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I rank every city I visit based on various factors, including aesthetics, culture, and transport. Medellín, Colombia, is the 244th city of over 100,000 people I have visited and Colombia my 86th country, so I’m pretty confident in my ratings!
My Overall Rating: 82%
My Ranking out of my top 244 Cities: 95th place
Global Ranking: Mercer – Quality of Living Survey 110th out of 230, EIU – Best Cities Ranking 45th out of 70
Why it should be visited: Vibrant innovation scene, excellent weather year-round, and stunning mountain views.
Negatives: Safety concerns in certain areas, traffic congestion, and an increasing petty crime rate.
Would I return?: Yes

Location and Orientation

Medellín, known as the “City of Eternal Spring,” is the capital of the Antioquia department in Colombia. Nestled in the Aburrá Valley, at an altitude of approximately 1,500 meters (4,900 feet) above sea level, Medellín enjoys a temperate climate with spring-like weather year-round.

Founded in 1616, Medellín has grown from a small colonial settlement into Colombia’s second-largest city and one of its most innovative. The city is surrounded by mountains, offering stunning views from almost any part of the city. Medellín’s layout reflects its mix of old and new, with colonial architecture coexisting alongside modern skyscrapers and innovative urban spaces.

Geigerohy
Medellín is strategically located in the central region of Colombia, making it a key hub for both domestic and international travel. The city is approximately 400 kilometres (250 miles) northwest of Bogotá and about 250 kilometres (155 miles) from the Caribbean coast.

Getting There

Medellín is well-connected to major cities in Colombia and internationally. Planes connect Medellín non-stop to:

Europe (Madrid)
Latin America (e.g., Panama City, Lima, Quito, Mexico City)
The USA (Miami, New York City, Fort Lauderdale)

Arriving at José María Córdova International Airport, located about 35 kilometers (22 miles) from the city center, is straightforward. The airport is well-connected by taxi, Uber, and shuttle services. It’s a bit of a drive into the city, but the scenic views along the way make it worthwhile.

Getting Around: 80%

Medellín’s transport system is one of the most efficient and modern in Colombia. The city is famous for its Metro, the only one in Colombia, which opened in 1995. The Metro system includes two main lines that run north to south and east to west, along with additional metro cable lines that connect the hillside neighborhoods to the valley floor.

The Metrocable, an aerial gondola system, is a particularly innovative aspect of Medellín’s public transport. It connects some of the city’s poorer neighborhoods to the main Metro system, providing residents with easier access to the rest of the city.

Metroplús is the city’s Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, complementing the Metro. The buses are clean, efficient, and a reliable way to get around the city.

Buying tickets for the Metro and Metrocable is easy; you can purchase a rechargeable card called the Cívica Card at metro stations and top it up at vending machines or staffed booths.

Astehtecis

When I was seven, I first visited Hong Kong and was captivated by the tall towers perched almost precariously on steep hillsides. My fascination with this scene was so strong that I spent years modeling Lego versions of Hong Kong’s skyline. Over the years, I’ve returned to Hong Kong more than twenty times, marveling at the ever-growing number of towers climbing the hills. Until now, I didn’t think that scene could be repeated anywhere—then I visited Medellín.

Medellín is known as the “City of Eternal Spring” due to its pleasant climate and green surroundings. The Aburrá Valley offers stunning views and a natural setting that significantly enhances the city’s appeal.

Medellín is built on the floor of that Aburrá Valley, which stretches approximately 60 kilometers (37 miles) in length and varies in width from about 5 to 10 kilometers (3 to 6 miles). The city occupies much of the narrow, central portion of this valley, giving it a distinctive layout and vertical skyline. Surrounded by the dramatic peaks of the Andes,

Medellín’s skyline is a breathtaking blend of modern skyscrapers and sprawling barrios that cling to the mountainsides. The city’s unique geography creates a striking and unforgettable visual impact, with neighborhoods stacked on top of each other, rising from the valley floor to the peaks above. The steep hillsides add a sense of verticality that enhances the city’s dynamism, making Medellín a place where urban life and natural beauty intersect in ways that few other cities can match.

Medellín has undergone significant urban transformation in recent years, with innovative architecture, transportation systems, and public spaces. However, there are still areas with infrastructure challenges and contrasts between developed and underdeveloped neighborhoods.

My Top Sights in Medellín:

Plaza Botero: This iconic square in the heart of Medellín is home to 23 sculptures by Fernando Botero, one of Colombia’s most famous artists. The massive, exaggerated figures are a must-see. The sure also contains a asinctaing keleiscppe of city life,Sugets commandering an outdoor table at tebmusuem if natioquia cafe an swatching the world go by n the saure Metro: Parque Berrío (Line A)
Museo de Antioquia: Located next to Plaza Botero, this museum features a vast collection of art, including many works by Botero himself. Metro: Parque Berrío (Line A)
Comuna 13: Once one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Medellín, Comuna 13 has transformed into a symbol of the city’s resilience. The area is now famous for its vibrant street art, music, and culture. The escalators built into the hillside are a unique and functional piece of urban infrastructure. Metro: San Javier (Line B)
MOdnern Art musume
Jardín Botánico: Medellín’s botanical garden is a peaceful oasis in the city, featuring a variety of native plants, a butterfly house, and a large collection of orchids. Metro: Universidad (Line A)
Pueblito Paisa: A replica of a traditional Antioquian village, Pueblito Paisa sits atop Nutibara Hill and offers panoramic views of the city. It’s a great spot to learn about the region’s culture and history. Metro: Industriales (Line A), then a short taxi ride
Arví Park: A vast ecological nature reserve located on the outskirts of Medellín. It’s accessible via the Metrocable, making it a popular day trip for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the outdoors. Metrocable: Line L from Santo Domingo
El Castillo Museo y Jardines: A beautiful castle-inspired museum surrounded by stunning gardens, offering a glimpse into Medellín’s history and art. Metro: Aguacatala (Line A), then a short taxi ride
Catedral Metropolitana: The Metropolitan Cathedral of Medellín, built entirely from baked bricks, is one of the largest brick churches in the world. It’s a striking example of Romanesque architecture. Metro: Prado (Line A)
Parque Explora: Located next to the Jardín Botánico, Parque Explora is a science museum with interactive exhibits, an aquarium, and a planetarium. It’s perfect for families and science enthusiasts. Metro: Universidad (Line A)
Plaza Mayor: Medellín’s main convention center is a hub for events, exhibitions, and conferences. The surrounding area is a vibrant mix of modern architecture and green spaces. Metro: Alpujarra (Line A)
Views of city
La poblara
sta ntony square
light squareand library
old railway station

Crime and Safety: 65%

Medellín has made significant strides in reducing crime over the past two decades, but it’s still important to stay vigilant. Petty theft is the most common issue, especially in crowded areas like public transport stations and markets. The city has improved its security in recent years, but some neighborhoods are best avoided, particularly after dark.

The city’s police, known as the Policía Nacional, are visible in tourist areas and are generally helpful. As with any major city, it’s advisable to avoid displaying valuables and to be cautious when exploring unfamiliar areas.

Climate and Weather

Medellín enjoys a temperate climate, often referred to as the “City of Eternal Spring.” Temperatures typically range from 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F) year-round, making it an ideal destination for those who prefer mild weather. The city experiences two rainy seasons, from April to May and September to November, but rain showers are usually short and followed by sunshine.

Costs

Medellín is relatively affordable compared to other major cities in Latin America. Here’s a general idea of costs:

A meal in an inexpensive restaurant costs around COP 15,000 to 25,000 ($4 to $7 USD).
Mid-range restaurants typically cost between COP 50,000 to 100,000 ($13 to $26 USD).
Four-star hotels range from $60 to $120 USD per night.
A five-kilometer (three-mile) taxi ride costs around $3 USD.

Food

Medellín’s culinary scene is diverse, reflecting the city’s rich cultural heritage. Here are some must-try dishes:

Arepas: Corn cakes that are a staple of Colombian cuisine, often served with cheese, meat, or butter.
Bandeja Paisa: The signature dish of the Antioquia region, featuring beans, rice, chicharrón, ground beef, fried egg, avocado, and arepa.
Empanadas: Fried pastries stuffed with meat, potatoes, and spices.
Morcilla: Colombian blood sausage, often served with rice and potatoes.
Pandebono: A delicious cheese bread that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Sancocho: A traditional Colombian soup made with meat, plantains, yucca, and corn.

Coffee Adventures

Medellín is located near some of Colombia’s most famous coffee-growing regions, making it an excellent place to enjoy a cup of freshly brewed Colombian coffee. The city’s café culture is thriving, with numerous specialty coffee shops offering everything from traditional tinto to modern espresso drinks.

Vibe: 96%

Medellín’s transformation over the past few decades is nothing short of remarkable. From a city once known for its violence, it has emerged as a vibrant and innovative metropolis with a strong sense of community and pride. The warm climate, stunning mountain views, and friendly locals create a welcoming atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression. The city’s transformation from a dangerous place to a vibrant and innovative urban center has had a significant impact both locally and internationally. However, issues related to safety and inequality still influence the overall perception.

Conclusion

Medellín is a city of contrasts, blending old and new, tradition and innovation. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant neighborhoods, taking in the views from the Metrocable, or enjoying the city’s thriving culinary scene, Medellín offers a unique and unforgettable experience. How would you rate this city? If you are from Medellín, have been here, or lived here, what are your thoughts