Living in Medellin, I’ve witnessed firsthand the incredible transformation of our city. About twenty years ago, the “City of Eternal Spring” started building its tourism industry. Today, it’s one of our greatest strengths, using art and culture to change public perceptions of Colombia and tell the story of Medellin.
Why Tourists Choose Medellin
Back in the 1980s and 1990s, the idea of visiting Medellin might have seemed crazy and risky due to the challenges we faced with drug trafficking and organized armed groups. However, new administrations proposed reconstructing neighborhoods around art and culture to move beyond those dark times. Medellin has grown significantly and is now becoming one of Colombia’s most important destinations.
From being one of the most dangerous cities in the world, we’ve transformed into the “most innovative city in the world” and the host of international events. Our weather, always perfect like spring, with an average temperature of 22°C (71 F) and the warmth of the Paisas (locals), known for their kindness and dedication, have remained constant.
Impressive Growth in Tourism
In 2019, the number of tourists in Medellin increased by more than 50% over the previous three years. Tourism here generated over 290,000 jobs annually and contributed 8.2% to the city’s GDP. Despite the pandemic in 2020, 321,000 people visited our museums. By 2022, hotel occupancy reached 72.5%, and between January and May, 472,826 travelers passed through immigration, showing a 38% growth compared to 2019.
Tourists from the United States lead in numbers, with 39% of all visitors, followed by Mexico and Panama. Leisure is the primary reason for visits, and the Medellin Bureau estimated tourist expenditure at 26 million dollars.
Our tourism sector thrives thanks to the collaborative efforts of various companies, including airlines, travel agencies, Medellin Tours, hotels, and the gastronomic sector. This coalition has been crucial in establishing tourism as a prosperous industry in Medellin. We also celebrate fairs and organize commercial agendas at national and international levels, further consolidating our city’s status as a top tourist destination.
Memorial and Cultural Tourism
Medellin offers something for everyone, from ecotourism to cultural and artistic tours. Popular sites in 2021 included museums, Arví Park, and the Botanical Garden. Urban and memorial tourism highlight our city’s transformation through art, with spaces like Comuna 13, the House of Memory Museum, and Parks Library offering unique experiences.
The city has seen impressive changes over the past two decades. Infrastructure projects like the eastern tunnel, which reduces travel time from the airport to Medellin, have significantly improved the quality of life for locals and tourists. There are also plans to expand the international airport to accommodate the growing number of flights.
If you’re planning a visit, the most recommended areas to stay are Envigado, Poblado, Parque Lleras, and Laureles. These neighborhoods are safe, well-connected by public transport, and close to many points of interest. Although slightly more expensive, they offer great value and convenience.
Medellin is a hub for music, known for genres like salsa, vallenato, tango, and bolero. The city’s nightlife caters to all musical tastes, and venues like Salon Malaga are must-visits for fans of old-world music. Medellin is also the birthplace of reggaeton stars like Maluma, J Balvin, and Karol G, making it a vibrant destination for music lovers.
Our city is committed to sustainability, promoting public transport and the use of the EnCicla bike system. Projects like tree planting and vertical gardens are part of our annual renovations to maintain an eco-friendly environment. Medellin’s transformation from a violent city to a recipient of the Lee Kuan Yew World City Prize in 2016 is a testament to our commitment to nature and green spaces.
Exploring Beyond Medellin
The growth of tourism has also benefited surrounding towns like Guatapé and Jardín, turning them into must-visit spots. Improved transportation has made these areas more accessible, allowing visitors to enjoy their attractions and the tranquility they offer. Coffee culture is another significant draw, with many tourists exploring the coffee villages around Medellin for tasting tours.
Medellin is gaining global recognition for its art, culture, and innovative infrastructure. With everything from good food and ecotours to extreme sports and memorial tourism, our city has it all. We are well-equipped to meet the growing numbers of tourists, making Medellin an increasingly attractive destination.
