Medellin, the second-largest city in Colombia, offers a wealth of activities that cater to all kinds of travelers. From exploring the city’s cultural landmarks and museums to indulging in the local cuisine and outdoor adventures, there’s no shortage of things to do and see in Medellin. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at the best attractions and activities that tourists can enjoy while in the beautiful city of Medellin. So, if you’re planning a trip to Colombia soon and have Medellin on your list, keep reading to discover why this vibrant city deserves a top spot on your travel itinerary.
The 5 Best Things to Do Today in Medellin
- Medellín Coffee Shop Hopping Tour
- The Cultural Side The City
- Private Tour Comuna 13 Cable
- Private Tejo Sport Experience Transfer
- Medellín The Real Pablo Escobar
The 5 Best Things to Do Today in Medellin
1. Medellín Coffee Shop Hopping Tour
Explore the trendy neighborhood of Laureles on this coffee shop hopping tour in Medellín. After being picked up from your hotel, you’ll start your journey by indulging in a tropical coconut frappuccino or Turkish coffee at a Mediterranean-style coffee shop. Your knowledgeable guide will then take you on a walk where you’ll visit a coffee shop that uses the Aeropress coffee method and works closely with coffee farmers from La Sierra. Throughout the tour, you’ll learn from experienced baristas about coffee and its different preparation methods. Don’t miss the chance to taste premium quality Colombian coffee and see the artsy and green area of Laureles, recognized for its parks, restaurants, design stores, and enormous trees.
2. The Cultural Side The City
Explore Medellin’s cultural hotspots with this small-group guided tour. Your guide will take you to Salon Malaga and the Homero Manzi Cultural House, famous for their tango dance events. End your night at La Pascasia, a bar and restaurant with an art gallery and regular live music performances. You’ll get to see a different side of the city in the company of a knowledgable guide. Small group sizes ensure that you’ll have an intimate experience. The tour includes alcoholic beverages and pickup at Poblado Metro station. The tour ends at La Pascasia, 15 minutes away from Poblado and a 4 USD taxi ride. Confirmation is included.
3. Private Tour Comuna 13 Cable
Discover the vibrant Comuna 13 neighborhood of Medellin on a small-group tour with a professional local guide. You’ll enjoy a bird’s eye view of the area on a cable car ride, see the neighborhood’s stunning array of colorful murals up close, and even try some local fruits. Hassle-free hotel transfers in an air-conditioned vehicle are included, as are cable car tickets. With small group sizes, you can expect personal attention from your guide. Wheelchair access is not available, but this tour is close to public transportation. Confirmation is instant upon booking.
4. Private Tejo Sport Experience Transfer
As a proof of Colombian joyful and happy spirit, there is Tejo. A fun sport of humble origins made to share and laugh with your fellows. Join this unparalleled experience of Colombianness and have a personalized lesson on how to play shuffleboard or Tejo. You will have a field solely for you and your group of friends and get to enjoy the variety of local beers. Spend a great and fun moment with your group of family or friends in a popular neighborhood of Medellín’s downtown.
You will be picked up by one of the drivers at the set time and taken to the Tejo Field where you will spend two and a half to three hours. You will be introduced to the game history, rules, and beer because the more you drink, the funnier it gets. Enjoy this authentic and local experience on this Private Tejo Sport Experience Transfer.
5. Medellín The Real Pablo Escobar
Begin your tour with a visit to the former home of the notorious drug lord Pablo Escobar. This was the site where he used to hide his family and enemies had planted bombs in an attempt to assassinate him. Now, it has been turned into a memorial park for victims of the drug war in Colombia.
Your next stop is La Catedral, the jail that Escobar built as a part of an agreement with the government. Here, you will learn about the story behind why he built it and the conditions of the jail back during his time.
After that, you will visit Monasterio Santa Gertrudis La Magna, a historical monastery with exquisite architectural features. Then, you will go to the Cancha El Dorado, a soccer field he built in an effort to ingratiate himself into Colombian politics.
Lastly, you will visit the Cementerio Jardins Montesacro, the final resting place of Pablo Escobar. Here, you will learn about the history behind his final days and the impact he had on the people of Medellin.
Join us on this tour and immerse yourself in the history of Medellin and the life of Pablo Escobar.
Frequently Asked Questions About the City of Medellin
Medellin is a vibrant and captivating city located in the heart of the Antioquia region of Colombia. Known for its friendly people, beautiful climate, and booming economy, Medellin attracts thousands of visitors each year. However, planning a trip to a new destination can be overwhelming, and you may have some questions about the city before you go. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about the city of Medellin.
What is the Weather Like in Medellin?
Medellin has a year-round temperate climate due to its elevation of around 1,500 meters (4,900 feet) above sea level. The average temperature is around 22°C (72°F), with temperatures rarely dropping below 15°C (59°F) or exceeding 30°C (86°F). The rainy season lasts from April to June and from October to November.
What is the Best Time of Year to Visit Medellin?
While Medellin is a great place to visit at any time of the year, the best time to go is between the months of December and February when the climate is cooler and drier. The city also comes alive during the Christmas season with various activities and events taking place throughout the month of December.
Is it Safe to Travel to Medellin?
Like any other big city, Medellin has its share of crime and safety concerns. However, the city has made great strides in recent years to improve its safety record, and violent crime has significantly decreased. Visitors are advised to exercise caution, stay in well-lit areas at night, and avoid showing off expensive items or carrying large sums of cash.
What are the Must-See Attractions in Medellin?
There are many things to see and do in Medellin, but some of the must-see attractions include:
- The Plaza Botero, home to 23 massive bronze statues by renowned Colombian artist Fernando Botero.
- Cerro Nutibara, a hill on the edge of the city offering panoramic views of Medellin.
- Parque Explora, a science and technology museum featuring interactive exhibits for all ages.
- Pueblito Paisa, a replica of a typical Antioquian village where visitors can get a taste of the local culture and cuisine.
Where are the Best Places to Eat in Medellin?
Medellin is known for its delicious cuisine, and there are many great restaurants to choose from. Some of the best places to eat in Medellin are:
- El Cielo, a unique fine-dining experience that fuses traditional Colombian ingredients with modern techniques and flavors.
- El Cielo Local, a more casual version of El Cielo that focuses on regional flavors and ingredients.
- Carmen, a trendy restaurant that serves modern Colombian cuisine in a stylish and intimate setting.
- La Provincia, a traditional Colombian restaurant that offers authentic Antioquian dishes and live music.
What is the Currency Used in Medellin?
The currency used in Colombia is the Colombian peso (COP). It’s recommended that visitors exchange their currency for pesos upon arrival to avoid unfavorable exchange rates. ATMs are widely available throughout the city, and most major credit cards are accepted at hotels, restaurants, and stores.
What is the Transportation Like in Medellin?
The transportation system in Medellin is modern and convenient. The city has an extensive metro system that is clean, safe, and easy to use. Buses and taxis are also widely available, but visitors should be aware of the risk of scams and overcharging by taxi drivers. Uber is also available in Medellin and is a popular option for many visitors.
What is the Nightlife Like in Medellin?
Medellin is known for its vibrant nightlife scene, with many bars, clubs, and restaurants staying open until the early hours of the morning. Popular nightlife areas include El Poblado, Laureles, and Envigado, where visitors can find a wide range of venues offering live music, DJs, and dancing.In conclusion, Medellin is a beautiful and exciting city with plenty to offer visitors. By familiarizing yourself with these frequently asked questions, you can make the most of your trip and have an unforgettable experience in this wonderful destination.
The 5 Best Things to Do Today in Medellin: FAQs
Medellin, the second-largest city in Colombia, is an adventurous place to visit. The city has unparalleled natural beauty, innovative architecture, vibrant culture, and a rich history. The city’s transformation from a notorious city to an innovative and welcoming metropolis has surprised many travelers worldwide. So, whether you’re a nature lover, an adventurist, or a culture lover, Medellin is a destination that has something for everyone.
There are plenty of things to do in Medellin, but it can be challenging to figure out what to do and where to start. In this post, we’ll share the 5 best things you can do today in Medellin to make your trip unforgettable. Let’s dive in and answer some of the most frequently asked questions about the best things to do in Medellin.
1. What are the 5 best things to do in Medellin?
Medellin is a vibrant city with endless possibilities. It can be tough to decide what to do and where to start. Here are the five best things to do in Medellin:
1. Take a Cable Car Ride to Parque Arvi
Medellin’s cable cars are an essential part of the city’s transportation system, but they also offer an incredible view of the city, especially on the way to Parque Arvi. The cable car will take you through the hills and valleys of the Aburra Valley, and you’ll enjoy the breathtaking views of the city and its surroundings. Parque Arvi is a natural reserve outside the city, with numerous hiking trails and excellent birdwatching opportunities.
2. Visit the Botanical Garden of Medellin
Located in the heart of the city, the Botanical Garden of Medellin offers breathtaking gardens and greenhouses that display a range of tropical plants and flowers. The garden offers guided tours along with different workshops on topics such as painting, photography, or beekeeping.
3. Learn the History of Medellin at the Museum of Antioquia
The Museum of Antioquia is a must-visit attraction in Medellin that offers an insight into the region’s history and culture. The museum’s collection ranges from paintings and sculptures by renowned artists such as Fernando Botero to pre-Columbian artifacts and art installations by contemporary artists.
4. Explore the Comuna 13 Neighborhood
Comuna 13 is a neighborhood located in the hills of Medellin once known for its high levels of violence. However, over the last decade, the area has undergone significant transformation, and it’s now a vibrant, colorful, and cultural hub of the city. The neighborhood offers street art tours, graffiti workshops, and cable car tours to appreciate the area’s scenic and cultural beauty.
5. Take a Coffee Tour
Colombia is known worldwide for its coffee, and Medellin offers numerous coffee farms and plantations’ tours. You can learn about the coffee-making process, interact with the coffee farmers, and taste some of the finest coffee in the world.
2. How do I get to Parque Arvi?
Parque Arvi is only accessible by cable car, which you can take from Santo Domingo station on Line L of the city’s metro system. The metro ticket also covers the cable car ride.
3. What is the best time to visit the Botanical Garden of Medellin?
The best time to visit the Botanical Garden of Medellin is during the dry season from December to February, as the garden is at its greenest and most vibrant.
4. What is the admission fee for the Museum of Antioquia?
The admission fee for the Museum of Antioquia is 18,000 Colombian pesos (about $5) for adults, while students and children pay only half of that amount.
5. What should I wear for the Comuna 13 Street Art Tour?
The Comuna 13 Street Art Tour involves a lot of walking, so you should wear comfortable shoes and dress according to the weather conditions. As the area’s weather can be unpredictable, you should bring a rain jacket or a sun hat depending on the season.
Conclusion
Medellin is a city that has something for every traveler, with its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and innovative architecture. We hope that we have answered some of the questions that you may have had regarding the best things to do in Medellin. Remember to plan ahead, wear comfortable clothes, and, most importantly, enjoy your time in this beautiful city.
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