Having shed its troubled reputation under Pablo Escobar, Medellin has emerged resplendent as both the City of Eternal Spring and Colombia’s cultural capital. Encircled by lush mountains and home to a burgeoning culinary scene, things to do in Medellin range from browsing the world-famous artwork of Fernando Botero and exploring the city’s gorgeously green parks to riding the metro cable to revitalized barrios such as Comuna 13, now awash with street art and food stalls. Plus, pulsating salsa rhythms and some of Latin America’s most hospitable locals make this city one you’ll want to stay in for weeks.
There’s a reason Medellín is affectionately known as the City of Eternal Spring. Throughout the year, Colombia’s second city boasts a bright and cool climate enhanced by a breeze from the surrounding mountains. There’s the least chance of rain between December and February—this also coincides with school and university holidays, when the majority of locals leave the city on vacation, making it far less crowded on the weekends.
The completion of the Medellín Metro in 1995 signaled the beginning of the city’s transformation and allowed residents living in marginalized parts of the city to access the center with ease. It combines two train lines and multiple bus routes with seven Metrocable lines, whose panoramic views make the journey almost as exciting as the final destination.
For a true taste of local life, head to Plaza Minorista Market—Medellín’s largest farmers market. You’ll see hundreds of different types of Latin American fruit and vegetables, plus everything from furniture and clothes to coffee and chips. Make sure you grab an arepa and a cup of tinto (black coffee) from one of the stalls, too.
Local Currency Colombian Peso (COP) | Time Zone COT (UTC -5) | Country Code +57 | Language(s) Spanish | Attractions 25 | Tours 968 | Reviews 35,798 |
Medellin is best known for its pleasant climate—which has earned it the nickname, city of eternal spring—and for its thriving cultural scene, which comprises both street art and galleries featuring work by artist Fernando Botero, born in Medellin. It also has a respected gastronomic and nightlife scene.
...MoreYes. You could spend a week exploring Medellin, but plan three days for the highlights, including the Museum of Antioquia, Plaza Botero, and Comuna 13. You’ll also have time for a day trip to either lush Jardin, the colonial Santa Fe de Antioquia, or Guatapé, home to Peñol Rock.
...MoreYes, Medellin is worth visiting. It boasts a rich history and fascinating art and culture scene, and it's a wonderland for nature lovers looking to explore. The Metrocable makes moving about the city a breeze, while several parks—including Parque Lleras in Poblado and Barefoot Park—offer respite from the city buzz.
...MoreThere’s a reason Medellin is referred to as the city of eternal spring—it boasts year-round pleasant weather. Although the winter months of June through Aug. see more sporadic downpours than other times of the year, they’re when vibrant festivals dedicated to tango and flowers take place.
...MoreStart in the city center, where you’ll find cultural big-hitters such as Plaza Botero—with sculptures by Medellin native Fernando Botero—and Pueblito Paisa, a replica of a traditional village. In the afternoon, take the Metrocable to the Comuna 13 neighborhood to admire the street art and learn about the city’s history.
...MoreThe best outdoor activities in Medellin are paragliding over the city and going hiking—top walking trails include Paloma Lookout Trail and Pan de Azucar Hill. You can also take a day trip to Guatapé, home of looming Peñol Rock. Reach the top by climbing more than 700 steps.
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