10 Best Things to Do in Medellín, Colombia
Medellín is a city living a new chapter. Take one step in the Colombian city, share one conversation with a paisa (Medellín citizen) and stroll down a street within its transformed and contemporary barrios to appreciate all that the “City of the Eternal Spring” has to offer.
Take in the Vistas on the Metrocable
Medellín is home to Colombia’s only metro rail system and it is anything but boring. The pristine two-line rail system runs north to south and east to west, complemented by a connected tram system, intricate bus lines, and the gondola system known as the Metrocable. This gondola takes locals and visitors alike up into the hillside barrios (neighborhoods). With trips on the metro or Metrocable seldom exceeding $3,000 pesos, it provides a vista-filled way to explore Medellín and take in the Andes Mountains. For those seeking an even higher view, Fly Colombia offers helicopter journeys around the city, too.
Party Like a Paisa
This city knows how to enjoy the night. The nightlife scene typically doesn’t kick off until 10 or 11 p.m., with areas like El Poblado and La 70 in Laureles leading the way. You can opt to party with a view at Envy atop the Charlee Hotel in Parque Lleras for a club-like atmosphere. Los Patios in El Poblado is a more laid-back option that attracts the backpacker crowd.
Load Up on Medellín’s Street Food
Stroll down nearly any Medellín thoroughfare and you’ll encounter convenience shops with displays of fried goods. Once you’ve embraced classics such as empanada (typically a fried pastry with beef and potatoes), buñuelo (round cheese fritter), and pastel de pollo (chicken pastry), you can explore some of the city’s culinary gems. Visit El Machetico de Nico in El Poblado for ultra-crispy empanadas, El Peregrino in Sabaneta for super-cheese infused buñuelos, and La Estación del Sabor near La 70 for a pastel de pollo. Pro-tip: Don’t forget to ask for some ají, a typically homemade spicy sauce that enhances any fried treat.
Cheer on Atlético Nacional (or DIM)
Colombia has a deep love for fútbol, and the most cherished team, Atlético Nacional, is based in Medellín. The team plays at Estadio Girardot alongside its rival, Deportivo Independiente Medellín (DIM). If you’re fortunate enough to watch Nacional play, don some green attire, grab a ticket at the stadium, and enjoy the dedicated fan atmosphere just as much as the game itself.
Achieve a New Level of Gluttony with a Bandeja Paisa
After a lively evening (or just when paisas feel particularly hungry), the bandeja paisa becomes the go-to dish. This typical meal often showcases grilled meat, beans, white rice, chicharrón (fried pork), fried plantains, a slice of avocado, arepa (maize dough), and a fried egg. For an unforgettable bandeja, head to Las Delicias de La Nena on La 70 in Laureles. If you prefer something lighter, try local soups like mondongo, ajiaco, or sancocho.
Shop ‘Til You Drop
Fashion reaches its peak during the ColombiaModa festival in July, yet style remains central year-round in Medellín. For handcrafted clothing and keepsakes, visit the trendy boutiques in areas like Via Primavera (Carrera 35) and Via Provenza (Carrera 37) in El Poblado. Popular malls like Santafé and El Tesoro feature Colombian brands, including trendy preppy brand Tennis and renowned bag maker Totto. For unique souvenirs, explore the free Mercados Artisanos that pop up on weekends in various Medellín parks.
Get Caffeinated at a Specialty Coffee Shop
Did you know that Colombia ranks as the third largest coffee producer globally? Antioquia, the state where Medellín resides, is teeming with coffee farms. Consequently, make the most of your time in Medellín by indulging in its rich coffee culture.
The city boasts a flourishing specialty coffee scene, offering everything from meticulously brewed pour-overs to expertly crafted espresso shots. Recommended coffee spots include Pergamino in El Poblado, Rituales, and Café Tipica in Laureles, as well as Distrito Cafetero located in Barrio Colombia.
Wander Medellín’s One-of-a-Kind Museums
The “City of the Eternal Spring” boasts some remarkable museums. The Museo Casa de La Memoria shares powerful narratives and personal accounts related to Colombia’s conflicts. In a more whimsical contrast, Museo el Castillo showcases a 90-year-old castle filled with antique Colombian treasures. Art enthusiasts should not miss the Museo de Antioquia, featuring prominent exhibits of Fernando Botero’s works and statues displayed in Plaza Botero.
Experience the City’s Neighborhoods
Having emerged from years of violence, many neighborhoods in Medellín have undergone significant revitalization. Notable among them is Comuna 13 (or San Javier), accessible via the Metrocable. Today, it is well-known for graffiti art tours and community experiences. While in San Javier, be sure to check out the outdoor escalators, or escaleras electricas, which assist locals in commuting, alongside eateries and souvenir shops along the way.
Further examples of transformation include Moravia, once the site of Medellín’s central dump, and Manrique, where tango concerts and classes have rejuvenated the area.
Take a Day Trip to the Color-Splashed Guatapé
The pueblo of Guatapé, located just a two-hour bus ride east of Medellín, presents an ideal day trip opportunity. Its vibrant painted historic center, azure man-made lake, and Piedra del Peñol make it a must-visit. Climb the 600 steps to enjoy some of the most breathtaking views in the region.
