The City of Eternal Spring nestles in a narrow valley surrounded by mountains and boasts a mild, year-round climate and friendly, welcoming residents — paisas. Known for producing lovely textiles, cut flowers and excellent coffee, the city also boasts a lively culinary and nightlife scene. A modern metro system and MetroCable gondolas reaching mountainside barrios help connect this modern, thriving city.
GETTING THERE & AROUND
Located about 18 miles from city center, Medellín José María Córdova International Airport offers direct connections to Madrid and Lima, as well as North American cities including New York, Mexico City, Atlanta and Miami. Taxi (about $30), bus and shuttle services provide access to the city from the airport, with Uber also available. An excellent public transportation service includes metro trains, buses, metro cable cars and trams. Fares may be paid with temporary, rechargeable cards or the more permanent Civica card, also rechargeable and offering a discount. EnCicla, a free public bike-sharing program, offers another option.
LODGING
This art- and design-centric lifestyle hotel offers personalized concierge service; unique cultural experiences; a three-floor Ultra Wellness Center; international cuisine; and a lively 17th-floor Envy Roof Top lounge with a live DJ, pool and panoramic city views.
Calle 9A, No. 37-16, El Poblado, Medellín, Antioquia, Colombia, tel 57 604 444 4968
An excellent location close to shopping, restaurants, nightlife and the financial center of the city makes this property an excellent choice for travelers. Well-equipped meeting and event spaces, included breakfasts, a spa, fitness center and gracious service all win praise.
Calle 9, No. 41-36, El Poblado, Medellín, Antioquia, Colombia, tel 57 604 448 4505
Hotel Novotel Medellín El Tesoro
Located within El Tesoro shopping mall, this hotel
offers direct access to business and commercial zones. Amenities and services include a pool, event spaces, a spa, fitness center, complimentary breakfast and airport shuttle; kids stay free.
Carrera 25A, No. 1A Sur 45, Parque Comercial El Tesoro, El Poblado, Medellín, Antioquia, Colombia,
tel 57 604 460 48 156
DINING
The menu here presents the great diversity of Colombian dishes and products using innovative techniques. Select from the à la carte menu or order the five-course chef’s tasting menu.
Carrera 36, No. 10A-27, El Poblado, Medel- lín, Antioquia, Colombia, tel 57 316 625 4896
Experience unique gastronomic “moments” — as opposed to courses — at Elcielo, where avant-garde techniques combine with traditional methods of Colombian cuisine created from locally sourced ingredients.
Calle 7D, No. 43C-36, El Poblado, Medellín, Antioquia, Colombia, tel 57 604 448 2396
The menu at this casual, modern restaurant focuses on slow-cooked foods and changes every six months. Sharing dishes is encouraged.
Carrera 33, No. 7-21, El Poblado, Medellín, Antioquia, Colombia, tel 57 604 448 8203
ATTRACTIONS
For a quiet respite from the bustle of the city, visit this 34-acre garden which serves as a
living museum and science center with a host of plant collections including herbs, azaleas and orchids. The garden also houses a butterfly house and more than 130 species of birds. Join a regularly scheduled guided tour or arrange
in advance for a specialized tour in English; no entrance fee.
Calle 73, No. 51D-14, Aranjuez, Medellín, Antioquia, Colombia, tel 57 604 444 5500
Paisas are not afraid to address the elephant
in the room. This museum, opened in 2012, provides an unflinching look at the history of the armed conflict in Colombia and Medellín and the obstacles people overcame to achieve hard-won peace and prosperity.
Parque Bicentenario, Calle 51, No. 36-66,
La Candelaria, Medellín, Antioquia, Colombia, tel 57 604 520 2020
This ecological nature preserve also features pre-Hispanic archaeological sites and covers more than 61 square miles, with more than 33 miles of trails. Bird-watch, hike, bike and explore the unique flora and fauna of this region. Accessible via MetroCable, the park offers overnight camping and a food market near the gondola station.
Via a Piedras Blancas, Medellín, Antioquia, Colombia, tel 57 604 444 2979
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