You’re wondering what to do in Medellin? Well, Medellín is a city of mountains, music, friendly people, and small surprises around every corner. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a few weeks, you’ll find a mix of outdoor adventures, culture, food, and lively neighbourhoods to explore. Here are tried-and-true ideas to help you plan your days, plus a special way to make the most of your trip: learn Spanish for a day with us.
1. Take the Metrocable and enjoy the views
The cable cars are part of Medellín’s public transport and also one of the best ways to see the city from above. Ride up to Santo Domingo or Arví and watch the valley expand beneath you; it’s great for photos and a quick geography lesson.
2. Walk around Plaza Botero and Museo de Antioquia
Plaza Botero is filled with oversized sculptures by Fernando Botero and is located next to the Museo de Antioquia, which features local art and rotating exhibitions. It’s a short, central stop that gives you a feel for Medellín’s creativity and history.
3. Visit Comuna 13 (street art and transformation)
Comuna 13 went from being one of the city’s most dangerous areas to a global example of urban transformation. Take a guided street-art tour to learn about the murals, the outdoor escalators, and community projects that power the neighbourhood today.
4. Day trip to Guatapé and El Peñol
If you have a day, head about two hours out of the city to Guatapé. Climb the 740+ steps of El Peñol for an unforgettable panoramic view, then stroll through the colourful town with its painted zócalos (decorative lower facades).
5. Walk in Parque Arví
It’s the perfect place for a quieter day: Parque Arví is an excellent choice for hiking and nature. Entry to Parque Arví itself is free, but there is a fee if you want to do a self-guided hike on the official trails or join a guided walk with a local ranger. The guided hikes are affordable (7 USD aprox.), safe, and a great way to learn about native plants and local history. Pack water and sunscreen and enjoy a slower pace.If you have a day, head about two hours out of the city to Guatapé. Climb the 740+ steps of El Peñol for an unforgettable panoramic view, then stroll through the colourful town with its painted zócalos (decorative lower facades).
6. Eat like a local: try bandeja paisa and street food
Don’t miss bandeja paisa if you want a full local meal (recommended restaurants are Hacienda Origen, and Mondongo’s). Also try arepas, empanadas, fresh fruit juices, and great Colombian coffee at small cafés. For a quick and tasty experience, ask locals where they go, the best spots aren’t always the busiest.
7. Explore El Poblado and Laureles for food and nightlife
El Poblado boasts lively restaurants, bars, and rooftop views, while Laureles offers a cozier, more local nightlife with excellent eateries and cafés. Both neighbourhoods are great for evening plans.
8. Relax in Jardín Botánico
The Jardín Botánico Joaquín Antonio Uribe is one of Medellín’s most charming spots; free to enter, easy to reach, and full of plants, birds, and shaded paths. You can stroll through the orchid collection, visit the butterfly house (when open), walk around the small lake, or simply sit under the giant canopy of the Orquideorama, the park’s iconic wooden structure designed to collect rainwater. If you come in September, you can also join the anual Fiesta del Libro y la Cultura (Book and Culture fair).
9. Learn Spanish for a day: practical, fun, and local (with us)
Want to make your trip more meaningful? Join our one-day Spanish experience designed especially for travelers. In 2–4 hours you’ll learn basic Spanish to navigate the country, and practical phrases to use in markets, taxis, cafés, and with new friends. What to expect:
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- Short, hands-on lessons focused on useful phrases and pronunciation
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- Role-play activities (ordering food, asking for directions, bargaining)
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- Local vocabulary tied to the parts of the city you plan to visit
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- Class notes and quick practice tasks you can use on the same day
This is a friendly, low-pressure way to connect more with people you meet in Medellín and feel confident using Spanish while you explore.
- Class notes and quick practice tasks you can use on the same day
10. Take a coffee tour or a local food tour
Colombia is coffee country. A short coffee tour will teach you about the process from bean to cup, and a food tour will introduce you to regional dishes and hidden gems you might otherwise miss.
Quick tips before you go to Medellín
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- Carry a small amount of cash for markets and taxis; many places accept cards, but not all.
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- Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps for convenience.
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- Learn a few polite phrases in Spanish; locals really appreciate the effort.
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- Keep a water bottle with you; the city is warm and hilly.
Medellín is a city that rewards curiosity: take the cable car for views, follow the murals for stories, and try a one-day Spanish session to get more out of every conversation. If you’d like to join our one-day Spanish experience while you’re in town, check the “Classes” or “Contact” page on our website to see available times; it’s a fun and practical way to bring your Medellín trip to life.