TRAVEL GUIDE TO MEDELLIN, COLOMBIA
My time in Medellin was short but sweet. As I traveled around South America, I had heard some amazing things about Medellin. Former murder capital of the world, known for drug cartels, gangs, and violence, the city has undergone an amazing transformation.
Today, swarms of tourists flock to the city every year. With a moderate temperature throughout the year, it's known as the city of eternal spring, never getting too hot or too cold.
I spent close to two weeks in Medellin. Originally expecting to stay a month, I decided not to in the end. It has a strong digital nomad scene with cute cafes and restaurants. It's also a lot of fun to go out. Whilst I was too intimidated to show off my dance moves, my friend Joe and I decided that we'd quite happily blend into the crowds, doing our own version of happy Monica from Friends style.
But honestly, if you go to Medellin, head to a dance club! Because boy do Colombians know how to move!
Things to do in Medellin
Comuna 13 tour
Comuna 13's transformation has been remarkable. It was once a hub for drug cartels, gangs, and violence. Today their history is painted across the murals depicting the conflict experienced. A representation of hope for the future and proud of the change that has been achieved.
Our tour guide talked about her personal stories of growing up and experiencing the violence in the area. And how proud she is now to see the transformation, watching children grow up with hope and opportunity.
You can visit yourself although locals advise against going alone. There are many tour companies including Free Tours which is based on tips and donations.
Take a cable car and hike around Parque Arvi
This was probably my favorite thing to do.
Located 30km from the center of Medellin, take a cable car from the metro station, over the jungle and have some fun hiking around.
You can also get a guided tour at the park entrance or choose to wander around yourself.
cable cars medellin
Free walking tour
As someone who generally loves to wander and explore on her own, I've become a fan of free walking tours.
The city tour was a great one to do to learn more about the history of Medellin. With Real City Tours, the tours also range from an Exotic Fruits tour to local food tours.
Do a day trip to Guatapé
Around 2 hours from Medellin, you can head to the beautiful pueblo of Guatapé, a popular day-trip destination.
It's known for its breathtaking views from El Peñol. Climbing 780 steps to the top and for COP 18,000 (US $5), the scenery of the surrounding region is gorgeous.
Many tourists take tours however a few of my dorm buddies didn't really enjoy them as they spent a lot of time faffing about in tourist shops.
Instead, you can head there without a tour. Go to metro station Caraibe and then get a bus to Guatapé from booth 14. The bus company is Sotradanvicente and you can get a bus back from either the town or the bottom of El Peñol.
Guatape colombia
Take a cable car anywhere
The metro cable has been one of the city's success stories connecting up poorer suburbs with the main city.
It's so well maintained that the cable cars are cleaned at the start and finish of every journey.
Hop on!
Avoid some insane rush hour queues to get on the metro
Having lived in Paris and London, I'm not really one to be able to talk about insane rush hour traffic.
But... The lines can get pretty looong in parts of Medellin.
London and Paris could definitely take a note from the orderly queues formed to get into the station and the general calm vibe.
Plaza Botero
With sculptures by Fernando Botero scattered around the plaza, it's hard to miss the distinct vibrant + larger than life artwork.
If you're doing a free walking tour, you're more than likely going to pass by.
plaza botero medellin
Salsa nights in Medellin
No trip to Colombia would be complete without a Salsa night.
This isn't a hard and fast rule... But from my research these are the places to go out for Salsa depending on the night of the week.
Wednesday: Son Havana
Thursday: Skybar
Friday: Social Club
Saturday: Dance Free
I tried out Son Havana and Social club. The dancing was 👌. Especially Social Club, great for watching pro dancers.
Where to stay in Medellin
Los Patios Boutique hostel: Probably one of the cleanest hostels I've stayed in. It feels more like a hotel.
A little bit more on the pricier end, it's generally booked out on Friday and Saturday nights so be sure to book in advance!
I also stayed in a cute Airbnb for some of the time just to have my own space to cook and get some downtime. There are many around the city, I paid around $20-25 a night for a private.
Click here for a discount on your next Airbnb booking.
EcoHub Hotel Medellin: If you're looking for a hotel feel, the EcoHub hotel is clean, comfortable and ideally located.
574 Hotel: For a budget double room, you'll love 574 Hotel. With a positive vibe, it's friendly with great service and a delicious breakfast!
Check out prices and availability here.
Cocoa Hostel: For a more budget hostel, Cocoa hostel is perfect for those who are looking for a big kitchen with lots of facilities. A chilled out hostel that's only a short wat to bars and restaurants.
Safety in Medellin
They have a famous expression in Medellin... "Don't give papaya".
Don't make it easy for pickpockets to rob you. Walking on a street with your cell phone hanging out of your pocket is like inviting a pickpocket to you.
I generally felt safe. There were a couple of times where I took an Uber and our vehicle was stopped and searched. I showed the police officers a copy of my ID, they saw that I had general tourist items in my bag and that was that.
Planning a trip or fancy a freebie? These are some websites and services I love:
Booking.com: For the best hotel deals! 🏝
World Nomads: Travel insurance on the go 🌎
Airbnb: For the best apartment deals!🏡
Affiliate links above!