Medellin, the bustling city located in the heart of the Andes Mountains, is becoming increasingly popular among tourists from all over the world. With its vibrant culture, diverse culinary scene, and stunning natural landscapes, it’s no wonder why Medellin has quickly become one of the most sought-after destinations in South America. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at the best attractions and things to do in Medellin, so you can make the most out of your trip to this exciting city. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, a nature lover, or an adventure seeker, there’s something for everyone in Medellin. So, grab your backpack and let’s dive in!
The 22 Best Things To Do And See In Medellin
- Medellin Religious and Historical Tour by Bus
- Half Day Private Tour of Innovated Medellin
- Half Day City Tour Medellin
- Coffee Tour Guatape
- Tour Guatape and Coffee
- Medellin City Tour Including Metro Cable and Food Tour
- Roadtrip to the Waterfall
- Medellin 55 Hour Guided Private City Tour
- Guatape Tour
- Guatape Tour and Penol Rock
- Mountain Bike Tour
- Medellin Coffee Tour With Lunch Optional Horse Ride
- Guatape
- Medellin Combo City Tour Including Street Art and Food Tour
- Tour a Guatape
- Innovation City Tour
- From Medellin Hacienda Napoles Theme Park Day Tour
- Guatape Official Private Tour
- Tour Guatape
- Combo Tour Pueblito Paisa Fernando Botero Plaza and Traditional Lunch
- Combo Tour Christmas Lights and Medellin City Tour Including Traditional Food
- Medellin Salsa Experience
The 22 Best Things To Do And See In Medellin
1. Medellin Religious and Historical Tour by Bus
Experience the charm of Medellin’s religious and historical landmarks with our customized tour. Hop on our air-conditioned car and head north to explore the government center, where the city’s first important buildings were constructed. Delve deep into downtown and admire the beauty of San Ignacious Chapel, followed by a visit to the oldest cathedral in Medellín, which was completed after 40 years.
Next, we take you to the San Pedro Cemetery Museum, where you can witness the grandeur of the mausoleums where the city’s wealthiest families, former presidents, writers, and celebrities are buried. Throughout the journey, our expert bilingual guide will narrate the history and origins of the city’s most fascinating buildings, giving you a glimpse of the cultural heritage and architectural marvels of Medellín.
After around 3 hours of sightseeing, we’ll transfer you back to your hotel or any other requested location. Our tour package includes round-trip transportation, private air-conditioned vehicle, bilingual driver, and traveler’s insurance. Join us for an unforgettable journey through Medellin’s history and awe-inspiring religious monuments.
2. Half Day Private Tour of Innovated Medellin
Half Day Private Tour of Innovated Medellin
In recent years, Medellin has witnessed a true social revolution, transforming from one of the world’s most dangerous cities to a thriving metropolis. With this private tour, explore Comuna 13 and La Paz, two neighborhoods that have experienced the most dramatic changes. With the help of an experienced local guide, learn about the city’s past and how it has overcome its struggles. You’ll receive personalized attention and have the chance to customize your itinerary according to your interests. This tour includes snacks, a local guide at Comuna 13, a professional guide, and a souvenir. With the worry of getting lost taken care of, you can enjoy the top attractions of Medellin, including Parque San Antonio and Museo Casa de la Memoria. Book now to see the city from a new perspective.
3. Half Day City Tour Medellin
See the best of Medellin during this 4-hour private sightseeing tour. Your personalized experience with a private tour guide will take you to key locations such as Botero Square, San Antonio Park, and Pueblito Paisa. Enjoy a ride on the cable car and learn how it played a role in the city’s social transformation while admiring panoramic views of the city from the top. Pickup is available from select locations, and bottled water is included. The tour is wheelchair accessible, and if you have any specific dietary requirements, please advise at the time of booking. Confirmation will be received at the time of booking.
4. Coffee Tour Guatape
Experience two of Antioquia’s top cultural attractions on a private tour of a coffee farm and the picturesque village of Guatapé. Avoid the hassle of arranging separate tickets and transfers as everything is taken care of for you. Immerse yourself in the local culture and explore deeper than most tours do. Marvel at the Instagram-worthy El Peñól de Guatapé and enjoy stress-free hotel pick-up and drop-off in Medellin. This 8-hour tour includes a service that is door to door and is wheelchair accessible, suitable for most travelers, and infant seats are also available upon request. Confirmation will be received at the time of booking, and service animals are allowed.
5. Tour Guatape and Coffee
Combine the best of Guatapé and Colombia’s world-renowned coffee culture on a private tour from Medellin. Enjoy the Colombian countryside and make the most of this flexible itinerary. Start by climbing the 742 steps to reach the summit of the famous La Piedra del Peñol or Peñol Rock for some of Colombia’s most spectacular views. Benefit from the individual attention of your private guide as you explore this natural wonder. Next, immerse yourself in Colombia’s coffee culture as you sample some of the finest coffee and exotic fruits the region has to offer. All entrance fees and food are included in this tour, as is the air-conditioned vehicle and local guide. You can choose to meet your guide at the Parque de El Poblado, or request pickup from your accommodation elsewhere. This activity ends at the same location where it began, making for a convenient and unforgettable way to experience two of Medellin’s top attractions in one day.
6. Medellin City Tour Including Metro Cable and Food Tour
Enhance your experience of Medellin with a full-day sightseeing tour that includes a tasty traditional Colombian lunch. Your guide will take you to visit prominent attractions such as Plaza Botero, Pueblito Paisa, Parque de la Luz, and Barefoot Park. After lunch, you will board the metro and ascend to dizzying heights in a cable car, soaking in the stunning panoramic views of the city. Round-trip transport from your Medellin hotel is included, along with a driver and professional guide. Alcoholic drinks and gratuities are not included but can be purchased. Don’t miss this opportunity to see the best attractions and things to do in Medellin!
7. Roadtrip to the Waterfall
Experience the beauty of Antioquia with this guided tour from Medellín. You’ll be picked up at your hotel and taken to the historic colonial town of Carolina for a walk around the town. From there, the tour will take you to see the breathtaking 820-foot (250-meter) Guadalupe Falls, where you can take pictures and marvel at the views. Then, enjoy a cable car ride from a mountain top and take in the scenery from above. Lunch is complimentary on the way back to Medellín, allowing you to savor the local flavors as you reflect on everything you’ve seen. An informative guide will take you off the beaten path and teach you about the area’s history and culture. This is the perfect tour for those who want to make the most of their limited time in the area. The tour includes bottled water and all fees and taxes, and alcoholic drinks are available for purchase. Confirmation will be received at the time of booking, and it’s important to note that this tour is not wheelchair accessible. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen for the ultimate protection. Check the price for a group of two and get ready for an unforgettable tour experience.
8. Medellin 55 Hour Guided Private City Tour
Learn about the past and present of Medellín on this 55-hour guided private tour of the city. An expert local guide will give you an in-depth look at the city’s history and culture while taking you to the top attractions and hidden gems.
Discover the modern innovation that has transformed the city, with stops at the giant electric escalators and the Metrocable, which offers stunning views of the city. Explore Comuna 13, known for its street art, shops, and vibrant ambiance.
The tour also delves into the darker history of the city’s drug wars, with a visit to the Monaco memorial park built on the site where Pablo Escobar’s residence once was. Follow in the footsteps of The Godfather Pablo Escobar and visit the church where his men blessed bullets for perfect hits.
This is a private tour, meaning you’ll have the guide’s full attention and can customize the itinerary to suit your interests. A snack at Escobar’s favorite is also included in the tour. Experience the best of Medellín with this 55-hour guided private city tour.
9. Guatape Tour
Discover some of the most striking natural landscapes of Antioquia on a private day trip to Guatapé from Medellin. This tour allows you to explore the charming town of Guatapé at your own pace and overcome any language barriers as you explore the town on foot. You’ll also climb the iconic Peñol de Guatapé, which boasts 740 steps to the top, allowing you to choose your pace and take in the stunning views at your leisure. To ensure a stress-free experience, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Medellin, as well as all fees and taxes. Whether you’re an adventurous hiker or just want to take in picturesque views, this tour has something for everyone. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience on your trip to Colombia!
10. Guatape Tour and Penol Rock
Absorb panoramic views from the top of El Peńon de Guatapé mountain on a private sightseeing tour that includes a visit to Parque Principal de Guatapé. Enjoy the undivided attention of your private guide as you explore, tailor your itinerary, and tick off top Guatapé attractions at your own pace. This is a great way to get your bearings in Guatapé and see the area from several different perspectives: water, land, and up high. You’ll be picked up and dropped off directly at your hotel. The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, authentic coffee from east of Antioquia, insurance, a boat trip, breakfast, and lunch. The tour lasts 1 hour at Piedra Del Penol and 1 hour 30 minutes at Parque Principal de Guatapé. Admission ticket to the attractions are not included, but the ticket to Parque Principal de Guatapé is. The pickup point is the place where you’re staying.
11. Mountain Bike Tour
Pedal and coast around the mountains outside of Medellin on this private mountain bike tour. Your party will follow a dedicated guide for three hours and explore hidden gems you might not find on your own. Stops include the Guarne River and Arvi Park, where you can admire the stunning natural beauty and learn about the area’s history and culture through guided commentary. All transportation will be provided, and a delicious lunch will be included in the tour. The pickup point is at 9:00 AM, and the tour is wheelchair accessible. This tour is perfect for adventure-seeking travelers who want to experience Medellin’s nature at its best. Confirmation will be received at the time of booking, and alcoholic drinks will be available for purchase. Please note that this tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with heart problems.
12. Medellin Coffee Tour With Lunch Optional Horse Ride
Explore the coffee culture of Colombia on a day-trip from Medellín. Our tour takes you to a coffee-making farm in San Sebastián de Palmitas, just 45 minutes from the city. You’ll learn about the origins of Colombian coffee and the processes needed to make it. Taste different types of coffee and enjoy drinks made from coffee beans and pulp. Take a break to enjoy a typical lunch and snack. Go for an optional horseback ride through the stunning scenery and get a chance to dress up like a local Colombian muleteer with a poncho and hat. Our guide will provide extensive information along the way. Hotel pick-up and drop-off is included for the metropolitan area of Medellin or at Parque Poblado. This tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users. At the end of the tour, you will receive a gift of 1 pack of coffee to take home. Gratuities are included.
13. Guatape
Discover two of Antioquia’s top attractions on a private day trip to the brightly-colored village of Guatapé and El Peñol boulder. With a private expert bilingual guide at your side, soak up local culture and history as you explore the village of Guatapé. Then, take in the stunning views from the top of El Peñol boulder after conquering the 740 steps to the summit. Enjoy the flexibility to tailor your private itinerary, and relish in the convenience of stress-free hotel pickup and drop-off in Medellin. Your tour also includes travel insurance, taxes, and gratuities. Don’t miss out on exploring these must-see attractions of Antioquia.
14. Medellin Combo City Tour Including Street Art and Food Tour
Maximize your time in the dazzling metropolis of Medellin with this full-day food and street art tour. Your expert guide will take you to prominent attractions like Plaza Botero and Barefoot Park, as well as off-the-beaten-path areas like Comuna 13 where you will marvel at impressive street art. Ride Medellin’s iconic Metrocable for stunning city views and enjoy a traditional Colombian lunch to revitalize yourself. Round-trip transport from your Medellin hotel is also included. Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to discover the best of Medellin!
15. Tour a Guatape
Escape the hustle and bustle of Medellin and immerse yourself in the beauty of Guatapé (Pueblo de Zocalos) on a full-day tour. Prepare to explore the colorful streets of Guatapé and the famous Guatapé Zocalos, as well as climb the 742 steps leading to the summit of Peñol Rock (La Piedra del Peñol) for magnificent views. You’ll also enjoy an exclusive boat tour of Guatapé Lake and indulge in a typical Antioquian lunch, making this comprehensive tour excellent value for your money. Hassle-free round-trip transportation from Medellin is included, along with a professional guide fluent in both Spanish and English. Please note that the entrance fee to climb Peñol Rock (La Piedra del Peñol) is not included in the tour price and is $5 USD.
16. Innovation City Tour
Discover the best of Medellín in just half a day on this Innovation City Tour that takes you to some of the city’s most interesting attractions. Join a small group of no more than six people and explore places like Malaga Saloon and the Buenos Aires neighborhood, all while enjoying a stress-free introduction to the city’s public transport system. With one cable car ticket per person, you’ll also get to ride one of Medellín’s popular cable cars and take in stunning views of the city. Plus, enjoy some refreshing snacks and try delicious salpicón (a mixture of fresh fruits) along the way. The tour includes coffee and/or tea, but extra food and drinks, as well as gratuities, are not included. The meeting point is at Poblado metro station, and the tour ends at Plaza Botero in Medellín.
17. From Medellin Hacienda Napoles Theme Park Day Tour
Discover a full-day tour to Hacienda Napoles, a theme park suitable for all ages. Begin your day with a complimentary breakfast and then explore the African museum, Great African Savanna, and Airstrip. Afterward, visit the Stables Memorial Museum, Biolandia Knowledge Park, Monkey Island, and Octopus Pools. The park also features family-friendly pools, a lazy river, dinosaur replicas, and a bird world. Get the chance to see diverse wildlife from all over the world at the Hippopotamus Park Fauna and Flora Sanctuary and Jurassic Park. Throughout the day, learn more about the infamous drug lord at the Memorial Museum. The tour includes entrance fees to all attractions mentioned, hotel pick-up and drop-off, transportation by special tourist vehicle, and a knowledgeable guide to enhance your experience.
18. Guatape Official Private Tour
Explore the beautiful town of Guatape in this private guided tour. Your experience will start with a pickup from your hotel, apartment, house or any desired point. Travel in an air-conditioned vehicle as you make your way to the Parque Tematico Replica del Viejo Penol. Spend 30 minutes exploring this replica of the old village of Guatape before you head to Piedra Del Penol, a stunning rock formation that offers beautiful views of the surrounding area. You’ll get 1 hour and 30 minutes to climb the 740 steps to the top of the rock or take a zip line to get there faster (admission ticket is not included).
Afterward, enjoy a scenic boat ride through the beautiful dam and enjoy coffee and/or tea. Your experience ends with lunch at a local restaurant.
This private tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and transportation is provided for up to 15 people. Most travelers can participate, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
19. Tour Guatape
This tour will take you on a journey to explore two of the most beautiful and popular attractions near Medellin. The tour includes private transportation and lunch, with pickup from your preferred location.
You will start by visiting Piedra del Penol, a massive rock formation that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The admission ticket to the attraction is not included in the tour price and you will have to pay it separately. You’ll have approximately two hours to explore this attraction before heading on to Guatape.
In Guatape, you’ll have three hours to explore the town and take in the beauty of the colorful streets and stunning landscapes. Entrance to the town is free of charge. There are additional stops on the tour that will be revealed to you upon booking.
This tour is suitable for wheelchair and stroller users, and families with infants. Most travelers can participate.
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the start of the tour for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance will not be refunded. Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour’s start time will also not be refunded.
20. Combo Tour Pueblito Paisa Fernando Botero Plaza and Traditional Lunch
Capture the essence of vibrant Medellin on this full-day tour of Pueblito Paisa and Plaza Botero. You’ll start by admiring the provincial charm of Pueblito Paisa, a replica of a traditional Colombian village in the heart of the city. Afterwards, you’ll travel to the spectacular Plaza Botero to marvel at 23 statues created by iconic artist Fernando Botero. Enjoy a delicious Colombian lunch before riding the Metrocable to gain unique insight into Medellin’s turbulent history and prosperous present. Learn about the city’s history and culture from your guide throughout the tour. Lunch and round-trip transport from your Medellin hotel are included, along with all activities.
21. Combo Tour Christmas Lights and Medellin City Tour Including Traditional Food
Discover the culinary and cultural delights of Medellin on a full-day tour that combines the best of the city’s attractions. In a comfortable air-conditioned car, you’ll start your journey by traveling to Pueblito Paisa, a replica of a quaint Colombian village in the heart of the city where you will be able to absorb spectacular views of the city. After, you’ll admire prominent landmarks such as Barefoot Park Plaza Botero and Parque de la Luz before enjoying a delicious traditional Colombian lunch in a local restaurant. Depending on the season, you can marvel at glittering arrays of Christmas lights that decorate the main city boulevards before concluding your tour. This full-day tour of Medellin’s cultural highlights includes lunch, all activities, and round-trip transport from a Medellin hotel. All taxes, fees, and handling charges are included. Alcoholic drinks are available for purchase at the local restaurant.
22. Medellin Salsa Experience
Discover the vibrant salsa scene of Medellín with a half-day tour that takes you beyond the typical tourist neighborhoods. With a local guide, visit a selection of clubs and bars where the city’s residents come to dance, drink, and party. Enjoy the convenience of being picked up and returned to your hotel, and experience the energy and excitement of the city at night. Cover charges are included in the tour, and with a limited group size of 15 participants, you can expect a personalized experience. With all fees and taxes included, all you need to do is bring your dancing shoes and get ready for an unforgettable night out in Medellín.
Medellin – The City of Eternal Spring – Most Frequently Asked Questions by Tourists
Medellin is one of the most fascinating cities in Colombia, located in the Aburrá Valley of Colombia’s Andean region. Also known as the “City of Eternal Spring,” Medellin is famous for its pleasant weather, relaxed ambiance, and incredible street art culture. With a beautiful mountainous landscape, Medellin offers a unique experience to tourists from all over the world. However, before visiting this city, it’s important to know some of the most frequently asked questions by tourists. This article will guide you through those questions and provide answers that will help you enjoy your stay in Medellin.1. When is the best time to visit Medellin?
Medellin is always a great place to visit. However, if you want to experience its beautiful climate and festive ambiance, it’s best to visit from December to March when the weather is dry and sunny. However, keep in mind that this is also the peak season and prices may be higher than other times during the year. From April to May, the city of Medellin experiences a mild climate, and you can still avoid crowds and high prices. If you prefer cooler temperatures, visit from June to August, but be prepared for occasional rain showers.2. What are the best places to visit in Medellin?
Medellin offers a wide range of tourist attractions, including museums, parks, and historic sites. Some of the best places to visit include:Parque Lleras:
Located in the posh neighborhood of El Poblado, Parque Lleras offers a wide range of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. A great place to explore the city’s nightlife and meet new people.
Museo de Antioquia:
One of the oldest museums in Colombia, the Museo de Antioquia hosts over 200 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and more.
Cerro Nutibara:
A scenic park located on a hill overlooking the city, offering panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.
Piedra del Peñol:
One of the most iconic natural landmarks in Colombia, Piedra del Peñol is a giant rock formation located 45 minutes from the city. Visitors can climb to the top for stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
3. How can I get around in Medellin?
The most common mode of transportation in Medellin is the Medellín Metro, which operates a network of trains and cable cars. You can purchase a rechargeable card called the “Civica Card” at any metro station, which you can use to pay your fares.The bus system is also useful, but can be confusing, especially for first-time visitors. Taxis are available throughout the city, but be sure to negotiate the price beforehand to avoid overcharging.4. What is the safety situation in Medellin?
Medellin has had a turbulent past but has since undergone significant transformation and is now one of the safest cities in Colombia. However, like any large city, there is still some level of crime, especially in certain neighborhoods. To stay safe, avoid flashing your valuables, especially at night, and stick to the main streets when exploring the city.5. What is the local currency in Medellin?
The official currency in Medellin is the Colombian peso (COP). You can exchange your currency for pesos at any bank or exchange office, but banks offer the best exchange rates.How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Medellin
If you’re planning a trip to Medellin, Colombia, there are plenty of things to see and do as a tourist. This vibrant city has a rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and a welcoming local culture that makes it a memorable destination for any traveler. Here are some tips on how to make the most of your time in Medellin:
Explore the Historic Center
The Historic Center of Medellin, also known as El Centro, is the city’s beating heart. Start your exploration at the Plaza Botero, a public square filled with sculptures by the famous Colombian artist Fernando Botero. From there, make your way to the Metropolitan Cathedral, a majestic church that’s one of the most important religious buildings in the country. You can also visit the Museum of Antioquia to see more of Botero’s work, as well as other pieces from local and national artists.
Take a Cable Car to Santo Domingo
If you want a great view of the city, take the cable car from Acevedo Station to Santo Domingo. This trip will take you up into the mountains where you can see the entire city spread out before you. Be sure to bring your camera, as the views are truly breathtaking. You can also visit the Parque Biblioteca España, which is a unique library that showcases the best of Colombian literature and architecture.
Visit the Botanical Garden
The Botanical Garden of Medellin is a serene oasis in the middle of the city. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy some fresh air, whether you’re strolling through the gardens or sitting by a pond. The garden is also home to hundreds of species of plants and animals, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled for some interesting wildlife. You can even rent a bike or take a guided tour if you’d like to explore the area in more depth.
Try the Local Cuisine
Colombian cuisine is diverse and delicious, and there are plenty of opportunities to try it in Medellin. Head to Mercado del Rio, which is a modern food hall that showcases the best of local flavors. Here, you can try everything from traditional Colombian dishes like bandeja paisa to international cuisine from around the world. Be sure to try the empanadas, which are a classic Colombian snack made with meat and vegetables wrapped in dough.
Experience the Nightlife
Medellin has a vibrant nightlife scene that’s not to be missed. Head to Parque Lleras, which is a bustling square in the El Poblado neighborhood filled with bars, restaurants, and clubs. You can also take a salsa dancing class, as this is a popular dance style in Colombia. Be sure to dress up and bring your dancing shoes, as the nightlife in Medellin is something that you won’t soon forget.
Book Your Tour Now
Whether you’re interested in history, nature, food, or nightlife, Medellin has something to offer every tourist. Use these tips to plan your itinerary and make the most of your time in this incredible city.
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