Known as the “City of Eternal Spring” for its perfect weather year-round, Medellín is one of Colombia’s most exciting and dynamic destinations. Once infamous for its turbulent past, Medellín has transformed into a thriving cultural hub with stunning parks, vibrant neighborhoods, and innovative urban spaces. Whether you’re here for the scenery, history, or nightlife, this guide will show you the best things to do in Medellín.
- Ride the Medellín Metrocable for Stunning Views
- Discover the Story of Comuna 13
- Explore Plaza Botero and the Museum of Antioquia
- Stroll Through the Botanical Garden (Jardín Botánico)
- Take a Day Trip to Guatapé and the Rock of El Peñol
- Experience Medellín’s Nightlife in El Poblado
- Learn About Medellín’s History at the House of Memory Museum
- Visit the Explora Park Science Museum
- Try Local Colombian Cuisine
1
Ride the Medellín Metrocable for Stunning Views
Medellín’s Metrocable is more than just a transportation system—it’s a unique way to experience the city’s diverse landscapes and vibrant communities. These cable cars connect various neighborhoods to the surrounding mountains, offering breathtaking panoramic views along the way. The Santo Domingo and Parque Arví lines are especially worth the ride.
How to Access the Metrocable:
- Line K (Acevedo to Santo Domingo): Begin your journey at the Acevedo Station on Metro Line A. From there, transfer to Metrocable Line K, which ascends to Santo Domingo, providing stunning views of the cityscape.
- Line L (Santo Domingo to Parque Arví): At Santo Domingo Station, you can transfer to Line L, which takes you to Parque Arví, a vast nature reserve perfect for hiking and picnics.
Operating Hours:
Lines K (Santo Domingo):
- Monday to Saturday: 4:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Sundays and Holidays: 8:30 AM – 10:00 PM
Line L (Parque Arví):
- Tuesday to Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sundays and Holidays: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- Closed on Mondays (except when Monday is a holiday; in such cases, it operates on Monday and closes on the following Tuesday).
Price: A standard Metrocable ride costs 3,000 COP (1$ CAD). For Line L to Parque Arví, there is an additional fee of 13,200 COP (4$ CAD) per ride.
2
Discover the Story of Comuna 13
Once one of Medellín’s most dangerous areas, Comuna 13 is now a symbol of resilience and transformation. The neighborhood is covered in vibrant street art, each mural telling a story of hope and change, street dance dancers, markets and street food.
My Experience: Visiting Comuna 13 was undoubtedly the highlight of my stay in Medellín. It was incredible to witness how this neighborhood has blossomed into a lively, music-filled community that radiates joy rather than fear. I loved strolling through its colorful streets, immersing myself in its unique energy, and savoring the mouthwatering smells of street food. This inspiring and culturally rich neighborhood is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Medellín!
Time to Visit: Plan at least two hours to walk everywhere and try some street food.
Tip: Use the outdoor escalators to explore the area with ease.
3
Explore Plaza Botero and the Museum of Antioquia
In the heart of Medellín, Plaza Botero is a must-see attraction. This lively square is filled with 23 larger-than-life sculptures by the famed Colombian artist Fernando Botero. Adjacent to the plaza is the Museum of Antioquia, which houses an impressive collection of Botero’s works alongside pre-Columbian and contemporary art.
Price: Entry to the museum is 40,000 COP (13$ CAD)..
Tip: Visit early to avoid crowds and get the best photos of the sculptures.
4
Stroll Through the Botanical Garden (Jardín Botánico)
Escape the hustle and bustle of Medellín at the Botanical Garden, a serene oasis filled with exotic plants, flowers, and fascinating wildlife. Home to over 1,000 plant species, this green haven is a living museum right in the heart of the city. Be sure to visit the Orchideorama, an iconic wooden structure showcasing a stunning collection of orchids—it’s a must-see!
Price: Free entry.
Tip: Pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxing afternoon under the shade of the garden’s trees.
5
Take a Day Trip to Guatapé and the Rock of El Peñol
Just two hours from Medellín, Guatapé is a colorful town famous for its vibrant zócalos (decorative panels) and the iconic El Peñol rock. Climb the 740 steps to the top of the rock for unbeatable views of the surrounding lakes and mountains.
Price: As of July 2024, the fee to hike the rock is 25,000 COP (8$ CAD).
My Experience: I expected the hike up the stairs to be tough, but it turned out to be more of a slow stroll! Since it was so busy with tourists, we ended up in a line, moving one step at a time. It took us about 30 minutes to reach the top, but the steady pace made it much easier than I expected.
6
Experience Medellín’s Nightlife in El Poblado
Medellín’s nightlife is legendary, and El Poblado is the city’s main party district. From trendy rooftop bars to lively salsa clubs, there’s something for everyone. Parque Lleras is the heart of the action, surrounded by restaurants and nightlife spots.
Best Spots: Dance at Son Havana, sip cocktails at Envy Rooftop, or enjoy craft beer at 3 Cordilleras Brewery.
Tip: Kick off your evening with a meal at one of El Poblado’s many fantastic restaurants. Known as Medellín’s culinary hotspot, this district offers something for every craving, from gourmet international dishes to authentic Colombian cuisine. It’s the perfect way to start your night on a delicious note!
7
Learn About Medellín’s History at the House of Memory Museum
The House of Memory Museum provides a profound and essential insight into Medellín’s turbulent past and the resilience of its people. Through powerful interactive exhibits and personal testimonies, the museum chronicles the city’s struggles with violence and its inspiring journey toward peace and transformation. A visit here is a must for anyone wanting to truly understand Medellín’s history and how it has shaped the city it is today.
Price: Free entry.
Tip: Allocate at least an hour to fully explore the exhibits.
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8
Visit the Explora Park Science Museum
Perfect for families and curious travelers, Explora Park offers a fun and educational adventure in Medellín. This interactive science museum is packed with engaging experiences, including a planetarium, an aquarium, and hands-on exhibits covering topics like biology, physics, and technology. It’s the ideal activity for those looking to combine learning with entertainment in an exciting and memorable way.
Price: Entry for foreigners is 48,000 COP ($16 CAD). This includes access to all the main attractions: Aquarium, dinosaur exhibition, vivarium and Interactive halls.
Fun Fact: The aquarium is one of the largest in South America and a highlight of the visit.
9
Try Local Colombian Cuisine
Medellín’s food scene is a treat for your taste buds! Don’t miss trying bandeja paisa, a traditional dish featuring beans, rice, avocado, plantain, chorizo, and more. Visit local markets like Mercado del Río for a variety of delicious eats, or try street food like arepas and empanadas.
Tip: Pair your meal with a fresh fruit juice made from tropical Colombian fruits like lulo or guanábana.
My Favorite Discovery: Cremas Alba – This was hands down my favorite dessert in Colombia! Cremas Alba is a popsicle made with fresh fruit, lime juice, and just a hint of salt. The combination is refreshing and absolutely delicious. You have to try the passion fruit and mango flavors—they’re out of this world!
Final Thoughts
Medellín is a city of contrasts, where innovation meets tradition and nature blends seamlessly with urban life. Whether you’re exploring its colorful neighborhoods, hiking to scenic viewpoints, or dancing the night away, Medellín offers unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler. Pack your bags and get ready to fall in love with the City of Eternal Spring!
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