9 Activities Medellín – Local Experiences

Exploring Medellín: Activities and Recommendations

Are you ready to dive into the vibrant culture of Medellín once your morning Spanish classes at Blink are over? This city, nestled in the Aburrá Valley and surrounded by lush green mountains, offers a multitude of opportunities and experiences to make your stay unforgettable. 9 Activities Medellín.

The Botanical Garden of Medellín: Officially known as the Joaquin Antonio Uribe Botanical Garden, is a 14-hectare oasis nestled in the heart of Medellín, Colombia. This lush garden is a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts and a haven for biodiversity, boasting an impressive collection of 4,500 blooming flowers and providing a habitat for 139 documented bird species. One of its most iconic features is the “Orchideorama,” a architectural masterpiece that serves as a sanctuary for an invaluable collection of orchids. The Orchideorama stands at a height of 65 feet, is a delicate meshwork canopy crafted from wood. It comprises ten elegant hexagonal structures resembling flowering trees, each with a dual purpose: collecting rainwater and offering shelter to the exquisite orchids and butterfly reserves housed within.

How to get there:

Take the metro to station ‘Universidad del Metro de Medellín del Jardín Botánico’

Comuna 13: A barrio in Medellín that was once synonymous with turmoil and adversity, has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years. This neighborhood, nestled in the heart of Medellín, Colombia, has risen from its tumultuous past to become a beacon of hope and resilience. Through concerted efforts from the government, local communities, and various organizations, Comuna 13 has seen a substantial reduction in crime rates, fostering a safer environment for its residents. The implementation of innovative urban development projects, including the construction of outdoor escalators, has facilitated easier mobility for the community. Additionally, vibrant street art adorns the walls, narrating the tale of the neighborhood’s journey towards recovery and prosperity. The revitalization efforts have not only improved the physical landscape but have also invigorated a sense of unity and pride among the residents. Today, Comuna 13 stands as a testament to the power of collective action and determination in overcoming adversity. It serves as an inspiring example of how a community can rise above its challenges and create a brighter, more promising future for its inhabitants.

How to get there:

Take the metro to ‘San Javier Station’. From there it’s a 15-20 minute walk so you can take a taxi if you prefer to do so. We recommend using services like Ubers.

Plaza Botero: Pay a visit to Plaza Botero, Bronze sculptures beautifully decorate the area near the Museum of Antioquia, a renowned place in Medellín called Berrío Park. This park is home to a unique collection of 23 sculptures by Maestro Fernando Botero, donated to the city in 2002. These sculptures became the centerpiece of Sculpture Square, famously known as the Botero Square in Medellín. Here, these bronze artworks vividly convey Maestro Botero’s focus on sensuality and volume in his creations.

Tejo: Want to experience a local Colombian sport? Try your hand at Tejo, a game that involves throwing metal disks at gunpowder-filled targets. It’s an exciting and social activity that pairs well with a cold beer. At Blink we regularly organize tours for our students to play Tejo.

Football Matches: Catch a football (soccer) match at one of Medellín’s stadiums. The passion for football in Colombia is infectious, and attending a game is an exhilarating experience. We offer a guide on how to go to a Football match in Medellín. Tips and tricks included!

Sabaneta: Explore the neighborhood of Sabaneta, a hidden gem often overlooked by tourists. This authentic Colombian town offers a glimpse into everyday life away from the city center. You can easily go to Sabaneta by taking the Metro to station ‘Sabaneta’

Café Hopping: Medellín boasts a thriving coffee culture. Spend your afternoons hopping between local cafés, savoring Colombia’s finest brews. Most of Medellin’s top clubs and bars are situated in El Poblado, a large and upscale central neighborhood.

Paragliding: For the thrill-seekers, paragliding over the picturesque landscapes of Medellín is a must. Take to the skies and witness the city between majestic mountains.

Medellín Metro: Chances are high that if you are reading this, you are from a country where every metro you have been in smells bad and there is trash laying around everywhere. In the Medellín Metro, nothing could be further from the truth.  The Medellin Metro is one of the most prestigious symbols of the city and it is definitely an experience you must have when you’re in the city.

With these recommendations, your afternoons in Medellín are bound to be filled with adventure, culture, and unforgettable experiences.