10 Cool things to do in Medellín
| On Jun13,2018Notice how we said experience instead of watch? That’s because it’s very unlikely that you would have experienced an atmosphere like this before. 90 minutes straight of jumping, chanting and signing fans banging drums so hard it felt like the stadium was moving. Atletico Nacional play at the Estadio Atanasio Girardot which is located a short walk away from the Estadio metro station. A ticket in the upper tiers of the east stand will cost 48,000 COP (£12.20) and give you a great vantage point to take it in the madness.
Things to do in Medellin #3 – Take the Pablo tour
Whilst Pablo Escobar and his Medellin Cartel caused untold misery for millions of Colombians, he undoubtedly had an impact on the city that will never be forgotten. This tour will take you all across the city to a number of significant sites including Comuna 13, La Catedral, the “prison” overlooking the city which Escobar had built for himself and the infamous rooftop where he died. We were invited to enjoy this experience by Medellin City Services who have agreed to offer our followers a 10% discount on all tours. Email Camillo at info@medellincityservices.com with subject heading LWAV10% to receive your discount!
Things to do in Medellin #4 – Get a tattoo
Tattoos are hugely popular in the north of Latin America and, as you may or may not know, we our big tattoo fans and collectors ourselves and often like to get a tattoo as a souvenir or as a memory of something significant. Medellin marked 6 months backpacking through South America for us so it was a perfect fit. Our research led us to Riders Club Tattoo Studio on Calle 11A where had the pleasure of adding to our collection at the hands of the talented @rm_arte and @aura_duque_artista. This is more than just your average tattoo studio, it is also a creative co-working space with a great energy and they are turning the back into a hostel as well. Be sure to check these guys out.
Things to do in Medellin #5 – Medellín Prime Parks
Fernando Botero is a Colombian artist and sculptor famed for his signature painting style, Boterismo. Botero depicts people in a comical and curvaceous manner which some suggest is a form of political criticism. The plaza showcases 23 pieces sculpted by the famous Colombian and set is the ‘Old Quarter’ area of Medellin near the Parque Berrio metro. Full of families hanging out and tourists snapping pictures this is a great, chilled-out spot to spend an hour. Museo de Antioquia is also very close by.
Things to do in Medellin #6 – Guatapé and Peñol Rock Tour
You may be more familiar with this iconic rock by sight rather than name. The Piedra del Penol is a 90 minute bus ride from Medellin, near the small town of Guatape (which is also worth visiting). If you’re coming from Guatape you can take a jeep from the centre plaza to to Piedra for 2,000 COP (£0.55). Once you’ve paid the 18,000 COP (£4.90) admission you have to climb roughly 600 steps to top. Here you can take in the sights of the surrounding, man-made Penol-Guatape reservoir.
Things to do in Medellin #7 – Pub crawl Tour
Poblado is the place to be for backpackers in Medellin. Dozens of hostels and clubs, scores of bars and restaurants and hundreds of people looking for a good time, everyday is Saturday in Poblado. Before the crowds hit in the evenings it is worth having a stroll through the pretty Parque Lleras.
Things to do in Medellin #8 – Treat yourself a little
Travelling is tough, really tough. Sometimes you don’t even have the time to give yourself a good meal, much less take care of your hair and nails. Well that’s where Bonita Salon can help you feel like a million bucks. Offering massages, hair and nail treatments using only cruelty-free, organic products, this salon, set in the hills of Carrera 10 with a wonderful view of downtown Medellin, will have you feeling and looking great. To receive 30% off a haircut, detox hair treatment or coconut hair treatment watsapp Adriana on +573053776959 and quote LWAV30%, Enjoy!
Things to do in Medellin #9 – Explore Parque Explora
This interactive science museum is a playground for your inner-child. Not only are there over 300 interactive exhibits but it’s also home to South America’s largest freshwater aquarium. Whilst designed to make learning about nature, wildlife and outer space fun for kids, it’s fair to say that adults get as much of a kick out it too. Located only a short walk from Universidad metro station, admission is 22,000 COP (£5.90) and should keep you occupied for a good few hours.
Things to do in Medellin #10 – Stroll in the Botanical Garden
Right next to the Parque Explora is the Botanical Garden of Medellin. The 14 hectare ground is home to over 5,500 species of animal and flower. It’s a beautiful space to walk around and feel at one with nature in the middle of a big city. There are a few cafes and a restaurant on the grounds if you fancy a break. Best part is, there is no admission fee.