3 days in Medellin
A Vibrant Colombian City Reborn
Welcome to Medellin, the city of eternal spring! If you're planning a trip to Colombia, Medellin should definitely be on your list of must-visit destinations. This vibrant city, nestled in the Aburrá Valley and surrounded by picturesque mountains, has transformed itself from a troubled past to a thriving metropolis that offers a unique blend of modernity and rich cultural heritage. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you on a journey to explore the best of Medellin in 3 days, from its iconic landmarks and buzzing neighborhoods to its rich culinary scene and pulsating nightlife. Get ready to be captivated by Medellin's charm as we unveil this enchanting city's secrets!
La Catedral
Day 1: Discovering Medellin's Landmarks and Culture
El Poblado
I spent 3 nights in the city's El Poblado neighborhood. This upscale area is known for its vibrant nightlife, with various bars, clubs, and restaurants catering to every taste. Enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the many international or traditional Colombian restaurants. Then, hit the bars for some salsa dancing or live music. El Poblado is also home to Parque Lleras, a bustling square surrounded by bars and clubs that is a hotspot for nightlife in Medellin. Dance the night away and experience the electrifying energy of Medellin's nightlife scene!
It's also located near Santa Fe Mall, where I visited a few times to find outfits for evening activities. The mall has multiple levels, around 5-6, where you can find all your high-end fashion shops and budget-friendly options. On the top level, you have your food court with plenty of high-quality restaurants and excellent views of the valley.
But if you can't find what you are looking for at Santa Fe, you must visit "Centro Comercial El Tesoro," which translates to The Treasury Shopping Center; this is one of the nicest malls I have ever visited. It's a large mall ( I got lost a few times) with every type of shop you can think of, from a full-size grocery store, an amusement park, a movie theater, and furniture stores. But the best perk of shopping at El Tesoro is the breathtaking views of Medellin you can see while walking across the bridge that connects both sides of the shopping center. The entire mall is very scenic. I recommend spending at least a few hours here while on your vacation in Medellin. And while you are there, make sure you stop by Lenos y Carbon to have a nice meal; the food and the views are outstanding!
Day 2:Tours and activities
For those looking to experience the city's natural beauty, Medellín offers plenty of outdoor activities
If you want a unique and unforgettable experience, consider taking a night tour of Comuna 13. This neighborhood comes alive at night with colorful lights and lively music, creating a one-of-a-kind atmosphere. Explore the winding streets and learn about the neighborhood's rich history and transformation while taking in the vibrant nightlife.
Remember to indulge in Medellin's famous coffee culture between the nightlife adventures. The city is known for its high-quality coffee. Be sure to visit a local coffee shop and savor a cup of freshly brewed Colombian coffee, known for its rich and bold flavor.
Comuna 13
Comuna 13 is a neighborhood located in the suburbs of Medellín, Colombia. Despite its poverty, crime, and social unrest history, the area has become a popular tourist destination in recent years. The place was packed, thousands of people were there on most days, and the exciting thing is the comuna was policed by the local gangs. Hence, there were no police working there, and somehow there was no feeling of danger. This transformation is primarily due to the innovative public transportation and urban renewal projects implemented by the local government, which have improved safety and accessibility in the area. Visitors can explore the colorful street art that covers the walls of Comuna 13 and take a ride on the escalator system in the middle of the comuna that connects the neighborhood's steep hills. Once you reach the top, the views are breathtaking, and you can get a glorious view of the valley. The community is also known for its lively local culture, with music, dance, and traditional festivals adding to the vibrant atmosphere. Tourists can experience the authentic side of Medellín and learn about the city's efforts to overcome its challenges by visiting Comuna 13. Also, stop and get yourself a freshly baked Pandebono; it's delicious traditional Colombian cheese bread!
Unraveling the Legacy of Pablo Escobar
Inflexion Memorial Park
Inflexion Memorial Park is a public space built on the former site of the Monaco Building, once owned by drug lord Pablo Escobar. It commemorates victims of narco-terrorism in the city from 1983 to 1994 with three sections, including a Path of Heroes and a significant and solemn Inflection area.
While Medellín has made great strides in recent years and is considered a safe destination, it's always important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, as with any travel.
For example, the infamous cartel wars of the 80s and 90s were a very violent time in the city. I visited the infamous La Cathedral, the "prison" that Pablo Escobar had built for himself to be detained while serving his sentence, as a part of my Pablo Escobar tour. This tour is from the POV of the locals and how the Medellin cartel and their various drug wars affected the communities. The tour guide will take you around the city, and you will get to see where the memorials for all the cops and politicians that were slain during that period. During the tour, the guide emphasized that the locals did not view Pablo in the same way as portrayed on TV shows like Narcos.
La Cathedral
Inside the Notorious Walls: Unveiling the Secrets of Pablo Escobar's Prison
La Cathedral is definitely not a jail or prison; it was more like a resort, with all his friends and frequent visits from his family with no guard supervision.
The tour includes a visit to the famous cemetery where the essential members of the cartel are buried, followed by a stop at his custom-built jail.
This structure was constructed at a high altitude in the mountains, featuring several checkpoints to monitor the movements of those who entered and exited. Despite having the most spectacular views in Medellin, the perpetrator still managed to evade capture.
La Catedral
Day 3: Restaurants and Nightlife
Vibrant Nightlife Scene in Medellin
Medellin boasts a diverse culinary landscape, with an array of restaurants serving up delicious dishes from around the world, as well as traditional Colombian cuisine.
Apart from its culinary offerings, Medellin is also known for its vibrant nightlife scene. The city comes alive after dark with a wide array of entertainment options, ranging from trendy bars to pulsating nightclubs. Here are some highlights of Medellin's nightlife scene:
Poblado District
The Poblado district is known as the epicenter of Medellin's nightlife scene. This upscale neighborhood has numerous bars, clubs, and lounges catering to a diverse crowd. Whether you're looking for a sophisticated cocktail bar, a lively salsa club, or a trendy rooftop lounge, you'll find it all in Poblado. The area is modern among ex-pats and tourists, offering a vibrant and cosmopolitan atmosphere.
El Centro
For a more authentic experience, head to El Centro, Medellin's historic downtown area. Here, you'll find a mix of traditional bars and clubs that attract a local crowd. From small neighborhood bars serving cheap drinks to bustling salsa clubs where you can dance the night away, El Centro offers a more local and cultural experience of Medellin's nightlife.
Rooftop Bars
For a more relaxed and scenic nightlife experience, check out the city's rooftop bars. Medellin is known for its stunning cityscape, and many bars and restaurants offer rooftop seating where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city while sipping on cocktails or enjoying a delicious meal. Rooftop bars in Medellin offer a unique ambiance, perfect for a romantic evening, a night out with friends, or simply taking in the breathtaking views of the city's skyline.
One of my favorite restaurants we ate at was Colossal Restaurant, a modern restaurant with good bars and amazing city views, and it's an excellent place for a good steak.
One Club I recommend for a guy's night out or bachelor party in Medellín is La Isla, a popular gentleman's Club for locals and tourists.
La Isla Gentlemen's Club is an establishment that typically offers adult entertainment and services in a nightlife setting. It is often referred to as a strip club or gentlemen's Club. It is known for providing performances such as exotic dancing, pole dancing, and other adult-oriented entertainment.
La Isla Gentlemen's Club may feature a variety of amenities, including a stage for performances, private or VIP rooms, bars serving alcoholic beverages, and seating areas for customers to enjoy the shows. The Club is typically geared toward adult clientele. It may have age restrictions for entry, typically limited to individuals of legal age as per local laws.
La Isla is a vast warehouse-like venue with modern decor; it features 50+ tables, making it one of the few places where groups of 20+ guys can enjoy a night out. It reminded me of King of Diamonds in Miami during the 2000s; there were around 80 or so girls of all types, Tall blondes, short brunettes, dark, light, and fake lol. My only gripe with this fine establishment is, unlike in your typical American strip club, there is NOT one ATM on the premise, so make sure you go before you arrive. Tipping costs about $2000COP bills, about 60 cents US; you are expected to tip once the girls get off the stage when they walk by your table. Then you can talk to them, ask for a lapdance or "more." If you are tired of the strip club scene in America and want to see some of the best-looking women in the world, this is definitely worth visiting at least once.
As with any adult-oriented entertainment venue, it's essential to approach these types of establishments with respect, adhere to any rules or guidelines set by the Club, and prioritize consent and boundaries of performers and other patrons.
Conclusion
Medellin, Colombia, Medellin offers a variety of experiences waiting to be discovered. Its vibrant nightlife, breathtaking landscapes, fascinating history, and rich culture create a mesmerizing tapestry that leaves every visitor captivated. Whether you love history, nature, food, or nightlife, Medellin has something unique to offer.
By following this well-crafted three-day itinerary and immersing yourself in Medellin's culture, cuisine, and entertainment scene, you'll embark on an unforgettable adventure, crafting memories that will stay with you for a lifetime. Don't forget to capture the stunning views, indulge in the local cuisine, dance to the infectious salsa rhythms, and embrace the city's unique cultural heritage.
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