A city of Eternal Spring- that is a pleasant nickname of Medellín, a city in Colombian district Antioquia. It is one of the most beautiful places in South America, hence I created for you a little guide to Medellin for first timers. The nickname has been given to this city for a reason, thanks to the pleasant climate throughout the whole year and blooming flowers wherever you look. People of Medellín, paisas (or as they are called Texans of Colombia), create a specific atmosphere in the city causing a big cultural difference from the rest of the country. You can quickly notice their sincerity, culture and friendliness.

First time in Medellín? Here you have a little guide

Yes, a few pointers if you are visiting this city for the first time, because once you go there, you will like to go back again.

What to see and do in Medellín

Pueblito Paisa

It is a ‘little town’ located on top a hill called Nutibara, from where you can get a panoramic view of the city. Pueblito Paisa is a replica of a typical town of Anioquia with a square decorated in the middle by a stone fountain, a church, school and artisanal shops.

You can get there by car (or taxi) or walking along paths through a little park. It is a 20-minute walk from the Industriales metro station.

When you get to Pueblito Paisa, save yourself to have lunch there in a colorful restaurant that serves the best Bandeja Paisa, a typical Colombian dish, some say that it might be the most known dish.

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El Castillo Museo y Jardines

The entrance to this castle, which has been inspired by the castles of French Loire Valley, and its gardens costs COP$8000.

Jardin Botanico

Great place when you want to escape from the business of the city life. This park hosts many concerts, festivals and other events throughout the whole year. Take a metro to the station Universidad and from there you can easily reach to the gardens.

Parque Berrío

It is located aside de square with Botero sculptures, a park of a vibrant atmosphere where you can try fresh juices and fruits from street vendors and witness shows and listen to real Colombian music. The main point of attention is a statue of Pedro Justo Berrío, an important political figure of the region of the XIX century.

Plazoleta de las Esculturas

Just in front of Museo de Antioquia there is a square with 23 large bronze sculptures designed by a local and worldwide famous artist- Fernando Botero.

Parque Arví

This is an excellent “escape from the city” place. A huge park spread over a wild forest in Santa Elena. The nicest and easiest way to get there is to jump on a metrocable, line L. The view during your ride is really amazing. Since the city is placed in a valley, you can see it all from the metrocable train as you approach the park. Once in there, you can hike, visit a butterfly centre, do canopy lines or enjoy some lakes.

You can take the train at the Santiago Domingo station and it costs COP$4600 each way.

Stroll around El Poblado

A great neighbourhood full of restaurants of all kinds, friendly cafes, cool bars and small shops with original clothes, accessories gadgets.

Favourite travel resources:

Booking.com for searching best prices on accommodation.
Discover Cars is a great website as they search both local and international car hire services, so you can choose the best deal for yourself. Make sure though, that the company has a good reputation and reviews.
Get Your Guide is my place to go for searching and booking tours and excursions, especially when I travel solo.
World Nomads travel insurance. I like them because they have quite extensive coverage of different activities.
Jack’s Flight Club is a service that can save you hundreds of dollars on flights, it works especially well in Europe.
Trivago where you can search and save on hotels.
Go City is a perfect site for booking bucket list experiences and attractions all in one to avoid paying for multiple tickets. Easy and saves money.
Trip Advisor– amazing for good quality recommendations.
Skyscanner is a perfect website for searching flight routes and comparing prices.

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Where to stay in Medellín

Together with my own experiences and a few other travel bloggers that stayed in Medellín and were very happy with their accommodation, I have prepared for you a few ideas on where to stay in Medellín. Surely, there wouldn’t be a first timer’s guide without hotel recommendations.

Luxury:

The Charlee Hotel– it is a perfect choice if you fancy a rooftop swimming pool and an impressive full breakfast.

Hotel York Luxury Suites– an amazing hotel with an infinity pool and city views. It’s the top luxury, yet budget-friendly.

Average budget:

1616 Hotel Medellin– a beautiful hotel with a luxurious feel and friendly for your budget.

Hostels:

Rango Hostel Boutique– it is a hostel that you would not expect. This hostel mixes a backpacking vibe with luxury.

Los Patios Cool Living– a cool place if you want some company.

Weather in Medellín

It is known that the weather in the city is a springlike all year round with the most rainfalls in April, May, September, October and November, although it can rain any time. It is therefore a good idea to bring with you a rain jacket or a small umbrella.

Tours in Medellin

If you’d like to have this post for your reference any time you want (even with no WI-FI!), have a look at GPSmycity mobile app. It makes my traveling easier and I hope it will be helpful to you too.

Of course there’s much more to do and see in Medellín and this little guide is only a starting point. What other cities you think need to be visited more than once?

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