Places to Visit in Medellin Colombia

Medellin, Colombia is a vibrant and exciting city located in the heart of the Aburrá Valley. With a population of over 2.5 million people, it is the second-largest city in Colombia, and it has become a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. From its colonial architecture, to its lively nightlife, to its stunning natural views, Medellin is an unforgettable city with something for everyone.

History of Medellin

The city of Medellin was founded in 1616 by Spanish settlers. It was originally a small village, but it quickly grew into an important center of trade and commerce in the region. During the 19th century, the city experienced a period of tremendous growth, becoming a major industrial center and one of Colombia’s largest cities. In the late 20th century, the city was known for its rampant drug trafficking and violence, but these issues have been largely resolved in recent years.

Things to Do in Medellin

Medellin is a city full of unique experiences and activities. From exploring the lively nightlife to visiting historical sites, there is something for everyone. Here are some of the most popular activities to do when visiting Medellin:

Ride the Metrocable

The Metrocable is a cable car system that runs from the city center to the outskirts of Medellin. It provides stunning views of the city and its surrounding areas, and it is a great way to get around. The Metrocable is a great way to experience Medellin’s hilly terrain, as it runs up and down the sides of the mountains.

Visit El Castillo Museum

The El Castillo Museum is a historic site located in the center of Medellin. It is a restored colonial building that houses an impressive collection of artifacts from the area’s past. The museum also features interactive displays and exhibits that tell the story of Medellin’s history.

Explore Parque Arví

Parque Arví is a vast park located on the outskirts of Medellin. It is one of the largest urban parks in Latin America, and it provides stunning views of the city and its surrounding areas. The park features numerous trails for hiking and biking, as well as several rivers and streams. Visitors can also take advantage of the park’s numerous activities, such as zip-lining, horseback riding, and bird-watching.

Visit Parque Explora Aquarium

Parque Explora Aquarium is an interactive aquarium located in the heart of Medellin. It features hundreds of species of fish and other aquatic creatures, as well as interactive exhibits that allow visitors to learn more about aquatic life. Visitors can also take part in educational programs that focus on ocean conservation and marine biology.

Explore Plaza Botero

Plaza Botero is a public square located in the center of Medellin. It is named after Colombian artist Fernando Botero, who donated 23 sculptures to be displayed in the plaza. The sculptures are abstract representations of human figures and animals, and they are an iconic part of Medellin’s art scene.

Experience Comuna 13 Graffiti Tour

Comuna 13 is a neighborhood located on the outskirts of Medellin that has been transformed by street art. This tour allows visitors to explore the area’s colorful graffiti murals and learn about their stories from local guides. The tour also includes stops at several other points of interest, such as local art galleries and restaurants.

Popular Tours in Medellin

When visiting Medellin, there are several popular tours that allow visitors to experience the city’s unique culture and history. Here are two popular tours in Medellin:

Medellin City Tour

The Medellin City Tour is a comprehensive tour of the city’s highlights. The tour takes visitors to some of Medellin’s most iconic sites, including Plaza Botero, El Castillo Museum, Parque Arví, and more. Visitors will also get an opportunity to explore Medellin’s lively nightlife and sample some traditional Colombian cuisine. The tour also includes a stop at a local market, where visitors can purchase souvenirs and handicrafts to bring home with them. Book a Medellin City Tour here.

Botanical Garden and Paragliding Tour

The Botanical Garden and Paragliding Tour offers visitors the chance to explore one of Medellin’s most stunning natural attractions: the Parque Explora Botanical Garden. Visitors will get to explore the garden’s vast collection of plants and wildlife, as well as take part in an exciting paragliding experience. The tour also includes stops at some of Medellin’s most iconic sites, such as Plaza Botero and El Castillo Museum. Book a Botanical Garden and Paragliding Tour here.

Conclusion

Medellin is a vibrant and exciting city with something for everyone. From exploring its colonial architecture to experiencing its lively nightlife, there is no shortage of things to do when visiting this vibrant city. Whether you are looking for an adventure or just want to relax and enjoy some local culture, Medellin has something for everyone.