Medellín, Colombia, had been on my travel radar for years, thanks to its fascinating history, cultural richness, and recent transformation from a once-dangerous city into a flourishing metropolis. This year, I finally decided to make the trip and experience it for myself. From the moment I landed, Medellín’s energy was captivating, and I quickly realized there was no shortage of exciting things to do in Medellín. My trip was filled with adventure, culture, food, and interactions with the local community, making it one of the most memorable travel experiences of my life.
Here’s a detailed recount of my journey through the “City of Eternal Spring” and some of the top things to do in Medellín based on my adventures.
Day 1: Arrival and Initial Impressions
Landing in Medellín felt like entering a different world. The first thing that struck me was the perfect weather. It was a balmy 75°F, with a light breeze and clear skies—earning its nickname “The City of Eternal Spring.” As I drove from José María Córdova Airport to my accommodation in El Poblado, the contrast between the lush green mountains and the urban landscape took my breath away.
El Poblado is the city’s most upscale neighborhood and where I stayed. The tree-lined streets, trendy cafés, and high-rise buildings gave the area a cosmopolitan feel. However, I was more interested in experiencing the real essence of Medellín, so I wasted no time in planning my itinerary for the days ahead.
Day 2: Exploring Comuna 13 – A Story of Transformation
No visit to Medellín would be complete without visiting Comuna 13, once one of the most dangerous areas in the world. This neighborhood is now a symbol of Medellín’s transformation. I booked a local tour, led by a guide who had lived through the dark times and witnessed the community’s rebirth.
We explored the colorful streets filled with vibrant murals, most of which told stories of hope, resistance, and resilience. The Escaleras Eléctricas, a series of outdoor escalators that connect the hilly streets of the neighborhood, were an engineering marvel. They have drastically improved the quality of life for residents, symbolizing the city’s commitment to inclusion and progress.
What struck me most about Comuna 13 wasn’t just the art or the infrastructure—it was the people. Kids playing soccer in the streets, vendors selling street food like arepas and empanadas, and musicians performing on every corner filled the air with a sense of optimism. The warmth and pride in their community were contagious.
Day 3: Discovering Local Flavors
One of my favorite aspects of travel is diving into local cuisine, and Medellín did not disappoint. Colombian food is rich, flavorful, and comforting, with dishes that often reflect the country’s agricultural heritage. On this day, I indulged in a culinary tour that took me from traditional hole-in-the-wall eateries to trendy new restaurants.
For breakfast, I tried bandeja paisa, a massive platter that includes beans, rice, pork, sausage, arepa, avocado, and a fried egg. It’s a heart-stopping meal but a must-try for any visitor.
Lunch was at La Provincia, a restaurant that offers a modern take on Colombian cuisine. I had the most delicious grilled fish served with coconut rice, fried plantains, and a spicy ají sauce. The flavors were simple yet incredibly well-balanced, showcasing the richness of local ingredients.
Dinner that night was a street food affair. I strolled through Parque Lleras, the social hub of El Poblado, sampling buñuelos (fried dough balls) and churros from various food carts. The street food scene here is a reflection of Medellín’s laid-back yet vibrant culture. It was casual, fun, and full of surprises.
Day 4: Venturing into Nature – Guatapé and El Peñol
One of the best day trips from Medellín is a visit to Guatapé, a colorful town located about two hours from the city. The journey itself was scenic, with rolling green hills and views of reservoirs along the way.
Guatapé is famous for its zócalos, which are brightly painted bas-reliefs that adorn the lower halves of houses. Each one tells a story—some depict local folklore, while others are simply decorative, adding to the town’s festive atmosphere.
The highlight of the trip, however, was climbing El Peñol, a massive rock formation that rises 200 meters above the surrounding landscape. After climbing the 740 steps to the top, I was rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views of the emerald-green lakes below. It was an unforgettable sight that made every step worth it.
Day 5: Medellín’s Innovation – Riding the Metrocable
Medellín’s public transport system is one of the most impressive in Latin America, and the Metrocable is an integral part of it. This system of cable cars connects the poorer hillside neighborhoods to the rest of the city, making it easier for people to access jobs, education, and healthcare.
I hopped on Line K, which offers sweeping views of the city as you ascend into the mountains. The ride itself was peaceful, and it felt like a metaphor for Medellín’s rise from its troubled past to a brighter future. At the end of the line, I visited Parque Arví, a nature reserve with hiking trails and picnic areas that made for a great escape from the urban hustle.
Day 6: A Stroll Through Medellín’s Art and Culture
Medellín is a city deeply influenced by art, and one of the most prominent figures here is Fernando Botero, a world-renowned artist known for his exaggerated, “fat” sculptures. I spent a day at Plaza Botero, an outdoor space in downtown Medellín where 23 of his larger-than-life sculptures are on display. These bronze figures are both playful and thought-provoking, inviting interaction and interpretation.
Right next to the plaza is the Museo de Antioquia, where more of Botero’s works, along with other pieces of Colombian and Latin American art, are housed. It’s a place where you can feel the cultural pulse of the city.
Afterward, I walked to Parque Berrío, a lively square filled with street vendors, performers, and locals going about their day. Medellín’s downtown area has a raw energy that contrasts with the polished El Poblado district, giving me a broader understanding of the city’s socio-economic diversity.
Day 7: Reflection and Departure
As my trip came to a close, I found myself reflecting on how Medellín had exceeded my expectations in every way. It’s a city that has faced immense challenges but has managed to turn itself into a place of hope, innovation, and beauty. What stood out the most was the sense of community I experienced, from the warm hospitality of the locals to the social projects aimed at uplifting marginalized areas.
I left Medellín not only with incredible memories but also with a deep respect for its resilience and spirit. It’s a city that invites you to look beyond its past and see the vibrant, creative, and forward-thinking place it has become. I’ll definitely be back, and next time, I plan to explore even more of this fascinating part of the world.
Medellín wasn’t just a destination—it was an experience that left a lasting impression on me, both as a traveler and as a person.
This trip reminded me why I love to travel. It’s not just about the places you visit, but the stories you uncover and the connections you make along the way. Medellín’s story is one of transformation, resilience, and a bright future—and I’m grateful to have been part of it, even for a short time.
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