Must Do in Medellin

Introduction

Welcome to Medellín, Colombia, the city of eternal spring! Famed for its beautiful climate and stunning views, Medellín is a popular destination for travellers from all over the world. There is plenty to see and do here, from exploring the city’s historic sites to indulging in the vibrant nightlife. To help you make the most of your time in Medellín, here is a comprehensive guide to the city’s must-do activities.

Explore the City

Medellín is a vibrant city with plenty of attractions to explore. From its historic sites to its lively parks, there is something for everyone to enjoy. You can start your exploration of the city by taking a trip to the top of the Cerro Nutibara. Once there, you can admire the magnificent views of the city and take in the beauty of the surrounding mountains. For a cultural experience, be sure to visit the Museo de Antioquia, with its impressive collection of Colombian art.

When you’re done exploring the city’s attractions, make sure to take a walk down the Carrera 70, a pedestrian street full of bars, restaurants, and shops. Here you can take in the city’s vibrant atmosphere and enjoy some of the local cuisine. Don’t forget to check out the street art and graffiti that adorns the walls of the city. The Parque Arvi is another popular attraction in the city, where you can take a leisurely stroll or go for a hike in the lush forest.

Sample Local Cuisine

Medellín is a foodie’s paradise, with a variety of delicious dishes to sample. Be sure to try the bandeja paisa, the city’s signature dish. This hearty meal includes beans, rice, pork rinds, ground beef, avocado, plantain, and an egg. For a sweet treat, try the buñuelos, a traditional fried dough dessert. Or, if you want something a bit more unique, sample the chocolate de mar, a specialty of the city made from melted chocolate and fresh coconut.

Experience the Nightlife

When the sun goes down, Medellín comes alive. Whether you’re looking for a traditional bar or a vibrant club, there’s something for everyone in the city.

Famously known as the city of eternal spring, Medellín is home to a vibrant nightlife. Start your night out with a visit to Barrio El Poblado, where you can sample traditional Colombian cuisine and sip on some of the country’s finest aguardiente. For a more lively experience, head to Parque Lleras, the city’s most popular nightlife area. Here you can find an array of bars and clubs, ranging from traditional pubs to chic lounges.

Additional Tips

When travelling to Medellín, it’s important to be aware of the city’s safety precautions. There are some areas of the city that are considered unsafe, so it’s important to be aware of your surroundings. To ensure your safety, it’s recommended that you take a taxi to your destination rather than walking. It’s also important to have the correct currency, which is Colombian pesos, as well as the appropriate clothing for the city’s climate.

When it comes to shopping, there are plenty of local markets to explore in Medellín. Popular markets include the Mercado del Río and the San Alejo Market, where you can find an array of unique souvenirs and handicrafts.

Conclusion

From exploring the city’s historic sites to sampling the local cuisine, Medellín offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a cultural experience or a night on the town, there is plenty to do in this vibrant city. With this comprehensive guide to the city’s must-do activities, you’ll be sure to make the most of your time in Medellín.

A Local’s Guide to Medellin: Discover the City’s Hidden Gems

If you are looking for an authentic travel experience, Medellin is a city you don’t want to miss. With its warm weather, beautiful scenery, and vibrant culture, Medellin is a place where visitors can immerse themselves in the true Colombian way of life. Here’s a local’s guide to discovering some of the city’s hidden gems.

Local Attractions: Uncover the Hidden Gems

While there are plenty of tourist hotspots, some lesser-known attractions can offer visitors an exceptional experience that most tourists miss out. One such place is the Medellin Botanical Garden, which is not only a paradise for nature lovers but also a great place to explore the city’s biodiversity. Also, take a stroll through the Parques del Rio, a linear park that runs along the Medellin River with stunning views of the city. Do not miss the Comuna 13, a vibrant neighborhood that has transformed itself into a vibrant street art destination, with murals painted on every corner.

Dining Spots: Savor the Local Cuisine

Medellin is a food lover’s paradise, with a vibrant culinary scene that offers a blend of traditional and modern flavors. For an authentic taste of Colombian food, head to Mercado Central La Minorista, where you will find a vast array of fresh seafood, exotic fruits, and traditional dishes. Another spot worth visiting is El Cielo, a restaurant famous for its innovative twists on traditional Colombian dishes. If you are looking for something more casual, check out J&J Pork Ribs for mouth-watering ribs cooked to perfection.

Cultural Experiences: Immerse Yourself in Medellin’s Culture

Medellin has a rich cultural heritage that encompasses everything from folk music and dance to art and literature. For a glimpse into the city’s culture, head to the Antioquia Museum, where you can admire the works of renowned Colombian artist Fernando Botero, or take a guided tour of the Casa Museo Otraparte, the former home of philosopher Fernando Gonzalez. Alternatively, if you are here in August, do not miss the Festival de Flores, a colorful, week-long celebration that lights up the city with flowers.

Local History: Unravel the Fascinating Stories

Medellin has a fascinating history, which is worth exploring if you want to understand the city’s character better. One such story is that of La Candelaria, a colonial-style mansion that once belonged to a wealthy Spanish family and is now a museum dedicated to the city’s history. The La Catedral Prison Museum is also an intriguing destination and offers an insight into the life of drug lord Pablo Escobar, who once ruled the city with an iron fist.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Venture Into the Unknown

If you are looking for unique experiences that are not on the typical tourist itinerary, try the tour of the city’s hidden tunnels and catacombs, which were once used by drug traffickers to transport their goods. Alternatively, take a cable car ride to the top of Cerro Nutibara, a mountain offering breathtaking views of the city. Another option is to explore the nearby towns like Guatape, a town known for its colorful houses and scenic views or Santa Fe de Antioquia, a traditional town known for its colonial-era architecture.

In conclusion, whether you are interested in culture, food, history, or natural scenery, Medellin has it all. With this insider’s guide, you will be able to avoid tourist traps and explore the city like a local. Stay curious and open-minded, and you will discover hidden gems that make Medellin a special place worth returning to.