Medellín, known as the "City of Eternal Spring", is one of the most vibrant and captivating cities in Colombia. With a mix of modernity, history, culture and nature, it offers a wide variety of activities that attract tourists from all over the world. Here we present the best plans to enjoy Medellín and its surroundings to the fullest.
1. Explore Medellin's Center and Plaza Botero
One of the main attractions of Medellin is its historic center. On this tour, you will find the famous Plaza Botero , where sculptures by the world-renowned artist Fernando Botero are exhibited. The square is decorated with more than 20 bronze sculptures, which show human and animal figures exaggerated in size, a distinctive characteristic of Botero. A few steps away, you will find the Museo de Antioquia , which houses a large collection of works by the artist and is a perfect place to delve deeper into Colombian art.
You can also stroll through the Metropolitan Cathedral , built between 1875 and 1931, one of the largest baked brick structures in the world. If you love architecture, you can't miss the Coltejer Building , an icon of the city and a symbol of the textile boom.
2. Visit Arví Park
For nature lovers, Arví Park is a must-see destination. This natural park, located in the mountains east of Medellín, covers an area of approximately 16,000 hectares of forest. You can get there by taking the Metrocable , a cable car system that offers stunning panoramic views of the city and the green landscapes that surround it.
Within the park, there are hiking trails, picnic areas and areas for biking. Guided tours are also available to learn about the local flora and fauna and discover archaeological sites of ancient indigenous cultures.
3. Know the History and Transformation of Commune 13
Comuna 13 in Medellín is one of the most famous neighborhoods for its history of social transformation. This area, once marked by violence, has undergone a remarkable renovation and today is an example of urban art, hope and resilience. In Comuna 13 you can explore the streets decorated with vibrant murals that tell stories of its community and its struggles.
To get there, you can use the escalators , which were built to improve the mobility of residents and have become a symbol of the social transformation of the area. In addition, in Comuna 13, you can enjoy break dance shows, live music and taste local food.
4. Visit El Poblado and Lleras Park
El Poblado is one of the most popular and trendy neighborhoods in Medellin. Here you will find a large number of bars, restaurants, shops and cafes that offer a cosmopolitan experience in the heart of the city. Parque Lleras, which is located in this area, is the epicenter of nightlife and a place where locals and tourists gather to enjoy the lively atmosphere of the city.
From fine dining to street food, El Poblado is the place to go for Colombian cuisine and a fun night out. Plus, take a tour of the art galleries and independent boutiques, where you'll find works by local artists.
5. Coffee Tour on the Outskirts of Medellin
Colombia is famous for its high-quality coffee, and Medellin is a great starting point for a coffee tour to learn more about the growing and production process. Near the city, there are several coffee farms that offer complete experiences, from planting to tasting a freshly brewed cup of coffee.
During the tour, you will learn about the different coffee varieties, the harvesting, drying and roasting process. Some farms also include plantation tours and workshops on how to prepare a perfect coffee. This is an ideal plan for those who want to enjoy a day surrounded by mountain landscapes and nature.
6. Climb the Peñol Rock and Visit Guatapé
One of the most popular things to do near Medellin is the Piedra del Peñol and the picturesque town of Guatapé . Just two hours from the city, this gigantic monolith offers one of the most spectacular views in Colombia. To reach the top, you'll have to climb about 700 steps, but the panoramic view of the Guatapé reservoir is totally worth it.
After descending from Piedra del Peñol, you can head to the town of Guatapé, known for its colorful facades and painted plinths, which tell stories and typical scenes of the region. Guatapé is ideal for a walking tour, enjoying local cuisine and boating on the reservoir.
7. Take a Tour of the Medellín Metro
Medellin's Metro is much more than a public transport system; it is a symbol of the city. With a network that includes metro, metrocable, tram and buses, it offers visitors a comfortable and safe way to explore different areas. In addition, many of the metro sections offer panoramic views of the city.
One of the recommended routes is the K Line of the Metrocable, which connects with Comuna 13 and Arví Park. This tour allows you to see different areas of Medellín and enjoy spectacular views while observing how the transportation system has helped improve the lives of citizens.
8. Enjoy the Gastronomy at the River Market
If you are a food lover, the Mercado del Río is a place you cannot miss. This gastronomic market brings together a wide variety of restaurants and food stalls that offer everything from traditional Colombian dishes to international options. Here you can taste everything from a bandeja paisa, typical of the region, to sushi or pizzas.
It's a great place to go as a group, as each person can choose their favorite dish and enjoy it at the shared tables. In addition, the Mercado del Río has a modern and lively atmosphere, ideal for enjoying an afternoon of good food and local atmosphere.
9. Getaway to Santa Fe de Antioquia
Santa Fe de Antioquia is a charming colonial town located about an hour from Medellin. Founded in 1541, it is one of the oldest cities in Colombia and offers a rich history and well-preserved colonial architecture. It is perfect for a day trip.
In Santa Fe de Antioquia, you can visit the Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica , walk along its cobblestone streets and admire the houses with wooden balconies. In addition, the Puente de Occidente , one of the oldest suspension bridges in Latin America, is a must-see for those who want to learn more about the history of the region.
10. Ride on the Ayacucho Tram
The Ayacucho Tram is a means of transport that connects downtown Medellín with the neighborhoods in the upper part of the city. Along the route, you can see murals and graffiti that reflect the creativity and spirit of the community. It's a unique way to explore a less touristy area and immerse yourself in the local culture.
The tram route is complemented by Metrocable lines that take you to higher areas. It is a great opportunity to capture views of Medellín and get to know the neighborhoods in transformation.
11. Experience the Flower Fair
If you have the chance to visit Medellín in August, you can't miss the Feria de las Flores , one of the city's most important events. This annual celebration highlights Paisa culture through parades, musical events, and flower displays.
One of the most anticipated moments is the Silleteros Parade , in which farmers from the region carry "silletas" (flower-filled silletas) on their backs, creating impressive floral arrangements. The fair includes concerts, food shows and activities for all ages, making it ideal for getting to know the joy and hospitality of the paisas.