Once one of Medellín's most troubled neighborhoods, Comuna 13 has transformed into a hub of art and culture. Guided tours offer insights into its history, vibrant murals, and the resilience of its community. You’re open to walk this neighborhood on your own or book a guided tour.

Escape the city's hustle with a visit to this ecological nature reserve. Accessible via the Metrocable, Parque Arví offers hiking trails, picnic spots, and a chance to immerse oneself in Antioquia's natural beauty. This would be ideal to visit if you’re a nature lover or outdoor enthusiast.

If you want a true local’s experience, head to El Salado Ecological Park in Envigado. Here you can hike, relax by the river, and enjoy the little fishing restaurant, Arcoíris (where you can catch your own trout and have it cooked fresh). This place is about 30-40 minutes from El Poblado by car. Bring comfy shoes, some pesos in cash, and a bathing suit if you dare to dip into the cold river.

This place is extra special to Stephanie as she grew up visiting El Salado with her family and fishing with her grandpas who have since passed.

There's no question, Colombians are die hard soccer fans. We recommend catching a soccer match at Estadio Atanasio Girardot. Both Atlético Nacional and Independiente Medellín call this stadium home (in fact, they're rivals). This stadium is in the heart of the city and easy to get to by metro.

If you’re an adrenaline junkie, we highly recommend paragliding in the town of San Félix, a 40-minute drive from the center of Medellin. Here you can enjoy a tandem flight with certified instructors, soaring high above the Aburrá Valley for 15–20 minutes, with sweeping views of mountains, waterfalls, and the city below.

A charming replica of a traditional Antioquian town with panoramic views of the city. There are several street food vendors here.

Every town has its own “parque” (a town square anchored by a church and usually lined with shops, restaurants, and street vendors) but Parque Sabaneta is one of the most lively and charming. It’s always buzzing with families enjoying the square. Be sure to try a warm buñuelo from the famous corner spot, El Peregrino Cafetería — it’s a local favorite!

Colombia is famous for its coffee, and the Eje Cafetero region is where much of it comes from. Towns like Salento and Manizales are known for colorful streets, mountain views, and coffee farm tours where you can learn (and taste!) the entire process from bean to cup. You can get there by bus (about 6–8 hours) or by a short flight from Medellín to Armenia or Pereira.

Fun Fact: Stephanie’s dad took her here when she was younger and it remains one of her favorite memories of Colombia.

Located in Quimbaya, Quindío (within the Coffee Axis), Panaca is an interactive agricultural theme park, ideal if you love animals and farm life. You can walk through stables, feed animals, and see unique shows celebrating Colombia’s rural traditions. It’s about an hour from Armenia airport.

For relaxation, visit these natural hot springs tucked into the mountains surrounded by waterfalls. This place can be reached by flying to Pereira or booking a tour guide that will take you there in bus from Medellín.

If you’re craving Caribbean charm, take a quick 1-hour flight from Medellín to Cartagena. Wander through the walled city, enjoy fresh seafood, and soak up the vibrant colors and colonial architecture. It’s romantic, lively, and perfect for a couple of days by the sea. We recommend checking out the islands off of Cartagena if you do go.

For a true island escape, fly to San Andrés, a paradise in the Caribbean Sea. Known for its “Sea of Seven Colors,” it’s ideal for snorkeling, diving, or simply relaxing on white-sand beaches. Flights run daily from Medellín and take about 2.5 hours to get there.