Best Things To Do in Medellin

Medellín is one of Colombia's main cities and also one of the country's most visited destinations, thanks in large part to the number of attractions it offers. From cultural proposals to natural alternatives, there are many options to discover this destination.

Some of the best things to do in Medellín include visiting Comuna 13 and contemplating the local street art, visiting the Museum of Antioquia, visiting the Metropolitan Cathedral, contemplating the city's landscapes from the air on a paragliding tour, visiting the Rafael Uribe Uribe Palace of Culture and hiking the Nutibara Hill.

Visiting Comuna 13 will allow you to discover one of the epicentres of street art and culture in Medellín. From its colourful murals to its graffiti, this neighbourhood has become a living canvas that illustrates the history of the city. As you walk its steep streets, you'll find an explosion of creativity where local artists capture their emotions and realities on the walls.

However, street art in Comuna 13 goes beyond aesthetics, as it is a form of expression that reflects the people's struggle against adversity. On every corner you will discover works that tell the story of the neighbourhood and its transformation, which is why it is often included in the itineraries of the best tours of Medellín.

However, Comuna 13 also has a past marked by violence and drug trafficking, having been a stronghold of Pablo Escobar's cartel in the past. For years, this place was immersed in conflict and violence, but today it has managed to reinvent itself as an epicentre of art and culture.

A tour of the Museo de Antioquia in Medellín will take you on a journey through the art, history and culture of the region. Located in the city centre, this museum houses a collection of works ranging from pre-Columbian times to contemporary art.

In addition, you'll find a variety of exhibits that offer a unique insight into the diversity of the region. From archaeological elements to paintings by renowned Colombian artists such as Fernando Botero, this site, which is considered one of the best museums in Medellín, presents a complete overview of the history and art of the area.

On the other hand, one of the museum's main attractions is the collection of works by Fernando Botero, one of Colombia's most influential artists. His sculptures and paintings, known for their bulky and exaggerated figures, fill the halls with his unique presence and sense of humour. The museum also houses an extensive collection of religious art, as well as works that explore social and political themes.

To learn about the legacy of Pablo Escobar and his complex relationship with the city of Medellín is to delve into a history full of controversy and contradictions. Escobar, leader of the Medellín Cartel, left an indelible mark on the history of Medellín and his influence is still felt in various aspects of daily life, which can be seen in the scars left by his rise to power and the wave of violence and corruption that followed.

Despite his notoriety for drug trafficking and the violent acts that characterised him, Escobar was also seen by some as a benefactor, especially in the city's marginalised communities. However, his legacy is marked by the ruthless violence and terror he imposed over the years, which is why he is often the subject of curiosity and the subject of some of the best tours of Medellín.

For those interested in exploring Pablo Escobar's influence in Medellín, there are several emblematic spots to visit. The Pablo Escobar Museum is a comprehensive alternative and you can also tour historical sites related to his life and subsequent downfall, such as La Catedral prison in Envigado, the site of Escobar's cinematic escape in 1992.

Through these sites and many others, you can learn about the complex history of Pablo Escobar and his impact on the city. While his legacy continues to be debated and reflected upon, understanding his influence is fundamental to understanding the transformation of Medellín and the path it has taken since then.

The Metropolitan Cathedral of Medellín is an emblematic building that dates back to the 17th century, when the first church was built on this site. However, the current cathedral is the result of a series of reconstructions and renovations over the centuries, reflecting the mixture of architectural styles ranging from baroque to neo-gothic.

Visiting the Metropolitan Cathedral, then, will give you an insight into the religious and cultural history of Medellín and its ups and downs. Its towers and elaborate façade are just the beginning of the experience, which also includes its interior design, characterised by high vaulted ceilings, decorative details and stained glass windows depicting the different stages of The Passion of Christ.

In addition to its architecture, the Metropolitan Cathedral houses a number of religious works of art of great historical and cultural value that make it a must-see attraction for tourists. These include paintings, sculptures and decorated altars that show the devotion and faith of the people of Medellín over the centuries. During the guided tour of the basilica you will be able to contemplate these works and learn about the building's past.

See Medellin from the air on a paragliding trip is an experience that will allow you to discover the city from high in the Colombian Andes. As you glide through the air, you will have the opportunity to admire Medellin's unique architecture, distinctive hills and bustling streets from a completely new perspective.

These experiences, which are part of the best Medellin tours, will not only allow you to enjoy the panoramic view, but will also give you an adrenaline-filled experience just minutes away from the city centre.

In addition, these flights offer the opportunity to explore the unique geography of Medellín and its surroundings. From the heights, you will be able to observe the vegetation that surrounds the city, as well as the rivers and valleys that cross the city and form its characteristic landscape. This aerial perspective will allow you to appreciate the natural diversity of the region and to better understand its importance in the daily life of the inhabitants of Medellín.

Whether you are an experienced adventurer or a beginner in the world of paragliding, a flight over Medellín is an experience not to be missed.

If you want to get to know one of the most popular buildings in the city, you can't miss the Rafael Uribe Uribe Uribe Palace of Culture. Located in the heart of Medellín, it is an emblematic monument that embodies the city's rich history. Built in the early 20th century, this building stands out for its neoclassical architecture, which also features Renaissance details and decorative elements that make it an architectural icon.

In addition to its beauty, the Palace of Culture houses a variety of spaces dedicated to the promotion and dissemination of the arts. Its halls and exhibition rooms are regular venues for events, art exhibitions and musical concerts that enrich the life and cultural identity of Medellín.

In the palace area you will also have the opportunity to explore other famous tourist sites, such as the Parque de Bolívar and the Plaza Botero, which exhibits a collection of sculptures by the renowned artist Fernando Botero, who is one of the city's prodigal sons and has become one of the world's leading figures in the Colombian art scene.

One of the best things to do around Medellín is to visit La Ceja Nature Reserve, a paradise of biodiversity nestled in the eastern mountains of Colombia. This natural sanctuary offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in an environment of vegetation, crystal-clear waterfalls and a wide variety of flora and fauna. On its trails you can marvel at the natural beauty and tranquillity that this place offers.

Among the attractions of La Ceja Nature Reserve are its numerous bird species, which make this site a popular destination for birdwatchers. Among the species you will see are the hummingbird, toucan and eagle. In addition, the reserve is home to a variety of mammals, reptiles and amphibians, making it an ideal destination for wildlife lovers.

Also, among the most popular activities in La Ceja Nature Reserve is hiking, with a variety of circuits offering different levels of difficulty and green landscapes. There you can opt for short hikes to enjoy the panoramic views or you can choose to venture on longer hikes that will take you to hidden waterfalls and natural viewpoints.

In addition, the reserve also offers mountain biking, stargazing and camping activities, making it a complete destination for nature and adventure enthusiasts. You can visit the site on your own or as part of some of the best excursions from Medellín.

A classic, but no less efficient way to tour Medellín is on the tourist bus, which is ideal in this long-distance destination. With hop on-hop off stops, this tour allows you to explore the city at your own pace, hopping on and off at the places that interest you most.

The Santafé Shopping Centre, one of the largest in Medellín, is a must for shopping and entertainment lovers. There you will find a wide variety of shops, restaurants and activities for the whole family. In addition, its modern design and open spaces make it an ideal place to stroll around and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the city.

Another notable stop is El Poblado Park, known for being the local financial district, but also for its vibrant street art and nightlife scene. This neighbourhood offers a unique blend of culture, history and entertainment, with a wide variety of bars, restaurants and art galleries to explore. So buying a hop on-hop off sightseeing bus tour in Medellín will allow you to visit the city's most popular sites.

Finally, the Parque Memorial Inflexión and the Pueblito Paisa are stops that offer a deeper look into the history and culture of Medellín. The former is a public space dedicated to the victims of drug trafficking, while the latter is a reconstruction of a typical Antioquian village, with colonial-style houses and a cistern in the centre.

If you want to see some of the best panoramic views of Medellín, you can't miss Cerro Nutibara. This site will give you a privileged perspective of the metropolis and its surroundings and from its summit you will be able to appreciate the size of the city, with its tall buildings, green hills and the mountains that surround it.

The sweeping views from Cerro Nutibara will allow you to admire the beauty and diversity of Medellín in all its magnitude. On a clear day, you will be able to make out the city's main points of interest, such as the historic centre, Atlético Nacional's Atanasio Girardot stadium and the Pueblito Paisa. You can also catch a glimpse of the meandering Medellín River and the surrounding valleys.

However, this hill not only offers panoramic views, but also gives you the opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere. In addition, Cerro Nutibara is home to the Parque de las Esculturas (Sculpture Park), where you will have the opportunity to see works by renowned Colombian artists, adding a cultural touch to the experience.

Parque Norte is a thematic site that offers a wide variety of activities for all ages, making it one of the most visited sites in Medellín and also an ideal destination to enjoy with family or children. Located on the outskirts of the city, it includes a water park and green areas where you can spend the afternoon, have lunch, have a picnic or just relax.

Parque Norte also has roller coasters and mechanical games that will allow you to live a vertiginous and adrenaline-filled experience. On the other hand, you will also be able to attend live shows and participate in interactive activities, which are especially fascinating for children.

Finally, in this theme park you will also find all kinds of gastronomic options and an area for adults that will allow responsible adults to rest and have fun while the little ones enjoy the children's attractions.

Guatapé is a town located about two hours drive from Medellín that offers a must-see tour for those wishing to experience the natural and cultural beauty of Colombia. Known for its picturesque village, vibrant colours and reservoir, Guatapé offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. You can visit on your own or on one of the best excursions from Medellín, and you'll discover some of Antioquia's most deeply rooted traditions.

One of the main attractions here is the Peñón de Guatapé, a huge rock formation that towers over the surrounding landscape. Climbing the 740 steps to the top is a challenging but equally rewarding experience. From the top, you'll also get panoramic views of the region, including the reservoir, green hills and surrounding islands.

As well as exploring the Peñón and enjoying the views from the top, you can also explore the streets of Guatapé and discover its secrets. From the main square to the local church, every corner of this town has its own charm and personality. You can also enjoy water activities such as boating, kayaking and fishing, or simply relax on the shore and enjoy the tranquillity of the natural surroundings.

If you want to visit one of the best places in Medellín to enjoy with your family, you can't miss the Parque de la Conservación. This zoological and botanical space stands out for its commitment to the conservation of biodiversity and the protection of endangered species. By touring its facilities, you will discover a fascinating world of nature and wildlife.

In this park you will find a collection of exotic and native Colombian animals. From jaguars to parrots and ostriches, you can admire a variety of species up close while learning about their habitat and behaviour. In addition, the park offers environmental education programmes that allow visitors to understand the importance of conservation and care for the environment and are ideal for children.

On the other hand, this park offers an oasis of tranquillity in the botanical gardens on the outskirts of Medellín. With a diversity of plants and flowers, this space offers an ideal place to connect with the natural beauty that surrounds the city. Scenic trails allow you to explore the park's ecosystems, which range from tropical rainforests to cloud forests.