Medellin Colombia 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Downtown Medellin & Comuna 13

Morning:

  • Check-in at your hotel. We recommend Patio del Mundo (Cra. 42 #37A-64, El Poblado) for its location and eco-friendly facilities.
  • Enjoy a traditional Colombian breakfast at El Eden (Cra. 38A #3AA-51, El Centro). Try the Arepas or Champús.
  • Visit Plaza Botero (Parque Bertrán) to see sculptures by Colombia’s most famous artist, Fernando Botero.
  • Explore the historic center of Medellin, visit the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Old Bank of the Republic (Banco de la República).

Afternoon:

  • Take a cable car ride to Comuna 13, one of Medellin’s most iconic neighborhoods. Learn about the city’s transformation from a dangerous area into a vibrant tourist destination.
  • Explore the colorful murals and street art in the area. Don’t miss the Escalinatas (escalators) and Trén Urbano (urban train).
  • Have lunch at Parada Comunal in Comuna 13, offering traditional Colombian dishes with a modern twist.

Evening:

  • Return to your hotel and rest before heading out again.
  • Dine at El Cangrejo Loco (Cra. 40 #37A-28, El Centro) for some of the best seafood in town. Try the ceviche or carribean style fish soup “Sancocho”.
  • Experience Medellin’s nightlife in El Poblado at La Oveja Negra (Calle 26 #8a-19), a popular live music venue.

Day 2: Visit Parque Arví & Guatapé Day Trip

Morning:

  • Head to Parque Arví, a large ecological reserve just outside of Medellin. You can take the Metro Cable (cable car) to Santo Domingo station and then a taxi or bus to the park entrance.
  • Spend the day hiking, bird watching, and enjoying the beautiful scenery. There are also zip line tours available for an additional cost.

Afternoon:

  • Return to Medellin in the late afternoon and have dinner at Andres DC (Calle 33B #8A-146), a restaurant with panoramic views of the city. Try the Feijóo con Horno Seco, a traditional Colombian dish.

Evening:

  • If you’re up for it, visit Zona Rosa in El Poblado to continue your night out.

Day 3: Art & Culture Day

Morning:

  • Start the day at the Museum of Modern Art (MAMM) (Carrera 45D #38A-19). Explore contemporary Colombian art and temporary exhibitions.
  • Visit the Museo Casa de la Memoria (Cra. 47B #26-27), a museum dedicated to the victims of violence in Colombia. It’s an emotional but important experience.

Afternoon:

  • Have lunch at Café Zorba (Calle 33A #8a-35, El Poblado) for Greek and Mediterranean cuisine. Try the Mousaka or Falafel.
  • Visit the Museum of Antioquia (Carrera 43 #26B-10), home to works by Botero and other Colombian artists. The building itself is a work of art, designed by architect Jorge Franco.

Evening:

  • Spend your last night in Medellin at Parque Sabaneta, where you can enjoy live music and try local craft beer at the many breweries in the area.

Things to Know:

  • Medellin’s public transport system is safe, affordable, and efficient. Use the Metro (subway) and Metroplus (bus rapid transit).
  • Spanish is the official language, but many people in tourist areas speak some English.
  • Always carry small bills as change may not always be available.
  • Taxis are plentiful, but use reputable companies like TaxiMedellin or EasyTaxi for your safety.

Transportation:

  • Medellin’s public transport system is safe, affordable, and efficient. Use the Metro (subway) and Metroplus (bus rapid transit).
  • Taxis are plentiful, but use reputable companies like TaxiMedellin or EasyTaxi for your safety.

Tips:

  • Stay aware of your surroundings at all times, especially in crowded areas.
  • Always carry a copy of your passport and travel documents.
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions.