The best things to do in Medellín

Medellín surprises almost everyone. A city once known for the worst reasons is now one of the most creative and welcoming in Latin America, set in a green valley with spring weather all year. Here's how we'd spend your days.

See the city from above

The Metrocable is part of the public transit system, and it's also one of the best viewpoints in the city. Ride it up the hillsides to Parque Arví, a huge nature reserve with forest trails and a weekend market of local food and crafts. For a different angle, take a tandem paragliding flight from San Félix, north of the city, and float over the valley for twenty minutes or so.

Walk Comuna 13

Comuna 13 was once one of the city's most troubled neighborhoods. Today its outdoor escalators, murals and street dancers draw visitors from around the world. Go with a local guide who can tell the story behind the art, and go in the morning before the crowds.

Meet Botero

Fernando Botero, Medellín's most famous artist, donated a collection of his rounded bronze sculptures to the city. They fill Plaza Botero downtown, beside the Museo de Antioquia, which holds more of his paintings. Downtown is busy, so this is a good place to have a driver drop you off and wait.

Spend a day in Guatapé

About two hours east, the giant rock of El Peñol rises above a reservoir full of green islands. Climb the roughly 700 steps for the view, then explore the town of Guatapé, where houses are decorated with colorful relief panels called zócalos. The best way to finish is on a private boat. Read our Guatapé guide.

Visit a coffee farm

Antioquia grows excellent coffee, and working farms within a couple of hours of the city welcome private visits. You'll walk the rows, pick ripe cherries and taste coffee where it's grown. Our coffee farm guide explains what to expect.

Eat like a paisa

Locals are called paisas, and their signature dish is the bandeja paisa: beans, rice, ground beef, chorizo, chicharrón, egg, plantain and arepa on one plate. For something lighter, the city's dining scene in El Poblado and Provenza ranges from tasting menus to excellent coffee shops. Food halls such as Mercado del Río are a good way to try many things at once.

Go out in Provenza

Medellín's nightlife is famous for good reason. Provenza and the area around Parque Lleras are full of rooftop bars, cocktail lounges and clubs playing reggaeton and electronic music. For a more local night, Laureles has its own bars along La 70. A reserved table and a driver waiting outside make it far easier.

Time your trip around a festival

• Feria de las Flores, in early August, brings the silleteros parade of flower farmers carrying huge floral displays on their backs.
• Alumbrados, the Christmas lights, transform the city from early December into January.
• Colombiamoda, the fashion week, takes over in July.

Want all of this without the planning? An Oravia concierge can build these days into a private itinerary, with a driver and guide for each one.