Medellin is a vibrant city located in the heart of the Andes Mountains in Colombia. With a rich history, beautiful landscapes, and a thriving culture, it’s no wonder that this city is quickly becoming a must-visit destination for travelers. In this 5 day Medellin itinerary, we’ll take you through some of the best sights and experiences the city has to offer. From staying at the Viajero Medellin Hostel to exploring the many great restaurants and bars in the surrounding area, to taking a day trip to Guatape and visiting the stunning Parque Arvi, this itinerary has everything you need to make the most out of your 5 days in Medellin. So let’s get started!
Day 1 – Arrival and Exploring the City Center
Medellin is a city full of life, color, and history, and you’ll want to make the most of your five days here. Your first stop should be the city center, where you’ll find a wealth of attractions and landmarks to explore. After checking in at Viajero Medellin Hostel, head to Plaza Botero, a public square filled with bronze sculptures by the famous Colombian artist Fernando Botero. From there, take a stroll through the historic neighborhood of La Candelaria, which is known for its charming colonial architecture, street art, and local cafes.
Day 2 – Parque Arvi and Comuna 13 Tour
Start your day by taking the metro cable up to Parque Arvi, a nature reserve located high in the Andes mountains that offers stunning views of the city. The metro cable ride alone is worth the trip, as you’ll get to see Medellin from above and enjoy breathtaking scenery.
Once you reach Parque Arvi, you can spend the day hiking, picnicking, and exploring the many trails and lookout points in the park. You can also visit the nearby town of Santa Elena, which is famous for its flower farms and traditional Colombian food.
In the afternoon, head back to the city for a Comuna 13 tour, one of the most popular tours in Medellin. Comuna 13 is a neighborhood that was once known for its violence and drug activity, but has since transformed into a vibrant community full of street art, music, and culture. Your tour guide will take you through the neighborhood, showing you the colorful murals and sharing the history and stories behind them. It’s a great way to experience the resilience and creativity of the people of Medellin.
After the tour, head back to your hostel to relax and get some rest before another action-packed day in Medellin.
Day 3 – Foodie Heaven
Medellin is known for its amazing food scene, so be sure to take a day to explore some of the best restaurants and cafes in the city. Start your day with breakfast at Pergamino Cafe, a popular coffee shop that serves some of the best coffee in Medellin. For lunch, head to El Cielo, a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers a unique dining experience that combines food, science, and art. In the evening, check out Carmen, a trendy restaurant that offers a mix of Colombian and international cuisine. With 5 days in Medellin, you’ll have plenty of options to secure a reservation!
Day 4 – Day Trip to Guatape
On your fourth day in Medellin, take a day trip to Guatape, a charming town located just a few hours outside the city. Known for its colorful houses and stunning lake views, Guatape is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Medellin. Make sure to climb the 700+ stairs to the top of El Penol, a massive rock formation that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
Day 5 – Nightlife in Zona T and Parque 93
End your five-day adventure in Medellin by exploring the city’s vibrant nightlife scene. Head to Zona T and Parque 93, two popular neighborhoods that are home to some of the best bars and nightclubs in the city. Make sure to check out Envy Rooftop Bar, a stylish rooftop bar that offers stunning views of the city, and La Octava, a popular nightclub that plays a mix of Latin and international music.
Medellin is a city that has it all – from stunning natural scenery to amazing food and nightlife. By following this itinerary, you’ll be able to experience some of the best things that Medellin has to offer, including staying at Viajero Medellin Hostel, exploring the city’s vibrant food and nightlife scenes, taking a trip to Parque Arvi, and visiting the colorful town of Guatape. Be sure to check out A Perfect 14-Day Itinerary for Solo Travelers in Colombia for more tips and advice on traveling solo in Colombia.