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What Are the Best Day Trips From Medellín, Colombia?
Medellín, Colombia is known for its lively culture, delicious cuisine and vibrant nightlife, but did you know this sprawling metropolis serves as an amazing jumping-off point for a variety of day trips? Colombia is truly a country of cultural richness and beauty, and with its abundant nature and scenic mountain vistas, Medellín is no exception. Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and explore some of hometown beauty on a day trip. Here, we’ve listed some of the best day trips from Medellín to inspire your next Colombian adventure.
Guatapé
The colorful village of Guatapé is known as the ‘Land of Piedras’ or ‘Land of Stones’ due to the famous decoration surrounding its famous rock El Peñol. The massive massif stands at an impressive 200 meters tall and makes for the perfect place to take some incredible pictures. Take a boat out to the water docks of the rock and take pictures from various vantage points. Guatapé also offers some delicious restaurants and remarkable ice cream parlors for those who want to end their day on a sweet note.
Salento
If you love outdoor activities then Salento is the perfect day trip for you! Located in the Valle de Cocora, Salento is a town of narrow cobblestone streets with colorful shops and cafes. Here, you’ll find an array of outdoor activities such as trekking and horse riding while you take in some of the breathtaking vistas of the stunning surrounding nature. If it’s peace and quiet you’re looking for, stop off at the Valle de Cocora and take in all that the area has to offer. You won’t need more than one day here to truly enjoy all Salento has to offer!
Pueblo Bello
Want to try something a little more laid back? Then why not take a day trip to the small village of Pueblo Bello? Located only an hour away from Medellín, Pueblo Bello is home to some of Colombia’s unique traditional dishes, such as tejo, an indigenous game played with wooden stakes. While there, be sure to try their specialty dish, cazuela de pollo, a comforting soup made with potatoes, chicken, sweet corn and spices. For those who are looking for something a little more adventurous, Pueblo Bello is also home to some world-class river rafting!
San Javier & La Pintada
If you don’t have a full day while visiting Medellín, then why not take a quick day trip to San Javier & La Pintada? The colonial towns are close together, so you won’t have far to travel between them. Here you can experience traditional Colombian cuisine, explore colonial churches and even visit handicraft workshops. At La Pintada, be sure to check out one of the many coffee farms where you can learn about coffee farming as well as sample and purchase freshly roasted coffee beans.
Rionegro
Last but definitely not least is Rionegro. Located only 30-minutes away from Medellín, Rionegro is home to some of Colombia’s most amazing nature parks, such as the Metropolitan Natural Park of the Alto Ríon. Here you can go birdwatching or simply take in the impressive views from the many nature trails offered. Within Rionegro’s city limits you’ll also find some delicious restaurants such as Andrés Carne de Res, which we strongly recommend trying if you’re in the area!
Whether you’re looking for action or relaxation, there’s something on this list for everyone looking for a day trip from Medellín. All of the locations make for an unforgettable experience and will show you why Medellín is considered Colombia’s cultural capital. For more information on these day trips and more, head to Colombia Tours for all your Colombian travel needs.
The Insider’s Guide to Medellín, Colombia
Medellín, Colombia, has become an increasingly popular tourist destination in recent years. Famed for its modernity and spectacular landscape, the city offers a rich blend of local culture, history, and an abundance of natural beauty that can only be seen and experienced by being there. Here’s an insider’s guide to Medellín, ensuring you explore this city to the fullest.
Local Attractions
Most tourists make a beeline for popular attractions like Parque Lleras, The Botero Plaza, and the Museum of Antioquia. However, there are several hidden gems that are a must-visit. Take a stroll through the Pueblito Paisa, a small-scale replica of a traditional Colombian village, to get an authentic local experience. If nature interests you, take a day trip to Arví Park – just outside the city, where you can enjoy a range of outdoor activities such as horseback riding, biking, hiking, and bird watching. The Graffiti Tour is a unique way to explore Medellin’s street art scene and appreciate the local artists’ work.
Dining Spots
When in Medellín, dining on local cuisine is a must-do activity. Look beyond the tourist trail and explore smaller restaurants where traditional dishes are served. Try Bandeja Paisa – a hearty meal consisting of red beans, rice, fried egg, roasted meat, chicharrón, and arepa. You can find it at La Hacienda, located in Envigado. And for the best arepas in town, head to the city center, where La Arepa de Piedra serves up piping hot, fresh-from-the-stone, mouth-watering arepas.
Cultural Experiences
Medellín is home to a thriving art scene, from street art murals to traditional galleries and museums. Attend the legendary Feria de las Flores – the Flower Festival held in August, where the city is transformed into a kaleidoscope of colorful blooms, parades, and dance performances. Another exciting cultural activity is a traditional Colombian dance lesson, where you can learn the salsa, bachata, or reggaeton. Learn more about the city’s story by taking a free walking tour that provides insight into the vibrant history of Medellín.
Local History
Medellín has a rich history, with tales of colonialism, political turmoil, and the infamous drug cartels. An informative way to learn about the city’s past is to visit the Palace of the Inquisition museum. It was once a tribunal where heretics were tried and punished. The museum now houses exhibits that delve into the colonial era and the Inquisition’s brutal interrogation methods. For more recent history, head to the Pablo Escobar Memorial at the Monaco Building, where you can learn about the city’s dangerous days and the rise and fall of the Medellín Cartel.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions
For a thrilling experience, hop on a cable car to the hillside community of Santo Domingo – a neighborhood that was once renowned for being unsafe but has since been transformed through innovative urban planning and social initiatives. The cable car ride offers an unmatched view of the city and its breathtaking landscape. Visit Medellín’s coffee-growing region, Jardín, a small town about three hours southwest of Medellin. Fully immerse yourself in local culture by staying in a traditional accommodation, head out on horseback to explore the rolling green hills, and don’t leave without trying their world-famous coffee.
Medellín is a city full of intriguing history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural scenery. With this insider’s guide, you can experience the city beyond the typical tourist checklist and witness the local culture and traditions for an unforgettable journey.
