Medellín is a popular destination in Colombia, due to both the vast beauty of this mountainous province surrounding the city as well as the historic location itself.
Medellín is full of museums, parks, restaurants and is a perfect weekend getaway from the capital. Here at Jetset Times, we have created a cheat sheet for all the best places to check out in Medellín, from sites to see, to restaurants, bars, places to shop and where to stay. This guide has got you covered.
SEE
Explora Park
Cra. 52 ##73-75, Medellín, Antioquia, Colombia
Explora park is actually a science and technology museum in Medellín. The interactive museum is home to the largest freshwater aquarium in Latin America, making for a fun experience alongside the other museum exhibits. The large museum is a perfect day trip and is sure to be entertaining and educational.
Antioquia Museum
Cl. 52 #43, Medellín, Antioquia, Colombia
Medellín is a museum-goers dream, and the Antioquia Museum should be on the top of the list. This museum was the second established museum in all of Colombia and has many of the works by Medellín natives Fernando Botero and Pedro Nel Góme. For a taste of Colombian culture and art, this is the place to go!
EAT
In Situ
Calle 73 51d 14 | Jardín Botanico, Medellin 050010, Colombia
Located in Medellín’s botanical gardens In Situ is the perfect restaurant for a chic and green meal out. In Situ’s cuisine incorporates traditional Colombian flavors and the restaurant’s ambiance will not disappoint. With glass paneling and views overlooking the garden, this fine-dining institution is primed for an evening of wine and great food. If you are stuck on what to order the ceviches never disappoint and neither does the chocolate torte!
ElCielo
Carrera 40 10a 22 | El Poblado, Medellin 050021, Colombia
If gastronomy is what you are looking for when it comes to fine dining then ElCielo is the perfect spot for you. Run by popular chef Juan Manuel Barrientos Valencia, the menu is taken right from Valencia’s mind allowing for complex and creative dishes. The restaurant offers a tasting menu that puts together some of the best and most popular restaurant dishes with a selection of wines. The artichoke-stuffed prawns are highly recommended but everything on the menu has been highly praised.
DRINK
Envy
Cl. 9a ##37-16, Medellín, Antioquia, Colombia
Envy is the talk of the town in Medellín, known for its clubbing and cocktail mixes this bar is located in the Charlee Hotel and is right by Parque Lleras. With a swimming pool, in house DJ and a menu full of unique cocktails, friends will be ‘envious’ if they miss out (we had to do it!).
Panorama
Calle 8 # 34 – 33 Provenza / Carrera 73 circular 3 – 8 Laureles, Medellin 050021, Colombia
Panorama is a bit more of a laid back spot than Envy, surrounded by greenery this unique bar spot is secluded and most well known for their sangria. This location is popular at all times of the day and week, including Sunday brunch! Give it a try for a casual and relaxed night out.
STAY
The Charlee Lifestyle
Cl. 9a ###37-16, Medellín, Antioquia, Colombia
The Charlee Lifestyle is the ultimate luxury hotel in Medellín. The chic and artistic design is just one of the reasons to stay at this hotel. One of the drink spots mentioned earlier, Envy, is their rooftop bar, which is perfect when you don’t want a long journey to your hotel after a late night out. The hotel is also well-recognized for its restaurants as well as its suites with jacuzzis that overlook Parque Lleras. Pure luxury!
Hotel Park 10
Cra. 36b #11 12, Medellín, Antioquia, Colombia
This luxury hotel is a cozy spot that offers luxury rooms and suites, two restaurants, a library, and a spa and gym- what more could you want! It is also located at the center of Medellín which makes it a prime location for exploring the city without a vehicle. The rooms themselves are elegantly designed, with calm colors and wood accents, making for a quintessential night’s rest.
SHOP
Market Square Envigado
Cl. 38 Sur ##40-24, Envigado, Antioquia, Colombia
This popular market is located in Envigado, Medellín and is a perfect place for a taste of Colombian culture. It’s also a great opportunity to pick up some souvenirs for back home. There are dozens of artisanal items sold at the flea market, including leather items, ponchos, hats, as well as delicious street food. While Medellín has no shortage of markets the Envigado market is an ideal spot to enjoy all that Medellín has to offer.
Pergamino Cafe
Cra. 37 ##8A-37, Medellín, Antioquia, Colombia
A trip to Colombia wouldn’t be complete without packing some high-quality Colombian coffee in your luggage. Pergamino is a family owned business which started four decades ago. Even today, it roasts from Monday to Thursday in Medellín so that coffee does not spend weekends waiting to be delivered. It either grow its own coffee or work with amazing small producers across Colombia.
Sophia lived in Colombia for two years.
