Ultimate Medellín Travel Guide: Explore Colombia’s Vibrant City

Medellín is Colombia’s second-largest city, nestled in the Aburrá Valley of the Andes Mountains. Founded in 1616, it remained an under-the-radar locale until the Colombian coffee boom. The city evolved into a center of textile industry and is now a modern, vibrant hub. Additionally, it serves as a principal manufacturing and industrial area, known for its commercial flower-growing, particularly orchids. Therefore, Medellín is often referred to as the Capital of The Flowers and The Land of Eternal Spring.

How to Get There

Many international airlines operate flights to Medellín, landing at the José María Córdoba International Airport, located approximately 20 miles southeast of the city. Regional flights utilize the older Olaya Herrera Airport. Affordable flights are provided by LATAM Airlines, Copa Airlines, JetBlue, and budget-friendly carriers like Spirit. Upon landing, a shuttle service is available for transport to downtown Medellín.

If you’re already in Colombia, consider taking the bus services available between most major Colombian cities from either the Terminal del Norte or the Terminal del Sur. For those planning excursions outside the city, renting a car is advisable.

Notably, Medellín is the first Colombian city with a metro system, providing convenient transportation across the city both north-south and to the west.

When to Go

Situated near the equator, Colombia enjoys warm, moderate weather year-round. Temperature variations depend on altitude, with lowland cities experiencing hot 80-degree days, while higher elevation cities like Medellín typically enjoy more comfortable 70-degree temperatures. Although there are no defined seasons, it’s recommended to avoid visiting from April to May and September through November when rainfall is prevalent. Early August is especially advantageous due to the Fería de Las Flores festival, which showcases the city’s vibrant culture.

Things to Do and See

While Medellín may be smaller than the Colombian capital of Bogotá, it certainly offers an abundance of cultural sights and museums that visitors can explore.

• The Medellín Metro Cable system features three cable car lines that traverse the valley, providing breathtaking views of the city and surrounding mountains.
• Basilica de la Candelaria represents one of the few remaining colonial structures in the area.
• The Basilica Metropolitana, located in Parque de Bolívar, is thought to be the largest brick church in South America, completed early in the 20th century.
• Pueblito Paisa offers a replica of a traditional Antioquian village and includes various handicraft shops.
• Plaza Botero features a collection of sculptures by Fernando Botero, a renowned Medellín artist famous for his oversized figures. Additional works by him can be found in Museo de Antioquia.
• The Jardín Botánico Joaquín Antonio Uribe hosts an annual orchid exposition in the Orquideorama.

Holidays and Events

Medellín is known for its vibrant celebrations, with many regional festivities throughout the year. The Fería de Las Flores is a particularly noteworthy event, commencing with a day-long caballero (horseback) parade through the city. This colorful festival features music, dance, and the celebration of Antioquian traditions, culminating in the highlight of the Desfile de Silleteros, where campesinos descend from the mountains, carrying exquisite wildflower arrangements. Additionally, July brings the annual Festival Internacional de Poesía de Medellín, attracting poets, musicians, and artists from around the globe.

Travel Tips

Before embarking on your journey to Medellín, consider the following travel tips:

• A tourist visa is unnecessary for stays under 90 days in Colombia.
• While the water in Medellín is safe for consumption, bottled water is often provided by hotels. If traveling to rural areas, it is advisable to drink bottled water.
• The Colombian peso is the only currency accepted at small businesses, with ATMs available throughout the city to withdraw cash. Credit cards are widely accepted at hotels and upscale restaurants.
• Dress code is slightly formal; therefore, opt for long pants for men and sundresses for women instead of flip-flops.