Medellin, Colombia 4 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring El Poblado

Morning

  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Velvet, a trendy spot in El Poblado serving coffee, pastries, and sandwiches.
  • Visit the nearby Parque Lleras, a vibrant park surrounded by restaurants, bars, and shops.

Afternoon

  • Take a short walk to Museo de Antioquia, a museum showcasing an impressive collection of art and history from Medellín and its region.
  • Explore the trendy neighborhood of El Poblado, known for its boutique hotels, upscale restaurants, and lively nightlife.

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at El Cielo, a renowned restaurant serving gourmet Colombian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
  • Stay at Hotel Park 10, a stylish hotel located in the heart of El Poblado, offering comfortable rooms and excellent service.

Things to Know

  • Medellín is known as the “City of Eternal Spring” due to its pleasant weather year-round.
  • El Poblado is one of the safest neighborhoods in Medellín, but still take necessary precautions with your belongings.

Transportation

  • Take a taxi or ride-hailing service (e.g. Uber) from the airport to your hotel in El Poblado (~30-40 minutes, COP 60,000 - 80,000).
  • Use the city’s efficient metro system (Line A) to get around Medellín.

Day 2: Discovering Comuna 13

Morning

  • Take the metro (Line A) to San Javier Station, then transfer to the Metrocable (Line L) to Andalucía Station.
  • Visit Comuna 13, a formerly troubled neighborhood turned vibrant arts district, featuring street art, music, and dance.

Afternoon

  • Explore the colorful streets of Comuna 13, taking in the lively atmosphere and admiring the urban art.
  • Stop by Casa Kolacho, a community center offering cultural activities, workshops, and local food.

Evening

  • Enjoy traditional Colombian cuisine at Restaurante La Castilla, located in the heart of Comuna 13.
  • Return to your hotel in El Poblado using the metro and Metrocable system.

Tips

  • Be respectful of the community in Comuna 13, as it has a complex history.
  • Don’t miss the stunning views of Medellín from the top of the Metrocable route.

Day 3: Exploring Nature

Morning

  • Take a day trip to Parque Arví, a nature reserve located just outside Medellín (metro + bus, ~1.5 hours).
  • Hike through the lush forest, spotting exotic birds and enjoying breathtaking views of the Aburrá Valley.

Afternoon

  • Visit the Jardín Botánico José María Villa, a beautiful botanical garden featuring over 1,000 plant species.
  • Relax with a picnic lunch in the gardens or grab a bite to eat at one of the on-site restaurants.

Evening

  • Return to El Poblado and enjoy dinner at Al Alma, a cozy restaurant serving creative Colombian cuisine.
  • Stay at Hotel Park 10 for another night, or explore other accommodation options in El Poblado.

Things to Know

  • Medellín is surrounded by mountains, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.
  • Be prepared for changing weather conditions, especially when venturing out of the city.

Transportation

  • Use public transportation (metro + bus) to get to Parque Arví, or book a guided tour that includes transportation.
  • Taxis and ride-hailing services are also available for a door-to-door experience.

Day 4: Medellín’s Downtown

Morning

  • Visit Plaza Botero, a vibrant square featuring 23 sculptures by Fernando Botero and other international artists.
  • Explore the nearby Museo de Arte Moderno de Medellín (MAMM), showcasing an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art.

Afternoon

  • Walk to Parque Berrio, a historic park in downtown Medellín, surrounded by important buildings like the Cathedral and the Governor’s Office.
  • Visit the Palacio de la Cultura Rafael Uribe Uribe, a stunning example of neoclassical architecture.

Evening

  • Enjoy a farewell dinner at El Café de Otraparte, a cozy spot serving traditional Colombian cuisine with a twist.
  • Return to your hotel in El Poblado, or head back to the airport for your departure (metro + taxi, ~30-40 minutes).

Tips

  • Be mindful of your belongings in downtown Medellín, as it can be more crowded and busy than other areas.
  • Don’t miss the stunning views of the city from the top floor of the Palacio de la Cultura Rafael Uribe Uribe.

This itinerary provides a mix of culture, nature, and urban exploration, giving you a well-rounded experience of Medellín. Enjoy your trip!