Medellín is Colombia’s second city and has reinvented itself over the past two decades. It sits in the Aburrá Valley at about 1,500 m, with mild weather all year, a modern Metro and cable-car system, large parks and a lively mix of street art, food and creativity.
What to do in Medellín
- Comuna 13. Murals, hip hop and the outdoor escalators on a hillside once associated with violence. Go with a local guide.
- Metro and Metrocable. Ride the cable cars above the neighborhoods; they connect to Parque Arví, a nature park.
- Plaza Botero and the Museo de Antioquia. Dozens of bronze Botero sculptures in the historic center.
- Pueblito Paisa and the Cerro Nutibara. A view over the city and a replica of a traditional Antioquian village.
- El Poblado, Laureles and Provenza. Restaurants, cafés and nightlife.
- Paisa food. Try bandeja paisa, arepas, sancocho and good local coffee.
- Feria de las Flores. In early August, with the Silleteros parade, when growers carry flower arrangements on their backs.
Day trips from Medellín
- Guatapé and the Piedra del Peñol. A 2-hour trip to a colorful town and a granite rock with a stairway to the top.
- Santa Fe de Antioquia. A colonial town in a warmer valley.
- Antioquia coffee villages. Jardín, Jericó and farms in the southwest.
How many days in Medellín?
| Days | Suggested plan |
|---|---|
| 2 | City, Plaza Botero and Comuna 13 |
| 3 | Add Guatapé and the Peñol |
| 4 to 5 | Add Parque Arví, coffee villages or Santa Fe de Antioquia |
Best time to go
The valley has an even, spring-like climate year-round, with rain mostly in April-May and October-November. The driest months are December to March and June to August.
A note on history
Medellín’s past includes years of violence. Choose guides and tours that tell it with respect and focus on the city’s transformation and the voices of the communities, not on glorifying anyone.
Getting there and around
José María Córdova Airport (MDE) is in Rionegro, about 45 minutes from the city. Inside Medellín, the Metro, taxis and ride apps are easy and safe in the main areas.
Plan your Medellín trip with us
Combine Medellín with Bogotá, the Coffee Region or the Caribbean. Tell us your dates and we will connect them in one itinerary.