Things to Do in Medellín, Colombia: A Local’s Honest Travel Guide
From a Colombian American perspective
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As someone born in Colombia but raised in the United States, I’ve heard every stereotype in the book. “Pablo Escobar.” “Cartels.” “Isn’t Colombia so dangerous?” — and a million other things people love to say. It’s taken years for Colombia to finally be seen for its true beauty. The people are amazing and resilient, the culture is alive with dancing and music, the food is incredible, and you can experience wildly different climates and landscapes across the country.
So let me share my experience as a Colombian American who has traveled to Medellín multiple times. What was once the most dangerous city in Colombia has become the city everyone wants to visit — and for good reason. Here are the tips and experiences that will hopefully help you have an unforgettable trip.
Getting from the Airport into Medellín
Let’s start at the beginning. You just flew into Medellín, most likely landing at José María Córdova International Airport (MDE). The airport sits about 30 minutes outside the city, where most travelers stay. From there, you have a few options to reach your accommodation:
- Prearranged car or van transportation booked before you arrive. You can book a private airport transfer here, or contact your hotel to arrange a transfer for you.
- Uber. I’ve always had good experiences with Ubers in Colombia, and they’re affordable for most travelers. One tip for my solo travelers: drivers have often asked me to sit in the front seat next to them.
- An approved airport taxi. Just make sure you negotiate the price before you get in.
- The budget-friendly bus. If you’re watching your spending, a bus will take you into the city. I recommend using Google Maps for the exact route, and Rome2rio is another great tool for figuring out your best option.
Where to Stay in Medellín: 3 Neighborhoods I Recommend
Now you’re on your way to your hotel (or maybe an Airbnb). When choosing where to stay, I recommend three neighborhoods:
- El Poblado — the most popular area, home to most of the nicer hotels, but also the biggest influx of tourists.
- Laureles — great options here with a more local feel and fewer tourists.
- Envigado — perfect if you want to be close to the action without being right in the middle of it.
Wherever you land, the people of Medellín will make you feel welcome. After traveling through most of Colombia, I can confidently say there’s only one other place where the locals are even friendlier than in Medellín — but that’s a story for another post!
How long should you stay? I’d plan for a minimum of 3 nights. If you really want to explore, stay a week. Honestly, you could spend weeks in Medellín and never get bored.
The Best Things to Do in Medellín
So what is there to actually do here? In no particular order, these are the experiences I recommend most.
Visit Comuna 13
Once one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Colombia, Comuna 13 is now flourishing. The locals have transformed this place into something magical — dancing, artwork, local food, and the impressive electric escalators will keep you entertained for hours. Bring a local guide along to make the experience even richer.
Explore El Pueblito Paisa
This charming replica of a typical Antioquian pueblo sits right in the center of Medellín. Wander the local shops and food vendors while you snap photos. A full-day Medellín city tour will take you to all the main spots, including this one.
Go Paragliding Over the City
For the adventure seekers, paragliding over Medellín in San Félix is unforgettable.
Not much of a thrill-seeker? Head to the San Félix lookout anyway for beautiful views, and try Panchoca — the most delicious cheesy bread. We went to @panchochaelautentico (find them on Instagram).
Chase the Best Views
There are many lookouts throughout the city with amazing views. One I recommend that stays off most tourists’ radar is El Cielo — see it here.
Discover Art at Plaza Botero
Here you’ll find the famous sculptures of artist Fernando Botero, plus the Museo de Antioquia and the beautiful Palacio de la Cultura Rafael Uribe Uribe.
Experience Medellín Nightlife
For nightlife, head to Provenza or Laureles’ La 70. And if you’re a fútbol (soccer) fan, check whether Atlético Nacional is playing at the Atanasio Girardot stadium.
Sip at a Rooftop Bar
Medellín has no shortage of rooftop bars. Envy, at the top of the Charlee Hotel, has incredible views — just know it’s expensive, so come prepared!
Eat Like a Local
You have to try the traditional Bandeja Paisa, the region’s iconic dish.
Day Trips from Medellín
Guatapé & El Peñol
Take a day trip to Guatapé, a small, colorful pueblo about two hours from Medellín and home to the famous El Peñol rock. If you can, stay at least two nights. A full-day gastronomic tour in Guatapé is a great way to experience it.
Jardín
Jardín is a lesser-known but incredibly cute pueblo a little farther out than Guatapé — perfect if you want to escape the crowds.
Ride the Metrocable to Parque Arví
Medellín has one of the most impressive metro systems anywhere. I highly recommend taking the Metrocable up to Parque Arví via the K and L lines. The park has hiking trails and local shops selling handmade bags, jewelry, and more. You can find a map of the metro system here.
Take a Street Food Tour
There are so many local foods you might miss on your own. A street food tour in Medellín is a great way to sample dishes native to Colombia and the region.
Plan Your Medellín Trip with Simply Adventurous Travel
Honestly, I could go on and on about everything you can do in Medellín. How you experience it is totally up to you — pack your days with activities, or wake up and see where the day takes you. Whichever kind of traveler you are, Simply Adventurous Travel is here to get to know you and understand exactly what you’re looking for out of your trip.
Ready to start planning? Reach out for a free consultation — email angie@simplyadventuroustravel.com or visit our homepage.
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We’re always happy to connect with our community and help travelers get out there and explore.
Love,
Angie Uribe
Owner, Simply Adventurous Travel