Best 21 Tours in Medellín

Medellín offers a diverse array of tours catering to various interests, from history and culture to adventure and gastronomy. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the top 21 tours you must experience in Medellín:

1. Medellín Cable Car & Metro System Tour + Parque Arví

This tour begins with a ride on Medellín’s efficient metro system, Colombia’s only metro, followed by a journey on the Metrocable, which provides stunning aerial views and connects outlying communities. At Parque Arví, choose from hiking, cycling, visiting flower farms in Santa Elena, or exploring local crafts and cuisine. The Medellín Metro, launched in 1995, has two lines and a tram line, while the Metrocable, operational since 2004, features six lines. Parque Arví spans 1,761 hectares of forest, offering ecotourism and educational activities.

2. Santa Elena Flower Farm & Silleteros Tour

Discover the origins of Medellín’s famous Feria de las Flores on this tour. Visit Santa Elena’s flower farms and learn about the silleteros, the flower growers who carry elaborate floral arrangements on their backs. Enjoy a guided tour of the farms, try your hand at arranging flowers on a silleta, and savor a traditional Colombian lunch. Santa Elena, located within the Arví Nature Reserve, is known for its vibrant blooms and rich cultural heritage. The tour supports local farmers, offering an authentic, hands-on experience.

3. Paragliding in Medellín

Experience the thrill of paragliding in Medellín, even if you have no prior experience. With certified pilots accompanying you, soar over the breathtaking landscapes surrounding the city. The tour includes hotel pickup, a detailed safety briefing, and a scenic flight. After landing, enjoy traditional Colombian snacks before being dropped off at your hotel. Medellín’s favorable weather and stunning mountain views make it an ideal location for this adventure. Safety is prioritized through experienced pilots, maintained equipment, and top-rated local paragliding companies.

4. Medellín Bike Tour

Explore Medellín on a bike, guided by an English and Spanish-speaking expert. This tour provides bikes, safety equipment, and a flexible route through the city’s scenic spots. Key highlights include Cerro Nutibara with its Pueblito Paisa, the illuminated Park of the Lights, the serene Barefoot Park, and the art-filled Botero Plaza. Tours typically last around two hours and can be adjusted for different fitness levels. For a more effortless ride, electric bikes are available. Enjoy the city’s bike-friendly atmosphere and beautiful sights on this dynamic tour.

5. Medellín History Tour

Delve into Medellín’s rich history with this tour, which includes private transportation and a bilingual guide. Explore the city’s transformation from the most dangerous city in the world in 1990 to the most innovative in 2013. Visit iconic sites such as Paseo Junín, Prado Centro, Botero Plaza, and Barefoot Park. Learn about Medellín’s cultural, industrial, and architectural heritage, including grand European-inspired homes and historic commercial centers. This comprehensive tour offers a deep dive into the city’s fascinating past and dynamic present.

6. Comuna 13 Tour

Explore the vibrant and historically rich neighborhood of Comuna 13, known for its remarkable transformation from a center of violence to a hub of art and culture. This walking tour includes navigating steep slopes and escalators, viewing colorful graffiti, and enjoying street performances by local dancers and musicians. The tour covers the history of Comuna 13’s revitalization efforts and offers stunning views of Medellín. Tours are conducted during the day for safety, emphasizing the community’s resilience and progress over its past challenges.

7. Guatape and El Penol Tour

Embark on a scenic journey from your hotel to El Peñol, a 220-meter high monolithic rock offering breathtaking 360-degree views after a 740-step climb. Following this, explore the vibrant town of Guatape, renowned for its colorful zocalos and regional crafts. Engage in watersports on Guatape Lake, visit Pablo Escobar’s former finca, or tour the underwater church. Enjoy the local coffee and consider an extended stay with glamping options, combining luxury with nature’s beauty. Your bilingual guide will ensure an informative and seamless experience.

8. Medellín City Tour

Experience the cultural and historical transformation of Medellín on this comprehensive city tour. Visit key sites like Plaza de Botero, San Antonio Park, Junín Street, Barefoot Park, Carabobo Street, and the Alpujarra Administrative Center. Walk through the vibrant city center, exploring its historic, administrative, and commercial zones. Enjoy the lush green spaces of River Parks, which integrate the city with the Medellín River. With bilingual guides providing in-depth commentary, this tour offers a perfect introduction to Medellín’s dynamic and innovative spirit.

9. Medellín Museum Tours

Discover the cultural history of Medellín through its top museums, with a bilingual guide to translate and explain exhibits.

• Museum of Antioquia: Home to sculptures, paintings, and historical artifacts, including works by Fernando Botero and various themed rooms.
• House of Memory Museum: Chronicles Medellín’s transformation from violence to peace through diverse exhibits and personal testimonials.
• El Castillo Museum and Gardens: A Gothic-style castle featuring European collections and beautiful themed gardens.
• Medellín Museum of Modern Art: Focuses on contemporary and abstract art, with regularly updated exhibits and a notable gift shop.

10. Medellín Helicopter Tours

Experience breathtaking aerial views of Medellín and its surroundings, guided by bilingual experts.

• Fly Over Medellín: A 15-20 minute tour showcasing the city’s key areas and contrasts.
• Tour Over Santa Elena’s Flower Farms: Fly over vibrant flower fields and learn about the silleteros, the regional flower growers.
• Flight to Guatape: A quick 20-minute journey offering stunning views of the countryside, with options for one-way or round-trip, including visits to La Piedra del Peñón.

Safety tips include waiting for pilot instructions, avoiding loose items, and wearing long pants and secure hair.

11. Puebliando Tour

Explore the charming small towns of Jardin, Jerico, and Hispania in southwestern Antioquia, each offering a unique glimpse into the region’s cultural and architectural heritage.

• Jardin: Known for its colonial buildings, friendly locals, and natural attractions like La Cueva del Esplendor and La Herrera path, connecting to the picturesque La Garrucha cable car.
• Jerico: Famous for its Republican-era architecture, award-winning coffee, and cultural sites like El Salvador Hill, Natural Park Las Nubes, and the Museum of Religious Art.
• Hispania: A traditional coffee town with a welcoming main park, ecological trail, and sites like the church of Nuestra Señora de las Mercedes, offering tranquility and natural beauty.

12. Hacienda Napoles Day Tour

Explore Hacienda Nápoles, a 1600-hectare park focused on environmental conservation and family recreation. Home to diverse wildlife, including Bengal tigers, lions, jaguars, and a unique herd of free-roaming hippopotamuses. The aquatic area features water slides, jacuzzis, and interactive attractions. Originally acquired by Pablo Escobar in 1978, the hacienda has transformed into a cultural and recreational hub. Visit the Memorial Museum, dedicated to honoring the victims of drug trafficking violence, and learn about the estate’s history and the region’s development.

13. Medellín, Before and After Pablo Escobar Tour

Gain a deep understanding of Medellín’s transformation on this guided tour, exploring the impact of Pablo Escobar. Visit key sites, including Escobar’s properties, the house where he died, his burial site, and the Inflexión Memorial Park, which replaced the Monaco building. Learn about Escobar’s influence and the city’s resilience. The tour also includes a visit to the Pablo Escobar Neighborhood, where you’ll understand the complex legacy of this controversial figure. Your bilingual guide will provide historical context and translation throughout the tour.

14. Horseback Riding Tour

Experience the lush landscapes of Eastern Antioquia on a horseback riding tour, ideal for both beginners and seasoned riders. Enjoy docile horses, scenic trails, and the accompaniment of music. The tour includes a traditional barbecue or “fiambre” meal and local alcoholic beverages like Aguardiente or Rum. This outdoor adventure, starting in the morning or at noon, offers beautiful views and a connection to the region’s horse-riding traditions, celebrated annually during the Feria de las Flores.

15. Soccer Game & Tour

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of a live Colombian soccer match with this private tour. Starting with hotel pickup, enjoy pre-game festivities with fans near Atanasio Girardot Stadium, including drinks and local snacks. Experience the passion of Atlético Nacional or Deportivo Independiente Medellín supporters, with the option to purchase team merchandise. Learn about the history and rivalry of the teams, and enjoy the thrilling game from prime seating. This tour offers a unique look into the heart of Medellín’s soccer culture.

16. Coffee & SPA Tour

Connect with nature and immerse yourself in the coffee culture of Antioquia with this educational and relaxing tour. Visit Arvi Park, walk through coffee plantations, and learn about coffee cultivation and processing. The tour includes a sensory spa experience at the Coffee Wellness Spa, featuring a coffee massage, coffee sauna, and a soak in Naox Mantial. For a more immersive experience, the One-Day One-Night tour offers BBQ dinner, overnight stay, and a full coffee tour with an Antioqueño breakfast. Enjoy a specialty coffee tasting and receive a certificate.

17. Food Plaza Tour

Explore the vibrant local markets of Medellín, guided by a gastronomy expert. Visit the Placita de Florez, where you’ll learn about the history and culture of paisa food, and sample a variety of regional dishes and ingredients. Enjoy the bustling atmosphere and taste exotic fruits, vegetables, and traditional snacks. The tour includes a visit to the historic Plazuela de San Ignacio, home to an informal outdoor chess club and significant educational institutions. This tour is perfect for food lovers seeking an authentic culinary experience in Medellín.

18. Colombia Street Food Tour

Indulge in the best street food Medellín has to offer, starting with traditional Caribbean delights like arepas de huevo and carimañolas. Learn about different coffee extraction methods from professional baristas. Finally, savor historic meat dishes wrapped in Bijao leaves, following the traditions of the muleteers. This culinary journey takes place in the Laureles neighborhood, known for its art deco architecture, tree-lined streets, and vibrant gastronomic scene. Enjoy the flavors, culture, and traditions that make Colombian street food unforgettable.

19. 4-Wheeling Mountains Tour

Experience the thrill of riding ATVs through the breathtaking landscapes of Eastern Antioquia, just an hour from Medellín. Perfect for beginners, the tour includes safety gear and medical assistance. Enjoy guided adventures through lush forests, river crossings, and mountain vistas. Popular routes include the Cocorná Trail and Santa Elena trail near Medellín, offering a mix of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Ideal for those seeking adrenaline-packed exploration and stunning scenery, this tour provides an unforgettable off-road adventure.

20. Santa Fe de Antioquia Day Tour

Discover the colonial charm and historical significance of Santa Fe de Antioquia, just an hour and a half from Medellín. Enjoy a warm climate and explore the town’s main square, Metropolitan Cathedral, and colonial architecture. Visit the renowned Puente de Occidente, once South America’s largest suspension bridge, and learn about its engineering marvels. The tour includes stops at the Juan del Corral Museum, several historic churches, and filigree workshops. A bilingual guide and medical assistance card are provided, ensuring a safe and informative experience.

21. Medellín Rafting Tour

Experience an adventurous day with various rafting tours around Medellín, ranging from Class 1 to Class 4/5 rapids. Each tour includes private transportation, expert bilingual guides, safety kayakers, and necessary rafting equipment. Enjoy scenic drives, gourmet lunches, and thrilling rafting experiences on rivers like Santo Domingo, Rio Verde, Calderas, and Rio Claro. For the ultimate adventure, embark on the Samaná River Expedition, featuring overnight stays in eco-lodges, jungle hikes, and exhilarating Class 4/5 rapids. Prices range from $65 to $550 per person.