Unmissable places in Medellin

Located in the city center, Plaza Botero is one of the most emblematic places in Medellín. This open-air space displays 23 monumental sculptures donated by the master Fernando Botero, one of Colombia's most renowned artists. The plaza is next to the Museo de Antioquia, where you can admire more of the artist's works and national and international art exhibitions. It is an ideal spot for art and photography lovers, as the sculptures interact with the surrounding colonial and modern architecture. In addition, it is a perfect place to understand the contrast between the history and cultural transformation of Medellín.

Comuna 13 is an example of resilience and social change in Medellín. This area was once known for its conflict, but today it has become an icon of urban art and culture. Its streets are full of vibrant graffiti, which tell the story of the community and its transformation process. One of the best ways to get to know Comuna 13 is through a guided tour, where locals explain the meaning of the murals and the importance of the social project behind them. In addition, the area has escalators, an urban innovation that facilitated access to the community. Here you will also find hip-hop shows, breakdance and craft shops, making the visit a complete experience.

For those looking for a break in the middle of nature, Arví Park is the best option. This green lung of Medellín has more than 1,700 hectares of forest and offers various outdoor activities, such as hiking, mountain biking and bird watching. You can reach the park by Metrocable, enjoying a panoramic tour over the city until you reach Santa Elena, a district famous for its tradition of making silletas for the Flower Fair. In the park there are different guided ecological routes, picnic areas and farmers' markets where you can try local products. It is an ideal destination for those looking to connect with nature without straying too far from Medellín.

Located on the top of Cerro Nutibara, Pueblito Paisa is a replica of a typical Antioquian village. Here you can find colonial houses, a church, a central plaza and craft shops that evoke the tradition and history of the region. This place not only allows you to get to know the architecture and lifestyle of Antioquia, but also offers one of the best panoramic views of Medellín. From its viewing point you can see the city in its entirety, making it an ideal place to take photos, especially at sunset. In addition, it has restaurants that serve typical dishes such as the bandeja paisa and the arepa antioqueña, making it a must-see stop for lovers of local gastronomy.

The Joaquín Antonio Uribe Botanical Garden is a natural space of more than 13 hectares that houses more than 1,000 species of flora and fauna. It is an ideal place to relax and disconnect from the urban rhythm without leaving the city. One of its main attractions is the Orquideorama, an iconic structure where you can see orchids and other exotic plant species. It also has ecological trails, a lake with turtles and ducks, and spaces for reading and resting. In addition, within the garden there is a healthy food restaurant and organic product markets in certain seasons of the year. This is an ideal destination for families, photographers and nature lovers.

Parque Explora is an interactive science and technology center designed for learning and fun. It is especially popular with families and curious travelers, as it offers interactive exhibits on physics, biology, astronomy, and more. One of its main attractions is the largest freshwater aquarium in South America, where you can see species from Colombian rivers, such as piranhas and exotic fish. It also has a vivarium with reptiles and amphibians, experiment rooms, and a planetarium that offers immersive experiences about the universe. Its location in the northern area of Medellín makes it accessible from the metro, and it is often a recommended stop for those visiting the Botanical Garden and Parque de los Deseos.

Museum of Antioquia is one of the most important museums in Colombia and a key point for understanding the cultural evolution of Medellín. Its collection includes paintings and sculptures by the master Fernando Botero, who donated many of his works to enrich the museum's heritage. It also has exhibitions of pre-Columbian, colonial and contemporary art, as well as shows by national and international artists. Located in the center of Medellín, in front of Plaza Botero, this museum is a must-see for those seeking an immersion in the history of Colombian art. In addition, it offers guided tours and educational activities to deepen the appreciation of art and culture.

Cerro Nutibara is one of the most well-known elevations within the city and offers one of the best panoramic views of Medellín. It is home to Pueblito Paisa, but it also has ecological trails and recreational spaces where visitors can walk, exercise or simply relax with the landscape. In addition to being a tourist spot, it is an ideal place to take photos and enjoy a spectacular sunset. Its strategic location allows easy access from different points of the city, and it is a perfect alternative for those who want a quiet plan without leaving Medellín.

For those looking for a different place in Medellín, El Castillo Museum and Gardens is a fascinating option. This European Gothic-inspired building was built in 1930 and today functions as a museum where you can see furniture, art and decorative objects from the period. Surrounded by beautiful gardens with fountains and sculptures, the castle is an ideal destination for those who enjoy architecture and history. In addition, it offers cultural events, guided tours and picnic spaces, making it a perfect plan for a different afternoon in Medellín.