Best Things to Do in Medellin: Must-Sees & Hidden Gems
Editeur
Update
Here is my list of the best things to do in Medellín after living in this city for several years.
Stop visiting the city like any other tourist. Discover my little secret spots—you can contact the best experts in Medellín here.
Edit 03/2024: We completely revised this article.
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BEST THINGS TO DO IN MEDELLIN: THE MOST FAMOUS
Some are must-dos. Others are rather disappointing.
Panoramic
TPMT note: 10/10
TAKE THE CABLE CAR
A simple way to admire the view of Medellín.
- The cable car ride is included in your metro ticket. I love the view from Sierra and Santo Domingo.
- There are four sections with the cable car and one section (not included in your ticket) to Parque Arví.
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History
TPMT note: 9.5/10
VISIT OF DOWNTOWN MEDELLIN
Administrative buildings, old colonial edifices, and chaos.
This is where the wealthy used to live before moving to El Poblado. It’s a chaotic and surprising place, full of all kinds of counterfeit goods, and not very safe at night.
+ The visit is enjoyable if a guide accompanies you, as they can share numerous anecdotes.
– The atmosphere is intimidating, as individuals with scary looks might wander the streets.
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours.
- You will have different options: Free walking tour, shared tour, and private tour.
- You can start from the Alpujarra metro station.
- Have a drink at the iconic local café: The Salon Malaga.
- Enter the Centro Comercial Palacio Nacional.
- See the Monumento de la Raza.
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Culture
TPMT note: 9.5/10
FERNANDO BOTERO
A famous Colombian artist.
The artist from Medellín has a penchant for voluminous figures that have captivated the entire world.
- The artist donated 23 bronze sculptures as part of an urban renovation project. They are located on Plaza Botero.
- Adjacent to Plaza Botero, the Museo de Antioquia offers another glimpse into Botero’s work. An entire floor is dedicated to his paintings.
- Google Map
- Climb to the terrace of the Palacio de la Cultura Rafael Uribe Uribe for another view of Plaza Botero.
- Don’t go there at night.
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Culture
TPMT note: 9/10
COMUNA 13
A neighborhood in Medellín transformed by artists with a fascinating history.
Comuna 13 was once a very dangerous neighborhood due to clashes between guerrillas, paramilitaries, and the government. In the 2000s, local artists began covering the walls with stunning graffiti to express themselves. Today, it’s the most visited site in Medellín.
+ The cafes, stunning views, art galleries, and music all contribute to a pleasant atmosphere.
+ The Graffiti is stunning.
+ Listen to the poignant stories of those who lived through these difficult years and gain a better understanding of Medellín’s history.
– Too crowded on weekends. The atmosphere feels more like an amusement park compared to a few years ago.
- Duration: Allocate 2 to 4 hours to visit Comuna 13.
- Difficulty: A total distance of a few kilometers. It’s a bit uphill.
- Google Map.
- Take a tour to understand the history of Comuna 13 and support the local economy.
- The best time to visit is around 9 AM on a weekday.
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Excursion
TPMT note: 9/10
Guatapé
A gigantic granite monolith.
Guatapé is a colonial village situated on the edge of an artificial lake and near a 200-meter granite monolith (La Piedra del Peñol) whose summit is accessible by a 740-step staircase. It’s the most popular excursion from Medellín.
+ The view from the top of la Piedra del Peñol is magnificent.
+ The streets are colorful and photogenic.
+ You ride around in a tuk-tuk.
– Very touristy.
- Departures every hour from the northern terminal until 6 PM.
- 2 hours to get there.
- You’ll need 5-6 hours on site.
- 740 steps to climb to the top of La Piedra.
- You can organize a group or private tour from Medellín.
- Avoid going during the high season.
- Buy your return ticket from Guatapé to Medellín a few hours in advance.
- Stop at La Piedra first, then visit Guatapé.
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History
TPMT note: 9/10
MUSEO DE LA MEMORIA
A museum on the conflict in Colombia.
The Museo de la Memoria is another must-visit. The museum details significant events in Colombia’s history, including episodes of violence, trafficking, and resilience during difficult times.
+ Various media are used to convey these testimonies (quotes, sounds, videos, maps).
+ This will help you better understand Colombia’s history and ask more informed questions to your guide.
+ It’s free.
– The explanations are in Spanish, and only half of the information is available in English.
- Duration: Allocate 2-3 hours to visit the museum thoroughly.
- Access: You can easily come by taxi.
- Schedules: Site.
- Google Map.
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Fun
TPMT note: 8.5/10
Parque Explora
A top-notch science museum!
Parque Explora combines entertainment with discovery. Focused on science, technology, and the environment, it offers interactive experiences for all ages.
+ more than 300 interactive experiences. I had a great time.
+ Perfect for families.
+ Explanations in English and Spanish.
- Closed on Mondays. Site.
- Duration: 4 to 5 hours to really enjoy.
- Google Map.
- No need to do the aquarium.
Excursion
TPMT note: 8/10
Santa Fe de Antioquia
The first capital of Antioquia.
Santa Fe de Antioquia is a beautiful colonial village with impressive churches, pleasant plazas, and a walkable old suspension bridge (still operational) over the Cauca River.
+ The lovely streets with white facades.
+ Her history.
+ The view from el Puente del Occidente.
– You can quickly get bored if you are not with a guide.
– It’s very hot.
- Departures every 20 minutes from the north terminal.
- It takes less than 1.5 hours to get there.
- It’s nicer with a private tour.
- Google Map.
- Avoid going there on weekends.
- You can also go to meet the gold miners.
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Nature
TPMT note: 8/10
Jardín Botánico
To go in search of iguanas.
It is a botanical garden with some explanations about Colombian flora.
+ Free
+ Relax by the lake and watch the iguanas.
- Closed on Mondays. it closes at 4PM.
- Duration: 1 hour.
- Google Map.
- There are Yoga classes.
- Have lunch at IN SITU, a good restaurant (it’s better to make a reservation).
- Combine your visit with Parque Explora.
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Panoramic
TPMT note: 6/10
Pueblito Paisa
A replica of a colonial village.
A place built for tourists where you can have a drink, see old photos of Medellín, grab a bite to eat, and enjoy the view while taking beautiful photos for your Instagram.
+ A beautiful 360-degree view.
+ Very photogenic.
+ Several craft shops to bring a gift home.
– Touristic and not authentic.
- You can go there during the day or early in the evening.
- Duration: 30 min
- Google Map.
Nature
TPMT note: 5/10
Parque Arvi
For a breath of fresh air.
Parque Arví is a vast nature reserve of 16,000 hectares, and its Metrocable access offers a stunning view of Medellín. However, once there, the options are a bit limited.
+ You can reach it in less than 20 minutes from Medellín.
+ There are tours at set times.
– The only path you can take alone is of no interest.
- You first need to go to Santo Domingo, then pay for another ticket for Parque Arví.
- The cable car closes at 6 PM.
- Closed on Mondays.
- Google Map
- Return to Medellín before 4 PM to avoid rush hour.
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Morbid
TPMT note: 0.5/10
PABLO ESCOBAR
A murderer.
I assume I don’t need to introduce it.
Some agencies offer tours to see Escobar’s grave and former prison.
Know that Colombians are tired of being compared to him. Therefore, I do not recommend this type of visit. You will learn enough about him by booking a city center tour.
BEST THINGS TO DO IN MEDELLIN: MY HIDDEN GEMS
To enjoy Medellín even more.
Adrenaline
TPMT note: 10/10
RAFTING
A river with crystal-clear waters and incredible landscapes.
From El Poblado, you depart in a jeep to then explore the beautiful rivers around Cocorná and San Francisco by raft. With a mix of class 2, 3, and 4 rapids, it’s the perfect balance between challenge and fun.
+ Landscapes are breathtaking.
+ The company is taking legal action to preserve the site.
+ The logistics and guides are top-notch.
– It’s a bit far from Medellin (2-3 hours)
- Duration: From 7 hours to 5 days, according to the option you choose.
- Difficulty: Some routes are perfect for beginners.
- These are shared tours but you can book a private tour if you come in a group.
- I loved the two-day excursion on the Río Verde. After a nice meal, we spent the night in a hammock by the water. Incredible!
- You can combine rafting with a cultural tour like coffee or chocolate, or go paragliding!
- The water flow is higher during the rainy season.
Fun
TPMT note: 10/10
THE salsa
No need to go to Cali!
Several salsa bars in Medellín offer free dance lessons during the week before the evening. I love it!
My favorite bars are:
- Son Havana (Laureles & Poblado)
- El Tibiri (Laureles, pas de cours)
- Social Club (Aguacatala)
- Nueva Guardia (Laureles)
Fun
TPMT note: 10/10
ROOFTOP
Cocktails, a good meal, and a breathtaking view!
The climate in Medellín is delightful in the evening, and the view from the top of the buildings is fantastic. In short, these are the perfect conditions for enjoying a good time on a bar or restaurant terrace.
Here are my favorite rooftops:
- Envy (Poblado): A trendy rooftop with a chill and chic atmosphere. Expensive.
- Masaya (Poblado): I love their rooftop on the top floor. The prices are reasonable, and the view is incredible.
- Mosquito (Poblado): A lesser-known rooftop serving good cocktails.
- The best views are from restaurants overlooking Medellín towards San Félix (but it’s a 1-hour drive) or in La Palma.
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Culture
Note TPMT note: 9.5/10
DISCOVERING LA SIERRA AND ITS COFFEE
An unforgettable experience in the heights of Medellín.
Visit Comuna 8 with a bilingual (English-Spanish) guide. Its history is similar to that of Comuna 13 (and with a better view!). Then, meet a charming family to discover the world of coffee in Colombia.
+ You take the cable car to reach the Sierra.
+ The guide and the family who host you are lovely.
+ a fantastic view of Medellin.
+ Excellent explanations about the history of the neighborhood and coffee.
- Duration: 4 hours.
- Difficulty: There are 577 steps.
- Departure point: Metro San Antonio
- Price: Site
- Don’t come in flip-flops.
- An excellent alternative to Comuna 13 if you don’t like touristy spots.
- You can also choose to book this fantastic tour at a coffee finca in Fredonia.
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Excursion
TPMT note: 9.5/10
BIKE RIDING IN Venecia
Discover the countryside of Antioquia.
After a 1.5-hour jeep ride, you’ll arrive in Venecia for a 3-hour hike on an e-mountain bike through stunning landscapes (including the famous Cerro Tusa). You can then enjoy a good lunch and a swim in a pool amidst nature.
+ A mix of adrenaline, awe, and relaxation.
+ Excellent electric bikes with 5 levels of assistance.
+ Everything is included.
- Duration: 10 hours
- Price: Information
- Google Map.
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Adrenaline
TPMT note: 9/10
paraGLIDING
The best view of Medellín.
Once in San Félix, you’ll run straight towards a slope to be taken into the air by your paraglider. All that’s left is to enjoy the view.
+ The best view of Medellín.
+ It’s easy to do.
+ It’s affordable.
- San Félix is 1 hour from Medellín (just above).
- Duration of the flight: 15 – 30 min
- Difficulty: easy.
- Google map.
- You can get to San Félix by bus or private transport.
- Eat a Panchocha (a type of cheese bun) before heading back to Medellín.
Cultural
TPMT note: 9/10
VISIT A MARKET
A surprising and flavorful world.
I enjoy visiting markets because they always have a special atmosphere. You can taste many fruits, fresh juices, and delicious local dishes. You can go there alone or with a guide.
You can visit two markets:
- La Minorista: It’s the largest. The surrounding area is dangerous.
- Plaza la America: Smaller but very nice. Near the pleasant neighborhood of La Floresta.
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- It’s better to go in the morning on an empty stomach 🙂
- Bring a spoon and salt with you (for the fruits).
- You can do it with an agency—I enjoyed this tour.
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Fun
TPMT note: 8.5/10
playing TEJO
Explosions, beers, and laughter.
It’s a game where you throw a round metal disc at a target filled with clay from a distance of about ten meters. Small papers filled with gunpowder are also placed and explode if your disc hits them hard enough (and you earn more points). And like pétanque, there’s drinking involved.
- You can play at the Envigado stadium, but you need to have at least 6 players to book it.
- Fortunately, you can contact Tejo Medellín to arrange a game with other players.
- Duration: 2 hours.
- Google Map.
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Excursion
TPMT note: 8.5/10
coffee tasting
Differences between good and bad coffee.
A passionate barista explains the different fragrances and flavors you can find in a cup of coffee.
+ Excellent explanations (in English).
+ 5 different types of coffee.
+ A beautiful decor (luxury hotel).
– Expensive.
- Duration: 90 min
- Where: Hôtel Marquee
- Site
- This experience complements a visit to a coffee plantation in the La Sierra neighborhood.
- You can then enjoy a cocktail on the hotel’s rooftop.
Nature
TPMT note: 8/10
HIKING
Panoramic views from the páramos.
A hike that locals enjoy doing on Sunday mornings. The view of Medellín is incredible, but the ascent is steep and in full sun.
Located in the hills of Envigado, this park is a better alternative to Parque Arví. You can either pay for park entry (ideal for a peaceful family walk) or follow the shaded 1.5-hour trail that leads to two beautiful waterfalls. It’s even more fun on Sunday mornings when locals prepare Sancochos (soups) by the river.
This páramo (a beautiful ecosystem typical of Colombia) is the most accessible from Medellín. It takes 2 hours by car and 4 hours of walking to reach the summit. It’s a long day, but it’s worth it!
©Tomplanmytrip
Fun
TPMT note: 8/10
Language exchanges
To meet locals.
Some establishments organize events to allow travelers to meet locals and practice foreign languages together. It’s time to stop being shy!
+ An excellent way to meet locals and learn more about Colombian culture.
– Depending on where you go, there might be too many or not enough people.
Here are a few cool places:
- Wandering Paisa (Laureles, Thursday 8PM)
- Galería LaFond (Laureles, Wednesday, 7PM)
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Favorite experiences in Medellin, Colombia
Directly contact the best local agencies for this destination
Medellin: Comuna 13 and old town guided tour 1 day
Colombia
1 Day
1 place
Discover the exciting story of Medellin, a resilient and innovative city that intrigues and fascinates.
View this tour
Medellin: Rafting, bivouac and adventure on the Rio Verde 2d
Colombia
2 Days
1 place
Discover an unforgettable experience that combines adrenalin, wonder and sharing in an untouched natural environment.
View this tour
Medellin: Visit Gustavo's traditional coffee farm 1d
Colombia
1 Day
1 place
Discover the secrets behind coffee, one of the world's best-known beverages.
View this tour
Medellin: Guatapé colourful village and the piedra del peñol 1d
Colombia
1 Day
1 place
Stroll through the colorful streets of the colonial village and marvel at the view from the Belvedere.
View this tour
Medellin: All about chocolate on a cacao farm 1d
Colombia
1 Day
1 place
Learn the secrets of making chocolate, a delicacy that leaves no one indifferent.
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Medellin: Adrenalin rush rafting on the rio calderas 1d
Colombia
1 Day
1 place
Feel the thrill as you approach a rapid and share those emotions with your crew.
View this tour
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What company did you use to go paragliding? Your article is about one company, but then when I click “Fly over Medellin” it links me to a different company. Why is that? Thanks!
Hi Jules, we used the service of Parapente San Felix. Unfortunately, their website doesn’t work right now. We have to update our Paragliding article. The “fly over Medellin” button link to an Airbnb Experience with excellent reviews. These links are affiliate links and allow us to earn a few $ for each booking. We recommend different kinds of local agencies: the ones we’ve met and liked, and the ones with excellent reviews.
Any chance you could edit this list to show TEJO IN MEDELLIN and not Las canchas en el polideportivo Sur Envigado? I use the same courts.
It would be a big help. Not to mention but, I actually teach people how to play.
BTW, Barrio Central Cafe Bar has been closed for a long time.
Hey Chris! I’ve just updated our post with the correct information. Thanks for passing by!
Finally some one to show other things different that poblado and laureles. Thank you. I wish you can go around all the municipios and show what we really have.
Hola Ana. Thanks for your comment. I know! There are so many places I would like to discover and write about!
Hey Tom, Craig here the owner from Barrio Central Cafe Bar in Laureles. Just too inform you our bar closed down when Covid hit and then the owners knocked down the old house and built 7/8 story apartment building (usual gentrification). But we did open a new bar called Barrio Sur Cafe Bar, Calle de la Buena Mesa in Envigado in June 2019, we survived Covid by doing deliveries for six months and we do very similar events to our old bar Barrio Central.
Once a month we have a very successful Free Bilingual Pub Quiz (Monday night) and every Tuesday we host a very popular Free Language Exchange with a language company called KeepTalking.
Just in case you want to update this article.
Thanks again and this is an excellent article, keep up the good work.
Hey Anthony! I’m glad to read that your story has a happy ending. I’ve updated our post with your information.