Overall, Medellin is a blend of Andean adrenaline rush, colorful art and a vibrant nightlife.
Where I Stayed:
During my visit, I stayed at Hashtag 98 Hotel in the lively El Poblado neighborhood.
This trendy and affordable hotel provided the perfect combination of style and convenience for my trip. Perfect for a weekend getaway!
The hotel has a rooftop bar with sweeping views of Medellin, and it is a safe and short walk to the popular bars and restaurants in the heart of Provenza. Other similar hotel options in the area include The Click Clack Hotel and Selina Hotel.
What I Wore:
Medellin, with its high altitudes, offers a delightful climate similar to Miami, but with its own unique charm.
While the weather remains generally pleasant year-round, occasional passing showers, especially in the evenings, add a refreshing touch of unpredictability. To avoid a hair or makeup mishap, I recommend carrying a plastic poncho in your bag or head scarf as a handy precaution.
Don't fret though, as these showers are usually brief and generally won't disrupt your plans.
Also, the sun can be quite strong, so I recommend packing sunglasses and hats. And it's a good idea to pack some layers for cooler moments caused by the higher elevation.
Medellin, like much of Colombia, is a paradise for adventure enthusiasts. To ensure both comfort and style during your active explorations, make sure to pack reliable sneakers, stylish bags and clothes made of quick-drying fabrics. These practical (yet fashionable) choices will keep you prepared for any exciting endeavors that come your way.
And when it was time to indulge in the bustling nightlife of the Provenza district, I elevated my look with colorful tops and lots of accessories. Medellin's nightlife scene is buzzing with energy, so you'll want to dress to impress.
By pairing your comfortable and functional outfits with fashionable elements, you'll effortlessly transition from adventurous daytime activities to unforgettable nights out.
What I Did:
Hiking, Ziplining, & Hammocks in the Andes Mountains: Calling all nature enthusiasts! Prepare for the ultimate adventure – exploring the breathtaking Andes Mountains. To embark on this thrilling journey, I booked with Ecoventure for an unforgettable experience, but you’ll have plenty of options.
There are so many guides and eco parks in the area that you can find many experienced private guides, or even explore on your own if you can speak a little Spanish.
Magnificent valleys, lush greenery and sparkling waterfalls stretch through the world's largest mountain range, making it a dream destination for outdoor lovers. I ventured high up into the Andes mountains, where I hiked steep trails and zip lined at an altitude of over a thousand feet.
I also enjoyed the stunning views from a hammock suspended by zip lines! Definitely a bucket list item.
The experience was simply exhilarating! When preparing for this adventure, be sure to pack comfortable shoes, bug repellent, and sunscreen to ensure maximum enjoyment.I also found it helpful to carry a waterproof bag containing extra clothes, water, and other essentials.As you'll be doing plenty of walking, it's best to pack light.
City Bike Tour: This tour is a perfect choice for experiencing the city's vibrant culture and diverse architecture.
I booked through Green Bike tours, but there are plenty of other bike tour options.
Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, rent an Encicla bike (similar to Citi bikes in the US), download the free city map and explore on your own. Just be prepared for some steep hills!
During my tour, we made numerous stops at historical landmarks, impressive buildings, and picturesque parks.
One highlights was indulging in some mouthwatering street food, particularly the delicious arepas.
With a group of around 10 people, the tour organizers were attentive, assigning guides to lead from the front and back of the line, ensuring everyone's safety and enjoyment.
I opted for the electric bike tour, which allowed me to conquer the city's many hills with ease.
Medellin is known for its undulating terrain, and the electric bikes proved to be a game-changer, saving energy and keeping me comfortably cool in the warm climate. While it took a little getting used to, the e-bikes provided a comfortable and efficient means of transportation, allowing me to focus on the sights without worrying too much about exhaustion.
Overall, it was a perfect way to explore Medellin and its rich history.
Comuna 13 Tour: Comuna 13 is a must-see during your visit to Medellin. It is one of Medellin's most iconic and renowned neighborhoods, having embraced art and community to recover from a violent and oppressive past.
Once considered the world's most dangerous area, Comuna 13 was plagued by drug cartels, police raids, trafficking, and gang violence.
Following community demonstrations and government intervention, it is now celebrated for its vibrant murals, street art performances, thriving food scene and family-friendly activities.
There are many ways to visit Comuna 13, and it’s easily accessible by Uber (very safe and inexpensive, but in the “gray area” in terms of legality) or public transportation. I hired a private guide with family ties to Comuna 13 who helped me navigate the public transportation system.
I traveled to Comuna 13 via metro, cable car and city bus, which was a fascinating experience.
Medellin's metro system can be quite crowded and the trains do not have maps inside, so it's crucial to keep track of your stops or travel with someone familiar with the system.
To enhance accessibility to the area (built on a steep hillside), cable cars and escalators have been implemented throughout the Comuna 13 neighborhood. It makes the community more accessible, but it’s still advisable to wear comfortable walking shoes!
Street artists and performers adorned the streets, with people composing original poems on vintage typewriters, hip-hop dance groups showcasing their skills, and talented illustrators and painters selling their art.
All with a stunning backdrop of Medellin. Be prepared for lots of shopping and photo ops at Comuna 13!
Night Life in Provenza: The vibrant streets of Provenza buzz, attracting locals and tourists alike with its charming atmosphere.
Nestled in the heart of El Poblado, this delightful neighborhood is a haven for food enthusiasts, offering a wide variety of gastronomy.
As you wander through Provenza, you’ll find everything from cozy cafes serving aromatic Colombian coffee to trendy bistros offering international cuisines. There's something to satisfy every craving, all centrally located in a pedestrian-friendly area framed by twinkling lights at night.
One of the highlights of Provenza is the abundance of outdoor seating areas. The streets are lined with charming cafés and restaurants, their tables spilling onto the sidewalks. As you settle into your preferred location, you can engage in a lively game of cards with friends or simply sit back, relax, and soak up the energetic ambiance of the neighborhood.
And Provenza also offers prime opportunities for people-watching. Due to its lower costs, Medellin is an attractive location for young backpackers and digital nomads.
The area is encircled by hostels and budget-friendly hotels.
The vibrant mix of locals going about their daily routines and visitors exploring the neighborhood creates a captivating view of human interactions.
From stylishly dressed locals on their way to work to carefree travelers sharing tales of their adventures, the streets of Provenza reveal fascinating stories waiting to be discovered.
In the evening, Provenza transforms into a lively hub of nightlife.
The cozy bars and trendy lounges come alive with laughter and music (especially EDM music from talented club DJs), drawing in those seeking a night of fun and dancing into the morning hours!
Paragliding:
The steep mountain ranges and expansive valleys make paragliding a popular activity in Medellin. Although initially apprehensive, I was thrilled with my decision to sign up for a tandem ride. I had the incredible opportunity to soar through the clouds, with majestic peaks and cascading waterfalls in the backdrop.
The 10-minute flight over the mountains and waterfalls was really nothing short of magical. Here are some clips of the amazing views!
Guatapé:
Just a two-hour drive from El Poblado lies the charming town of Guatapé, making it a perfect day trip from Medellin.
This small town is renowned for its vibrant zocalos (painted building panels) and intricately designed architectural elements that adorn every street.
Exploring Guatapé was an absolute delight as I strolled through its picturesque streets, immersing myself in the mesmerizing artwork and history of this indigenous town.
Guatapé's zócalos are ornate and unique. Some homeowners have even copyrighted their designs. Each zócalo showcases the town's rich history and cultural heritage.
I definitely recommend a day trip to Guatapé as a respite from urban and adventure activities.
The stunning lake views, delicious local food and historic architecture provide a perfect getaway from the fast pace of Medellin.
EL Peñon Rock: This enormous rock in Guatapé stands as one of the town's most popular tourist attractions. This massive geological formation, situated in volcanic territory, has retained its imposing size over the years. With a climb reaching about 700 feet, it's a challenge that rewards its visitors with breathtaking views.
Ascending the rock is an invigorating experience, and although it typically takes longer due to the crowds, I managed to conquer it in approximately 20 minutes. This iconic landmark attracts not only tourists but also local families seeking fun outings or a weekend getaway, which creates a lively atmosphere.
Upon reaching the pinnacle, a well-deserved reward awaits. Concession stands offer a variety of refreshments and food, providing a much-needed treat after the climb. Make sure to keep your camera nearby, the views are amazing!
At the base of the rock, a man-made lake adds to the enchantment of the surroundings. Nestled within the valleys, this stunning lake creates a picturesque setting. After the climb, you can visit a selection of charming restaurants and stores. Boats and helicopters are also available for hire to further explore the area.
The combination of the awe-inspiring rock, the picturesque lake, and the lively atmosphere make this destination an unforgettable experience.
Guatapé's iconic rock and its stunning surroundings truly showcase the natural beauty of this captivating Colombian town.
What I Ate/Drank:
To kickstart my trip, I treated myself to a tasty mojito at the rooftop bar of my hotel.
Sipping this refreshing cocktail while enjoying the nighttime view of the city was the perfect way to set the tone for my Medellin adventure.
When it came to dining in Provenza, I took advantage of the international culinary scene. I enjoyed empanadas at Gato and ramen at Yacky Chan.
Both restaurants had chic customers, delicious food, fun DJs and on-trend décor. Dress up and take advantage of the photo ops!
Although I primarily indulged in local food (empanadas, arepas, tostones, bunuelos and tamales), there is truly something for every palate in Medellin.
One local beer I sampled was infused with coffee—delicious!
The drinking age in Colombia is 18, but there are plenty of non-alcoholic beverages to beat the mid-day heat, including "Limonada de Coco," which is lemonade made with coconut water. So refreshing!
Although I only visited for a weekend, I can’t wait to further explore the other regions of Colombia, including the coastal cities of Cartagena and Santa Marta, the urban history of Bogota, the Amazon wildlife of Leticia, and a trek to Ciudad Perdida. Stay tuned for more Colombia posts!
My Travel Playlist:
Medellín: Madonna
On Top Of The World: Imagine Dragons
Cocaine: Eric Clapton
Black Coffee in Bed: Squeeze
Ain't no Mountain High Enough: Marvin Gaye
Gold-Dust Woman: Fleetwood Mac
Casey Jones: Grateful Dead
Can't Feel My Face: The Weeknd
Snowblind: Black Sabbath
The Climb: Miley Cyrus
Fire on the Mountain: Grateful Dead
River Deep Mountain High: Ike and Tina Turner
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