There was a time from the 1980s to the 1990s when people feared going to Medellin, Colombia. The city was known for widespread violence and social inequality. But in just two decades, Medellin has amazingly transformed itself into a prosperous and inclusive urban center attracting global recognition.
Tourists now enthusiastically sign up for Medellin tours, attracted by its vibrant culture, fantastic food scene, and hospitable people. Let’s dive into the things you can do and the places you can visit in the city.
Discover What You Can Do in Medellin
Visit Museo de Antioquia
The Museo de Antioquia is one of the most important museums in Colombia. It houses an extensive collection of pre-Columbian and colonial-era artwork, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in the history and culture of the country. In addition to the artwork on display, the museum also has a café and a gift shop.
The museum is located in a renovated, colonial-style building in the El Poblado district, one of the most popular areas of Medellín. Admission is free for children under 12, and discounts are available for students and seniors. It’s open Tuesday to Sunday from 9 am to 5 pm.
Appreciate Art in Parque Botero
Fernando Botero is one of Colombia’s most famous artists. His sculptures are on display for the public to enjoy in the Plaza de las Esculturas, also known as Parque Botero. The plaza is located in the city of Medellin, and it features 24 of Botero’s stunning sculptures.
The sculptures are colorful, and they depict a variety of subjects, including animals, people, and everyday objects. Made from bronze and granite, they range in size from small statues to larger-than-life figures. Botero’s sculptures are unique in that they are often exaggerated in size, making them instantly recognizable.
In addition to the sculptures, Parque Botero features a museum devoted to the artist’s work. The museum houses a collection of paintings, drawings, and other works by Botero and a library with information about his life and work. Visitors can’t miss Parque Botero while they’re in Medellin.
Relax at Jardin Botanico de Medellin
The Jardin Botanico de Medellin is a beautiful botanical garden covering an area of 70 hectares. The park is home to more than 1,500 species of plants, including many native to Colombia. In addition to the gardens, there is also a butterfly house, an aviary, and a museum.
The garden is open every day from 9 am to 5 pm, and admission is free for children under 12. Visitors can stroll through the gardens, admiring the variety of plant life on display, or take part in one of the many educational programs offered by the staff.
Whether you’re a seasoned botanist or just looking for a pleasant place to spend an afternoon, the
Jardin Botanico de Medellin is sure to impress. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting Colombia’s second-largest city.
Immerse in Nature at Parque Arvi
Parque Arvi is a nature reserve located just outside of Medellin. The park covers an area of more than 18,000 hectares and is home to a variety of plant and animal life. Visitors can take advantage of the many hiking trails or go horseback riding, bird watching, or camping.
Parque Arvi is also a popular spot for rock climbing, and there are several routes of varying difficulty. The park is open from 8 am to 5 pm every day, and admission is free.
Take a Side Trip to Guatape
Another must-do when in Medellin is to take a trip to nearby Guatape. The area is home to several small villages, each with its own unique history and culture. Guatape is known for attractive houses and buildings decorated with colorful tiles and bas reliefs.
To get to Guatape from Medellin, you can take a bus from the Terminal del Norte. The journey takes around two hours. Once in Guatape, you can walk around the town and admire the architecture or take a boat ride on the reservoir.
Guatape tours are popular because of the massive granite rock formations that make up the landscape. There are also several restaurants and cafes where you can get something to eat or drink. If you’re looking for a souvenir, plenty of shops sell local handicrafts.
Bask in the Beauty of La Piedra del Penon
The La Piedra del Penon is a massive rock formation located in Guatape. The rock is over 200 meters tall, and it has 740 steps leading to the top. From the top of the rock, there are panoramic views of the surrounding area.
The La Piedra del Penon is a popular tourist destination. The journey to the top of the rock is not for the faint-hearted, but it is definitely worth it for the views.
If you’re visiting Medellin, add Guatape to your list of places to see. There is plenty to do in this small town, and it’s a great day trip from Medellin.
Get Ready for a Packed Adventure
Your vacation will be packed with excitement on Medellin tours and Guatape tours. With so much to see and do, you’re sure to have a memorable trip. Book your tour and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.
Medellin VIP offers full-service vacations to the capital of Antioquia, Colombia, known as the City of Eternal Spring. For inquiries about our Medellin tours, fill out our form today.
