Medellín, Colombia’s second-largest city, stands out for its impressive economic and tourism growth. This development has turned Medellín into a tourist favorite destination, offering a wide range of activities for all visitors to immerse themselves in the rich Paisa culture.
Medellín offers something for everyone. From those who love the nightlife and enjoy partying to those who are interested in learning about the history of the city and the country, there is something for everyone. If you are visiting Medellín during July, here are five fun things to do around Medellín:
Below are 5 fun things to do around Medellin
- Visit a Coffee Farm: Colombia is world-renowned for the quality and flavor of its coffee. The mountains and fertile lands of the country make it the ideal place to enjoy an exceptional cup of coffee. Although the Coffee Axis, which includes the departments of Quindío, Caldas, and Risaralda, is the most famous region for its coffee production, Antioquia also offers exquisite coffee. If you are a coffee enthusiast and wish to learn all about the production of Colombian coffee, you will find diverse options for coffee tours just a few minutes from Medellín.
- Explore Local Markets: Colombia has an incredible diversity of fruits and gastronomy, and there is no better way to discover it than by exploring the city’s local markets. In these places, you can find the freshest foods and fruits you’ve probably never seen or tasted before. La Minorista, La América, and the Plaza de Mercado de Envigado are ideal destinations to include in your list of fun things to do around Medellín.
- Visit a Colonial Town: Many of Colombia’s major cities are strategically located near diverse towns, and Medellín is no exception. If you are visiting Medellín, you can’t miss exploring the charming colonial towns nearby. Jardín, Jericó, and Guatapé are excellent options for enjoying a weekend among cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and the friendliness of the local people.
- Discover the History of Medellín: Medellín is a city with a long and complex background. Just over 30 years ago, it lived through a dark era of violence and drug trafficking. Although it has fortunately made a remarkable recovery and today is a safe city to live in and visit, its past remains an attraction for many tourists. If you are looking for fun things to do around Medellín and want to learn about its history, you can take the Graffiti Tour of Comuna 13, a neighborhood that has transformed its violent past into a vibrant space for art and tourism, with impressive murals and rich culture on every corner.
Another option is to visit the Museo Casa de la Memoria, where you can gain an in-depth understanding of the intense violence of the 1980s and early 1990s from a reflective and poignant perspective. This museum occupies a symbolic place that gives voice to the victims of the armed conflict in Antioquia and Colombia. - Nature Activities: Colombia’s natural beauty is unique and diverse, and Antioquia is no exception. Here, you can find imposing mountains, lush forests, and incredible hiking places. One standout destination is San Carlos, a town four hours from Medellín, famous for its waterfalls and crystal-clear canyons. You can go canoeing in La Chorrera or El Chispero.
If you’re looking for something more adventurous, visit San Félix, just an hour from Medellín. This area is ideal for paragliding and offers breathtaking views of the city from the sky.
For those who prefer quieter activities, bird watching in Río Claro is an excellent option for fun things to do around Medellín. This spot, known for its abundance of exotic regional birds, is located just two hours from the city.
Continue Discovering Medellín
Colombia and Antioquia offer a wide variety of experiences for every taste. From the natural beauty of waterfalls and crystalline canyons in San Carlos to more extreme adventures like paragliding in San Félix, there are options for every type of traveler. If you prefer to stay in the city, you can also relax with a coffee tour, visit the Casa de la Memoria Museum, or explore the local markets.
Discovering Medellín is undoubtedly an enriching and fun-filled experience. With these five exciting activities, you’ll stay busy and entertained during your visit, making the most of everything this vibrant city has to offer.
