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The Ultimate Medellín, Colombia Travel Guide [ 2023 ]

If you’ve been hearing a lot about Medellín and Colombia lately, you’re not alone. Not only has Lonely Planet called Colombia the 2nd Best Country to Visit, but Travel & Leisure called it “South America’s Best Kept Secret” this year.

Colombia is in that perfect tourism sweet spot between being off-the-beaten-track and right on the cusp of becoming one of the hottest destinations. And it’s easy to see why. This country has everything. Lush Amazonian jungle? Check. Beautiful tropical islands? Check. Stunning snow-capped Andes mountains? Check. Bustling cities and a thriving fashion market? Check. Charming colonial cobblestone streets and rich Latin American culture? Check.

It’s a country that’s just begging to be discovered, but the fact that it is still relatively unfamiliar to the international tourism market makes it all the more cool. Plus it means you won’t be fighting crowds to get to the best spots when you visit. Win/win. 

Colombia has a ton to offer in terms of destinations, from Cartagena, to Santa Marta, to Bogota, but… ask anyone who’s been to Colombia, is from there, or has lived there and they will give you one single piece of advice — Make sure you see Medellín. 

When I was told that, I’ll be honest, I had my doubts. I immediately questioned the idea of flying 2 hours inland to a valley in the middle of Colombia. A city instead of the beautiful Colombian coast? What could possibly be so cool about this place? I hadn’t read any blogs on it, seen Instagrams of it, or heard much about it at all. In fact, I’ll admit that all I naively knew about it was from Narcos.  But, my first 4-day weekend trip was all I needed to spark my love affair with the capital of Colombia’s Antioquia region, and I’ve now been back over ten times!!! I love it so much I decided to manufacture my swimwear line – Watercolors by Kenny Flowers – in a boutique, women-run factory in Medellin! (which you can read more about here), just so I could have an excuse to spend as much time as possible in Colombia! (and because the manufacturing here, and the people, are amazing!)

I usually choose to stay in Medellin for at least a couple weeks at a time, because it’s just so wonderful… and fun!! Oh and you can bet that I’m now one of those people here to tell you all about why you can’t go to Colombia without visiting Medellín.

Here is your guide to Colombia’s capital of cool, Medellín:

What to see and do in Medellín

Comuna 13

Visiting Comuna 13 is an absolute must for anyone coming to Medellin! This barrio, or neighborhood, used to be Medellin (and possibly Colombia’s) most dangerous neighborhoods, but in the last 10 years has completely changed to become a beautiful (and safest!) place to visit for tourists, as well as a symbol of Colombia’s urban transformation and ‘New Colombia’. It’s known for its vibrant street art, bright culture and lively atmosphere. We had so much fun here!!! 

 

You don’t have to do the walking tour here but I’d recommend it so you get more of the history!! This is easily one of the most popular and best tours to do in Medelin.

 

 

Day Trip to a Pueblo

One of the best parts about Medellín is the breathtaking countryside and adorable pueblos that lay just beyond the city’s reach. In Colombia, one of the most common cultural traditions is that families will have second homes, or fincas, in the countryside. They’ll travel to these fincas on weekends to get away from the city, and will spend their days in pueblos like Guatapé, Jardín, San Antonio de Pereira, or Santa Fé de Antioquia, hanging out in the beautiful towns and parks, and having long leisurely meals outside.

Shop my Colombia dress here

Guatapé

Is Guatapé the most colorful town in the world or what?! This adorable little pueblo about an hour and a half from Medellín is a must-do on any trip to Colombia. I recommend hiring a driver and tour guide through this company to take you there. Their prices are reasonable and their tour guides make sure you see all the beautiful parts of Guatapé.

 

 

Where to stay in Guatape:

Stay at El Bosko for a super cool experience!!! I loved it so much. Great food, too.

 

Aside from how absolutely breathtakingly colorful the town is, the main attraction of Guatape is even more (literally) breath-taking… the “Rock of Guatape” –

El Peñon de Guatape

Zig-zagging 600 vertical steps up, this 10-million-ton rock overlooks the gorgeous lakes of Guatape. The attraction was created after a group of friends scaled the rock in the 1950s using nothing but a wooden plank, and someone got the bright idea to build a staircase in the rock’s singular, gaping crack. The best part? The freshly made mango micheladas at the top.

 

Jardín

A little further away than Guatape (about 3 hours from Medellin), lies an adorable pueblo in the Andes mountains called Jardín. This fittingly named lush mountain pueblo is by far one of my favorite day trips from Medellín.  It’s not touristy in the least, because it is still so undiscovered by everyone except the Colombian locals, but it’s here that you can find Colombian coffee farms, waterfalls, and a beautiful colorful town and plaza surrounding a catholic church. I highly recommend you take a day tour with this company… The guide is so knowledgable about Medellín and Colombia’s history, and a tour with him is just as much about the amazing culture of this beautiful country as it is the adventure of exploring such a cool spot.

Here’s the tour that I love!

 

Pueblito Paisa

This pueblito or “mini pueblo”, is a little like the vibe you get from the pueblos outside of Medellin, but right in the city! It’s a great spot to have lunch and walk around.

Pueblito Paisa, Tunel av nutibara, Medellin 050030, Colombia 

Plaza Botero

This spacious (and hectic!) plaza houses 23 larger-than-life funky bronze statues by Medellín’s favorite sculptor, Fernando Botero. The open air museum is one of Medellin’s main attractions.

Plaza Botero, Carrera 52 at Calle 52

Take the Metrocable to Parque Arvi

One second, you’re taking in a spectacular bird’s eye view of Colombia’s second largest city as your cable car crawls over a mountain ridge, and the next, you are suddenly flying above a gorgeous forest with no city in sight. Parque Arvi takes you high above the city into an ecological park in Medellin’s eastern Santa Elena district.

Parque Arvi, open 9am-6pm

Where to Stay in Medellín

You’ll want to base out of the El Poblado neighborhood of Medellin. It’s bursting at the seams with cafes, restaurants, bars, clubs and hostels and is definitely the hottest (and safest!) neighborhood of the city.

The Best Hotels in Medellin

*Medellin is definitely not known for its luxury hotels, so while you won’t find a Four Seasons here, there are definitely some great (and very affordable) places to stay in the city!*

The Click Clack Hotel

Medellin’s brand new (and coolest) hotel with restaurants and bars lining its lobby. It’s a super cool space, and in the perfect location in Poblado for a Medellin hotel. The rooftop is super chic and fun for drinks, and has a swimming pool! Plus the bottomless brunch on the first floor is the place to be on weekends!

Also, even if you’re not staying here, highly recommend going to the greek restaurant EGEO for tapas, cocktails or dinner. SO GOOD! 

Check out The Click Clack

Find a hotel in Medellin:
Booking.com

Apartamentos Loma Verde, Medellin

This is where we’ve stayed a few times when we’re in MDE! If you’re looking for more of an apartment in Medellin to stay in during your vacation to the city, this is your spot. It’s easy, comfortable and modern – and feels more like a hotel than an apartment building but you get all the conveniences of your own apartment – like a kitchen, and a washing machine!! (big win) There’s a gym and a small rooftop pool with gorgeous views. It’s also in the perfect location in El Poblado, just above Parque Lleras. This is one of my go-to places to stay when I’m basing for a week or a few weeks in the city.

Hotel Du Parc Royal Medellin

This 4-star hotel is only around $100/night and is a great more luxurious option in El Poblado. It’s right near Parque Lleras and its french luxury vibes will have you feeling like you’ve found the perfect oasis in the city.

Hotel Los Recuerdos

If you’re overnighting in Guatape, make sure you check out Hotel Los Recuerdos for a beautiful family-friendly, affordable resort with a gorgeous infinity pool that overlooks the steps of El Peñon de Guatape.

 

Where to eat in Medellín

OCI.Mde 

This buzzy upscale restaurant in El Poblado was my favorite meal in all of Colombia. Owned and operated by a husband-wife duo, chef Laura spent eight years at culinary school and working in Europe at several Michelin-starred restaurants, and her husband, architect Santiago, is responsible for OCI’s impeccable interior design. Highlights on the menu are the AMAZING 12-hour braised shortribs, the prawns cooked in tomato and chili jam with crispy quinoa and basil (the crispy quinoa was one of my favorite things I’ve ever tasted!), the pork belly and grapefruit salad with pickled carrot and mint and of course the macadamia-nut ice cream sandwich with salted caramel for dessert.  And the best part? This may be arguably the best restaurant in Medellin, but the prices are still very much Colombian (entrees like the short ribs will only cost you around $15 USD!!!!!)

Moshi Medellin

This sleek, chic Japanese restaurant in El Poblado is another one of my favorite meals in Colombia. EVERYTHING on this “Caribbean/Japanese fusion” menu is to die for, and some of the most innovative, high-quality food you’ll find anywhere in Medellin. The chef’s choice menu is amazing – and if you order a la carte definitely get the pork bao buns and the spicy crab hand roll. I also love the Patagonia pinot noir they have by the glass on their wine list!

El Alambique

Don’t expect English menus here. This hidden gem local-favorite is my new favorite buzzy restaurant in Parque Lleras (central Poblado). It’s SUCH a cool space, the decor is amazing, and the food is some of the best Colombian-fusion in the city. The cocktails are amazing and the scene is so cool. If you guys go to one of my restaurant recs on your trip to Colombia, make it this one. Order the shrimp tacos appetizer, and the beef brisket (!!!) and thank me later. 

JETSET TIP- don’t be thrown off by the understated, speakeasy-like entrance to the restaurant, just keep walking straight and up the stairs. 

Aguafresca

THE BEST MEXICAN IN MEDELLIN. And maybe even better than in Mexico. When I say I’m obsessed with this place, I am not exaggerating. I often go 3 times a week. This gem is the newest restaurant by the famed chef/restauranteur behind El Cielo (also a must-do in Medellin for a fancier meal, but you have to make a res 2 weeks in advance, at least). Aguafresca, on the other hand doesn’t take reservations, and serves up easily some of the best (and most affordable) gourmet Mex cuisine of your dreams. Order the hongo quesadillas (mushroom), the chilaquiles, the tacos al pastor, and some mezcal margs!

Carmen

Do the tasting menu!!! Carmen is like French cuisine mixed with Asian and Colombian influences. The atmosphere is intimate and upscale, and the five-course tasting menu includes things like their delish ceviche, their solomillo de cerdo, cooked for 12 hours, glazed with tamarind and palm sugar and served with Peruvian yam, Szechuan beans with ginger vinaigrette, and a spicy pork sauce.

Criminal Taqueria

For more casual mexican in Medellin, head straight to Criminal – during the day, at night, or even for late night. It’s in the heart of El Poblado and the tacos are SOOOO GOOD. It’s also super trendy – and one of the most instagrammable spots in Medellin. 

Bonhomía Salumería

A perfect spot in El Poblado for tapas, meats, cheese and charcuterie on one of the best outside terraces in Medellín. Did I mention they have frozen Sangria?? Yeah. You gotta go here.

Image result for bonhomia medellin

Olivia

Pizza, delicious salads, amazing sangria, and an adorable ambiance. Olivia is your perfect casual dinner or lunch spot in El Poblado.

Restaurante Malevo

This cozy Argentinian steakhouse is a perfect dinner spot in the Manila neighborhood. Call ahead and reserve a table on their patio, and get ready to eat a lot of meat and delicious empanadas. Welcome to South America.

La Bronca

This super-chic restaurant is one of my favorite places to go out to dinner in the El Poblado neighborhood. Great cocktails, great food, and great for groups for a dinner pre-going out in Poblado.

Image result for la bronca medellin

Cocorolla

The absolute best empanadas you’ll ever eat in Medellin – order them on Uber Eats or Rappi and thank me later! Ask for some spicy sauce, too! I love the chicken and the beef. YUM!

Al Alma Cafe

This is the cafe I sometimes work from when I’m in Medellin. It’s so cute, and their food is delicious! They have fresh baked pastries and lots of breakfast, brunch and lunch options. It’s a go-to.

Pergamino

My absolute favorite coffee shop in Colombia for the best quality Colombian coffee. I pretty much go every day when I’m in Medellín.

Cafe Noir

Go here for a glass of delicious wine and yummy appetizers before a night out in Medellin! Super chic. Tell them Jetset Christina sent you!

The App To Download as Soon As You Land in Medellín:

Rappi!

The first thing you’ll want to do when you land in Medellín is download an app called Rappi – this app is INCREDIBLE. I seriously wish we had something as great as it in the states. Think of it like an Uber eats for everything in your life – with VERY low delivery fees. For $2, you can have top restaurants, groceries, medicine, ANYTHING delivered right to your door, within about 30 mins. They even have Rappi shopping! So like Amazon Prime but on steroids. And Rappi stands for rápido, so they are so fast! It makes a hard case for ordering Acai bowls to your hotel room after a long night partying at Bolivar rather than getting up and going out for breakfast (my favorite bowls are Berry Good Acai – just search it in the app!)

The weather in Medellín

Medellín is nicknamed “La Primavera Eterna”, or the eternal Spring. It stays around an average of 72 degrees year-round, and has a tropical, cool, wet climate thanks to its location in a valley of the Andes mountains.  The least rainy months to visit Medellín is during their Summer (December-March).

Safety in Colombia

I’ll start out by saying that I didn’t feel unsafe in Medellín for one second.  But, due to the country’s rocky past, I know that this is a hot-button issue for many people who are wondering just how safe the country is today. A lot of feeling safe in any big city comes from knowing the neighborhoods to stay in, and which to stay away from. Use common sense and caution, of course, but know that Colombia is not as dangerous as it is made out to be from its reputation of the 1970s and 80s. I felt completely safe in the neighborhood of El Poblado, even in the nightclubs. If you’re in the Plaza Botero (the chaotic center more toward downtown), keep your belongings close to you in the crowds.  On public transportation, stay aware and don’t flash your wealth. I would also note that as a woman, I felt much safer traveling with a man and probably wouldn’t have felt as comfortable had I been traveling alone. It also helped that we both knew how to speak Spanish, as they almost exclusively speak Spanish in Medellin.

There is still a US government issued warning against travel to Colombia, which reads: 

Tens of thousands of U.S. citizens safely visit Colombia each year for tourism, business, university studies, and volunteer work. Security in Colombia has improved significantly in recent years, including in tourist and business travel destinations such as Bogota, Cartagena, Barranquilla, Medellin, and Cali.

However, violence linked to narco-trafficking continues to affect some rural and urban areas. Despite significant decreases in overall crime in Colombia, continued vigilance is warranted due to an increase in recent months of violent crime, including crime resulting in the deaths of American citizens.

My travel philosophy has always been that dangerous crimes can happen anywhere. They happen every day in my home city of San Francisco, and are commonplace in many of my favorite travel destinations. It’s not uncommon to hear news stories or read travel advisories and feel extremely nervous about traveling to a certain destination, but I am a firm believer in not letting that fear of danger get in the way of seeing the world. While everyone’s travel experiences are different (and one negative experience or secondhand negative experience can forever affect your feelings toward safety in a certain destination), I think it is very important to see the world with an open mind, while staying optimistically cautious and aware.

What do I need to be on the look out safety-wise in Colombia?

This all being said, a lot of people ask safety-related questions like, “should I wear my jewelry in Cartagena?” and to that I say it’s best to leave your expensive jewels at home, and be as bare as possible so as to not attract attention to yourself as a potential target to criminals. I would not wear fancy jewelry in Colombia, or bring name brand luggage (such as Louis Vuitton), etc. They call it ‘don’t dar papaya’ which translates to don’t give papaya, meaning don’t give yourself up as a flashy easy target for criminals. 

If you’re a guy traveling by yourself or with a group, please also be aware that there is a crime happening often in Colombia of Colombian women drugging foreign men to rob them at night. (crazy, I know! but please watch out!)

You also might see many signs in Colombia saying “SAY NO TO THE SEX TOURIST”, many establishments have these signs up and will flat out deny service to sex tourists, which is great. Sex tourism is unfortunately a trend in certain cities in Colombia, but there is a lot of active action happening against it making it a less than ideal place for these people to travel to, thank goodness. I only mention it so that you aren’t put off if you see one of these signs at a restaurant or hotel, this is a good thing!

PS – Follow @JetsetChristina on instagram to keep up with all of my travels!
& don’t forget to Like Jetset Christina on Facebook!

*Please note that this post contains affiliate links to some hotels! If you choose to book one of the hotels I recommended, I would so appreciate you using these links to do so! An affiliate link basically just means that at no cost to you at all, I get a small kickback from the booking site for bringing them your business! If you have any questions at all, please see my advertiser & affiliate policy page here.

PS – have more questions on Colombia or any other destination? Join the JETSETTERS secret facebook group to get & give travel recs to our Jetset Christina community and connect with other #JSCJetsetters!

Check out my other related posts!

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Christina is a leading luxury lifestyle and travel blogger with over 2 million readers. Follow her on instagram @jetsetchristina.

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