First Time Visitors Travel Guide to Medellin
Before You Go - What to Pack for Medellín
Clothing:
Lightweight and breathable clothing, as daytime temperatures average 22-28°C (72-82°F).
A light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings, especially in higher-altitude areas like El Poblado.
Comfortable walking shoes for exploring the city's hilly neighborhoods.
A rain jacket or small umbrella, as Medellín can experience occasional rain showers.
Accessories:
Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection.
A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
Travel Essentials:
A secure day bag or backpack.
Copies of your passport and important documents, keeping originals in a safe place.
Colombian Pesos (cash) for small purchases, as card acceptance varies.
Tech & Gadgets:
A universal power adapter (Colombia uses Type A and B plugs, 110V).
A portable charger for electronic devices.
Health & Safety:
Basic medications and a small first-aid kit.
Hand sanitizer and insect repellent for outdoor activities.
Getting Around
Uber: While illegal, it is widely used and generally safe. Availability may be limited during peak hours and weekends, particularly during the busy season.
inDriver: A ride-sharing app that allows bidding, making it a suitable option during busy periods.
DiDi: Similar to Uber.
Taxis: Plentiful and generally safe. Inquire about the fare ("¿Cuánto cuesta?") before starting your journey to ensure a fair price. Rides within the city typically cost around $5.
Top 10 Experiences for First-Time Visitors
Ride the Metrocable and Explore Comuna 13: Experience Medellín's innovative spirit by riding the Metrocable and delve into Comuna 13, a neighborhood revitalized by vibrant street art, graffiti tours, and a strong sense of community.
Stroll Through La Provenza in El Poblado: Explore Medellín's upscale hub, La Provenza, known for its trendy cafes, boutique shops, and lively nightlife.
Day Trip to Guatapé and El Peñol: Embark on a two-hour journey from Medellín to Guatapé, a colorful lakeside town. Climb the 740 steps of El Peñol Rock for breathtaking views of the surrounding lakes and islands.
Take a Coffee Tour: Discover Colombia's renowned coffee culture by visiting nearby plantations to learn about the coffee-making process from bean to cup.
Take a Quad Tour: Explore Medellín's stunning countryside on an ATV tour. Traverse rugged trails, lush forests, and rolling hills, with stops at waterfalls or scenic lookouts.
Visit Plaza Botero and the Museo de Antioquia: Immerse yourself in art at Plaza Botero, featuring 23 oversized sculptures by Colombian artist Fernando Botero. Visit the adjacent Museo de Antioquia for a deeper understanding of Botero's work and the region's rich cultural history.
Wander Through Jardín Botánico: Escape the urban hustle at Medellín's Botanical Garden, an oasis filled with orchids, tropical plants, and tranquil paths. Visit the butterfly house or relax with coffee at the garden cafe.
Explore Pueblito Paisa: Visit Pueblito Paisa atop Nutibara Hill, a replica of a traditional Colombian village. Experience Paisa culture, shop for souvenirs, and enjoy panoramic city skyline views.
Experience Parque Arví: Explore Parque Arví, an expansive ecological park outside the city. Hike through lush forests, explore local markets, or take a guided tour to learn about regional flora and fauna.
Discover Medellín's Nightlife: From salsa clubs in Laureles to rooftop bars in El Poblado, Medellín's nightlife is legendary. Dance the night away to salsa, reggaeton, or electronic beats.
Discover Medellín: Culture and Customs
Warm and Welcoming: Medellín, known as the "City of Eternal Spring," is renowned for its warm climate and welcoming locals, referred to as Paisas. A simple "buenos días" or "hola" reflects their emphasis on kindness and connection. Family plays a central role in their culture, and it's common to see generations sharing meals or relaxing in parks.
Vibrant Mix of Tradition and Modernity: Medellín's culture blends tradition and modernity, with music permeating daily life, including salsa, reggaeton, and street performances.
Etiquette Tips:
It's advisable to ignore or decline offers from street peddlers.
Tipping 10% in restaurants is customary.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
Always ask permission before taking photos of people.
Medellín has transformed into a hub of art, innovation, and resilience. Embrace its lively spirit and let the city's warmth and energy leave a lasting impression.
Smart Savings Tips for First-Time Visitors to Medellín
Use ATMs Wisely: Withdraw cash from reputable bank ATMs like Bancolombia or Davivienda to avoid high fees. Opt for larger withdrawals to minimize transaction charges and decline the ATM's currency conversion offer; your bank will provide a better rate.
Credit Card Tips: Credit cards are widely accepted, particularly in restaurants, shops, and hotels. Always choose to be charged in Colombian Pesos (COP) instead of your home currency for the best exchange rate, avoiding hidden fees and unfavorable conversion rates.
Take Public Transport: Medellín's Metro and Metrocable offer affordable transportation and a great way to explore the city. A single ride costs approximately $0.80 USD.
Eat Like a Local: Opt for local mercados (markets) or platos del día (daily specials) spots for affordable meals, typically costing $3-5 USD.
Stay in Budget-Friendly Areas: Consider neighborhoods like Laureles for affordable accommodations and a more local atmosphere compared to pricier areas like El Poblado.
Book Tours Directly: Avoid overpriced tour packages by booking directly with local guides or companies. Attractions like Comuna 13 can be explored independently for free.
By following these tips, you can stretch your budget while enjoying Medellín's offerings.
Useful Phrases for First-Time Visitors to Medellín
Greetings and Basics:
Hola: Hello
Buenos días: Good morning
Buenas tardes: Good afternoon
Buenas noches: Good evening/Good night
Por favor: Please
Gracias: Thank you
De nada: You're welcome
¿Cómo está?: How are you?
Estoy bien, gracias: I'm fine, thank you
Getting Around:
¿Dónde está?: Where is...? (Example: ¿Dónde está el baño? - Where is the bathroom?)
¿Cuánto cuesta?: How much does it cost?
¿Habla inglés?: Do you speak English?
Necesito ayuda: I need help
A la derecha: To the right
A la izquierda: To the left
Directo: Straight ahead
Dining and Shopping:
La cuenta, por favor: The bill, please
Quisiera: I would like... (Example: Quisiera un café, por favor. - I would like a coffee, please.)
¿Tiene menú en inglés?: Do you have a menu in English?
¿Qué recomienda?: What do you recommend?
¿Aceptan tarjeta?: Do you accept credit cards?
Está delicioso: It's delicious
Emergencies:
¡Ayuda!: Help!
Necesito un médico: I need a doctor
Llame a la policía: Call the police
Estoy perdido/a: I'm lost
¿Dónde está el hospital más cercano?: Where is the nearest hospital?
Polite Phrases:
Disculpe: Excuse me (to get someone's attention)
Perdón: Sorry/Pardon me
Con permiso: Excuse me (to pass by someone)
¿Puede repetir, por favor?: Can you repeat that, please?
No entiendo: I don't understand
Even with basic Spanish, locals will appreciate your efforts to communicate. A smile and a few key phrases can enhance your experience in Medellín.
Safety Tips
Valuables:
Avoid wearing expensive jewelry like gold chains or Rolex watches.
Carry limited cash. Credit cards are widely accepted.
Personal Security:
Be discreet with valuable items, especially phones.
Stay in well-traveled areas to minimize the risk of becoming a victim of crime.
Drug Awareness:
Avoid carrying or purchasing drugs to avoid potential issues with law enforcement.
Dating Apps Caution:
Exercise caution when using dating apps due to reported incidents of drugging and theft.
Be vigilant with your drinks and never leave them unattended.
Verify intentions before meeting someone in person.
Never get into a stranger's taxi, car, or Uber; always arrange your own transportation.
If you are a host, ensure security checks and photographs the ID (Cedula) of all guests and accompany them out of the building for safety.
Restaurant Recommendations in Medellín
Top Restaurants
Oci Restaurant (Provenza): Must-Try Dishes: Tuna Tartar, tongue ribs, chicken, pork shank, steak. Contact: Speak with Kelly for reservations. Website: Oci Restaurant. Phone: +57 604 268 4242
Cafe Zorba: Must-Try Dishes: All appetizers, especially the Kale and Spinach options. Contact: Cafe Zorba. Phone: +57 604 311 3433
678 Korean Food: Must-Try Dishes: High-quality Korean BBQ (pricier but worthwhile). Contact: 678 Korean Food. Phone: +57 604 444 6789
Ritwal Mesa Y Mistica: Must-Try Dishes: Peruvian chicken, Carpaccio de res, cheese, bravas, steak. Contact: Ritwal Mesa Y Mistica. Phone: +57 604 444 5678
Barbaro Cocina Primitiva: Must-Try Dishes: Best value steak—request it served on a hot plate (plancha). Contact: Barbaro Cocina Primitiva. Phone: +57 604 444 1234
Philly Steak: Must-Try Dishes: Excellent cheesesteak sandwiches, wings, burgers. Contact: Philly Steak. Phone: +57 604 444 9876
Malsentada Mexican Restaurant: Must-Try Dishes: Best margaritas in town—reservations recommended. Contact: Malsentada. Phone: +57 604 444 5555
Canalla: Must-Try Dishes: Spanish cuisine with a twist. Contact: Canalla. Phone: +57 318 351 7977
MU Ribs: Must-Try Dishes: Specializes in ribs, guacamole, fries. Contact: MU Ribs. Phone: +57 604 444 1111
Other Notable Restaurants
Wokhouse: Asian fusion. Website: Wokhouse. Phone: +57 604 444 2222
Don Diablo: Burgers and craft beer. Website: Don Diablo. Phone: +57 604 444 3333
Gloria by Gloria: Traditional Colombian food. Website: Gloria by Gloria. Phone: +57 604 444 4444
Alambique: Salsa music and large portions. Website: Alambique. Phone: +57 604 444 5555
Mamacita Medallo: Mexican-inspired dishes. Website: Mamacita Medallo. Phone: +57 604 444 6666
La Rufina: Scenic views, beer, wine. Website: La Rufina. Phone: +57 604 444 7777
Mondongos: Famous for its Ajiaco soup. Website: Mondongos. Phone: +57 604 444 8888
Other Recommendations
ENE Roof Top: Lounging with music, drinks, and hookah. Note: Not ideal for dinner. Website: ENE Roof Top. Phone: +57 604 444 9999
Super Bowl Medellín: Scenic date spot with bowling. Website: Super Bowl Medellín. Phone: +57 604 444 0000
Teatro Victoria (Provenza): Drinks and hookah. Note: Not ideal for dinner. Website: Teatro Victoria. Phone: +57 604 444 1212
Medellín offers a diverse dining scene to satisfy all tastes. Make reservations where necessary and enjoy the city's vibrant food culture.
Additional Tips for Your Medellín Adventure
Best Locations
Provenza and El Poblado: Medellín's trendiest neighborhoods, offering restaurants, bars, boutique shops, lively nightlife (Provenza), and upscale dining and shopping (El Poblado). Consider staying slightly outside the main hubs for a quieter experience.
Hangover Solution
IV Therapy: To recover from overindulgence, consider IV hydration therapy. Reputable clinics include Revitalize Medellín or IV Therapy Colombia.
Cuban Cigars and Socializing
Absolute Cigars (El Poblado): Premium Cuban cigars, relaxed atmosphere. Location: El Poblado. Website: Absolute Cigars. Phone: +57 604 444 1122
Best Mall
Tesoro Mall: High-end shopping, dining, entertainment. Highlights: Local and international brands, movies, restaurants. Website: Tesoro Mall. Phone: +57 604 444 3344
Convenient Services and Activities in Medellín
Delivery with Rappi
Rappi App: Delivery of groceries, medicine, food. Website: Rappi
Massage Services
Sports Massage near Poblado Park: Rejuvenating sports massage. Contact: +57 314 663 9180
Boxing Lessons
In-House Boxing with Mario: Personalized boxing workouts. Contact: +57 318 471 2124
Boxeo 101 Gym: Group or private classes. Contact: +57 301 4000 694
Dance Lessons
In-House Salsa & Bachata with Gabriela: Salsa and bachata lessons. Contact: +57 301 251 3372, Instagram: @gabyomez
Dance Studio with Private Lessons: Private or group lessons. Contact: +57 604 204 0336, Instagram: @dancefreeco