Where To Stay in Medellin: Easily Find The Perfect District

I’ve been a regular visitor to Medellín since 2015, and I’ve enjoyed the vibe in all its main neighborhoods. Here’s a concise and informative guide to compare my favorite areas of the city based on the experience you’re looking for.

TOM’S TIP

Once you know where you want to stay, check out my analysis of the best hotels in Medellín, as well as the top things to do in Medellin and around the city.

Comparing the neighborhoods of Medellín

Here are my tips.

You want to enjoy an “easy” stay

The easiest option is to stay in El Poblado.

Here, you’ll find hotels with staff who are (sometimes) bilingual. Since the tourist area isn’t vast, you can wander around and stumble upon charming cafes and restaurants.

There are two areas I’d recommend: La Provenza (the most upscale and lively) or Manila (the more peaceful).

With UBER/Taxi rides being inexpensive, you don’t need to walk to the metro.

ADRIEN’S TIP

Be aware that Medellín’s comunas, such as Laureles and El Poblado, are very expansive. This is why I highlight more specific zones.

Staying Away from Tourist Spots

Medellín attracts more tourists each year (it’s the trendy city of 2024). Most of them stay in the hotels of El Poblado. I have to admit, some streets look a bit too much like Gringolandia (foreigner land).

Any neighborhood other than El Poblado will feel authentic.

If you want to stay in an area with good restaurants and cafes, you can stay near Primer y Segundo Parque. It’s a touristy area, but more popular with Colombians.

La Floresta is more residential and quiet and much smaller. I love walking around in the early evening to grab a hamburger and enjoy the park’s atmosphere.

Finally, if you plan to stay in Medellín for several weeks, Envigado could be a good choice. There are many more traditional houses, and you can play Tejo.

Enjoying a Luxurious Stay in Medellín

There is only one neighborhood in Medellín where you’ll find upscale hotels and gourmet restaurants, and that’s El Poblado.

Some of these hotels (like Marquee or The Charlee) are located near Parque Lleras, but the area is too noisy for my taste. Choose a street without nearby clubs so the noise doesn’t reach your room.

You can also find a luxury hotel in the higher parts of Poblado. I like the area above Provenza (towards Patio del Mundo) because it’s quiet yet close to excellent restaurants.

The advantage of staying in these parts of Poblado is that you can walk to gourmet restaurants (El Cielo, X.O) and trendy rooftops (Envy Rooftop).

If you prefer large, modern hotels like Hilton and Estelar, you should check out Aguacatala and Patio Bonito. This is a more business-oriented district, with beautiful shopping centers as well.

Where to Stay on a Budget in Medellín

There are many hostels around El Poblado, but eating cheaply will be difficult. Additionally, the metro is far away, so you’ll often rely on Uber to get around Medellín.

The cheapest accommodations in a decent area are in Belén. You’ll also be near Laureles and El Poblado. However, you’ll still be far from the metro.

Another good option is to stay near La Setenta in Laureles. Here, you’ll be close to the Estadio metro station and find plenty of street food and restaurants with daily menus. There are some friendly hostels, but the easiest choice is to rent an apartment with a kitchen.

Where to Stay in Medellín If You Have Limited Time

You can explore Medellín in just 24 hours. If you do, avoid wasting time on transport and focus on the main tourist attractions.

I suggest staying around Primer y Segundo Parque. This location gives you easy access to Comuna 13 and the city center. Additionally, you’ll be near excellent restaurants for a pleasant evening.

Long-Term Stay in Medellín

Personally, I prefer La Floresta. I can walk everywhere, and there are good restaurants. If I want more variety, I can take a taxi to Segundo Parque, which is just a few minutes away. The only downside is that finding a good apartment can be challenging.

I advise against El Poblado (too touristy and expensive for an extended stay).

Laureles is the top choice for expats and digital nomads. It’s a nice comuna to explore, with lots of apartments, cozy cafes, restaurants, and events to connect with other travelers.

The Safest Area in Medellín

In major Colombian cities, you always need to be aware of your surroundings, and Medellín is no exception. At night, I prefer walking in well-lit streets with plenty of people (or I take a taxi).

Considering this, along with the heavy police presence, I consider El Poblado the safest comuna, particularly Manila and Provenza.

Where to Stay in Medellín for Partying

Medellín has three main areas for nightlife.

• Stay in La Provenza to enjoy the trendiest street in town.
• For something a bit less conventional, choose accommodation near Parque El Poblado or Parque Lleras.
• If you want an authentic Colombian party experience (loud music, a bottle of aguardiente or rum, unlimited popcorn, and reggaeton dancing), head to La Setenta.

TOM’S TIP

With loud bars and poorly soundproofed hotels, be ready to sleep to the beat of the music.

Where to Sleep Like a Baby

Medellín is a noisy city.

To escape the noise, the best option is to get a modern apartment in the Las Lomas area or Aguacatala.