A 14-hectare garden, home to over 4,500 flowers and hundreds of birds. It also features a butterfly house and a lake.

The Botanical Garden in Medellin is a true urban oasis. With over 14 hectares of lush greenery, it's home to a vast array of tropical plants, flowers, and wildlife. The garden is divided into several sections, each dedicated to a different type of flora or fauna. /n The butterfly house is a particular highlight, housing hundreds of colorful butterflies in a carefully controlled environment. The garden also hosts regular events and exhibitions, making it a vibrant part of Medellin's cultural scene.

A lush oasis in the heart of the city, the Botanical Garden is a must-visit.

A cable car system providing a unique view of the city and a vital link to some of the city's peripheral neighborhoods.

Metrocable is a gondola lift system implemented by the city of Medellin. It was designed to reach some of the city's informal settlements on the steep hills that surround the city center. /n The system has been praised for its contribution to the reduction of traffic congestion and air pollution, and for providing residents of the city's poorer neighborhoods with a cheap and efficient means of transportation. The Metrocable is also a popular tourist attraction, offering breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding mountains. /n The system consists of three lines, each with its own unique views and attractions. The Santo Domingo line, for example, takes passengers over the bustling Santo Domingo neighborhood and ends at the Parque Biblioteca España, a striking architectural complex that houses a library, cultural center, and public spaces.

Metrocable is a gondola lift system implemented by the city of Medellin.

A vibrant park surrounded by bars, restaurants, and nightclubs, making it the heart of Medellin's nightlife.

Parque Lleras is a lively park in Medellin known for its restaurants, bars, and nightlife. The park is filled with outdoor seating areas, making it a great place to relax and people-watch. /n The area around the park is also home to a number of bars and clubs, making it a popular spot for nightlife. Whether you're looking for a quiet dinner or a night of dancing, Parque Lleras has something to offer.

Parque Lleras is a lively park known for its restaurants, bars, and nightlife.

Pueblito Paisa is a replica of a traditional Colombian village, offering a glimpse into the country's rural life in the past. It's located on top of Nutibara Hill, providing panoramic views of the city.

Pueblito Paisa is a must-visit for anyone interested in Colombian culture and history. This replica of a traditional Colombian village is located on Nutibara Hill, offering stunning views of the city of Medellin. The village features a variety of traditional buildings, including a church, a school, a mayor's office, and several houses, all of which are furnished with authentic items from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. /n The village also has a marketplace, where you can buy traditional Colombian crafts and food. There are also several restaurants and cafes, where you can try traditional Colombian dishes. Pueblito Paisa is a great place to learn about Colombia's rural heritage, and it's a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

Pueblito Paisa is a replica of a traditional Colombian village, offering a glimpse into the country's rural life.

One of the most important museums in Colombia, housing a large collection of works by Fernando Botero and other Colombian artists.

The Museum of Antioquia is a renowned museum in Medellin showcasing Colombian art and history. It's home to a vast collection of works, including pieces by famed artist Fernando Botero. /n The museum also hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions, workshops, and cultural events throughout the year. Whether you're an art enthusiast or just interested in learning more about Colombian culture, the Museum of Antioquia is a must-visit.

The Museum of Antioquia is a renowned museum showcasing Colombian art and history.

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.

Botanical Garden

Metrocable

Parque Lleras

Start your day with a visit to the Botanical Garden. This lush, green oasis in the heart of the city is home to a variety of tropical plants and animals. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll and some relaxation.

Enjoy a traditional Colombian lunch at a local restaurant. Try Bandeja Paisa, a hearty platter of beans, rice, meat, and plantains. It's a local favorite and a must-try for any visitor.

After lunch, take a ride on the Metrocable. This cable car system offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains. It's also a great way to get a sense of the city's layout and geography.

For dinner, indulge in some fresh seafood at a local restaurant. Medellin is known for its excellent seafood, so this is a meal you won't want to miss.

End your day with a visit to Parque Lleras. This vibrant neighborhood is the perfect place to relax and unwind after a busy day. Enjoy a leisurely stroll, do some people-watching, or simply soak up the atmosphere.

Exploring the Green Spaces and Vibrant Neighborhoods of Medellin

Pueblito Paisa

Museum of Antioquia

Begin your second day with a visit to Pueblito Paisa. This charming replica of a traditional Colombian village offers a glimpse into the country's rural past. It's a great place for families to explore and learn about Colombian culture.

Have lunch at a local restaurant. Try Ajiaco, a delicious Colombian soup made with chicken, potatoes, and corn. It's a comforting and satisfying meal that's perfect for a leisurely lunch.

Spend the afternoon exploring the Museum of Antioquia. This museum houses a vast collection of art and artifacts from Colombia's past and present. It's a must-visit for any history or art lover.

Enjoy a dinner at a local restaurant. Try Cazuela de Mariscos, a delicious seafood stew that's a local favorite. It's a perfect way to end your day of exploration.

End your trip with a visit to the El Tesoro Shopping Park. This modern shopping center offers a wide range of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. It's a great place to pick up some souvenirs or simply relax and enjoy the atmosphere.

Immersing in the Culture and History of Medellin

UTC-5

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Bandaja Paisa

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.

Ajiaco

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

Empanadas

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.

Arepa

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.

Chicharron

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

Changua

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.

Lechona

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.

Sancocho

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

Buñuelos

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

Natilla

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

Guarapo

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.

Agua de Panela

New Year's Day

Epiphany

Saint Joseph's Day

Maundy Thursday

Good Friday

Labor Day / May Day

Ascension Day

Corpus Christi

Sacred Heart

Feast of Saint Peter and Saint Paul

Independence Day

Battle of Boyacá Day

Assumption of Mary

Columbus Day

All Saints' Day

Independence of Cartagena

Feast of the Immaculate Conception

Christmas Day

Known for its colorful zocalos, remnant of a large rock, and the historical town.

Guatapé

A colonial town with well-preserved architecture and cobblestone streets.

Santa Fe de Antioquia

A traditional town known for its beautiful landscapes and coffee farms.

Jardín

A nature reserve with crystal clear river, caves, and lush forest.

Rio Claro Reserve

A charming town known for its religious heritage and coffee culture.

Jerico

A massive ecological nature reserve and archaeological site.

Arví Park

A massive stone rising over 200 meters above the surrounding landscape.

El Peñol

A town known for its flower farms and equestrian culture.

La Ceja

A city known for its colonial architecture and vibrant nightlife.

Rionegro

A science museum with South America's largest freshwater aquarium.

Parque Explora

Bogota

Cartagena

La Guajira

Colorful buildings on both sides of a cobblestone street

Panoramic landscape of the lake of Guatape

Sculptures by Fernando Botero in Plaza de Botero

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).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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 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 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 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 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 sees a slight decrease in temperature, ranging from 18 to 27 degrees Celsius. The weather is a mix of rain and sunshine.

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 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 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 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 is similar to October, with temperatures ranging from 18 to 27 degrees Celsius. The rainy season continues, so be prepared for occasional showers.

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.

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.

Cookie consent

2-Day Family Sightseeing & Relaxation Itinerary in Medellin, Colombia

About Medellin, Colombia