Medellin Colombia 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the City and its Culture

Morning:

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at El Ermito (Cra. 40 #32A-61), a local favorite known for its traditional Colombian dishes.
  • Head to Parque Arví (Metrocable Acevedo station) and take the cable car ride up into the hills, offering stunning views of Medellin. Spend some time exploring the park’s trails.
  • Visit the Comuna 13 neighborhood, once infamous for drug trafficking but now a symbol of urban renewal, with vibrant street art and murals. You can take a guided tour to learn more about its history.

Afternoon:

  • For lunch, try La Puerta Falsa (Cra. 43 #39-27), another traditional eatery known for its delicious bandeja paisa.
  • Visit the Museum of Antioquia to learn about the region’s history and art, including works by Fernando Botero.
  • Take a stroll through Plaza Botero, where you can see numerous sculptures by Botero himself.

Evening:

  • Enjoy dinner at Paris 6 (Cra. 30 #8a-25), a charming French restaurant with a great atmosphere and excellent food.
  • End your day with a visit to El Peñol, the famous rock near Guatapé, about an hour away from Medellin. Climb the 740 steps to the top for a breathtaking view!

Day 2: Nature and Leisure

Morning:

  • Start your day early at Pergamino (Cra. 38 #13A-60) for a delicious breakfast, offering great coffee and pastries.
  • Head to El Jardín Botánico de Medellín (Carretera El Retiro Km. 9) and spend the morning exploring the beautiful botanical garden.
  • Visit the Parque Explora (Cra. 47A #35-28), an interactive science museum with exhibits on physics, astronomy, and more.

Afternoon:

  • For lunch, head to Café Zelaya (Cra. 33b #12-19) for some of the best Colombian cuisine in Medellin.
  • Relax at Poblado Park, a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. You can rent a bike or just lounge on the grass.
  • Take a dip at Parque Del Río (Cra. 38 #10-50), an urban park with a pool, fountains, and great views of the city.

Evening:

  • Enjoy dinner at La Olla (Cra. 26b #37-49), known for its innovative take on Colombian cuisine in a cozy setting.
  • Take a salsa dancing lesson at La Aguacate (Cra. 38B #12-10) or just watch the locals dance the night away!

Things to Know:

  • Medellin’s weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers and bring a light rain jacket.
  • The city is built on several hills, so expect some steep inclines and consider using the metro or taxi to get around.
  • Colombian Peso (COP) is the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted in restaurants and shops, but it’s always good to have some cash on hand.
  • Spanish is the official language, but many people also speak English, especially in tourist areas.
  • The city is generally safe during the day, but exercise caution at night, especially in less touristy areas.

Transportation:

  • The metro is a convenient and affordable way to get around the city. It’s clean, safe, and runs from early morning until midnight.
  • Taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or ordered by phone. Always agree on the price before getting in the taxi.
  • Uber is also available in Medellin.

Tips:

  • Try as many Colombian fruits as you can! They’re delicious and unique to the region.
  • Be open to trying new things, whether it’s a new dish or a dance lesson. You never know what you might discover!
  • Enjoy your trip to Medellin and remember to always respect the local culture and customs.