Medellin holidays

How to reach Medellín

• Flight time: Flights to Medellín from the UK typically require one or two layovers. The most common route is via Bogotá, with a direct flight there from London Heathrow taking around 11 hours. From Bogotá, Medellín is a 1-hour flight.

• Transfer time: Medellín's José María Córdova International Airport is located about 35km from the city centre. The most popular transport option is the airport shuttle, which takes around 45 minutes to reach the city centre. Taxis are available and take approximately 30 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic.

• Price: The airport shuttle to Medellín costs around 15,000 Colombian pesos (COP), while a taxi will typically set you back around 80,000–100,000 COP, depending on your final destination.

Best time to visit Medellín

Medellín is known as the city of eternal spring, thanks to its year-round mild and pleasant climate. Although temperatures remain fairly consistent, varying between 18°C to 28°C, the city experiences two rainy seasons. The best time of year for your holidays to Medellín therefore boils down to your preference for drier or cooler conditions.

• December to February is the driest period in Medellín, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. The temperatures hover around 24°C to 28°C with little rainfall, so you’ll enjoy plenty of sunshine and blue skies. Expect around 8 hours of sunshine per day, with almost no rain.

• March to May sees the start of the rainy season. While the mornings are often bright and sunny, there’s usually rain in the afternoons. Average temperatures remain around 22°C to 26°C, with 6–7 hours of sunshine a day and heavier rainfall in the afternoons.

• June to August is another dry season in Medellín, where the temperatures stay between 23°C and 27°C. This is a good time of year for exploring the city’s outdoor attractions and nearby nature reserves. Expect around 7 hours of sunshine each day and occasional showers.

• September to November is the wettest time of year, so be sure to pack appropriately. Daytime temperatures are a comfortable 22°C to 25°C, but rainfall can reach up to 180mm in some months.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Spanish is the official language, but English is spoken in most tourist areas. Learning a few basic Spanish phrases will enhance your experience and help your interactions.

• Local habits and customs: Medellín locals, or Paisas, are known for their warmth and hospitality. It’s customary to greet people with a handshake and by saying “buenas” (a friendly greeting that goes a long way). Be mindful of arriving on time, as Colombians are generally punctual for formal meetings. Tipping in restaurants is customary at around 10 percent.

• Health and safety: Medellín has come a long way from its troubled past and is now considered safe for tourists. However, like any large city, it’s wise to take common-sense precautions. Stick to well-lit areas at night and use registered taxis.

• Currency: The currency is the Colombian peso (COP). ATMs are widely available throughout the city and most places accept credit cards. However, it’s a good idea to carry some cash for smaller vendors and tips.

• Getting around: Medellín’s Metro is clean, efficient and cheap, making it the best way to get around. A single journey costs around 2,500 COP. The Metrocable is a highlight, offering stunning views of the city for the same price as the Metro fare. Taxis are affordable and plentiful, with a typical ride costing 12,000–15,000 COP for a short trip.

• Electricity and plug types: Colombia uses 110V, 60Hz electricity, with two-pronged flat plugs. Visitors from the UK will need an adaptor.

• Time zone: Medellín is on Colombia Time (COT), which is 5 hours behind GMT.

• Required travel documentation: UK travellers do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days in Colombia, but your passport must be valid for at least six months from your date of entry.

Best things to do in Medellín

Medellín is a dynamic city with a diverse array of activities for visitors, from cultural landmarks to outdoor adventures. When you're planning your holidays to Medellín, here are some of the top attractions to help make your trip unforgettable.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Cerro Nutibara: One of the best spots to enjoy panoramic views of Medellín. Located near the city centre, this hill is home to Pueblito Paisa, a charming reconstruction of a traditional Antioquian village. Stroll around the quaint streets, visit the small museum and soak in the views.

• Metrocable: This cable-car system not only serves as public transport but also offers spectacular aerial views. Take the Line J or Line L cable cars to enjoy a bird's-eye view of the city's sprawling neighbourhoods, against a hilly backdrop. Better still, the Parque Arví Metrocable line offers some top-notch views as it ascends into the eco-park.

The best districts

• El Poblado: This upscale area is a favourite for visitors, packed with hotels, restaurants and nightlife. Head to Parque Lleras, the cultural epicentre, to experience the vibrant bar and café culture. The district also boasts more retail therapy than you’ll know what to do with.

• Laureles: For a more laid-back experience, Laureles is a popular residential neighbourhood known for its football stadium, parks and locally owned restaurants. Less touristy than El Poblado, it offers a glimpse into local life with plenty of cosy cafés.

Historic monuments

• Plaza Botero and Museo de Antioquia: No visit to Medellín is complete without admiring the iconic sculptures by Fernando Botero. His distinctive style, featuring large, exaggerated figures, can be seen around the square. The Museo de Antioquia (adjacent to the plaza) houses a collection of Botero’s works and other important Colombian artworks.

• Casa Museo Pedro Nel Gómez: Dedicated to one of Colombia’s most important artists, this museum offers a deep dive into the life and works of Pedro Nel Gómez.

Parks and gardens

• Jardín Botánico: Located near the city centre, this expansive botanical garden is the perfect spot for a peaceful retreat in nature. The garden is home to an array of native plants, a butterfly enclosure and even a large iguana population. Don’t miss the striking Orchideorama, where orchids are displayed in a massive structure resembling giant flowers.

Day trips in the area

• Guatapé: A must-do day trip from Medellín, Guatapé is famous for its colourful zócalos (painted panels) that adorn the lower walls of its houses. Visitors can also climb the nearby Piedra del Peñol – a massive rock formation with spectacular views of the surrounding lakes.

• Santa Fe de Antioquia: This charming colonial town is perfect for a quiet escape. Just a couple of hours from Medellín, it offers cobbled streets, historic churches and warm weather all year round.

Activities for families in Medellín

Medellín offers plenty of family-friendly activities for kids (and adults) of all ages.

• Parque Explora: Children will love this interactive museum, which features dinosaur displays, a planetarium and an aquarium. It’s educational but fun, providing hours of entertainment.

• Aeroparque Juan Pablo II: A water park located near Olaya Herrera Airport, this park features pools, water slides and wave machines, making it perfect for cooling off on a hot day.

• Parque de los Pies Descalzos: This unique park encourages visitors to literally kick off their shoes and explore the tactile landscape of sand, water and bamboo. It’s a fun and interactive way to unwind and get in touch with nature.

Free things to do in Medellín

If you're looking for budget-friendly activities, Medellín has plenty of free attractions that won’t cost you a penny.

• Plaza Botero: Wander around this public square, admiring Fernando Botero’s oversized sculptures, all free to enjoy in the open air.

• The Comuna 13 escalators: Once a troubled area, Comuna 13 is now a symbol of Medellín’s transformation. Visitors can explore the neighbourhood, view vibrant street art and take the public escalators that wind up the steep hillside, all free of charge.

• Cable-car rides: While there is a small fare for the Metrocable, it’s an affordable way to explore the city and enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding mountains.

Local dishes in Medellín

One of the great joys of your Medellín holidays will be the chance to sample the local cuisine. Hearty and packed with flavour, Medellín’s food reflects the traditions of the Antioquia region, with a focus on comfort and fresh ingredients. Here's a guide on what to look out for.

Some typical dishes

• Bandeja Paisa: This iconic dish is a must-try. It’s a hearty platter featuring red beans, rice, ground beef, chicharrón (fried pork belly), fried egg, plantains, avocado and arepas. It's a true taste of Medellín’s culinary heritage.

• Ajiaco: A warming soup made with three types of potatoes, chicken, corn and the local herb guascas. It’s traditionally served with avocado and rice.

Meat dishes

• Chicharrón: Crisp, deep-fried pork belly, often served as a snack or alongside rice and beans.

• Lechona: Slow-roasted pork served with rice, peas and spices. It’s a popular choice on festive occasions.

Street food

• Arepas: A versatile Colombian staple, these cornmeal cakes are most often filled with cheese, meats or eggs. You’ll find them at street vendors across the city.

• Empanadas: These fried pastries are typically stuffed with beef, chicken or cheese, and are a popular street snack.

Sweets and desserts

Medellín has a sweet tooth and the desserts here are not to be missed. Look out for Obleas, thin wafers filled with arequipe (caramel), and Postre de Natas – a creamy, milk-based dessert, flavoured with cinnamon.

Local drinks

• Aguardiente: Colombia’s national drink, this strong spirit is flavoured with anise and often enjoyed neat.

• Canelazo: A warm, spiced drink made from aguardiente, sugar and cinnamon. It’s perfect for Medellín’s cooler evenings.