Curator’s statement
Medellín is a vibrant and safe city in Colombia, surrounded by mountains and blessed with year-round spring-like weather. I lived here for 20 years and visit almost every year — so this guide is filled with my personal recommendations! Known for its warm and welcoming locals, Medellín has become a top destination for leisure and business travelers. In 2022, it was named South America's Leading Emerging Tourism Destination by the World Travel Awards, a testament to its growing global appeal.
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Where to stay in Medellin, Colombia
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Things to do in Medellin, Colombia
Explore Comuna 13: Take a guided tour to see its incredible transformation into a hub of street art, music and history. Ride the outdoor escalators for stunning views.
Ride the metrocable to Parque Arví: Enjoy breathtaking city views on the cable car, then hike or picnic in Parque Arví’s lush green landscapes.
Visit Plaza Botero & Museo de Antioquia: See Fernando Botero’s famous sculptures in the plaza and explore Medellín’s artistic history in the museum.
Walk around El Poblado & Provenza: Medellín’s trendiest area, packed with cafés, boutiques, bars and a buzzing nightlife.
Enjoy a coffee tour: Visit a traditional coffee farm to learn about Colombia’s world-famous coffee and enjoy freshly brewed tastings.
Visit Jardín Botánico & Parque Explora: Escape the city at the botanical gardens. Then visit Parque Explora, an interactive museum with an aquarium and planetarium.
Check out Pueblito Paisa: A charming replica of a traditional Antioquian village, offering panoramic views of Medellín.
Go shopping: Explore El Tesoro, Oviedo or Santafé, three top shopping malls where you’ll find Colombia’s best fashion brands.
Day trips
Take a Day Trip to Guatapé & El Peñol: Climb 740 steps to the top of El Peñol rock for an unforgettable view, then explore Guatapé’s colorful streets.
Places to eat & drink in Medellin, Colombia
Provenza & Ciudad del Rio hotspots:
El Social: A casual, lively spot perfect for drinks and traditional Colombian snacks. Great for a relaxed night out.
Mercado del Río: A trendy food hall with diverse cuisines, from sushi to local Colombian favorites.
Fine dining & unique experiences:
El Cielo: A high-end, experimental dining experience with a multi-sensory tasting menu featuring Colombian flavors.
Casa Eterna: Opened by Maluma in 2024, this restaurant blends Colombian and Mexican flavors, featuring dishes like posta cartagenera. Located 20 minutes from the city center.
Zombra: A hidden gem specializing in high-end cuisine made with fresh local ingredients.
Affordable & contemporary options:
Espíritu: A cozy spot serving delicious, well-crafted cocktails with a great ambiance.
Esencia: A fantastic affordable dining option with a menu that blends local and international flavors.
Carmen: A must-visit for contemporary Colombian cuisine — book in advance for an unforgettable experience.
Need to know
Medellín will always be home to me — a city of resilience, innovation and warmth. Whether you’re visiting with friends, family or your significant other, you’ll find culture, adventure and incredible food at every corner. For an epic Colombian itinerary, I highly recommend pairing Medellín with Cartagena, a coastal gem where you can soak in the Caribbean vibe. One week is all you need to experience Colombia’s breathtaking diversity!
Travel Advisor
Ana Sierra
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Medellin page.