Colombia · City Guide
Medellín
Medellín is one of the world's most remarkable urban transformation stories, a city that has reinvented itself from the most dangerous in the world in the 1990s into a celebrated model of urban innovation, social progress and contemporary design. From the spectacular cable car metro system and the Botanical Garden to the outstanding Museo de Antioquia and the vibrant El Poblado restaurant scene, Medellín provides one of Latin America's most inspiring and surprising city experiences.
Explore Medellín →Elect's take
"Medellín has executed one of the most extraordinary urban transformations in recent history. The combination of innovative public architecture, outstanding coffee culture, excellent food and the genuine pride and warmth of the Paisas creates a destination I find continuously impressive."
The Medellín Metro Cable Car system, connecting the hillside comunas to the city centre with cable cars that double as public transport, is one of the world's most innovative urban mobility solutions and provides extraordinary views over the dense hillside communities. The Parque de las Luces and the Parque Biblioteca España (Library Park) in the formerly dangerous Barrio Santo Domingo represent the transformative power of public architecture. The Museo de Antioquia houses the finest collection of Botero's art in the world. The El Poblado neighbourhood is Medellín's most cosmopolitan with outstanding restaurants. The coffee culture here, reflecting Antioquia's extraordinary coffee heritage, is world class.
Best time to visit
How to get there
What to expect
Metro Cable Innovation
A pioneering cable car public transport system providing outstanding hillside community views.
Museo de Antioquia
The world's finest collection of Botero sculptures and paintings in his native city.
Urban Transformation
A globally celebrated model of social and urban regeneration through architecture.
Antioquia Coffee Culture
Outstanding coffee experiences reflecting the world class coffee heritage of the region.
El Poblado Dining
Medellín's most cosmopolitan neighbourhood with excellent contemporary restaurants.
Feria de las Flores
The extraordinary annual Flower Festival with the famous Silleteros flower parade.