10 Things to Do in Medellín, Colombia
Welcome to Medellín, Colombia’s famed mountain city, which is often associated with its infamous drug history. Over many decades, Medellín has transformed into a vibrant city with brand-new urban innovation. Medellín’s rich and complicated history makes it a fascinating destination for those hoping to learn more about its revitalized neighborhoods, and the pleasant year-round weather has given this city the nickname of La Eterna Primavera, or Eternal Spring. Enjoy these 10 things to do in Medellín, Colombia, a travel bucket list that can be accomplished in about 3 full days in the city.
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(1) Tour the Comuna 13
This is one of Medellin’s most popular activities for a reason. Comuna 13 was a neighborhood in Medellín once known for its high levels of violence and crime, especially surrounding the drug trade. In recent years, Comuna 13 has undergone a transformation that includes the world-renowned outdoor escalators, bringing a new level of connection to the separate zones previously divided by the steep landscape.
We had an absolutely splendid time with the AIC Tour company. We had a private tour guide who was born and raised in Comuna 13, showing us the ins and outs of the famed neighborhood that he knew like the back of his hand. Book with Christian if he’s available!
(2) Free Walking Tour from Plaza Botero
To better understand Medellín’s history, wandering the streets without a clue won’t do the city any justice. Luckily, Medellín offers a fantastic free walking tour that departs from Plaza Botero, a park paying homage to Colombia’s famous artist, Fernando Botero, and displaying 23 sculptures of his.
Notable stops along the free tour include an artisan market, food market, and San Antonio Plaza, where a bomb attack in 1995 killed dozens of people and currently leaves a striking memorial in the form of a destroyed Botero statue. English-speaking travelers should check out this walking tour, and Spanish-speaking travelers should take a look at this one.
(3) Walk Around the Poblado Neighborhood
The Poblado neighborhood is known for being trendy and upscale. It feels like an urban oasis, combining chic cafes, relaxing bookstores, and lush greenery. I’m not vegan but will say that Restaurante Kaime is one of the best restaurants that I’ve ever been to. The orange “chicken” is unreal and well-worth a stop. It’s hard to get enough of Poblado’s fascinating mix of restaurants, shops, and vibrant streets.
(4) Enjoy el Parque Lleras
Along those lines, the Poblado is home to Parque Lleras, a plaza located right in the heart of the neighborhood. No matter day or night, this area boasts a grand energy of live music, colorful lights, bustling bars, and fun restaurants. The Yacky Chan Japanese restaurant creatively combines a multi-level venue with outdoor space and even serves certain drinks in a Buddha mug!
(5) Ride the World-Class Metro
The metro in Medellín is world-famous for a reason! Public transportation systems may be taken for granted in other parts of the world, but Medellin’s young metro has played a major role in the transformation of the sprawling city, connecting neighborhoods and bringing new opportunities to its residents. Medellín locals are very proud of their fast and clean new public transportation system.
(6) Ride the Metro Cable to Parque Arví
While you will inevitably take the metro trains at some point during your journey in Medellín, consider riding to the end of the train line and hopping on the metro cable. We stumbled upon this part of the metro completely on a whim while trying to kill time and ended up loving the experience that the ‘L’ line provided.
The journey in the metro cable will you give a fantastic glimpse into the steep residential neighborhoods built into Medellin’s hills. At the very top, take time to explore Parque Arví, an ecological nature preserve with plenty of short hiking trails to conquer.
(7) Explore Guatapé
Guatapé is a small town located about 1.5 hours from the center of Medellín. This picturesque village is known for its colorful architecture, umbrella art installation, and cobblestone streets. Most famously, this destination outside of Medellín houses the famous El Peñol rock.
(8) Climb El Peñon de Guatapé
Known as The Rock in English, El Peñon de Guatapé is a rather fascinating large rock outcropping that has become a fixture in the Medellín area. This landmark boasts 708 steps that take you up 650 feet to a breathtaking observation deck overlooking the surrounding reservoir. While incredibly touristy – and you will have to wade through many, many tour groups at the base of the rock – this activity is popular amongst locals and tourists alike and is a great day-trip option from Medellín’s city center.
(9) Wander the Botanic Gardens
For a further escape from the busy city, head to the Botanical Gardens that highlight the immense biodiversity of Colombia. This collection of native plants and trees is perfect for a relaxing afternoon. Take advantage of the garden’s mix of recreational spaces and exhibitions.
(10) Watch a Soccer Match
Our biggest regret was not having the forethought to purchase tickets to attend a soccer match in Medellín. Had we known it was such a big deal to watch Medellín’s two home teams (Atletico Nacional and Independiente) face off, we would have blocked off time to watch this showdown. Our Comuna 13 tour guide was heading to a game the same evening of our tour and remarked how the clash between these two successful international teams gets the whole city pulsating with excitement. The game was sold out that night, and needless to say, the streets were empty during game time.
That’s all for Medellín, Colombia! Hope you enjoy your stay in this mesmerizing Colombian city and take full advantage of this list of 10 things to do. If you want to add more destinations to your trip, check out our other South American travel guides as well as 3 Days in Cartagena: Bucket List for Colombia’s Colorful Caribbean City. Happy sampling!