Medellín in 1 Day: Complete Guide to Get to Know the City

Known as the “City of Eternal Spring” for its pleasant climate all year round, Medellín is one of the most vibrant cities in Colombia. If you only have one day to explore Medellín, don’t worry: with a good plan, you can enjoy its main attractions and get a great impression of the Paisa culture. This guide is designed to maximize your time and make sure you experience the best of Medellín in 24 hours. Let’s get started!

You may be interested in: activities to do in Medellín.

7:00 AM - Breakfast in the Historic Center

Your day in Medellin should start with a good traditional breakfast. We recommend going to the Historic Center , where you can find traditional food options such as arepa con queso , buñuelos and a good hot chocolate .

A highlight is the Salón Versalles , a restaurant with more than 60 years of tradition that offers a variety of Colombian dishes. In addition, you will be close to several tourist places that you can visit below.

Nearby places:

• Berrío Park : A meeting point for the paisas, here you can see the Monument to Pedro Justo Berrío and some works of art that adorn the space.
• Plaza Botero : Just a few steps away is the famous plaza with 23 sculptures by the master Fernando Botero. Take a moment to enjoy these iconic figures.

9:00 AM - Antioquia Museum

From Plaza Botero , you can head straight to the Museo de Antioquia , which is just across the street. This museum houses one of the most comprehensive collections of Colombian art, with works by Fernando Botero , as well as other international artists. The museum is a must-see for those who want to understand the cultural history of Medellín and the Antioquia region.

A tour of this museum will take you no more than an hour and a half, and you will leave with a deeper understanding of the city and its artistic identity.

10:30 AM - Medellin Metro and Pueblito Paisa

One of the prides of Medellin residents is their efficient and modern transportation system, the Medellín Metro . From the center, take the metro at the Parque Berrío station and head to the Industriales station, where you can take a short walk to Pueblito Paisa .

This place is a recreation of a typical Antioquian town, with colorful houses, craft shops and a spectacular panoramic view of the city. It is ideal for photos and to learn a little about the traditional architecture of the region.

12:30 PM - Lunch in El Poblado: Enjoy Paisa Gastronomy

After visiting Pueblito Paisa, it\'s time to enjoy a delicious lunch. Medellín is famous for its bandeja paisa , a generous dish that includes rice, beans, pork rinds, ground beef, fried egg, avocado, and ripe plantain.

El Poblado neighborhood is one of the best places to enjoy a good meal. Here you will find high-quality restaurants that offer both traditional Colombian food and international options. If you want a local recommendation, you can visit Hato Viejo , a restaurant with traditional Paisa dishes that will leave you satisfied for the rest of the day.

2:00 PM - Explore Arví Park with the Metrocable

After lunch, head to Acevedo metro station, where you can board the Metrocable to Arví Park . This is one of the best plans if you only have one day in Medellín, as it combines a cultural and ecological experience in one.

The Metrocable is a unique experience in Medellín: you will soar over the mountains surrounding the city, getting breathtaking panoramic views. Upon reaching Arví Park, you will find a protected natural space with hiking trails, picnic areas and outdoor activities. A quick walk through the park will allow you to disconnect from the bustle of the city and breathe fresh air.

Tip : If you have more time, you can opt for a guided tour or have a picnic in the park. However, since your time is limited, a quick walk to appreciate nature will suffice.

4:30 PM - Coffee in Commune 13 and Urban Art

After exploring Arví Park, hop back on the metro and head to San Javier station to visit the famous Comuna 13. This area, once known for its violence, has been transformed into a symbol of resilience and urban art. Today, the commune is an epicenter of colorful murals, music, and culture.

You can take a guided walk to learn about the commune’s history of social transformation, or simply ride the escalators and enjoy the views and street art. Don’t forget to stop at one of the local cafes to try a Colombian coffee while admiring the murals that tell stories of struggle and hope.

6:30 PM - Sunset on Nutibara Hill

One of the best places to watch the sunset in Medellin is Nutibara Hill , where Pueblito Paisa is also located. If you didn\'t manage to visit it earlier in the day, this is your chance to do so. From the top of the hill, you\'ll have a 360-degree view of the city.

As the sun sets, Medellin lights up with bright lights, showing another side of the city. It\'s a great place to relax and reflect on your day.

8:00 PM - Dinner and Nightlife in Provence

To end your day in Medellín, there is no better place than Provenza , one of the most vibrant areas of the city. This neighborhood is known for its first-class gastronomic offering and its lively nightlife.

You can enjoy dinner at a modern restaurant like Carmen , which fuses Colombian cuisine with international influences. If you prefer something more casual, La Chagra offers options based on Amazonian ingredients, perfect for experiencing something different.

If you still have energy after dinner, Provence is also famous for its bars and clubs, where you can enjoy good music and dance to the rhythm of reggaeton or salsa, if you wish.

Additional Tips for Your Day in Medellin

1. Wear Comfortable Clothing : Medellin has a pleasant climate, but it is important to be prepared to walk. Choose light clothing, but bring a light jacket for the afternoon.
2. Beware of Traffic : Although the metro is very efficient, traffic in Medellin can be difficult, especially during rush hour. Plan your trips with plenty of time.
3. Hire Local Tours : In places like Comuna 13, it is advisable to take a guided tour with locals for a more enriching and safe experience.