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Things to do in Medellin
Medellin, located in the Aburra Valley in the Andes Mountain range, is the second-largest city in Colombia. Known as the City of Eternal Spring, Medellin is a vibrant and bustling metropolis that offers a wide range of attractions for visitors to explore. From cultural landmarks to outdoor adventures and delicious cuisine, Medellin has something for everyone. In this essay, we will explore some of the top things to do in Medellin.
Explore the Comuna 13
Comuna 13, located on the west side of Medellin, is a vibrant and colorful neighborhood that has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past decade. Once known for its high levels of crime and poverty, Comuna 13 has become a hub of street art, music, and dance. Take a guided tour of the neighborhood to learn about the history of the area and see the impressive street art that adorns the walls of buildings throughout the community. You can also check out the famous escalators that were built to help residents travel up and down the steep hillsides of the neighborhood.
Visit the Museo de Antioquia
The Museo de Antioquia is one of the most important cultural institutions in Medellin. Located in the heart of the city, the museum features a collection of more than 5,000 works of art, including pieces by renowned Colombian artist Fernando Botero. The museum also features exhibits on the history and culture of the Antioquia region, making it a great place to learn about the local area.
Take a cable car to Parque Arvi
Parque Arvi is a nature reserve located just outside of Medellin. To get there, take the cable car from the Acevedo station to the Santo Domingo station. The ride itself is an attraction, as you’ll get a bird’s eye view of the city as you ascend the mountain. Once you arrive at Parque Arvi, you can go hiking, bird watching, or take a guided tour to learn about the flora and fauna of the area.
Learn about the coffee culture at Hacienda Napoles
Colombia is known for its coffee, and Hacienda Napoles is a great place to learn about the history and culture of coffee production. Located about two hours from Medellin, Hacienda Napoles was once the home of notorious drug lord Pablo Escobar. Today, the estate has been converted into a theme park that features exhibits on the history of the region, as well as a zoo, water park, and other attractions.
Explore the Botanical Garden of Medellin
The Botanical Garden of Medellin is a beautiful green space located in the heart of the city. The garden features more than 1,000 species of plants, including a large collection of orchids. There are also several sculptures and other works of art scattered throughout the garden, making it a great place to explore and take in the beauty of nature.
Go paragliding in San Felix
If you’re looking for a bit of adventure, consider going paragliding in San Felix. Located just outside of Medellin, San Felix offers some of the best paragliding in the world, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. You can take a tandem flight with an experienced guide, or sign up for a paragliding course if you want to learn how to fly on your own.
Visit the El Penol rock formation
Located about two hours from Medellin, the El Penol rock formation is a natural wonder that is definitely worth the trip. The giant rock, which is more than 200 meters tall, can be climbed via a staircase that leads to a viewing platform at the top. From the platform, you can take in stunning views of the surrounding countryside, including the nearby Guatape reservoir. The area around El Penol is also home to a number of small towns and villages that offer a glimpse into traditional Colombian life.
Experience Medellin’s nightlife
Medellin is known for its vibrant nightlife, with countless bars, clubs, and restaurants catering to all tastes and budgets. Whether you’re looking for live music, salsa dancing, or just a quiet drink, you’re sure to find something to suit your preferences. Some of the best areas for nightlife in Medellin include Parque Lleras, El Poblado, and La 70.
Take a food tour
Colombian cuisine is diverse and delicious, with influences from Europe, Africa, and indigenous cultures. A food tour is a great way to experience the best of Medellin’s culinary scene, with stops at local markets, street food stalls, and restaurants. Sample traditional dishes like bandeja paisa, a hearty platter of beans, rice, meat, and plantains, or arepas, a type of flatbread made from cornmeal.
Attend a football match
Football, or soccer, is hugely popular in Colombia, and attending a match is a great way to experience the passion and energy of the sport. Medellin is home to two professional football teams, Atletico Nacional and Independiente Medellin, and tickets are usually easy to come by. The atmosphere at a Colombian football match is electric, with singing, chanting, and cheering from start to finish.
In conclusion, Medellin is a city that offers a wealth of attractions and experiences for visitors to enjoy. From exploring colorful neighborhoods and learning about local history and culture to experiencing the natural beauty of the surrounding countryside and indulging in delicious Colombian cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant and exciting city. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, adventure seeker, or foodie, Medellin is sure to leave a lasting impression and create memories that will last a lifetime.
