1-Day Solo Local Experience: Medellin Food, Wine and Sightseeing

Medellin, Colombia

1 days

Food and wine

Sightseeing

Solo

For locals

Colorful buildings on both sides of a cobblestone street

Panoramic landscape of the lake of Guatape

Sculptures by Fernando Botero in Plaza de Botero

About Medellin, Colombia

Experience the vibrant culture of Medellin, Colombia, a city nestled in the Aburrá Valley, surrounded by lush green mountains. Known as the "City of Eternal Spring" for its pleasant weather, Medellin offers a blend of modernity and tradition. Explore the colorful Comuna 13 neighborhood, famous for its street art, or visit the Botanical Garden, home to over 4,500 flowers. Take a cable car ride to Parque Arvi for stunning city views. Don't miss the Museum of Antioquia, showcasing the works of renowned artist Fernando Botero. Enjoy local cuisine, dance to salsa rhythms, and immerse yourself in the city's rich history. Medellin, once infamous for its drug-related violence, has transformed into a safe, thriving destination for travelers seeking a unique cultural experience.

1-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Vibrant Neighborhoods and Rich Art Scene of Medellin

Morning

Start your day by exploring the vibrant El Poblado neighborhood. This area is known for its lush parks, trendy boutiques, and charming cafes. Take a leisurely stroll through the streets, soaking in the unique architecture and vibrant street art.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Colombian lunch in a local eatery. Try 'Bandeja Paisa', a hearty platter of beans, rice, meat, and plantains, or 'Ajiaco', a delicious chicken and potato soup. Pair your meal with a glass of local wine or a refreshing 'Lulo' juice.

Afternoon

After lunch, head to the Museo de Antioquia, one of the most important museums in Colombia. Here, you can admire a vast collection of works by the famous Colombian artist Fernando Botero. After the museum, take a stroll in Botero Plaza, where you'll find 23 monumental sculptures by the same artist.

Dinner

For dinner, indulge in the vibrant flavors of Colombian cuisine at a local restaurant. Try 'Cazuela de Mariscos', a rich seafood stew, or 'Lechona', a whole pig stuffed with rice, peas, and spices. Don't forget to try 'Chicha', a traditional fermented corn drink.

Evening

End your day with a visit to Comuna 13, once one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in the world, now a symbol of resilience and transformation. Take a guided graffiti tour to learn about the history and significance of the stunning murals that cover the walls of this vibrant neighborhood.

Attractions in Itinerary (4)

1
El Poblado

El Poblado is a trendy neighborhood in Medellin known for its vibrant nightlife, upscale restaurants, and boutique shops. It's a popular area for tourists.

Neighborhoods

Food and Drink

Shopping

2
Museo de Antioquia

One of the most important museums in Colombia, Museo de Antioquia houses a large collection of works by Fernando Botero and Pedro Nel Gómez. It also showcases pre-Colombian and colonial art.

Museums

Cultural Experiences

Architecture

3
Botero Plaza

Botero Plaza, located in the city center, is famous for the 23 sculptures created by the renowned Colombian artist Fernando Botero. It's a great place to appreciate art and architecture.

Attractions

Cultural Experiences

Parks

4
Comuna 13

Comuna 13 is a neighborhood in Medellin known for its colorful murals, street art, and escalators that help residents navigate the steep hillsides. It's a symbol of resilience and transformation.

Attractions

Cultural Experiences

Neighborhoods

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Bandaja Paisa

A traditional Colombian dish from the region of Paisa. It includes beans, rice, ground meat or pork, chorizo, fried egg, plantain, arepa, and avocado.

Ajiaco

A hearty soup made with chicken, three varieties of potatoes, and the Galinsoga parviflora herb. It's a popular dish in Medellin and is often served with capers and cream.

Empanadas

A popular snack in Medellin, these are pastry shells filled with meat, potatoes, and spices, then deep-fried to a golden brown.

Arepa

A type of bread made from cornmeal that is a staple food in Medellin. It can be grilled, baked, fried, boiled or steamed and is often served with butter, cheese, eggs or meat.

Chicharron

Fried pork belly or fried pork rinds. It's a popular snack in Medellin and is often served with arepas or as part of a larger meal.

Changua

A traditional Colombian breakfast dish that's popular in Medellin. It's a milk soup with eggs, often served with pieces of stale bread.

Lechona

A traditional Colombian dish that's popular in Medellin. It's a whole roasted pig stuffed with rice, peas, and spices, and cooked for over ten hours.

Sancocho

A traditional Colombian soup made with meat (usually chicken, beef, or fish), plantains, corn, potatoes, and yuca. It's a popular dish in Medellin, especially on rainy days.

Buñuelos

A popular dessert in Medellin, these are sweet, fried dough balls made with cheese and served during Christmas and other celebrations.

Natilla

A traditional Colombian dessert that's popular in Medellin. It's a custard-like dish made with milk, sugar, cinnamon, and coconut.

Guarapo

A traditional Colombian drink made from sugar cane juice. It's a popular refreshment in Medellin, especially during the hot summer months.

Agua de Panela

A traditional Colombian drink made from unrefined sugar cane. It's a popular refreshment in Medellin, often served hot with a squeeze of lime and a piece of cheese.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Medellin, Colombia is during the months of December to March, which is the dry season. The weather is pleasant and perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Another great time to visit is in July and August when the city hosts its famous Flower Festival. However, Medellin is known as the "City of Eternal Spring" due to its consistent temperate weather, so it's a great destination year-round.

How to get around

Medellin Metro

The Medellin Metro is a comprehensive and efficient public transportation system that connects various parts of the city. It includes both metro lines and cable cars, which can take you to the city's hillside neighborhoods.

Bus

Buses are a common mode of transportation in Medellin. They cover extensive routes throughout the city and its outskirts. They can be crowded during peak hours, but they're a cost-effective way to get around.

Taxi

Taxis are plentiful in Medellin and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. They're metered, so you'll always know the cost of your trip. They're a convenient way to get around, especially if you're traveling with luggage or in a group.

Ridesharing

Ridesharing services like Uber are available in Medellin. They're a popular choice for travelers due to their convenience and the ability to book and pay for rides through a smartphone app. However, their legality can sometimes be a gray area, so it's important to use discretion.

Bicycle

Medellin has an extensive network of bicycle lanes, and the city's 'EnCicla' public bike sharing system is free to use. It's a great way to get around while also getting some exercise and enjoying the city's pleasant weather.

Walk

Many of Medellin's neighborhoods are walkable, and exploring on foot can be a great way to experience the city's vibrant street life and beautiful architecture. However, it's important to be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

Tram

Medellin's modern tram system, Tranvía de Ayacucho, is another efficient way to get around. It connects with the metro system and runs through some of the city's most scenic neighborhoods.

Cable Car

Medellin's cable car system is not only a means of transportation, but also a popular tourist attraction. It offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains, and connects the city center with some of the hillside neighborhoods that are otherwise difficult to reach.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency$ COP

Time zoneUTC-5

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone119

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Voltage110 V

Things to know about Medellin, Colombia as a first time visitor

1

Medellin is known as the 'City of Eternal Spring' due to its pleasant climate. Average temperatures range from 64°F to 82°F (18°C to 28°C).

2

The official language is Spanish. While some locals speak English, it's beneficial to learn basic Spanish phrases.

3

The local currency is the Colombian Peso (COP). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's handy to have cash for smaller vendors.

4

Tipping is not mandatory in Colombia, but it's appreciated. A tip of 10% is considered generous.

5

Public transportation is reliable and affordable. The Medellin Metro is a popular choice for tourists.

6

Taxis are also a common mode of transportation. They're metered, so ensure the meter is running when you start your journey.

7

Medellin is in the Colombia Time Zone (COT), which is 5 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC-5).

8

The city is generally safe for tourists, but like any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and avoid less populated areas at night.

9

Colombians are known for their hospitality. Don't be surprised if locals offer to help you or invite you to their homes.

10

Traditional Colombian food is a must-try. Popular dishes include bandeja paisa, arepas, and empanadas.

11

Tap water is safe to drink in Medellin. However, if you have a sensitive stomach, you may want to stick to bottled water.

12

Colombia has a 19% Value Added Tax (VAT) on many goods and services. Some tourists may be eligible for a VAT refund upon departure.

13

Medellin has a vibrant nightlife. Dress code is generally casual, but some high-end clubs may require formal attire.

14

It's common to greet people with a handshake. Close friends and family often greet each other with a hug and a kiss on the cheek.

15

Medellin is located in a valley, so it's common to experience altitude sickness. It's recommended to take it easy for the first few days to acclimate.

16

Colombia uses the Type A and Type B plug. The standard voltage is 110 V, and the standard frequency is 60 Hz.

17

Healthcare in Medellin is of a high standard. However, travel insurance is recommended for any unexpected medical costs.

18

Colombians are passionate about football. If you're a fan, try to catch a match at the Atanasio Girardot Stadium.

19

Shopping in Medellin is a mix of modern malls and traditional markets. Remember to haggle in markets to get the best price.

20

Public restrooms may charge a small fee for use. It's a good idea to keep some change on hand.

Basic Spanish to know as a first time visitor

English phrase	Native phrase	Pronunciation	When to use it
Hello	Hola	O-la	Greeting someone
Goodbye	Adiós	A-dee-os	Leaving someone
Please	Por favor	Por fa-vor	Making a request
Thank you	Gracias	Gra-see-as	Showing gratitude
Yes	Sí	See	Agreeing with someone
No	No	No	Disagreeing with someone
Excuse me	Perdón	Per-don	Getting someone's attention
I'm sorry	Lo siento	Lo see-en-to	Apologizing
Do you speak English?	¿Hablas inglés?	Ha-blas in-gles	Asking if someone speaks English
I don't understand	No entiendo	No en-tee-en-do	When you don't understand something
Where is the bathroom?	¿Dónde está el baño?	Don-de es-ta el ba-nyo	Asking for the bathroom
How much does it cost?	¿Cuánto cuesta?	Kwan-to kwes-ta	Asking the price of something
I would like...	Me gustaría...	Me gus-ta-ree-a	Expressing a desire for something
Help!	¡Ayuda!	A-yu-da	In case of emergency
Call the police!	¡Llame a la policía!	Ya-me a la po-lee-see-a	In case of emergency
Can I get the menu, please?	¿Puedo obtener el menú, por favor?	Pwe-do ob-te-ner el me-nu, por fa-vor	At a restaurant
Water	Agua	A-gwa	Ordering a drink
Beer	Cerveza	Ser-ve-za	Ordering a drink
Where is...?	¿Dónde está...?	Don-de es-ta	Asking for directions
Good night	Buenas noches	Bwe-nas no-ches	Saying goodbye in the evening

Packing List

Clothing
Lightweight clothing
Comfortable walking shoes
Rain jacket or umbrella
Sunglasses
Hat for sun protection

Toiletries
Travel-sized toiletries
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
Hand sanitizer
Personal medication

Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license or ID card
Credit and debit cards
Cash (Colombian Pesos)
Travel insurance documents

Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for your electronics
Universal power adapter
Camera
Portable power bank

Miscellaneous items
Reusable water bottle
Snacks
Travel guidebook
Map of Medellin
Spanish phrasebook

Weather Conditions

Medellin, Colombia, often referred to as the "City of Eternal Spring," enjoys a pleasant, spring-like climate year-round. The average temperature typically ranges between 64°F (18°C) and 82°F (28°C), making it a comfortable destination for travelers at any time of the year. However, it's important to note that Medellin does have a rainy season, which occurs in April-May and October-November. During these periods, you can expect frequent and sometimes heavy rainfall. Therefore, if you're planning to visit during these months, it's advisable to pack a good quality raincoat or umbrella. Despite the rain, the city's temperature remains fairly consistent throughout the year. This means that even during the rainy season, you can still enjoy warm days. But, it's always a good idea to pack a light sweater or jacket for the cooler evenings. The city's altitude also plays a role in its weather. Medellin sits 1,495 meters above sea level, which contributes to its cooler evenings. If you're sensitive to altitude, it's recommended to take it easy for the first few days to acclimate. Sun protection is another important consideration. Despite the city's moderate temperatures, the sun can be quite strong due to its proximity to the equator. Therefore, don't forget to pack and regularly apply a high-SPF sunscreen, even on cloudy days. In conclusion, Medellin's weather is generally warm and pleasant, but be prepared for rain if you're visiting during the rainy seasons. Regardless of when you visit, packing layers and sun protection will ensure you're ready for anything the weather might bring.

Month	Hi / Lo (°C)	Weather Overview
January	28° / 17°	January is a great time to visit Medellin, with temperatures ranging from 17 to 28 degrees Celsius. The weather is generally dry, making it perfect for outdoor activities.
February	28° / 17°	February is similar to January in terms of weather, with temperatures ranging from 17 to 28 degrees Celsius. It's a great time for sightseeing and exploring the city.
March	28° / 18°	March sees a slight increase in temperature, ranging from 18 to 28 degrees Celsius. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy warmer weather.
April	28° / 18°	April is similar to March, with temperatures ranging from 18 to 28 degrees Celsius. It's the start of the rainy season, so pack an umbrella.
May	28° / 18°	May continues the trend of warm weather, with temperatures ranging from 18 to 28 degrees Celsius. The rainy season is in full swing, so be prepared for occasional showers.
June	27° / 18°	June sees a slight decrease in temperature, ranging from 18 to 27 degrees Celsius. The weather is a mix of rain and sunshine.
July	27° / 18°	July is similar to June, with temperatures ranging from 18 to 27 degrees Celsius. The weather is generally dry, making it a good time for outdoor activities.
August	27° / 18°	August continues the trend of mild weather, with temperatures ranging from 18 to 27 degrees Celsius. It's a great time to explore the city and its surroundings.
September	27° / 18°	September is similar to August, with temperatures ranging from 18 to 27 degrees Celsius. The weather is generally dry, making it a good time for sightseeing.
October	27° / 18°	October sees the return of the rainy season, with temperatures ranging from 18 to 27 degrees Celsius. Pack an umbrella and enjoy the city's indoor attractions.
November	27° / 18°	November is similar to October, with temperatures ranging from 18 to 27 degrees Celsius. The rainy season continues, so be prepared for occasional showers.
December	27° / 17°	December sees a slight decrease in temperature, ranging from 17 to 27 degrees Celsius. The weather is generally dry, making it a great time to visit Medellin.