3-Day Exploration Guide: Unearth Medellín, Colombia

Medellin, Colombia

3 days

Sculptures by Fernando Botero in Plaza de Botero
Colorful buildings on both sides of a cobblestone street
City skyline around the Plaza de Botero
Panoramic landscape of the lake of Guatape
Castle of Medellin

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 1

Exploring the Heart of Medellin

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Botanical Garden, a green oasis in the heart of the city. Enjoy the beautiful flora and fauna, including a butterfly house.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Colombian lunch in a local restaurant. Try Bandeja Paisa, a typical dish from the region.

Afternoon

Visit the Museum of Antioquia, where you can learn about the history and culture of Medellin and Colombia. Don't miss the Fernando Botero collection.

Dinner

Have dinner in a restaurant offering international cuisine. Try some local wines.

Evening

Take a stroll around the vibrant El Poblado district, known for its nightlife, shopping, and restaurants.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to Comuna 13, a neighborhood known for its colorful murals and street art. Take a guided tour to learn about its transformation.

Lunch

Have lunch in a local restaurant. Try Ajiaco, a traditional Colombian soup.

Afternoon

Take a cable car ride to Parque Arvi, a beautiful nature reserve. Enjoy hiking, bird watching, and stunning views of the city.

Dinner

Enjoy dinner in a restaurant with a view of the city. Try some local seafood dishes.

Evening

Visit the Parque Lleras, a popular spot for nightlife with many bars and clubs.

Morning

Visit the El Castillo Museum, a beautiful castle with a collection of European art and furniture. Enjoy the stunning gardens surrounding the castle.

Lunch

Have lunch in a local restaurant. Try Sancocho, a traditional Colombian stew.

Afternoon

Explore the Pueblito Paisa, a replica of a traditional Colombian village. Enjoy the local crafts and food.

Dinner

Have dinner in a restaurant offering fusion cuisine. Try some local desserts.

Evening

End your trip with a visit to the Metropolitan Theater, where you can enjoy a concert or a play.

Attractions in Itinerary (9)

Botanical Garden

1
Botanical Garden

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

Parks
Gardens
Museum of Antioquia

2
Museum of Antioquia

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

Museums
Cultural Experiences
El Poblado

3
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
Comuna 13

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
Parque Arvi

5
Parque Arvi

A massive ecological nature reserve and archaeological site that offers outdoor activities like hiking, picnicking, and cable car rides.

Parks
Tours
Cultural Experiences

6
Parque Lleras

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

Parks
Food and Drink
Entertainment
El Castillo Museum

7
El Castillo Museum

El Castillo Museum is a gothic-style castle turned museum that showcases a variety of European art and furniture. It is a popular attraction and landmark in the city.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Pueblito Paisa

8
Pueblito 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.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Metropolitan Theater

9
Metropolitan Theater

The Metropolitan Theater is a cultural icon in Medellin, hosting a variety of performances including plays, concerts, and ballet. The building itself is a beautiful example of modern architecture.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Entertainment
Architecture

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Bandaja Paisa

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

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

Empanadas

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

Arepa

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

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

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

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

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

Buñuelos

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

Natilla

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.

DateDayHoliday 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

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

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.

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

Power socket type APower socket type B

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

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.

MonthHi / 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?

Did you know that Medellin, Colombia is known as the 'City of Eternal Spring' due to its year-round temperate weather?

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