What to see in Medellín, the city of eternal spring

Medellín is lived, felt, and danced to. Capital of the Antioquia department, in northwestern Colombia , this Andean metropolis has left behind a complex history to become one of the most vibrant , innovative , and cosmopolitan tourist destinations in Latin America .

Located in a valley surrounded by mountains , Medellín is known worldwide as " the city of eternal spring ," not only for its mild and temperate climate throughout the 12 months of the year (with an average temperature of 22°C ), but also for the warm and welcoming spirit of its people, its flower-filled streets , and its festive atmosphere .

Furthermore, in recent years, Medellín has also been crowned the reggaeton capital , a distinction that goes beyond music. This is the hometown of artists like J Balvin , Maluma , Karol G , Feid, and Blessd , who have put Medellín at the top of global music charts . In taxis , bars , plazas , and at massive concerts, the city vibrates with the rhythm of urban music .

But Medellín is much more than reggaeton and good weather . It's a city that blends tradition and modernity , nature and technology , history and urban art . If you're planning a trip to this Colombian destination , here's what to see in Medellín to fall in love with its charm.

Historic center: the traditional soul of Medellín

The heart of Medellín beats strongly in its historic center , an area where heritage buildings tell stories of yesteryear . You can start at Bolívar Park , a tree-lined and tranquil space where you'll find the imposing Metropolitan Cathedral , one of the largest brick churches in the world.

Just steps away, you can visit the Church of San José , the Minor Basilica of La Candelaria , the classic Berrío Park , and the charming Church of Veracruz , one of the oldest colonial churches in the city. Walking through these streets is like stepping back into early 20th-century Medellín , where a nostalgic and poetic atmosphere still lingers.

For art lovers: Botero Plaza and the Museum of Antioquia

Just a few blocks from Parque de Berrío lies one of Medellín 's most iconic landmarks: Plaza Botero , an open-air museum showcasing 23 monumental sculptures by the master Fernando Botero , Colombia's most internationally renowned artist. His voluptuous figures capture the essence of Latin American art and are a favorite spot for taking photos, located very close to the Palace of Culture .

Facing the plaza is the Museum of Antioquia , one of the most important in the country, with a collection that includes works by Botero , as well as colonial, modern , and contemporary art . It is an ideal place to understand the cultural evolution of the region and explore high-quality exhibitions .

Nature and the cable car in Arví Park

If you love nature , you can't miss Arví Park , an ecological reserve located in the upper part of the city. The best part is that you can get there by cable car , enjoying a spectacular view of Medellín from above as you travel through the hillside neighborhoods .

The park offers ecological trails , birdwatching , farmers' markets , and a complete escape from the urban bustle . It's the perfect place to connect with Andean biodiversity .

If you're traveling with children or simply enjoy interactive spaces , Parque Explora is a must-see. This science, technology, and innovation museum features an aquarium , planetarium , interactive rooms , and educational exhibits . It's ideal for a fun , unique , and highly informative day out.

Also noteworthy is the Joaquín Antonio Uribe Botanical Garden , one of the city's green lungs . It boasts over a thousand species of flora , an impressive orchidarium , lakes , tropical gardens , and areas for picnics or walks . It's ideal for relaxing and connecting with nature without leaving the urban area, even at night.

Vibrant neighborhoods and towns with history

The neighborhoods of Medellín have been at the forefront of the city's rebirth . Comuna 13 , once a symbol of conflict, is now a prime example of transformation through art . Walking its graffiti-covered streets , riding the outdoor escalators , and listening to the stories of its residents is an experience that blends emotion , art , and hope .

In Manrique , also known as the " tango neighborhood ," tribute is paid to the legacy of Carlos Gardel and the artistic expressions of classic Medellín . Musicians , writers , and artists who left their mark on Colombian culture were born and lived here.

At night, the epicenter of nightlife is the El Poblado neighborhood, home to the famous Zona Rosa , a hub of bars , nightclubs , rooftop bars , and top-notch restaurants . Here you can enjoy a drink with panoramic views , dance until dawn, or simply soak up Medellín 's chic and cosmopolitan atmosphere .

On the other hand, located on Nutibara Hill , Pueblito Paisa is a recreation of a typical 19th-century Antioquian village . Walking along its cobblestone streets , visiting its white church , its plaza , and its artisan shops is like taking a trip back in time. From the top of the hill, you also get one of the best panoramic views of the city.

Furthermore, although it's about 80 km from Medellín , a visit to Guatapé and the Piedra del Peñol is one of the most highly recommended excursions . Guatapé is a town of vibrant colors and decorative baseboards that seems straight out of a fairytale, while the Piedra del Peñol is a giant monolith that you can climb by ascending 740 steps for a spectacular view of the reservoir .

Flower Festival in Medellín 6 days / 5 nights

When to go to Medellín? The Flower Festival is in August!

If you travel in August , you can't miss the Flower Festival , the city's most important cultural event . During the first weeks of the month, Medellín dresses up with concerts , parades , exhibitions , and, of course, the spectacular Desfile de Silleteros (Flower Parade ), in which farmers from Santa Elena carry enormous flower-decorated chairs on their backs in a vibrant tribute to the Paisa culture .

The Flower Festival perfectly encapsulates the colorful , resilient , and proud soul of Medellín , a city that has reinvented itself from its roots to become a complete, creative , musical , and welcoming destination . The city of eternal spring awaits you!

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