw money from ATMs inside big box stores or malls. It is best to avoid withdrawing money from the street. Malls are everywhere here, so it is pretty easy.

When you do so, be sure to withdraw a small amount from the ATM rather than carrying around big wads of cash. You get hit with ATM withdrawal fees each time, so that’s why I recommend a bank that will reimburse you for all external ATM withdrawal fees. I use Charles Schwab .

Withdrawing money on the street or taking out big wads of cash is an invitation to problems with robbers. I usually go to the mall, withdraw cash first thing, then wander around for a while.

Anytime you go to larger restaurants, major stores, or bigger hostels/hotels, you should be able to use a travel credit card rather than cash. Do this whenever you can to reserve your cash, just be sure that your credit card has no foreign transaction fees.

Read more about travel banking fundamentals and how I handle money.

Locals Hate Vice Tourism

I wish this one didn’t even have to be said, but there is an ever-growing amount of vice tourism here in Colombia, especially among people traveling to Medellin (when compared to Cartagena or Bogota , for instance).

This vice tourism is mainly from two groups: young dudes who want to engage in drug tourism and old dudes who want to engage in sex tourism. You can skip this section if it doesn’t apply to you.

It’s true that drugs can be cheap and readily found in Medellin, but they are not exactly legal here. Some people even go on tours to cocaine processing facilities, which is just a terrible idea. Prostitution, on the other hand, is actually legal here.

Regardless, both groups of vice tourists are generating increasing bad will or outrage by the locals. There are even public campaigns and signs around town lashing out against both. If you’re in one of those groups of people, you are better off staying at home because they don’t want you here.

First of all, if drugs or prostitutes are your primary motivation for travel, that’s pretty lame, to be honest. Medellin (and Colombia) has so much to offer and it goes well beyond those stereotypes.

Second, know that by doing so, you will dramatically increase your odds of running into big problems here in terms of getting ripped off, robbed, drugged, or even killed (the few foreigners killed here in Medellin are like 90% linked with drug or sex tourism, while the other 10% is resisting a robbery).

Scopolamine druggings (pretty much the most terrifying thing ever ) are almost entirely linked to both, although it does also happen while just out having drinks (so never leave your drink unattended).

Third, you give a terrible name to other travelers by doing this stuff. Honestly, I didn’t like Medellin much at first because I was surrounded by a bunch of these horrible tourists like the Russian chick who blew a hole in her nasal passage from doing too much cocaine in Medellin, or the American dude whose afternoon ritual was to go to the whorehouse before hanging out at the bar all night drinking dollar beers (the last part ain’t bad).

Once I got out of that shared living situation and started seeing more of the “real” Medellin, my opinion of the city changed almost instantly.

Look, if what you are wanting to do is illegal in your home country and something you don’t normally do, then Medellin is not the place to do it and certainly not the place to start. This isn’t Thailand or Amsterdam, stuff happens here, seriously.

Medellin is not a huge city, physically speaking… But there are nearly three million people crammed into the Valle of Aburra. The size of the city would suggest that you don’t really need to focus highly on trying to coordinate or optimize your visits to different parts of town because you should be able to easily go back or get around the city.

That’s kind of a mistake though, because while the city isn’t big, traffic here is terrible, particularly during rush hour. If you’re going to go explore El Centro or Envigado or wherever you should try to plan a solid itinerary to pack in everything you can in an individual place.

If you’re going by Uber or taxi and you get caught in the morning or early evening traffic, you can expect massive delays. The shape of the valley here and the general infrastructure basically funnels all the traffic into a north-south pattern along just a few roads. Traffic is only growing worse each year.

You’re better off taking public transport like the metro, although if you go at rush hour, you should expect tons of people and an almost sardine-like experience. Be sure to watch your pockets and belongings in those situations — pickpockets aren’t super common, but those are the situations to watch out for.

There are a ton of things to do in Medellin , so you shouldn’t be left bored, even if that just means exploring the many awesome restaurants and cafes. But if you’re looking for a more logical way to coordinate your activities, check out my suggested itinerary for 3 days in Medellin .

Organized Tours

I’d also encourage you to do a few organized tours in Medellin to give you a better perspective on the history and culture of this city. A few top choices are:

• Medellin Free Walking Tour in El Centro
• Comuna 13 Graffiti Tour
• Barrio Transformation Tour
• Exotic Fruits Tour

Pablo Escobar Tours

The one tour that you should not do, please, is the infamous Medellin Pablo Escobar tour … Locals hate Pablo and are growing ever more irritated with the tourists flocking to Medellin because of Pablo and the Narcos series on Netflix.

He was a terrorist and patronizing these types of tours only serves to glorify a hated man. You would never go on a Hitler tour so you can take happy selfies at his grave, so I’m not sure why people take Pablo tours in Medellin… Read more about this touchy and complicated subject .

Instead of a Pablo tour, maybe check out one of these other top Medellin tours instead? There are so many options that are much better!

Read more about the best Medellin tours . 

Is Medellin Safe?

Medellin is a long way gone from the bad ol’ days of Pablo Escobar, FARC, kidnappings, and all the terrible ways it made the news in the 90s. I’m sure your parents almost fainted and your family told you that you were nuts when you said you were going to Colombia.

Look, things aren’t perfect here, but the bottom line is that Medellin is more or less safe.

Mas o menos…

Bombings and kidnappings and all that is long gone and not of concern, today the main concern is street safety and the potential for robbery.

That type of thing is honestly a concern here, but not overwhelmingly so… It is basically the same throughout all of Latin America. If you’ve traveled to any big Latin American city, you probably know the drill, but let’s rehash.

Safety Precautions in Medellin

• Be very careful about showing valuables on the street, especially cell phones. This also applies while in taxis, as mentioned earlier. Cell phones are the biggest targets for thieves who are known to rob at gunpoint for a cell.
• Never, ever resist a robbery. Give them what they want. Not doing so is what causes tourists to get killed here .
• Be very cautious of motorcycles, they are most likely to rob you, rather than some guy on foot. Be especially cautious of two men on one motorcycle.
• Don’t walk around in unfamiliar areas after dark, particularly if there is light foot traffic. Walking back drunk is also a recipe for trouble. This is what they call “dando papaya” or giving Papaya which is basically an invitation for someone to rob you — more on that in a second.
• Unlike the US, it isn’t as simple as saying “avoid the bad neighborhoods” because you are actually probably more likely to get robbed as a tourist in Poblado rather than in El Centro — El Centro has higher crime figures overall, but Poblado is a popular target because that’s where the “rich people” are. To date, the only robbery I’ve witnessed here was on the corner of Parque Lleras at midday on a Sunday.
• Don’t carry around more money than you need for the day.
• Use ATMs only inside large malls or big box stores — avoid taking cash out from ATMs on the street. Take out small amounts of money rather than big withdrawals.

Colombia may not be the best destination for someone entirely new to Latin America, but if you are a bit streetwise and exercise common sense, you’re not likely to become a victim. Indeed, it is rare that something happens.

No Dar Papaya

In Colombia, they have a saying “No Dar Papaya” which means don’t give papaya… Basically, they are trying to say, never offer up papaya (which is anything, really, a cell phone, money, etc) because someone will take papaya if it is “offered” to them. 

This is a bit of victim-blaming, unfortunately, but it is ingrained into Colombian life. Never Dar Papaya, else you make yourself an easy mark and a likely target for robbery. It’s better to always lean toward the cautious side here in Medellin or throughout Colombia.

On the whole, people here are very nice, honest, friendly, and want to make sure you have a good time, just don’t provide a window of opportunity to the bad apples that might be out there.

There is still a lot of poverty and huge economic inequality here… Just imagine, the price of the cell phone you are carrying in your pocket is basically a few months of income at minimum wage here (~$250/month for 48 hours of work per week).

Solo Female Travel

Obviously, this is a tricky thing for me as a guy to talk about, so I’ll refer you to this post about solo female travel in Colombia by Adventurous Kate .

I think she gets things mostly right in her article although there does seem to be some outdated or misguided things like the discussion of walking alone after dark as a woman (guys have the same concern since the bad things here are robberies, not sexual assault), or the whole “don’t travel by bus between places,” or “don’t travel by bus at night” thing. Although if your local knowledge and travel experience level is low, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to follow her more conservative advice.

I can speak a little bit about my perspective for female travelers here based on so much time living here, all that I’ve seen on the streets, talking with fellow travelers, and based on the perspective of my girlfriend who is a local Paisa…

Street Harassment: This is something that is generally quite rare. Men here will not hesitate to get a good, long look if they like what they see (leering), but I rarely see things escalate to even the catcall level. Not saying it doesn’t happen, but it happens way less than in places like Italy, for example. From my perspective as a Seattlite, the whole leering thing in Colombia borders on creepy, but what is acceptable differs from culture to culture.

Colombians speak much more affectionately than most may be accustomed to, so don’t mistake “ mi amor ” from the taxi driver as flirting… That’s just how many speak to women in general, whether it is an older lady or an attractive young woman. I can be sitting there right beside my girlfriend and locals will use terms of endearment like that (which at first struck me as weird). It’s no different than old ladies calling younger guys “ mijo ”.

Kisses on the cheek between men and women (or women and women, just not between men and men like Argentina), even among people that don’t know each other very well, are also super common. If you ever go to a family event, expect to kiss like a thousand tias on the cheek.

Purses: I would strongly recommend against using a purse at all here, especially the cross-body type. Just put your spending money for the day in your pocket (even get a money clip) as well as your cell phone. Purses can be easy targets for those motorcycle thieves and a grab-and-go theft (which can throw the victim to the ground, causing injuries) is not unheard of.

Travel Insurance for Medellin

I’ve personally never been the victim of a robbery, theft, or any violent crime in Medellin, and that’s after a number of years here and many instances where I was giving papaya (according to my girlfriend). My girlfriend, on the other hand, has firsthand experience this sort of insecurity a few times, but that’s with a lifetime living here.

In any case, it is a very good idea to purchase travel insurance for Colombia and Medellin in order to protect yourself against not just theft, but also illness and injury. I use and recommend World Nomads , and would encourage you to protect yourself while in Colombia, just in case. It’s cheap and offers peace of mind.

Traveling to Medellin?

In any case, I hope these comprehensive travel tips and this guide help you better understand the ins and outs of traveling to Medellin. It is truly a pretty incredible place, I’m excited that you’ve chosen to travel here, and I hope that I’ve helped you get a little more out of your trip.

Traveling to Medellin soon? Be sure to book your lodging today on Booking.com to save. Don’t forget to purchase your travel insurance to protect against illness, injury, and theft. I use and recommend World Nomads .

Did you enjoy this post about things to know when traveling to Medellin? Please take a second to share it on Pinterest, Facebook, or Twitter. Thanks!

Colombia Travel Tips

Important tips and resources for planning an amazing trip to Colombia, based on my years of traveling and living in Colombia.

Colombia Trip Planning

• Lonely Planet Colombia
• Momondo Flight Search
• ViaHero Itinerary Planning
• Booking.com
• SafetyWing Travel Insurance
• Get Your Guide Tours

Instructions

• Book a cheap fligh t to Colombia with Momondo , or better yet, start travel hacking so you can fly for free. Traveling between major cities is much better by flying, trust me.
• Plan a rough itinerary and how long you will spend at each destination. Use an itinerary planning service for custom recommendations and pick up Lonely Planet Colombia .
• Work a little every day to teach yourself Spanish , you'll want to know as much as possible before you arrive.
• Book cheap accommodation in advance, at least for the first destinations -- For hostels use: Booking , for cheap hotels use: Hotels.com , for apartments use: Airbnb .
• Reserve your on the ground tours and activities through Get Your Guide .
• Purchase travel insurance for Colombia with SafetyWing to protect yourself from illness, injury, and theft while in Colombia. VERY important. And be sure to read my article: " Is Colombia Safe? " for my honest opinion and safety tips.
• Sign up for my free emails about planning a better trip to Colombia, and be sure to check out my comprehensive guide about traveling to Colombia .
• Learn more money-saving tricks with my top budget travel tips .
• Put together your Colombia packing list .
• Enjoy this incredible country!

I hope this helped you plan your travels in Colombia! I know it can be a struggle to find accurate and on the ground information when traveling to a new place like Colombia, which is why I started writing so extensively about it!

If you have any questions about Colombia, budget travel, or anything else shoot me an email at [email protected].

(I love getting questions! That is how I get ideas for my blog posts and what to write about!)

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Ryan, Awesome article. You are a life-saver.

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10 Cities With the Best Public Transportation, From Medellín to Stockholm

By Laura Walsh

From the cable cars of Medellín to London’s double-decker buses, cities with the best public transportation systems make it easy to travel efficiently, affordably, and sustainably—all while offering a unique glimpse into a society's values.

In some cities around the world—as in Stockholm and Moscow —public transportation isn’t just about getting from point A to point B either. Instead, these transitory spaces have been elevated to become attractions in their own right, featuring impressive feats of art, architecture, and design. Most of the cities included on this list have also excelled at providing step-free access, making independent travel accessible for those using wheelchairs or strollers.

These are truly exceptional global systems: well-designed with residents and dignity at their core, but thoughtfully executed to warmly welcome travelers from around the world. Below, see the 10 cities with the best public transportation around the world—ranked in no particular order—based on a variety of factors including accessibility, sustainability, efficiency, dependability, cleanliness, and design.

1. Hong Kong

Hong Kong’s public transit system offers such extensive, affordable, and accessible service that the majority of residents do not own cars.

Hong Kong’s Mass Transit Railway has an unbelievable on-time rate of 99.9%, with 97 of its 98 stations accessible from the street level. Additionally, each station offers free WiFi, charging stations, and clean public toilets; many now include breastfeeding rooms, too. With rides that cost only about 60 cents, it is impossible to find a cheaper, faster, or more predictable way to get where you want to go.

You can also take in the spectacular sights of the city while riding the double-decker Hong Kong Tramway, or gaze down below from the impressively steep heights of the Peak Tram funicular. For island hopping, take the Star Ferry across the harbor from Hong Kong Island to visit Kowloon while enjoying the jaw-dropping skyline.

How to experience it: Take the 10-minute Star Ferry from Hong Kong Island to Kowloon for $3.70 HKD (US$ 0.50) for an upper deck seat.

The Delhi Metro is a beacon of cleanliness and a model of safety and efficiency. India’s largest mass rapid transit system connects the country’s capital to adjoining satellite cities with a total of 12 color-coded Metro lines and 288 stations (an additional 45 new stations expected by 2026). The Delhi Metro was also the world’s first transit system to receive UN carbon credits for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and today gets 35% of its power from renewable sources.

Trains run every 2-5 minutes during peak hours (and every 10 minutes during off-peak). With clean bathrooms and elevators at every station, the Delhi Metro is ahead of many in providing a transportation system that affords independent access with dignity for all.

To help prioritize a safe environment, the Delhi Metro introduced women-only carriages in 2010 that are now available on each train.

The trains and stations are all air-conditioned, making Delhi's metro a fast and comfortable way to traverse the vast city that’s often hot and humid. Fares are calculated based on distance and start at just $0.12.

How to experience it: Relax in Delhi on the Yellow Line: explore the Garden of the Five Senses (Saket Station) or Lodhi Gardens (Jor Bagh Station).

The Moscow Metro cruises onto this list thanks to its unwavering commitment to efficiency and its extraordinary stations. During rush hour, the trains of the Moscow Metro run every 90 seconds. But once you step into these breathtaking stations—also known as the “palaces of the people”—you may find yourself slowing down to take it all in. Emulating the grandeur of Russia’s historical palaces, Moscow’s Metro is an attraction in itself and demonstrates that even something as seemingly basic as public transportation is deserving of care and artistry.

The Moscow Metro probably won’t win any awards in the easy-to-understand category, but with almost 300 stations and 17 lines—including two circular lines which eliminate the need to travel to the city center for transfers—it is the fastest, most affordable, and the most inspiring way to get around.

How to experience it: Stations you won’t want to miss: Park Kultury, built with five types of marble and connected to Gorky Park, the stained-glass filled Novoslobodskay, and Mayakovskaya station, named for the famed Soviet artist.

Tokyo’s metro is vast, clean, fast, and reliable. It’s a breeze to figure out where you need to go—even if you don’t know the Japanese alphabet. Thanks to the sensible naming, numbering, and color-coding of the stops, there are numerous ways to locate your destination all while enjoying a comfortable ride (in almost virtual silence).

Convenient to almost every attraction in the city of Tokyo, the metro serves nearly 7 million people every single day and is globally recognized for its rigorous cleaning and maintenance (the trains are deep-cleaned every 15 days). Tickets are available for purchase at every station; adult fares start at 180 Yen (around $1) and increase depending on how far you’re traveling.

Many stations are equipped with elevators and lifts, making the metro accessible for those using wheelchairs or with strollers or luggage.

How to experience it: Check out Shinjuku Station, the Guinness Book of World Records holder for the world’s busiest train station serving over 2.7 million passengers per day on 12 different train lines.

Steph Koyfman

Shannon McMahon

Charlie Hobbs

5. Singapore

Singapore is a city and a nation rolled into one on an island nearly the same size of New York City. As the third-most densely populated country in the world, well-designed transportation that can move millions is essential for this small nation.

Singapore’s MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) currently has 6 lines with 140 stations and is scheduled to double in size by 2040. In a country of just over 5.5 million people, Singapore’s MRT carries an outstanding 3 million every day.

The MRT’s trains are fast and predictable, running every 5 to 7 minutes most of the day and every 2 to 3 minutes during the morning rush. The MRT’s reach is complemented by the LRT, a light rail system with 2 lines and another 40 stops.

With station signage and announcements in Singapore’s four official languages—English, Chinese, Malay, and Tamil—the MRT makes it remarkably easy to navigate without a car or a care. They have also installed protected walkways on every quarter-mile leading to every MRT station, making it easier to walk to transit, monsoon or shine.

How to experience it: Don’t miss Singapore’s breathtaking Garden by the Bay located at the MRT station with the same name on the Thomson–East Coast Line.

London’s transit is such an integral part of the city that their red double-deckers are instantly recognizable as national symbols of the UK. Pioneers of the world’s first underground railway, London’s transit system is vast and continues to expand. The “Tube” serves 5 million people every day on 11 lines and 272 stations—nearly half of which operate 24 hours a day.

Beyond the traditional Underground is the newest addition to London's transit system, the Elizabeth line . First launched in 2022, the new energy-efficient railway connects London's outer suburbs to the heart of the city, bringing an additional 1.5 million people within a 45 minute commute of central London. Visitors can travel from Heathrow Airport to central London in 45 minutes onboard Elizabeth line trains that run every half-hour.

Numerous above-ground options allow for simultaneous sightseeing, like the Overground with 6 lines and the iconic double decker buses with 675 routes, the IFS Cloud Cable Car, or the robust bikeshare system tied to an ever-expanding network of “cycleways.”

How to experience it: Stroll through one of London’s 3,000 parks, like Hyde Park, located at the Paddington Station on the Elizabeth line.

Seoul is home to some of the world’s largest, fastest, and most reliable public transit systems. The city goes the extra mile to make sure its public transportation is easily navigable by people from all over the world.

For example, stations have signage in Korean and English and stops are announced in Korean, English, Chinese, and Japanese. To make navigation even easier, each line is color-coded and numbered, and every station has a corresponding number for identification. Many stations also feature restaurants, shopping boutiques, convenience stores, and even surprise concerts.

Buses are also color-coded by distance and destination type, and all bus stops are clearly marked—plus, many offer heated seats. Every metro station is accessible by elevators, climate-controlled, and equipped with clean public restrooms and breastfeeding rooms.

Onboard the trains, every subway car has yellow “priority seats” reserved for the elderly, those with physical disabilities or illnesses, and people with young children. Additionally, every car has pink seats reserved for pregnant women.

How to experience it: Take Seoul’s metro to Anguk Station (Line 3) to the 1000-year-old Changdeokgung Palace , a UNESCO Heritage site with opulent grounds and gardens featuring 56,000 plants.

8. Medellín

Medellín’s metro system is a stellar example of how well-executed transit can be fun, functional, and help uplift an entire city.

The Metro de Medellín opened in 1995 and is the only rail-based transit system in Colombia . In addition to its clean and rapid rail options, the city is also served by a tram, a bus rapid transit line, and hundreds of other bus lines—many of which can be used in conjunction with the Metro.

The real show stopper is the Metrocable, a gondola lift system with a 7-line network that soars over the city and connects numerous neighborhoods.

Though cable cars have typically been used for tourism, Medellín was the first city to include them as part of a mass public transportation system. The cable cars connect downtown Medellín to communities isolated by the steep hills surrounding the mountainous city—in some cases cutting a 2 hour commute to just 30 minutes. Medellín’s Metro was thoughtfully-planned with community input and is a symbol of pride for the city.

How to experience it: Take in the lush hillsides around Medellin while riding Metrocable Line K to Parque Arvi where you can find unbeatable bird-watching, wildflowers, and over 50 miles of hiking trails.

9. Washington, DC

Washington, DC’s transit system is the second busiest in the United States and serves the nation's capital as well as surrounding areas in Virginia and Maryland. With extensive rail and bus service, complemented by a bikeshare system, the DC Metro makes it incredibly easy to live in or visit Washington, DC without a car.

Each Metro station is reachable by elevator, ensuring everyone, including those with strollers or wheelchairs, has access to the entire system to travel independently—without having to rely on the kindness of strangers.

DC’s Metro stations also demonstrate a commitment to health and hygiene. Last month, the Metro completed renovations of all 169 of its public restrooms, a massive undertaking that took 14 years.

Trips on the DC Metro start at just $2 within Washington, DC but traveling to/from Virginia or Maryland is distance-based.

How to experience it: The Smithsonian stop on the Orange, Blue, and Silver lines is home to numerous free museums like the African American History and Culture Museum and the Air and Space Museum .

10. Stockholm

Last but certainly not least is Stockholm . Sweden's capital city is made of 14 islands connected by a robust public transport network including a metro system with 100 stations, ferries, buses, and trams.

Stockholm’s metro, the Tunnelbana (or T-bana) forms the world’s longest art gallery . Though initially envisioned as a way to reduce traffic, Stockholm’s underground embraces another worthy goal: making art accessible to people of all economic backgrounds. Today, 94 of the T-bana’s 100 stations feature the work of 250 artists, including paintings, sculptures, and large-scale installations.

The art at most stations depicts the history and culture of the surrounding neighborhoods, providing a colorful escape from the city’s gray winters. If you have a chance to visit, don’t miss the otherworldly Rådhuset station or Solna Centrum. The red cave-like ceiling mimics a forest sunset—look closer and you’ll find sporadic wall illustrations depicting social commentary from 1970s Sweden. Free guided art tours are available from June to August every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday at 3p.m., starting from the SL Customer Centre at T-Centralen.

As you’d expect, the Stockholm metro is clean, climate-controlled, and sustainable. When you’re done soaking in the stunning stations of Stockholm metro, you can also see the city and attractions by ferry, for the same price as a bus or metro ticket (SEK 42 or about $3.86).

How to experience it: To see Stockholm from the water, hop on the SL ferry line 80 and visit popular tourist attractions such as the Abba museum or wander around nature in Djurgården, a National City Park.

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Tyler Schwab, activist against sexual exploitation disguised as tourism: ‘The gringos who abuse Colombian girls make me angry’

Founder of the ngo libertas international, the us citizen has identified americans who come to medellín with the purpose of sexually abusing minors.

A few months ago, Tyler Schwab, a 33-year-old Wyoming native, was heading to New York to attend the trial of Angad Amit Beharry. Accused of pedophilia, he had paid a Venezuelan woman for pornographic videos that had been recorded in the Colombian province of Antioquia , in which this mother sexually abused her baby. Libertas International, the NGO that Schwab founded in 2013, was supporting the little survivor and her new caregiver.

This is just one of several cases of sexual exploitation that Schwab tracks in Colombia. He gave up his medical studies to dedicate his life to the fight against the sexual exploitation and trafficking of girls in Latin America. In recent years, he has focused his NGO’s efforts on survivors in Medellín, a Colombian city where several of his “countrymen” — as he calls them — have sexually exploited minors behind the false curtain of tourism. His organization has supported more than 80 girls over the last two years. In addition to providing support to victims, Libertas International applies pressure so that perpetrators — especially those from the United States — are made to face justice.

In a hotel in western Bogotá, Schwab speaks with EL PAÍS about the scourge of sexual exploitation of minors in Colombia and the fight that lies ahead.

Question. How did you learn of the sexual exploitation of minors in Latin America?

Answer. When I was 19, I lived in the Dominican Republic as a missionary. There, I saw many girls on the streets with foreigners. At first, I didn’t even understand what was happening… but those images stayed in my head. I decided to go back. Upon returning, I understood the reality. I went to a brothel, where I found a pimp and a girl who was about 14. I paid to talk to her. She told me that her family was going hungry and that she had accepted a job offer to be a waitress. Afterwards, she was forced to sleep with men, because the pimp threatened to take advantage of her younger sister if she didn’t: 80% of the earnings went to that man.

I was very shocked and wanted to talk to her the next day, but they had already moved her. I never found out what happened to her. I spent two weeks talking to victims in the Dominican Republic. Some were immigrants, there were trans boys… others were from Venezuela, some had their documents taken away. This made me understand what was happening and I decided to change my life. I wanted to try to support them.

Q. After those meetings, what did you do?

A. I left my medical studies and underwent training on human trafficking . From there, I started working on prevention, then intervention and aftercare. Libertas International was formally born in 2013. I started working in the Dominican Republic. Then, I began to get calls about cases in Guatemala and Peru.

An agent from HSI (Homeland Security Investigations, the principal investigative arm of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, responsible for transnational crime) contacted me. She told me: “We have a case and I want to introduce you to a girl.” They told me that they had found her in an Airbnb with a guy, who had been sent to prison. The man, Víctor Galarza, raped girls, trafficked them and shared their images online. He was convicted in June of 2022. [The girl] was the first survivor I supported in Medellín. When I got there, everything changed. That case made me very angry. I decided that I wanted to dedicate 100% of my time to helping girls in Colombia who have been victims of Americans.

Q. What characterizes sexual exploitation in the Dominican Republic, Guatemala and Colombia?

A. Each country has particularities. There’s “sexual tourism” everywhere… although I don’t like that term, because they’re not tourists. They’re criminals — pedophiles — who travel. In the Dominican Republic, I found many families who were selling their children. That also happens here in Colombia. In Guatemala, there were gangs like MS-13 and Barrio 18 , which were selling girls and women.

In Colombia, some girls have been victimized by the FARC and the ELN , but in Medellín, we mostly find lots of gringos who take advantage of girls, so that they can rape them. They leave them with sexual diseases, with horrible trauma. The videos [of the rapes] are posted online. Many return to the United States as if nothing has happened. That fills me with anger. The gringos who use Colombian girls — who are victimized by my countrymen — make me very angry.

Q. Your organization has 32 open investigations into Americans who have engaged in acts of sexual exploitation in Medellín. Why do you think they’re coming to the city?

A. It’s a very good question. I’ve thought a lot about that, including last year, when the Colombian [National] Police gave me an award. In my speech, I could only ask for forgiveness [for the crimes committed by] my countrymen. Colombia has suffered from the addictions that gringos have: drugs and sex, including sex with minors. I wonder what’s on their mind… I really don’t know. They’re pedophiles. I don’t think we can get to the point of knowing how a person can travel to another country and think that, just because there are vulnerable people around, he has the right to do whatever he wants with them.

Q. What’s your opinion regarding how the authorities and Colombian society have handled this situation?

A. We’ve had difficulties with some prosecutors. For example, recently, a prosecutor was asking for more victims in a case: we needed five, because four weren’t enough to open an investigation. That seemed very wrong to me. It was like hearing that, in Colombia, the first four rapes are free — they’re on the house — while the fifth isn’t. There’s a big problem there. One victim is always more than enough.

Q. Sometimes there’s talk of child prostitution: it’s believed that minors aren’t being exploited, because they’re “agreeing” to have relationships. Do you think that, in Colombia, sometimes the victims aren’t even recognized? And that they’re even treated as victimizers?

A. That happens a lot. Even the girls [who are being exploited] often don’t recognize it. But you have to go further — you have to open your heart. If a child is having sex, there’s something behind it. That’s why we have to change the way we talk about the subject.

Q. The Office of the Attorney General of Colombia has records of nearly 8,000 minors who have been victims of crimes related to sexual exploitation in the last five years...

A. I think that’s a very low figure. We receive a new case every 15 days. In the last two years, we’ve served more than 80 girls in Medellín alone. We’ve also handled cases in Cartagena, Cali, Bogotá, La Guajira and Cúcuta. Additionally, there are cases of Colombians outside the country. For example, two years ago, in the Dominican Republic, there was a giant operation where 83 Colombian women were rescued. And, last year, there was another large action in Greece. We know of many girls who are exploited by the Tren de Aragua (a major transnational Venezuelan criminal organization). Given this reality, the numbers are low.

Q. In most of the cases that Libertas International knows of, American citizens are involved. Why is that?

A. First of all, there’s widespread sex addiction. Pornography has never been more accessible. In the U.S., it’s consumed a lot. In addition, there are groups and networks to talk about how to get girls. It’s just a matter of time before predators travel to other countries to commit crimes. Many live a double life: there are police officers, teachers, and professionals [who are] pedophiles and abusers.

I think racism is also a factor. Many think that a Colombian girl is worth less than an American one. That happened in the case of a teacher from Texas, who had a girl in his house and — according to her — he had never touched her. [But in Colombia], he used drugs and raped girls — he made them feel as if they were going to die.

Q. You often attend the trials against these individuals. What do you observe in their behavior?

A. Seeing the fear on their faces impacts me a lot. They’re cowards who look for little girls to exploit. But when those girls have the support of women, journalists, police, or prosecutors, [the abusers] are no longer as strong as they think when they’re taking advantage of those girls.

Q. One of your goals is to push for justice for survivors. How does your organization do this?

A. We’ve found very good police officers in Colombia and the United States who, from time to time, require funds to do their job effectively. For example, if we’re in Medellín and the police officers we work with are in Bogotá, we pay for their trips, so that they can interview the girls and make an arrest. When an interpreter is needed, we pay for this service, so that the arrest is properly done.

Mervin, our director of justice, knocks on the prosecutors’ door here [in Colombia]. In the U.S., we work with the Department of Justice to ensure that the girls are heard in court. If they can’t go, they at least write a letter for the judges to read. We also fight for restitution: we want the exploiters to pay for the girls’ therapy and other expenses they may have. For example, we have a case in which a man tattooed his name on the back of a survivor. We want him to pay to remove that tattoo. That’s very important for victims.

Q. How do you ensure that survivors break the chains of exploitation?

A. We focus on building and supporting their life projects — what they want and what it takes to achieve them. Ninety percent of the girls we support don’t return to that life. Those who do break our hearts… but there’s always the offer that they can come back whenever they want.

Q. What changes should Colombia implement to combat the exploitation of minors?

A. We must hit the bad guys with very strong sentences, take away all their money and show their faces everywhere. They have to know that the police and the Office of the Attorney General are going to put them in prison — even if there’s only one victim — and that they’re going to be labeled as pedophiles for life. That they’re going to have nothing in their bank accounts and that they’ll live in a Colombian prison for 30 years.

On the preventive side of things, we need to invest in education. In the United States, we also have to ask ourselves what we’re doing to prevent this from continuing to happen.

Q. What motivates you to continue this fight?

A. Sometimes it’s hard. When we remove one [sexual abuser], two more appear. I’m motivated by survivors. Their messages of love and affection show that our work means something.

Q. What’s the next step for Libertas International?

A. We’re going to continue expanding. I want to support those who’ve been victims of Americans in Cartagena, Cali, Bogotá, anywhere. I’d also like to reach countries like Haiti and Mexico, but always without neglecting what we’ve achieved in Medellín.

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The dark side of Medellín’s sex tourism: Child prostitutes and depraved men

Medellín declares war on sex tourism after US citizen found with two little girls at a hotel

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Miami pharmacist’s trafficking case casts spotlight on ‘horrific’ child sex tourism in colombia.

Christina Vazquez , Reporter

Chris Gothner , Digital Journalist

MIAMI – Experts say the arrest of a Miami pharmacist is bringing new attention to the prevalence of child sex tourism in Colombia.

Authorities said just as Stefan Andres Correa stepped onto a Miami International Airport jet bridge to board a flight to Bogotá Friday, an outbound border search revealed the 42-year-old — traveling alone — was carrying about nine cellphones.

On some of those devices, Homeland Security Investigations agents based out of MIA would discover photos and videos of Correa raping young girls and a conversation with a sex trafficker about his plans to victimize an 11-year-old girl, prosecutors allege.

Court documents state that in a graphic series of text messages, Correa promised that both the trafficker and the girl would get $300,000 Colombian pesos — about $75 — and the girl would receive an iPhone, as long as he was allowed to rape her in Medellín.

He had similar conversations and made similar promises about another girl of similar age, prosecutors allege.

“I don’t want her to say ‘no,’” they allege Correa texted the trafficker in Spanish, later telling him, “Please don’t interrupt, no matter what happens, OK?”

Investigators said Correa told them he flew to Colombia on numerous occasions to sexually abuse children. Prosecutors said that records show he traveled to Colombia roughly 45 times since 2022.

Medellín’s mayor sounded off on the platform X, formerly known as Twitter, after the arrest, posting in part: “These abuses against our children have been occurring with great intensity for years. We are not going to rest in this fight that has only just begun.”

Mayor Fico Gutiérrez added the English hashtag “#Don’tEvenTryIt.”

“Unfortunately since the ‘Cocaine Cowboy’ days back in the 80s there has been a war on children and that has led to the sexual exploitation of children,” attorney Kristen Reynoso Jackwin, who has represented clients in federal investigations, told Local 10 News. “It is children as young as 12 years old and they are finding U.S. citizens with children in hotel rooms and it is horrific.”

Gutiérrez recently announced new measures to combat child sex tourism, including seizing properties from owners that allow the sexual exploitation of minors.

Jackwin said while she commends the mayor, more needs to be done.

“Because simply shutting them down, there are always other ways that they can open up new locations to continue to do this exploitation of children,” she said.

Jackwin said prosecuting cases is not the only objective outlined in a partnership between the U.S. and Colombia, signed two years ago, but explained it is key to robustly combatting child sex tourism.

That partnership is called the U.S. – Colombia Child Protection Compact .

“You actually prosecute the offenders and that has been an issue, because a lot of these cases are not actually prosecuted,” Jackwin said. “There are 200,000 children in Colombia that are affected by sex crimes every single year and a mere couple of thousand are actually prosecuted, so making more strides that the prosecution happens and these children are treated as victims as opposed to perpetrators of crimes themselves.”

The U.S. Embassy in Colombia has promoted joint measures with officials in the country to combat sex trafficking.

Medellín: The sinister side of an increase in global tourism

Local 10 News spoke with an expert to explain why Medellín has developed a reputation for child sex trafficking.

Larry Gumbiner, a retired U.S. diplomat who spent two stints at America’s embassy in Bogotá, said Colombia is “opening up to the world and, with that, you are seeing a lot of the underbelly of international tourism, which is the international sex tourist trade.”

Gumbiner now works at consulting firm WestExec Advisors as its senior advisor for Latin America and the Caribbean. He said Colombia went through decades of low tourism owing to internal conflict between the country and guerilla groups.

Gumbiner said when that finally calmed down, “it kind of opened up a whole new country that had not been available to many tourists.”

“So you began to see, particularly in Medellín which was the epicenter of Pablo Escobar’s fiefdom — and it was a dangerous place to be for many years — finally became opened up to the world,” he said.

As the city has cleaned up its image, cracking down on the drug trade to attract tourists, with that has come child sex tourists, Gumbiner said.

“It is a wonderful city, lots of attractions, great weather, attracting tourists and along with that, what we have seen, prostitution is legal in Colombia for adults, but prostitution among minors began to explode and with it developed a reputation as a place you can go, because it’s inexpensive for Americans,” he said.

Gumbiner added that Gutiérrez is likely weighing in on the issue now because the recent high-profile arrests of U.S. citizens there has catapulted the issue into the court of public opinion.

“This has been building for many years in terms of Medellin and the growth of this industry,” Gumbiner said. “It built into a crescendo when they found an American citizen with two underage girls in his hotel room. I think, finally, for the political system, it reached a breaking point where the mayor felt he had to do something.”

As for Correa’s case, the pharmacist, facing federal charges of attempted sex trafficking of a minor and attempted travel to engage in illicit sex conduct, is scheduled to appear in Miami federal court Friday for a detention hearing.

If found guilty, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison with a maximum sentence of life in prison, as well as up to a lifetime of supervised release.

No booking photo was available for Correa; mug shots are not provided for suspects in federal custody.

In practice, however, booking photos are typically available in South Florida federal cases originating in Fort Lauderdale, since those suspects are generally jailed through the Broward Sheriff’s Office, rather than federally, while they await their court dates. Correa’s case, though, originates in Miami federal court.

Copyright 2024 by WPLG Local10.com - All rights reserved.

About the Authors

Christina vazquez.

Christina returned to Local 10 in 2019 as a reporter after covering Hurricane Dorian for the station. She is an Edward R. Murrow Award-winning journalist and previously earned an Emmy Award while at WPLG for her investigative consumer protection segment "Call Christina."

Chris Gothner

Chris Gothner joined the Local 10 News team in 2022 as a Digital Journalist.

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