2025 Medellin Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in April)

Medellín, nestled in the Aburrá Valley in the Andes Mountains of Colombia, is a city that has transformed itself into one of the most innovative and exciting destinations in South America. Known as the “City of Eternal Spring” for its pleasant climate, Medellín offers a unique blend of modernity, culture, and stunning natural beauty. What to Expect Visitors to Medellín will find a city that pulses with energy and innovation. Once notorious for its troubled past, Medellín has reinvented itself with impressive urban development projects, including an efficient metro system and innovative public spaces. The city is surrounded by green mountains, providing a beautiful backdrop to its vibrant neighborhoods. Experiences and Recommendations A visit to the Comuna 13 district is essential to understand Medellín’s transformation. This area, once one of the most dangerous in the city, is now a symbol of urban renewal, adorned with colorful street art and murals. Guided tours offer insights into the community’s history and its inspiring turnaround. Parque Explora, an interactive science museum, and the adjacent Botanical Garden provide engaging and educational experiences suitable for all ages. The museum's aquarium is one of the largest in South America, and the garden is a tranquil oasis in the city. Plaza Botero, in the heart of Medellín, features sculptures by the renowned artist Fernando Botero. The nearby Museo de Antioquia houses an extensive collection of Botero’s works, along with pieces from other prominent artists. Take a ride on the Metrocable, a gondola lift system that connects the city’s metro to the hillside communities, offering stunning panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. A trip to Arví Park, accessible by the Metrocable, provides a natural escape with hiking trails, picnic areas, and cultural exhibits. #mytravelhacks#historicallandmarks#localguides

Visiting Colombia, you definitely can't miss Medellín Once the stronghold of Pablo Escobar Now it has become a must-visit attraction in Medellín Comuna 13🌈Free walking without pressure🚶🏻‍♂️ Amidst the exaggerated colors, abstract graffiti, and installations One can glimpse the frenzied spirit of this city🤯 . ✨Medellín Day Tour ✅Comuna 13 The must-visit district 13 in Medellín! You can choose a free walking tour, usually, a tip of 10-15 is given at the end, lasting 2-3 hours We didn't follow a guide, just walking around freely~ The main road is lively and relatively safe, don't go down secluded paths Take a taxi to 📍Escalator Comuna 13, and a few minutes walk along the main road will get you to the entrance of the escalators~ The whole district is connected by six sections of escalators, allowing for an easy tour Buildings are staggered, with exaggerated graffiti and cyberpunk-style installations everywhere, full of magical colors!🌈 ✅San Javier Not far from Comuna13 is the cable car/subway station For 3700+ pesos (about one dollar), you can enter the station and take the cable car to the J line for a round trip sightseeing, with the option to get off and take photos📸 Then return to San Javier without leaving the station, and directly transfer to the subway to the old town, getting off at 📍Parque Berrío station ✅Plaza Botero Stroll from Parque Berrío to Plaza Botero, the latter is also a must-visit in the old town! The square is filled with classic sculptures by Colombia's national treasure artist Fernando Botero~ Take the opportunity to visit 📍Museo de Antioquia, which used to be the Medellín City Hall, now a museum with many exhibitions, no photography allowed on the third floor, personally, I think it's also nice to just look at the building~ . After exploring downtown Medellín, if you have time, you can spend a day visiting the surrounding area of Guatapé, the colorful town and the Guatapé Rock are also popular weekend leisure spots for locals~

City: Medellin, Colombia 🇨🇴 Region: North of South America Access: it has its own airport where European and American countries can fly in directly at ease. Or it’s a 3 hours drive from the capital Visa: no - many passport holders can come to Colombia without visa! What’s special ✨: you can see these paintings everywhere in the city - from street corners to the most eye catching buildings. Many of the painters hve the even learnt how to do it. They’re born to be grafiti stars! #Medellin #Colombia #Latinamerica

Name of place📝: Guatape in Colombia 🇨🇴 Access📍: two-hour bus ride from Medellín, one of the most famous Colombian cities where Pablo Escobar lived in What’s special ✨: if you like a fairy tale style house, here is where you can find many of them - all in different bright colours and none of them are exactly the same. 🏡 There are plenty of local Colombian cafes where you can enjoy a cup of coffee ☕️ Also many hand-made mochillas (Colombian bags) which are full of Latino flavour. 🌈 #guatape #Colombia #latinamerica #spanish #Latino #colourful

Name of place🔖: Guatape Nearest city🗺️: Medellín, Colombia Access 🚌: there are plenty of local tours from Medellin to take you to this small town 1.5 hour drive away. You can take a bus or if you have a group you can book a private car What’s special ✨ apart from a rock-like hill that attracts a lot of climbers to go up to see the stunning view, this town is also known for being very colourful with happy Latino music playing everywhere. Colombia is just the friendliest and happiest country I’ve been to (among 50+ of them). I’d highly recommend this place. #Guatape #medellin #Colombia #latinamerica #colourful

📍 Address: Medellin, Colombia. Specifically located in the city center, where you can find great shopping and stunning sculptures by Fernando Botero, including the iconic "Birds of Peace" and "The Naked Man." 🌟 Highlights: Medellin's city center is a bustling hub of activity and culture. In addition to the fantastic shopping options, the sculptures by Botero are a must-see attraction. The "Birds of Peace" and "The Naked Man" are just a few examples of Botero's iconic style, which emphasizes volume and exaggeration. 👍🏻 Rating: Medellin's city center is a great destination for anyone looking to experience the vibrant energy and artistic expression of Colombia. Whether you're a fan of shopping, sculpture, or simply exploring a new city, Medellin has something for you. 👉🏻 Motivation: Medellin's city center is a unique and exciting destination that should not be missed. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture, there is always something new to discover. So come and immerse yourself in the beauty and creativity of Medellin's city center! 🛍️🎨🌇 #Medellin #CityCenter #Shopping #Botero #Sculpture #ColombianArt #Culture #History #Architecture #Travel #ExploreColombia #Wanderlust #Adventure #DiscoverMedellin #TravelGoals #VacationMode #SouthAmerica

The temperature is just right It seems to rain once a day It's hard to get a room at the hostel on Saturdays, so it's better to make a reservation in advance The city is even better because there are many trees and flowers

#celebratewithtrip The city of Medellín in Colombia is a place that is full of culture, history, and natural beauty. There are so many things to do and see in this city. the Medellín Botanical Gardens (Jardín Botánico de Medellín) is one of the best things to do in Medellín on a sunny day.A lot of people say that this is the best Botanical Garden in South America, and even in all of Latin America! You will want to see the unique Orquidoeroama Mesh structure ( as shown on Pic) which is a genius design allowing for the collection of rainwater and protection of orchids and butterflies. For the butterfly enclosure it will cost 4000 Cop which is about USD 1. #tripblazers #fallingforfall

Filled with vibrant graffiti covering the walls, neon signage, a cute patio and avocado-themed merchandise, this is the perfect place for brunch if you love avocados as much as I do! What I ate: Avoburger, a ripe avocado replaces the traditional bread bun of the burger, and is accompanied by a tender beef patty, sour cream, cheddar cheese, an onion ring and topped off with a touch of BBQ sauce. Price: 19,900 COP Chicken Wafflemole A typical sweet waffle topped with deep-fried chicken pieces that have been doused in maple syrup, housemade guacamole and pico de gallo (salsa). It's the perfect combination of sweet and savoury! Price: 22,900 COP #createwithtrip

Agwas was a tiny place in the mountains. I think the cafe was understaffed. No one caters you upon entering the cafe to get you a table, you have to look for your own table. I think table reservation would have been better before dining in since it is going to be a long ride going to the cafe. Staff was accommodating even when the place is packed. We waited for around 30 minutes just to get a table. Food was okay but not really extraordinary. Pancake and slush were good Pasta was on the sweeter side and is not my cup of tea. Chicken was tender but lacks flavor. Ice cream had ice crystals it was like a sorbet. It is overall a great place to try if you want something new or the need a quick break from the city. Fist visit, tried their: Smoked Ham all day breakfast. Served as Ham, Eggs, Bread & oranges. Every item on the plate was very nice. Good quality & taste. Cozy Ambience and currently with the Halloween decorations. Staff was courteous as well. I am sure to come back #cafe #foodie #awesomepic #naturalwonders

The Farm sits as a barren hillside for years that was used to be an agricultural land for farming local crops before the new owners took the liberty to tap its potential and preserve the natural beauty. The hut has a 1 Bedroom accommodation with a wide wooden deck, common kitchen & dining and an indoor Toilet & Bath. Glamping Tents are alternative accommodations for bigger groups with a common outdoor Toilet & Bath experience. An open roof shower & toilet keep visitors enjoy the natural tree roof canopies every time “the nature calls”. A Bantawan (a covered bamboo deck) for intimate events & movie night experience inside the mini forest is also an optional attraction. This one hectare private property is slowly developed as a natural farm & an exclusive & private boutique mountain getaway for guests with families & friends who wants to take respite from city life and immerse oneself back to nature. The farm will house fruit trees & local indigenous trees that are slowly unavailable to new generations to appreciate & enjoy. A natural spring water pool will be developed by phases in different parts of the property. The spring-fed pool will be continuously refilled with fresh water naturally and overflows to man-made creeks to water the surrounding farm flowing to supply the future fishing ponds to maximize the use of flowing spring water. The excess water will be collected on an open ground at the lowest portion of the property allowing the water to sip back to the natural water tables & aquifers. #staycation #tigeryear2022 #campingglamping #campingglamping #foodie #cafe

Emilia Hotel and ResortStill feeling the heat? Although it is officially rainy season, the entire Philippines is still suffering feeling summer from the sunny rainy days. Since classes have not started (in some schools) yet, you can still take a long road trip around Cebu and take your entire family with you. Where to? To the north! The northern Cebu is an effortless answer to all our summer woes. It is hot here in the metro, so heading to where summer reflects the excitement and water splashes off we go. The colors blue and yellow are set for summer. Summer breaks, to be exact. If you are still on a break, you better spend the remaining free days on a real vacation. Where to start with the planning? Start by learning more about Medellin’s not-so-hidden gem, Emilia Hotel and Resort. Cebu Philippines Ultimate Travel & Food Guide Endless Summer Splash At Emilia Hotel and Resort Apple Prieto Apple Prieto 2 years ago Emilia Hotel and ResortStill feeling the heat? Although it is officially rainy season, the entire Philippines is still suffering feeling summer from the sunny rainy days. Since classes have not started (in some schools) yet, you can still take a long road trip around Cebu and take your entire family with you. Where to? To the north! The northern Cebu is an effortless answer to all our summer woes. It is hot here in the metro, so heading to where summer reflects the excitement and water splashes off we go. Emelia Hotel and Resort The colors blue and yellow are set for summer. Summer breaks, to be exact. If you are still on a break, you better spend the remaining free days on a real vacation. Where to start with the planning? Start by learning more about Medellin’s not-so-hidden gem, Emilia Hotel and Resort. Emilia Hotel and Resort is a humble abode for you and your family if you are seeking for a place to rest in. Don’t get intimidated by the name because the hotel and resort is not expensive at all. Its pride is its swimming pool where the young and old can enjoy splashing water at each other, so if you are planning for an outing, Medellin is the way to go. #tigeryear2022 #beachlife #summervacation #beaches #tigeryear2022

Timeless elegance in a relaxing setting on the beach is what we deserve. It has been a tradition for me and my hubby to celebrate our anniversaries out of town but since it’s still pandemic and I still have this fear of going to other places outside Cebu, my hubby and I both agreed to celebrate our 8th wedding anniversary somewhere with exclusive access to the beach. I came across this beach villa called Matahom Paradise Villas in Medellin, Cebu about 3-hour drive from the city and it was a perfect place for the whole family to enjoy. The word ‘matahom” is a Cebuano dialect that means beautiful. My best friend also wanted to celebrate her birthday so we decided to celebrate it together and invited some of our closest friends with us. We booked their Glass House villa which can accommodate 8 persons and their ocean view villa which can accommodate 5 persons. The ocean view villa has its own infinity pool facing the beach. We were so lucky that time because there were no other guests so we have the entire place for us. I was quite amazed at the interiors of the two villas, they have this Bali-inspired style and what I like most of it was their outdoor style bathroom. For the Glass House, I love the homey vibe. It comes with a master bedroom with a king-sized be, a dining area, a mini-kitchen but it’s not fully furnished though, it has its own mini living area and there’s a mezzanine that can accommodate 6 people. The Glass House has a balcony where the family can really hang out. The other villa which is the ocean view villa can accommodate 5 people. It has 2 big rooms and they have their own exclusive infinity pool. #tigeryear2022 #staycation #beachlife #beachlife #summervacation #summervacation

Sadagat Beach Camp A campsite with lapping waves or tidal features, and a sunset scenery. Di ka magmahay, Bai! Park your car, pitch your tent, hang your hammocks and camp in the countryside. Have a dazzling getaway by driving to Sadagat Beach Camp. Relieve your stress and let the sun kiss your skin. Get your phone or camera and take good pictures with an Instagram-worthy scene. Walk in the sand with your loved one as if you are in a romantic movie because there are many things that you can enjoy during your stay and your camping moment. Your spirit will be soothed by the sound of the waves, and you will fall in love with the splendor of the setting sun. As you glance up at the sky, grin at the blinking stars, and bask in the glow of the moon, you’ll be awestruck by the silence in the night. You can bring your chairs, tables, and other items and seize every moment at the beach. Invite your friends, have a good time, and discover about the many diverse aspects of a shoreline. With a little extra comfort, Sadagat Beach Camp is ideal for beginner campers or anyone that wants to reconnect with nature! 🏖🏝 #tigeryear2022 #staycation #beachlife #summervacation #urbanexplorer #beaches #naturalwonders

The cutest little replica town you ever did see.⠀ ⠀ Complete with a fountain, a cobblestone square and vibrant buildings filled with bright colours and beautiful flowers, Pueblito Paisa is a popular tourist attraction in Medellin. Everyone was crowded into the one square in the midst of renovations that were going on at the time of our visit, leaving for a less-than-desirable level of noise and lack of personal space. HOWEVER, Pueblito Paisa is locates on a high hill in the middle of the Aburrá Valley - Cerro Nutibara - and offers wonderful views of the sprawling city of Medellin. Swipe to take a look!⠀ ⠀ 📍Pueblito Paisa, Medellin, Colombia #leaveyourmark

#tripaway Pueblito Paisa is one of the most charming places in Colombia. located in Medellin is perfect to learn about the Colombian culture, gastronomic and architecture! you can have panoramic views of the city and enjoy a delicious coffee! #medellin #colombia #tripaway

#tripaway The Botero square in Medellin is absolutely charming! filled with sculpture from the Colombian artist, this square is a display of talent! centrally located is surrounded by a lot of restaurants where you can taste local food and drinks! absolutely recommended! #medellin #colombia #southamerica #tripaway

"Isn't Colombia dangerous?" You may have thought so, but to be honest... that's a long time ago! Medellin was once called the "most dangerous city in the world" in the shadow of drug lord Pablo Escobar. However, that image has now been completely overturned, and it has evolved into "the most innovative, beautiful, and exciting city in South America." If you don't go to Medellin, you will definitely regret it! Here are 5 reasons why you should go to the "new Medellin." ① A spectacular cable car trip! South America's strongest "aerial transportation" If you think that Medellin's transportation is just buses and trains, you're wrong. Here, cable cars are the citizens' means of transportation! It's a great experience to see the city spread out over the hilly area from above like a bird. In particular, if you take the "Metrocabre", you can move smoothly between the colorful houses and get a panoramic view of Medellin's cityscape. ② It's no longer a "dangerous city"! A story of a major reversal in public safety In the 1990s, Medellin held the title of "the most dangerous city in the world." However, it has now transformed into one of the most tourist-friendly cities in South America! In particular, the former slum area known as "Comune 13" has been transformed into an art paradise through the efforts of the government and citizens. What was once a crime-ridden area is now a lively city filled with street art and dance. ③ A mecca for coffee lovers! Taste the world's best beans Colombia is known as the country of coffee. In Medellin, you can enjoy specialty coffee grown on small local farms. If you thought it was different from regular coffee, you'll be surprised after just one sip! The depth of the aroma, the balance of acidity and sweetness, and the lingering aftertaste that's like wine... If you go to Medellin, cafe hopping is a must! ④ "Spring" all year round! ? The most comfortable climate on earth Medellin is also known as "La Ciudad de la Eterna Primavera" (the city of eternal spring). In other words, the climate is perfect all year round! There is no extreme heat or cold like in Japan, and it is always comfortable at around 20 degrees Celsius. It's the perfect environment for sightseeing, relaxing at a cafe, and hiking. Here's why nomads and immigrants from all over the world say they can't live in any other city. ⑤ Honestly, the most "fun" nightlife in South America If you go to Medellin, it would be a waste not to go out at night! In particular, the El Poblado district is lined with stylish bars and clubs, and you can experience the passionate nightlife that is typical of South America. The locals are cheerful and friendly, and if you let yourself get carried away by the rhythm of salsa and reggaeton, you might not notice it until it's morning! ? If you thought "Isn't Colombia dangerous?", that image will be blown away once you experience Medellin's energy, art, beautiful scenery, and warm people. So, your next travel destination should be Medellin, the "miracle of South America"! #Spring0yentrip #Colombia #Medellin #SouthAmerica

I came to Comuna 13 in Medellin, Colombia. This was once a brutal slum with one of the highest murder rates, but thanks to the efforts of the government and residents, it is now a famous tourist destination. This slum is fun to walk around, with stylish painted walls, bars and restaurants, and beautiful scenery. The night view here is very beautiful with the whole town lit up. However, the security is bad on the way home, so be careful at night. 📍Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/qkiVtXZX9fe1WWHM7 #0yentripFebruary2025#Colombia #Medellin

📍 Itinerary Overview 🚩 Sightseeing Route 🏖️ Must-Visit Attractions 🚇 Transportation 📷 Photo Spots 🍜 Local Cuisine 🏠 Accommodation 1.Nomada Hotel Origen 💡 Tips

#comuna13, or San Javier, is one of the 16 "comunas" (districts) of Medellín, Colombia. It is located on the western slopes of the city and is home to approximately 150,000 people. In the past, Comuna 13 was a dangerous place, known for its high levels of violence and crime. However, in recent years, the community has undergone a remarkable transformation. Thanks to the efforts of local residents, artists, and entrepreneurs, Comuna 13 is now a vibrant and welcoming place.

🎇 When it comes to Colombia, it's a treasure trove full of surprises! The scenery here is as beautiful as if it came out of a fairy tale book. 🌈 In the tropical rainforest, those strange plants seem to be holding a competition to see who is more peculiar. Colorful birds sing happily on the branches, as if they are holding a super concert. 🌄 And the golden beach, with waves coming in one after another, is like the sea giving you a warm hug. 👯‍♂️ The people of Colombia are even more enthusiastic. Walking on the street, you can always get a big smile and a warm greeting, which makes you feel warm inside.

Exploring Comuna 13 in Medellín was one of the most inspiring experiences of my trip. This vibrant neighborhood is a living testament to transformation, creativity, and hope. 💕 ✨ My Tips for Visiting Comuna 13: 1️⃣ Book a guided tour to truly understand the history and significance behind the incredible street art. The stories will leave you speechless! 🎨✨ 2️⃣ Take your time wandering through the colorful murals and let the art speak to you. Each piece tells a powerful story of struggle and resilience. 🖌️ 3️⃣ Enjoy a performance by local artists or breakdancers – the energy is unmatched! 🎶🕺 4️⃣ Stop by one of the cute cafés for a snack or tinto (Colombian coffee). ☕ 5️⃣ Stay respectful of the community and ask for permission if you want to take photos of people. 🙏 ✨ Favorite Moment: Watching the sunset over the city after walking through such an inspiring place. It’s a reminder of how powerful art and unity can be. 🌅 #Hashtags: #Comuna13 #StreetArtStories #MedellinVibes #TransformationThroughArt #ColombianCulture #HiddenGems #TravelInspiration #UrbanArtScene #ResilienceAndHope Have you been to Comuna 13? Share your favorite mural or moment below! 🌎

🇨🇴Palma Pitón 📍Cl. 14 #43b - 57, El Poblado, Medellín 💰Price per person: From US$20 💞Reason for recommendation: View from a high floor 🏖️Atmosphere/Facilities: Live DJ performance Dining on the top floor of The somos bold hotel Palma Pitón🌿 The combination of pink interior and plants is a wonderful space. It has a refreshing atmosphere in the morning, and you can enjoy the night view in a moody atmosphere at night🥂 If you go to Medellín, this is a dining place you should definitely stop by✨ #Overseas travel record

🇨🇴1616 Hotel 📍Location: Cra. 30 #9A-47, El Poblado, Medellín, El Poblado, Medellín, Antioquia 💰Price per night (3 people): US$90 💞Reason for recommendation: Room with bathtub 🏖️Atmosphere/Facilities: Rooftop bar A must-see for bathtub lovers! 1616 Hotel, a recommended hotel in Medellin💡 With its luxurious interior and hospitality, I was able to stay comfortably. Located in a quiet area, a taxi is essential from the center. #AccommodationTravelRecord

🇨🇴The Somos Bold Hotel 📍Cl. 14 #43b - 57, El Poblado, Medellín 💰Price per night: US$110.00- 💞Reason for recommendation: Rooms are too cute 🏖️Atmosphere/Facilities: Restaurant on the top floor This is the hotel I would most like to recommend in Medellín! Theme is black and pink The rooms, lobby, stairs, and restaurant are all unified, so it's sure to be a hit with girls! Everywhere you look, it's a cute hotel that will lift your spirits🎀 #Travel record of accommodation

Exploring Medellin was an unforgettable experience, especially our visit to the vibrant Comuna 13! Once one of the most dangerous neighbourhoods in Medellin due to conflicts between armed groups and the government, it has undergone a remarkable transformation. Today, it stands as a symbol of resilience and cultural revival, bursting with stunning street art, music, and energy. #historicallandmarks 🏘️ We joined a guided tour that picked us up from the hotel, ensuring a smooth and insightful visit. Our private guide shared powerful stories behind the murals and the area’s complex history, including the infamous Operation Orion in 2002, which marked a turning point in its transformation. Comuna 13’s outdoor escalators are a marvel, offering easy access to the colourful streets and artistic expressions that tell stories of hope and change. #localguides #explore #holidayvacation 🍽️ After an inspiring afternoon, we returned to our hotel to freshen up before heading to Andrés Carne de ares for dinner. This world-famous restaurant offers more than just amazing food - it’s a full cultural experience with music, dancing, and a festive atmosphere that immerses you in Colombian culture. #deliciousfood #foodie Travel Tops for Comuna 13: - Book a guided tour for the best insights into the neighbourhood’s transformations. - Visit in the afternoon when street performers bring the area to life. - Stay safe by sticking with reputable tour companies. Don’t miss out on this powerful blend of culture, history, and celebration on your trip to Medellin!

🇨🇴Indie Universe 📍Laureles, Medellín, Colombia 💰Price per night: 6,800 yen (for 3 people) 💞Reason for recommendation: A world view that makes you feel like you've wandered into a game world 🏖️Atmosphere/Facilities: Kitchen, large refrigerator available A hotel in Laureles, a quiet district of Medellín🏨 We stayed here as a family of three, and the room was equipped with a kitchen, cutlery, and a large refrigerator, making it a very comfortable stay! And the rooms are divided into three rooms, and each room is designed like a dormitory. I was excited about the rare style of room! Recommended for staying with family and friends! #AccommodationTravelRecord #Colombia