Medellin is a popular destination in South America, proudly carrying its second name- the City of Eternal Spring.
This city opens the door to all types of travelers, including hikers, digital nomads, and adventure wanderers.
What especially attracts visitors is the way the city was transformed historically and the friendly and hospitable locals.
The population of Medellin is estimated at more than 2.5 million people while the territory covers over 382 km2 which makes it the second-largest city in Colombia and a place that opens a multitude of opportunities for travel seekers and backpackers.
If you are a first-timer in Medellin, check out our selection of districts and neighborhoods with recommendations that fit different preferences – party nightclubs, coworking spaces, cafes, skyscrapers, and enchanting rooftops.
El Poblado
El Poblado, also known as “Poblado” is a neighborhood located in the southern area of Medellin and it is a frequent spot for visitors.
The highlight of El Poblado is the fact that it has an abundance of clubs, cafes, bars, shops, hotels, hotels, and offices that are well-positioned in the central city area.
In addition, El Poblado is a place that offers rich nightlife as it has a fancy area full of dance spots where you can hit the dancefloor at a Latino fiesta.
Another great thing about Poblado is that everyone likes to party! The party places offer Colombian nights where visitors and locals can both meet and hang out.
After sunset, we recommend you to visit the hub Parque Lleras, a square in the heart of the city.
At night, this place is full of people who occupy hundreds of bars and clubs where you can dance to salsa, electro, techno, and many other styles of music.
Head straight from the square and get to the club Salon Amador where there is a regular lineup of international DJs, but if you’re up for some romantic slow dance then head to La Chingona where you’ll find a smooth dancefloor or make a toast with your friends at the rooftop cocktail bar in the Charlee Hotel.
When it comes to accommodation, Poblado offers penthouses and stylishly luxurious apartments with fantastic views over Medellin.
Laureles
Laureles is not quite the touristy hype of a place, however, it is popular among foreigners and digital nomads who are looking for a place for work and leisure with a strong internet connection.
This place is known for its wide range of cafes, restaurants, and coworking spaces, so it is a perfect way for both freelancers and locals to meet, hang out or collaborate.
Our first recommendation is a Cafe Revolucion, a place for hangout and remote working.
The cafe is small but it has a regular networking agenda accompanied by a large variety of Colombian coffee.
Next is Rituales- a cozy and friendly cafe where you can even take coffee-making classes with professional baristas in a workshop above the cafe.
Cafe Delmuri, on the other hand, is facing Primer Parque where you can meet regulars and locals who fail to skip a daily chit-chat over coffee here.
In case you’re looking for a flexible working environment, we warmly recommend places like Kamado, Casa Redonda, or Coecoworking.
Among the best restaurant options is Cafe Cliche where you will find an excellent menu for a reasonable price, plus there are film screenings every Wednesday night.
Regarding accommodation, Laureles offers a variety of options like fully furnished flats that are quite central and close to the vibrant atmosphere of the city.
Envigado
Envigado is a town located outside of Medellin, as a part of the Medellin Metropolitan Area.
This place is perfect for adventure travelers who want to experience an authentic, local Paisa lifestyle full of amiable people on the streets, playing cards, and talking.
Envigado is not a destination for trendy cafes and restaurants but it offers an insight into the unique vibe of Medellin.
The southern position of Envigado makes it a convenient location as it is easily accessible and connected to the greenery on the city’s periphery.
If you’re up for a hike, you can take a short bus trip, walk up the hills, and visit the remains of the prison of Pablo Escobar, La Catedral, or a local waterfall.
For nature lovers, we recommend Parque El Salado where you can take walks on different routes or take a dip into the clear, refreshing stream. Don’t be surprised if you run into a monkey or any of the lovely birds in the area!
When downtown, take a stroll down the shopping area before you end up by the main market where you can shop fresh and local.
Here you will also find many bakeries and butcher shops that offer cheap prices.
Although Envigado is not the typical party-all-night place, you can still find your spot, order a glass of Aguardiente and enjoy your time.
Belén
Belen is located close to Laureles and although in the past it has been characterized as a notorious place, nowadays it is a much safer area.
One of the conveniences of this neighborhood is that it is close to Olaya Herrera, the domestic airport, and it is well connected to the city.
The main attraction in Belen is the small colonial town Pueblito Paisa erected at the top of Cerro Nutibara from where you can enjoy stunning views of Medellin.
The vibrant old town has a museum, a church, and replica houses that are worth visiting.
If you are a sporty type of traveler, you can spend some active time in the Andres Escobar Sports Complex where you can take a swim in the outdoor pool, have a session at the tennis courts, or just hit the gym of the football pitches.
For a brief enjoyment in nature, visit Parque Belen and visit outdoor knick-knack markets to find fancy souvenirs and jewelry.
This park is full of bars and restaurants that are full during the weekend where people enjoy brunch or coffee.
In the mid-city, you will find square Iglesia de Nuestra Senora de Belen, an appealing Catholic church and a significant meeting place for many of the locals.
Sabaneta
Sabaneta is located south of Envigado, at the periphery of Medellin in the Metropolitan area.
It is a residential area that is rapidly developing, so the neighborhood is becoming more and more popular.
If you want to meet people and mingle, we recommend you to visit Parque Sabaneta where you can relax and walk around fountains, restaurants, and stalls, or maybe visit an outdoor concert in the summer.
Plus, this place is child-friendly and has several kids attractions at hand and a truck with fresh snacks and fruit for the young ones.
The highlight party period in Sabaneta is Christmas time, so expect to see many tourists in December.
One of the best places to visit at the time is Alumbrados Navidenos, full of food and music venues, all under the amazing light displays.
The atmosphere will undoubtedly draw you into the Christmas spirit, so make sure you visit it if you’re there for the holidays!
Finally, we hope you will take pleasure in the brilliant city of Medellin and experience Colombia in the most fun way!
Medellin Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: Medellin Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
- MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM
- TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM
- SCAMS RISK: HIGH
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM
Medellin, also known as the City of Eternal Spring, is a popular destination in South America that offers a unique blend of historical transformation and friendly locals. With its diverse districts and neighborhoods catering to different preferences, it’s no wonder this city attracts all types of travelers.