Visa Free Exploration: Medellin

Thanks to its vast geography, stretching from the Caribbean coast to the Amazon rainforest, Colombia offers an impressive travel experience. Its local cuisine, dances, and warm-hearted people promise an unforgettable cultural journey.

Today, we’re in Medellin, one of Colombia’s most popular cities. With its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and modern lifestyle, Medellin enchants its visitors. It’s also on the radar of Turkish citizens, who can travel here visa-free. What places should you visit in this tropical paradise, and what activities should you try? Here's everything you need to know about Medellin.

A Glimpse into Medellin’s Culture and History

Medellin, Colombia’s second-largest city, boasts a rich cultural and historical heritage. Once infamous for its dangerous cartels, the city has transformed in recent years and is now known as the “City of Eternal Spring.”

Dynamic and modern, Medellin has become a hub where technology and art converge. Art and cultural centers, theaters, concerts, festivals, and the sculptures of renowned Colombian artist Fernando Botero displayed in the city square are all integral parts of life here. The annual Feria de las Flores (Flower Festival) also showcases the city’s famous flower production and celebrates the region's traditional carrier culture.

Football is another passion not to be overlooked. The majority of Medellin’s residents are football enthusiasts, with a deep loyalty to the city’s two major teams, Atlético Nacional and Independiente Medellín. This passion is a defining aspect of the city's culture.

Medellin’s history dates back to the 17th century, but in the 1980s and '90s, it was engulfed in violence and chaos due to the cartels led by Pablo Escobar. This period profoundly affected the city’s social fabric. However, since the 2000s, Medellin has undergone an innovative social transformation, and today it is recognized among the world’s most innovative cities, thanks to its projects in education, public transportation, and social integration.

Must-See Places in Medellin

Comuna 13

Once one of the most crime-ridden areas in Medellin, Comuna 13 has now transformed into an open-air art gallery, filled with vibrant murals and street performers. This neighborhood offers a unique blend of history and art, and you can join a walking tour with local guides and meet local artists along the way.

Botero Plaza

Home to the massive sculptures of world-famous Colombian artist Fernando Botero, Botero Plaza is one of Medellin’s iconic landmarks. Here, you can admire Botero’s distinctive oversized sculptures up close and visit nearby art galleries. Since the plaza is located in the city center, you can also explore the surrounding historic buildings.

Antioquia Museum(Museo de Antioquia)

Located right next to Botero Plaza, the Antioquia Museum is a perfect stop for anyone wanting to delve deeper into Medellin’s cultural heritage and art history. With a large collection dedicated to Botero's works and other notable Colombian artists, the museum offers an insightful look into the city’s history and art.

Pueblito Paisa

Perched atop Cerro Nutibara, one of Medellin’s highest hills, Pueblito Paisa is a charming tourist attraction that recreates the atmosphere of a traditional Colombian village. You can explore buildings reflecting old village life, browse small shops, and check out local handicrafts, all while enjoying panoramic views of Medellin—especially stunning at sunset, making it a popular spot for photographers.

Parque Explora

If you’re a fan of science and technology, Parque Explora is the place for you. This interactive science museum features exhibits that appeal to visitors of all ages, from kids to adults. It also houses one of South America’s largest freshwater aquariums, offering an educational and fun experience in fields like biology, physics, and astronomy.

Things to Do in Medellin

Explore the City via Metro Cable

We’ve mentioned Medellin’s innovative public transportation system, and the Metro Cable is a prime example. Not only does it make the mountainous areas more accessible, but it also offers visitors a chance to see the city from above. You can take a quick journey from the city center to rural areas using this cable car system.

Hiking in Arví Park

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of Medellin and connect with nature, head to Arví Park. This vast nature reserve offers hiking trails, biking routes, and picnic spots, making it a perfect retreat for nature lovers. The park is also accessible via the Metro Cable, and you can shop for local goods at its market.

Where to Stay in Medellin

Medellin offers accommodation options to suit every budget. The El Poblado district, full of hotels, boutique stays, and hostels, is one of the most popular areas for tourists, known for its safety and abundance of cafés and restaurants. For a quieter experience, consider staying in Laureles, where you can immerse yourself in local life.

How to Get to Medellin

While there are no direct flights from Turkey to Medellin, you can easily transfer via Bogotá, the capital of Colombia. From Bogotá, Medellin is easily reachable by domestic flights or buses. José María Córdova International Airport, located about 45 minutes from Medellin, offers easy access to the city center by taxi or private car.

Medellin’s Food Culture

Colombian cuisine is known for its fresh ingredients and local flavors. In Medellin, be sure to try bandeja paisa, a hearty dish made with rice, beans, avocado, eggs, chorizo, and meat. Don’t miss out on street snacks like arepas and empanadas, which are also popular local treats.