Medellín, Colombia: Your Guide to the Best Restaurants & Nightlife!
Get ready for an amazing adventure in Medellín, one of South America's most exciting cities!
Medellín is famous for its eternal spring weather year-round, with an average temperature of 72.5 °F (22.5 °C), making it ideal for exploring its beautiful landscapes and rich culture. This travel guide is your go-to for discovering all the best things to do and see in this vibrant destination.
I had the incredible opportunity to travel to Colombia with my husband for three weeks, and it was an unforgettable experience. Since my husband's family is from Colombia, I saw the country through a local's eyes, making it even more special. Being fully immersed in the culture was amazing, and I can't wait to return for more adventures!
The city's lively streets and fantastic restaurants make it a food lover’s dream. And with its vibrant nightlife, Medellín is famous for its energetic bars and clubs, guaranteeing there's always something fun going on. With so much to explore, Medellín is sure to capture your heart and leave you wanting more! Plus, this guide includes a map to help you navigate the city with ease.
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Table of Contents:
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Best Time to Visit Medellín, Colombia + Weather
The Closest International Airport to Medellín Colombia
Transportation in Medellín Colombia
Best Hotels & Airbnb to Stay in Medellín Colombia
Best Restaurants in Medellín Colombia
Best Things to Do in Medellín Colombia
What NOT to Do in Medellín Colombia. Is it Safe?
Is Medellín Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Do They Speak English in Medellín?
Explore Our Journey: Interactive Map of Featured Destinations
When planning a trip to Medellín, Colombia, aim for the dry season from December to March. This is when you'll find the sunniest days and less rain, making it ideal for exploring the city. We visited in January and only got caught in one rainstorm.
From December to March temperatures typically range from around 61°F (16°C) to 82°F (28°C). Medellin's weather can be unpredictable, so bring some layers just in case!
Another good time to visit is during the quieter periods of April to June and October to November when the weather is still pleasant and fewer tourists are around. However, these months have the highest rainfall.
The airport closest to Medellín, Colombia, is José María Córdova International Airport (MDE). Situated in the municipality of Rionegro, it is approximately a 45-minute to one-hour drive from the city center.
One of the biggest culture shocks for me in Colombia was the intense driving environment, especially with the large number of motorcycles on the road. In my experience, renting a car is not for the faint of heart due to the challenging driving conditions.
Getting around Colombia is relatively easy though, with options ranging from Uber and taxis to flights between major cities.
Use Ubers or Taxis to get around:
Before getting into a taxi, make sure to agree on the fare. In Colombia, taxi drivers sometimes overcharge tourists. Agreeing on a price beforehand can help prevent this.
Always double-check that the taxi meter is reset before your cab takes off. You should only see the base fare on the meter, which will depend on your location. In Medellín, for example, it could be around 4,900 COP.
We mostly opted for Uber, and it was surprisingly budget-friendly!
Remember to lock your doors while in taxis or Ubers for added safety!
Many roads in Colombia are windy. To help with motion sickness, look straight ahead, chew mint gum, and consider taking Dramamine if needed.
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Colombia's official currency is the Colombian peso (COP).
While in Colombia, we used Bancolombia to withdraw cash when needed. You will find ATMs in airports and major tourist areas. They charge $26,000 COP, roughly $5 USD, for withdrawals.
You can also consider using WISE: The Wise card lets you spend money around the world with low conversion fees and zero transaction fees. With their multi-currency account and debit card you can spend and withdraw money in over 40 currencies from local ATMs — much cheaper than using your local bank.
It's a good idea to carry a small amount of cash with you, as not all places accept credit cards.
Tip: For an extra layer of safety when making withdrawals, avoid using outdoor ATMs.
Best Luxury Hotels in Medellín
Hotel York Luxury Suites Medellín by Preferred: This hotel in the heart of Medellin offers luxurious accommodations and top-notch amenities for an unforgettable experience.
Hotel San Fernando Plaza: Experience luxury in the heart of Medellin's El Poblado district. Relax by the heated pool, enjoy spa treatments, and spacious rooms with city views.
Best Boutique Hotels in Medellín
Celestino Boutique Hotel: is the perfect spot in Medellín's El Poblado district, just a block from Lleras Park. Enjoy comfy rooms with mountain views, all within easy reach of attractions like El Poblado Park and Linear Park President.
The Click Clack Hotel Medellín: A stylish boutique hotel in El Poblado with modern rooms, a rooftop pool, and a trendy restaurant.
Best Budget-Friendly Hotels in Medellín
1616 Hotel Medellin: A modern and stylish hotel located in the heart of Medellin, offering comfortable rooms, a rooftop terrace with city views, and a convenient location near restaurants and attractions.
Landmark Hotel In Medellin: This iconic hotel in Medellin is known for its rich history and central location, offering guests a comfortable stay with easy access to the city's attractions.
Airbnb Option in Medellín
Casa Tamayo Airbnb: is a cozy and stylish place to stay with nice rooms and a quaint rooftop. Located in a great neighborhood, it's a perfect spot for exploring the city. Loft #1 offers more space if you need it.
Best Restaurants for Brunch in Medellín
Al Alma - is a fantastic breakfast spot, perfect for starting your day. They serve great coffee and their Salmon Toast and French Toast were absolutely delicious.
Rivertown Cafe - Located inside the beminimal Hotel. This cafe is a peaceful escape from the city hustle. Located just a 10-minute walk from the Airbnb (Casa Tamayo) where we stayed, it's a quaint spot known for its delicious coffee and pastries. Just a heads up, it can get quite busy on weekends, so you might want to plan your visit accordingly.
Crepes & Waffles - this is a must-visit for those craving something sweet or savory. This popular chain in Colombia is known for its delicious crepes and warm, welcoming ambiance. It's no surprise to see lines forming outside the door, but the wait is worth it. Their crepes and ice cream are my personal favorites. A noteworthy detail about them is that they employ single mothers in all positions.
Best Restaurants in Medellín with a View
Envy Rooftop Bar - Located in the Charlee Hotel, this rooftop bar offers panoramic views of the city along with a great selection of drinks and snacks.
Marmoleo - is a must-visit for foodies, offering creative dishes that showcase the best of Medellin's cuisine. It’s the perfect spot to visit for sunset with amazing city views.
Marmoleo
Best Restaurants in the Parque Lleras & Provenza Area of Medellín
One of the highlights of Medellín is its vibrant nightlife! This city is unlike any other I've ever experienced—it's a true party city! As a fan of reggaeton music, I was excited to hear it playing at every corner while walking through Provenza, known for its epic nightlife.
The sheer number of people filling the streets amazed me, creating a lively and energetic atmosphere. With so many fantastic restaurants and bars to choose from, each offering its own unique vibe, the city can almost be overwhelming—but in the most exciting way possible!
Relato - is a super chic spot for dinner and drinks, offering a modern twist on Mediterranean, Asian, and Latin dishes. I LOVED their vibe—it quickly became one of my favorites!
2. El Social - is the perfect spot for a fun night out, serving great food and drinks in a lively atmosphere. Be sure to request a seat on the rooftop. One of my favorite dishes was the Empanada de queso with blackberry jam. While you're there, try the local favorite, Aguardiente (known as Guaro for short), a liquor popular among locals in the Antioquia region.
3. Mekong - Located inside the Click Clack Hotel. This place brings a taste of Thailand to the heart of Medellin. Its cozy atmosphere and friendly service make it a favorite among locals and tourists. I loved their curry; it was delicious.
4. Cuon - Also located in El Poblado, offers a modern take on Asian cuisine, focusing on fresh ingredients and bold flavors.
5. La Provincia - is a cozy restaurant known for its French, seafood, and Mediterranean cuisine.
6. Carmen - Located in the El Poblado neighborhood, is known for its contemporary Latin American cuisine and elegant dining experience.
Best Street Food in Medellín
El Amarrao - is the place to go for a unique Colombian street food experience. Their Perros, Colombian-style hot dogs, are loaded with traditional sausage, bacon, cheese, salad, pineapple sauce, pink sauce, garlic mayo, crushed potato chips, and topped with quail eggs. While it might be challenging to eat, at least, it was for me, it's definitely worth trying for the delicious experience!
Catch the sunset at Pueblito Paisa, a must-visit spot in Medellín, offering panoramic views of the city and a charming model village that captures the essence of traditional Colombian architecture. It's the perfect place to visit for sunset, providing a breathtaking backdrop.
2. Take a ride on the Metrocable to Parque Arví for some of the best views of the city and countryside. Once you reach the top, you'll need to transfer to another cable car that takes you all the way to the park. Just a heads up, the park does close sometimes, so check the schedule before you go!
3. Take a walking tour of Comuna 13 to learn about its transformation from one of the city's most dangerous neighborhoods to a vibrant and artistic community.
4. Enjoy the nightlife in El Poblado, known for its lively bars, restaurants, and clubs.
5. Explore the trendy neighborhood of Provenza in El Poblado, which is particularly popular for its trendy restaurants, bars, and cafes, making it a vibrant and lively part of the neighborhood. It's one of the best things to do in Medellín at night.
6. Wander by the Medellín River and soak up the festive Christmas lights display around Christmas time.
7. Indulge in the Bandeja Paisa, Colombia's national dish packed with a hearty mix of red beans, white rice, ground meat, chicharron (fried pork), a fried egg, plantain, chorizo, arepa, and avocado. It's a true Colombian culinary experience you won't want to miss!
8. Don't miss out on trying an arepa for breakfast! This Colombian staple is delicious and can also be enjoyed for lunch or dinner.. It is a corn cake that’s crispy on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside. There are a few varieties, such as Arepa Blanca, Arepa de Chócolo, and Arepa Amarija. Load that baby up with butter and cheese for a simple yet delicious treat!
9. Take a day trip to the nearby town of Guatapé to climb the famous El Peñol rock and explore the colorful streets. For more details, check out my Guatapé blog below! ↴
Spice up your Medellín trip with awesome activities from Viator.com! They've got all sorts of tours and experiences worldwide, from sightseeing to food and coffee adventures. Booking is super easy, with the best prices and a wide selection. So, plan ahead, skip the lines, and enjoy cooking classes or guided tours for an unforgettable adventure with Viator!
While Colombia has significantly improved safety, it's always wise to be cautious. Stay safe while traveling in Medellín with these tips!
"Don't give papaya" or "no des papaya" is a popular saying in Colombia, meaning don't make yourself a target by flaunting valuables like your shiny watch, jewelry, or smartphone.
To stay safe, avoid walking around with your phone in your hand. It's also wise to leave valuables at home.
Consider using a thin fanny pack that can be hidden under your shirt instead of carrying a purse. Even though locals carried their purses around comfortably, I still followed this rule since I wanted to err on the side of caution.
Avoid sitting outside at restaurants at night and opt for indoor or balcony seating instead.
It's important not to leave your drinks unattended at bars or restaurants to avoid any potential risks.
We decided to steer clear of Center Plaza in Medellín after hearing from locals about numerous pickpocketing incidents in the area. We wanted to avoid any potential risks and enjoy our time in the city safely.
Don't forget to look down! In some areas, there's a lot of uneven pavement and potholes, so watch your step.
These tips are meant to enhance your travel experience by staying safe and aware. Medellín is a beautiful and welcoming city, but like any other destination, it's important to exercise caution and be mindful of your surroundings while exploring.
Check out my blog below for some more helpful safety tips on visiting Colombia! ↴
Without a doubt! Medellín is a must-visit city with so much to offer. From delicious food and fascinating culture to breathtaking scenery and friendly locals, it's an experience you won't want to miss.
Yes, Medellín tap water is safe to drink. The city has a modern water treatment system that ensures the water meets high-quality standards. However, if you prefer, you can always drink bottled water, which is widely available.
In Medellín, the primary language spoken is Spanish. While you may encounter some people who speak English, especially in tourist areas and hotels, it's not as widely spoken as Spanish. It can be helpful to learn some basic Spanish phrases to make your stay more enjoyable.
Get ready to learn some fun Medellín slang with me so you can speak like a true "Paisa" on your next trip to Medellín!
¿Qué más pues? - How's it going? How’s life? What’s up? *This one is my favorite and would often bring smiles to my husband's family's faces, as it was so unexpected for me to use slang.
Buenas - is the short way of saying "Buenos días/tardes/noches— good morning/afternoon/night
Que Mas – “Hey, what’s up?”
Parce - similar to "friend" or "bro."
Quiubo, Parce? - “What’s up, man/bro?”
Bacano - is like saying “Cool, good, nice”
Chévere - is like saying “OK”, “sure”, “cool”, “really good”, or “Awesome”.
¡Qué nota! - It's another way of saying “cool”
En Serio - “For real?”
Porfa - is the short way of saying “por favor”—please
Poquito - means a “little” (you can add the “ito” pretty much to anything you want to make sound a “little” cute
Paisa - is the name of the people from the Antioquia Region, especially if you’re from Medellín. Paisa is used to describe the culture which is known for its warmth, friendliness, and strong sense of pride. It’s also used to describe Paisa cuisine, music, and traditions. You will see/hear this word a lot.
Medellín is a city full of surprises and excitement. With its perfect weather, stunning landscapes, and lively culture, Medellín is a destination you won't want to miss. Whether you're wandering through its vibrant streets, trying out its amazing food scene, or just soaking up the atmosphere, Medellín is sure to leave you wanting more. So why wait? Start planning your trip to Medellín today and get ready for an adventure you'll never forget. ¡Hasta luego, Medellín!
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Join the conversation:
Did this guide inspire you to plan a trip to Medellín? If so, when do you hope to go? Share your thoughts in the comments below!