What are the best things to do in Medellín, Colombia?

This Colombian city of Medellín is a vibrant place with plenty of things to do and see. From stunning colonial-era feats of engineering, to breathtaking natural landscapes and vibrant music and culture, there’s never a dull moment in Medellin. If you’re planning a trip to this city, or simply curious on what Nerd’s Colombia Blog calls “the city of Eternal Spring,” here’s our guide of the top 10 things to do in Medellín, Colombia.

1. Go for a Walk in Parque Lleras

Parque Lleras is the beating heart of entertainment in Medellín. This pedestrian street marks the epicenter of the city’s bustling nightlife and daylife. Tourists and locals alike come here to enjoy its outstanding restaurants, trendy bars, and amazing urban lighting. Walking around Parque Lleras is one of the absolute must-do experiences of Medellín, so make sure to take an evening stroll around this beloved spot.

2. Take a Ride on the Metro Cable

The Metro Cable is an aerial lift system that ascends up the city’s mountainous terrain. It takes riders to some of the most spectacular vistas in the city, with stops at Santo Domingo, Arvi, Acevedo, and Lineal del Norte. At each station, there are plenty of things to do and explore, including museums, parks, eco-trails and more.

3. Explore Medellín’s Old Town

Medellín’s Old Town entices travelers from all over the world, from its classic colonial architecture to its incredible street art. Walking around La Candelaria is like taking a leap back in time, as it’s where most of the city’s cultural landmarks are located. Here, you’ll find the Museo de Antioquia art gallery and the Plaza de Bolivar—the main square of La Candelaria—as well as plenty of shops, restaurants, and galleries.

4. Take a Guided Tour of Pablo Escobar’s Mansion

No visit to Medellín is complete without learning more about its dark past with drug lord Pablo Escobar. There are various tours available that take visitors on a detailed tour of his now-famous residence, and knowledgeable guides provide in-depth information about his life as well as his mark on the city. Defining features such as a rooftop tennis court, pool, and many other amenities await visitors on these special tours of Pablo Escobar’s mansion.

5. Go for a Day Trip to Piedra de Peñol

The Piedra de Peñol is a monolithic stone located just outside of Medellín. At nearly 200 meters above Guanabara Bay, the monolith offers some of the most beautiful views inall of Medellín. A visit here also allows tourists to enjoy swimming and kayaking activities in the clear waters below. Plus, it’s only a two-hour trip from Medellin, so it’s possible to do this as a day tour.

6. Attend a Live Concert at Plaza Mayor

Plaza Mayor provides travelers with an unforgettable live music experience. This enormous cultural space hosts a variety of major music events throughout the year, ranging from rock concerts to pop festivals and classical performances. There’s also plenty on-site concessions available if you feel peckish or you’d like something refreshing to drink while enjoying the show.

7. Check Out Medellín Street Art

You can find amazing street art around every corner in Medellín—from traditional murals depicting Colombia’s cultural heritage to modern graffiti with interesting political undertones. The best neighborhoods for spotting these pieces are Laureles and Envigado, where talented street artists have collaborated for years to immortalize Medellín’s culture on the city walls.

8. Take the Kids Out to Parque Explora

Parque Explora is one of the most popular family attractions in Medellín. This science park has several exciting zones that include an interactive aquarium and an escape-room experience tentatively named Houdini. Kids are sure to have a blast thanks to all the fun-filled educational exhibits and activities here.

9. Visit the Barefoot Park

The Parque de Los Pies Descalzos (Barefoot Park) is one of Medellín’s green oases in the urban jungle. This garden is designed for visitors to experience what it feels like to walk barefoot on different textures such as sand, grass, wood chips and more. This park also allows children to run around and play since there are plenty of recreational activities available here like mini golf and mini pools filled with water.

10. Learn About Medellin’s History at La Casa de la Memoria

La Casa de la Memoria is an interactive museum located in Comuna 13—one of the most notorious neighborhoods in Medellín that was actively monitored by Pablo Escobar during his career in drug trafficking. Here, visitors can learn more about Comuna 13’s tumultuous history through multimedia presentations and guided tours that emphasize the defiant spirit of its inhabitants.

No matter what your travel interests may be, be sure to add these top 10 things to do in Medellín, Colombia to your travel bucket list! With something for everyone from adults to kids, this city offers an unforgettable experience for everyone who steps foot into this vibrant South American city! For more information about sights and attractions in Medellín, be sure to check out Everyday Tourism Blog’s 10 Things To Do In Medellin guide.