3-Day Family Adventure: Medellin's Local Eats, Sights & Outdoor Activities
Medellin, Colombia
3 days
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.
3-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Art and Transformation in Museum of Antioquia and Comuna 13
Morning
Start your second day with a visit to the Museum of Antioquia. This museum houses a vast collection of art and artifacts from Colombia's past, including works by famed artist Fernando Botero.
Lunch
For lunch, try a local favorite: arepas. These cornmeal patties can be filled with a variety of ingredients, from cheese to meat to vegetables. They're a staple of Colombian cuisine and a must-try for any visitor.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring Comuna 13. This neighborhood is known for its vibrant street art and its transformation from one of the city's most dangerous areas to a symbol of resilience and creativity.
Dinner
Enjoy a traditional Colombian dinner at a local restaurant. Try Ajiaco, a hearty chicken and potato soup that's a favorite among locals.
Evening
End your day with a visit to the El Poblado district. This trendy neighborhood is filled with boutiques, art galleries, and hip bars and restaurants. It's a great place to experience Medellin's vibrant nightlife.
Day 3
Science, Wildlife and Traditional Village at Explora Park, Santa Fe Zoo and Nutibara Hill
Morning
Start your final day with a visit to the Explora Park. This interactive science museum is a great place for families to learn about a variety of topics, from physics to biology to astronomy.
Lunch
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant. Try Cazuela de Mariscos, a delicious seafood stew that's a favorite among locals.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon at the Santa Fe Zoo. This zoo is home to a variety of animals, from monkeys to lions to birds. It's a great place for families to learn about wildlife and conservation.
Dinner
For your final dinner in Medellin, enjoy a meal at a local restaurant. Try Lechona, a traditional Colombian dish of roasted pig stuffed with rice and peas.
Evening
End your trip with a visit to the Nutibara Hill. This hill offers stunning views of the city and is home to Pueblito Paisa, a replica of a traditional Colombian village. It's a great place to reflect on your trip and take in the city's beauty one last time.
Attractions in Itinerary (8)
1Botanical Garden
A 14-hectare garden, home to over 4,500 flowers and hundreds of birds. It also features a butterfly house and a lake.
2Metrocable
A cable car system providing a unique view of the city and a vital link to some of the city's peripheral neighborhoods.
3Museum of Antioquia
One of the most important museums in Colombia, housing a large collection of works by Fernando Botero and other Colombian artists.
4Comuna 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.
5Explora Park
Explora Park is a science museum with interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and an aquarium. It's a great place for families and anyone interested in learning more about science and nature.
6Santa Fe Zoo
Santa Fe Zoo is a zoological park that houses a variety of animals from around the world. It's a great place for families and animal lovers to visit.
7Nutibara Hill
Nutibara Hill is a natural landmark in Medellin that offers panoramic views of the city. At the top, there's a replica of a traditional Colombian village, known as Pueblito Paisa, and a sculpture garden.
8Pueblito Paisa
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.
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.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
January 8 | Mon | Epiphany |
March 25 | Mon | Saint Joseph's Day |
March 28 | Thu | Maundy Thursday |
March 29 | Fri | Good Friday |
May 1 | Wed | Labor Day / May Day |
May 13 | Mon | Ascension Day |
June 3 | Mon | Corpus Christi |
June 10 | Mon | Sacred Heart |
July 1 | Mon | Feast of Saint Peter and Saint Paul |
July 20 | Sat | Independence Day |
August 7 | Wed | Battle of Boyacá Day |
August 19 | Mon | Assumption of Mary |
October 14 | Mon | Columbus Day |
November 4 | Mon | All Saints' Day |
November 11 | Mon | Independence of Cartagena |
December 8 | Sun | Feast of the Immaculate Conception |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
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.
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
Underwear
Socks
Sleepwear
Swimwear
Comfortable walking shoes
Flip flops for the beach or pool
Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings
Rain jacket or umbrella
Hat for sun protection
Sunglasses
Toiletries
Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Razor and shaving cream
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
First aid kit with band-aids and antiseptic
Prescription medications
Travel-sized laundry detergent
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license or other ID
Credit and debit cards
Cash in local currency
Travel insurance documents
Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations
Emergency contact information
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Universal power adapter
Headphones
Camera
Charger for camera
Portable power bank
Miscellaneous items
Travel pillow
Earplugs and eye mask
Snacks
Reusable water bottle
Books or e-reader for entertainment
Travel guidebook for Medellin
Spanish-English dictionary or phrasebook
Notebook and pen
Backpack or daypack for daily excursions
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. |
Did you know?
Places near by Medellin, Colombia
Guatapé
Known for its colorful zocalos, remnant of a large rock, and the historical town.
Santa Fe de Antioquia
A colonial town with well-preserved architecture and cobblestone streets.
Jardín
A traditional town known for its beautiful landscapes and coffee farms.
Rio Claro Reserve
A nature reserve with crystal clear river, caves, and lush forest.
Jerico
A charming town known for its religious heritage and coffee culture.
Arví Park
A massive ecological nature reserve and archaeological site.
El Peñol
A massive stone rising over 200 meters above the surrounding landscape.
La Ceja
A town known for its flower farms and equestrian culture.
Rionegro
A city known for its colonial architecture and vibrant nightlife.
Parque Explora
A science museum with South America's largest freshwater aquarium.
