Wedged into a narrow valley framed by Andean mountains, Colombia’s second-largest city boasts a setting to delight the senses. From a cable car ride into edgy Barrio Santo Domingo to a sensational night of salsa, there’s an astounding array of fantastic things to see and experience. Here are the best things not to be missed. _x000D_
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## A Deeper Dive into the Wonders of Medellín: Beyond the Surface
Medellín, a city nestled amidst breathtaking landscapes and blessed with an eternal spring-like climate, possesses an undeniable allure that captivates visitors from the moment they arrive. It’s a city of contrasts, a vibrant tapestry woven with threads of modernity and tradition, prosperity and struggle. It’s a city that demands to be explored, understood, and appreciated for its complex identity. This dynamic metropolis boasts not one, but two distinct faces, each offering a unique perspective on the essence of Medellín.
While vestiges of the colonial era are few and far between, the downtown core pulsates with a distinctly contemporary energy. Here, striking modern architecture rises towards the sky, creating a skyline that reflects the city’s forward-thinking spirit. The nights come alive with the rhythm of hip nightclubs, drawing crowds eager to dance the night away. And for those seeking intellectual stimulation, an encyclopedic array of museums and cultural venues await, promising hours of discovery and enlightenment. In stark contrast to this urban sophistication, the surrounding hills are adorned with sprawling, often impoverished barrios, a visual reminder of the socio-economic challenges that the city continues to address. Yet, despite these disparities, the Paisas, as the locals are known, share a deep sense of civic pride, particularly when it comes to the city’s remarkably efficient mass transport system. The three MetroCable aerial tram lines, soaring through the air like futuristic gondolas, and the comprehensive Metro rail network, completed in 1996, have played a pivotal role in connecting these marginalized communities to the heart of the city. This integration has not only improved access to opportunities but has also contributed to a reduction in crime, fostering a greater sense of unity and shared identity.
From an exhilarating cable car ride that transports you into the heart of the edgy Barrio Santo Domingo to a sensational night immersed in the intoxicating rhythms of salsa, Medellín offers an astounding array of fantastic things to see and experience. To truly grasp the city’s essence, here are some of the best experiences that should not be missed.
## #1 Discover the Voluptuous Charm of Botero’s Sculptures in Downtown Zona Centro
A truly enriching way to begin your exploration of Medellín is with a leisurely walking tour of the downtown Zona Centro. This vibrant area serves as a focal point, where the majority of the city’s most prominent touristic sites converge. As you wander through the plazas, you’ll be immediately struck by the presence of Fernando Botero’s iconic sculptures. These oversized, voluptuous figures, rendered in his trademark dark chocolatey bronze, exude a unique charm that is both captivating and thought-provoking.
Your journey should commence in Parque San Antonio. While this austere plaza may not win any awards for its aesthetic appeal, it holds significant historical importance. It is here that you’ll find the Pájaros de Paz, a bronze sculpture featuring twin “Birds of Peace.” Tragically, one of these birds is shredded, a stark reminder of the devastating bomb that was detonated here in 1995, claiming the lives of 22 innocent people. In the year 2000, a second bird was added, meticulously replicating the original, serving as a symbol of resilience and hope for a future free from violence.
From Parque San Antonio, take a short stroll north to the lively Parque Berrío. Here, you can admire the Basilica Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria, an 18th-century architectural gem that stands as the city’s most important church. While it was once the dominant structure in the area, it is now dwarfed by the surrounding contemporary buildings, a testament to Medellín’s rapid modernization. As you explore the northwest side of the park, you’ll encounter La Gorda, a striking torso sculpture by Botero, often referred to as “The Fat Lady.” This imposing figure stands proudly in front of the Banco de la República, adding to the park’s artistic allure.
Art-filled public parks have become an integral part of the city’s holistic makeover, transforming urban spaces into vibrant cultural hubs. And at the heart of this transformation lies Plaza Botero, located just one block north of Parque Berrío. The plaza is named in honor of the 23 oversize bronze sculptures that adorn the space, depicting a diverse range of subjects, from animals to naked humans. One sculpture in particular, ‘Soldado Romano’ (Roman Soldier), holds a special significance for the locals. Legend has it that touching its genitals brings good luck in love, a belief that has led to the sculpture’s prominent feature shining from constant fondling. After admiring the sculptures in Plaza Botero, be sure to venture inside the plaza’s Museo de Antioquia. This tri-level museum offers a comprehensive exploration of Botero’s work, alongside exhibits dedicated to other talented local artists and the diverse cultures that make up Colombia’s rich tapestry.
## #2 Ascend to New Heights: Riding the Metro to Barrio Santo Domingo
Medellín is rightfully proud of its efficient and modern mass transportation network, and no visit to the city would be complete without experiencing the MetroCable. This innovative aerial-tram system operates with Swiss-clock precision, with cars departing every three minutes during peak hours. The MetroCable not only provides a convenient means of transportation but also offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and its surrounding landscapes.
Every station is equipped with a puesto de policia (police bureau), ensuring a safe and secure environment for commuters. However, it is generally not advisable to disembark and explore some of the more notorious barrios, such as Comuna 13, without proper guidance. The cable cars’ expansive windows offer an excellent vantage point for safely observing these hard-edged slums from above, providing a glimpse into the realities of life in these communities.
For a truly unforgettable experience, take the ride that ascends sharply uphill from Acevedo station to Barrio Santo Domingo. This mountainside slum, once considered a no-go zone for police, has undergone a remarkable transformation and is now a peaceful and vibrant community. While in Barrio Santo Domingo, be sure to visit the Biblioteca España, a striking black cubist library that perches dramatically over the tin-roofed cinderblock shanties. This architectural masterpiece serves as a symbol of hope and progress, offering educational opportunities and a sense of community pride to the residents of Barrio Santo Domingo.
If time permits, transfer in Santo Domingo to the adjacent Line L metro station and ascend even further beyond the city limits to Parque Arvi. Here, you can immerse yourself in the tranquility of this pristine forest reserve, exploring its numerous hiking trails and reconnecting with nature. Parque Arvi offers a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, providing a serene environment for relaxation and recreation.
## #3 Unleash Your Inner Child: Getting Creative at Parque Explora
Prepare to be amazed, amused, and inspired during a visit to Parque Explora, an interactive science museum that promises an engaging experience for visitors of all ages. Housed in a futuristic building adjacent to the Universidad de Antioquia in Zona Norte, Parque Explora is a treasure trove of knowledge and discovery.
Families flock to this remarkable institution to marvel at the more than 300 hands-on displays and experiences, each designed to educate and entertain. From a state-of-the-art planetarium that transports you to the far reaches of the universe to a captivating 3D auditorium that brings scientific concepts to life, Parque Explora offers a diverse range of activities that cater to various interests. The museum’s exhibits cover a wide spectrum of scientific disciplines, including biology, geography, media, physics, and technology, ensuring that there is something for everyone to enjoy.
One of the highlights of Parque Explora is its world-class aquarium, the largest in South America. Here, you can observe a diverse array of aquatic species found in Colombia’s rivers, from the electrifying electric eels and the fearsome piranhas to the magnificent pirarucu, an antediluvian species that can grow to an impressive 3 meters (10 feet) in length. The museum also features a vivarium, showcasing a fascinating collection of poison-dart frogs and snakes of various sizes, providing a glimpse into the incredible biodiversity of Colombia’s natural environment.
## #4 Immerse Yourself in Floral Extravaganza: The Feria de Los Flores
The region surrounding Medellín is renowned as Colombia’s foremost center for flower production, making it the perfect location for the annual Festival of Flowers, the City of Eternal Spring’s most important and vibrant celebration.
This ten-day extravaganza, held in mid-summer, is a jubilant celebration of regional Antioquian culture, transforming the streets of Medellín into a kaleidoscope of color and joy. The highlight of the festival is undoubtedly the Desfile de Silliteros, a breathtaking parade in which porters (silliteros) carry extravagant floral arrangements on their backs, transforming themselves into walking works of art. These intricate displays, known as silletas, are meticulously crafted by local farmers, showcasing the region’s incredible floral diversity and the artistic talent of its people.
The Paisas truly know how to party, and the Feria de Los Flores offers a plethora of other attractions to enjoy. From a special parade for children to a traditional cabalgata (horse parade), a motorcyclists’ parade, and a classic automobile parade, there is something for everyone to delight in. The festivities also include dazzling fireworks displays and a non-stop lineup of musical concerts, ensuring that the city is alive with energy and excitement throughout the ten-day celebration.
## #5 Delving into a Dark Chapter: The Pablo Escobar Tour
Pablo Escobar (1949-1993), one of the world’s most notorious criminals, remains inextricably linked to the history and identity of Medellín. Rising from an impoverished childhood, he amassed immense wealth and power, ultimately controlling the ruthless Medellín drug cartel. At one point, he was even named the seventh richest man in the world.
For those seeking to understand the complex story of Pablo Escobar, a half-day Pablo Escobar Historical Tour offers a glimpse into his life and legacy. The tour visits several sites associated with the infamous drug lord, providing insights into his rise to power, his reign of terror, and his eventual downfall. Escobar unleashed a brutal wave of violence throughout Colombia, famously offering police, judges, and politicians a choice of plata o plomo—silver (bribe) or lead (bullet).
While responsible for countless assassinations and bombings, including the tragic Avianca flight 203, Escobar was also viewed by many poor locals as a kind of Robin Hood, due to his philanthropic donations. However, it’s important to acknowledge that there are many other locals who strongly disapprove of the tours, viewing them as an exaltation of a brutal terrorist. It’s crucial to approach this topic with sensitivity and respect for the diverse perspectives of the people of Medellín.
If you do choose to embark on a tour, it typically begins with a visit to Edificio Monaco, Escobar’s five-story fortress-like cement home, scarred by two bombs planted by the rival Cali cartel. The tour then proceeds to his mountainside hideout, where Colombian special forces gunned down Escobar on December 2, 1993, as he attempted to flee across the roof. Finally, you’ll visit his grave at Cementerio Jardines de Montesacro, located on the southern outskirts of the city. Don’t be surprised to see fresh flowers adorning his tomb, placed by admirers who continue to remember him.
## #6 Feel the Roar of the Crowd: The Thrill of a Professional Football Game
Colombians possess an unwavering passion for football (soccer), rivaled only by their enthusiasm for beauty pageants. The fans’ dedication is unmatched, and witnessing one of Medellín’s two professional football teams–Atlético Nacional (widely considered the country’s top team) and Deportivo Independiente—in action is an experience that will leave you breathless.
Forget watching a game on television; to truly understand the fervor surrounding Colombian football, you must head to the Estadio Atanasio Girardot (which the teams share) and immerse yourself in the live atmosphere. The stadium is conveniently served by the Estadio Metro station, making it easily accessible. The atmosphere inside the stadium is one of noisy revelry, with passionate fans cheering on their teams with unwavering enthusiasm. The most “passionate” fans tend to congregate in the south side of the stadium, where the energy is particularly intense. However, sitting in this section can be overwhelming, especially if the fans’ excitement spills over into fist-fights or worse. Games between the two local teams – whose rivalry is legendary – are potentially the most volatile.
Games are typically held on Wednesdays, with occasional weekend matches, offering ample opportunities to experience the thrill of Colombian football firsthand.
## #7 Unleash Your Inner Dancer: A Late Night on the Town
A night on the town in MedellÍn is synonymous with drinking, dancing, and letting loose. The Paisas have an unbridled love for dancing, and the city’s nightlife pulsates with infectious rhythms of reggaeton, salsa, bachata, and vallenato. MedellÍn boasts a salsa caliente nightlife that is hot enough to cook the pork, promising an unforgettable experience for those seeking to dance the night away.
Great venues are scattered throughout the city, each offering a unique ambiance and musical style. The city’s nightlife scene is constantly evolving, with areas that were once popular falling out of favor, so it’s always a good idea to ask locals for recommendations on the latest hotspots.
However, you can’t go wrong in El Poblabo, a bohemian enclave centered around Parque Lleras. On weekend nights, the city’s young, stylish, and beautiful throng to the park, which is surrounded by a plethora of excellent restaurants, bars, and nightclubs catering to every taste and budget. From trendy rooftop bars with stunning city views to intimate salsa clubs where you can learn to move like a local, El Poblabo offers a diverse range of nightlife options.
For a more upscale experience, take a 20-minute walk south along Avenida Poblado to Centro Comercial La Strada and Río Sur complex, each housing some of the most popular high-end clubs and rooftop bars in the city. Here, you can sip on expertly crafted cocktails while enjoying breathtaking views of the Medellín skyline.
The music is generally very loud at most dance venues, so prepare to forget about conversation and instead focus on letting loose and having a great time. Grab a partner, hit the dance floor, and immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Medellín’s nightlife scene.
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