Medellin, the city of eternal spring, where mountains embrace the city and the art of urban life blends with lush nature.
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Medellin is the second largest city in Colombia, located in the Antioquia region. The city is surrounded by mountains and is known for its spring-like climate year-round, as well as its rich culture and history.
POPULATION
The city of Medellin has approximately 2.5 million inhabitants, making it the second most populous city in Colombia after Bogotá.
CLIMATE
Medellin est située dans une vallée andine à une altitude d’environ 1 500 mètres. En raison de son emplacement géographique, la ville a un climat printanier toute l’année, avec des températures moyennes d’environ 22 degrés Celsius
CURRENCY
The official currency is the Colombian peso (COP).
LANGUAGE
The official language is Spanish.
The city of Medellin was founded in 1616 by a group of Spanish colonists. Over the centuries, the city has become an important economic and cultural center in the Antioquia region.
In the 20th century, Medellin experienced a period of rapid economic growth thanks to its flourishing textile industry and coffee exports. However, the city was also marked by violence related to drug trafficking and paramilitary groups.
In the 1980s and 1990s, the city was considered one of the most dangerous cities in the world due to the violence of drug cartels. The Medellin cartel, led by Pablo Escobar, was particularly powerful and violent, making the city a war zone between drug traffickers and law enforcement.
However, in recent decades, the city has made significant progress in reducing violence and reintegrating former combatants into society. Today, Medellin is a constantly evolving city, with a vibrant cultural scene and a thriving economy.
The city is also known for its social innovations, such as the electric escalator in Comuna 13, which connects the city's poorest neighborhoods to the wealthiest areas. The city is also a pioneer in sustainable mobility, with a world-class public transportation system that includes buses, metros, and trams.
In summary, the history of Medellin has been marked by significant challenges, but the city has managed to rise and reinvent itself to become a symbol of resilience and innovation in Colombia.
If you're looking for ideas to discover the best places in Medellin, you've come to the right place! In this section, we present you the main attractions and activities not to be missed during your visit to this fascinating city in Colombia.
If you're looking for cities to visit around Medellin, you've come to the right place! In this section, we present the best destinations near Medellin, whether they are charming colonial towns, spectacular natural sites, or traditional villages. Don't miss the opportunity to discover the wonders of the Antioquia region during your stay in Medellin.
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If you're looking for the best restaurants to discover the cuisine of Medellin, you've come to the right place! In this section, we present you the top establishments to taste local specialties and discover new flavors and tastes in this gourmet city in Colombia.
Discover the most popular events in the city, whether they are festivals, concerts, sports competitions, or other cultural events. Don't miss these opportunities to experience the lively atmosphere of Medellin and discover its unique traditions and way of life.
This is the most important event in Medellin that takes place every year in August. It is a flower festival that lasts about a week, featuring flower-decorated car parades, horse competitions, concerts, and flower exhibitions. It is a unique opportunity to experience the local culture and participate in traditional activities.
Also known as Alumbrados Navideños, this festival of lights is a must-see during the holiday season. The streets are decorated with thousands of colorful lights, creating a magical and festive atmosphere throughout the city.
Medellin is the only city in Colombia to have a metro system, which is fast, safe, and economical. There are two main lines that cross the city from north to south and east to west, as well as a tram line. The metro operates from 4:30 am to 11:00 pm Monday to Saturday, and from 5:00 am to 10:00 pm on Sundays and holidays.
Buses are also an affordable option for getting around in Medellin. There are urban buses that run throughout the city, as well as intercity buses that connect Medellin to other cities in Colombia.
Taxis are also available throughout the city, but it's important to make sure the driver uses the meter to avoid scams. Taxis can be hailed on the street or called by phone.
The metrocable is a cable car system that connects certain parts of the city to neighborhoods located on the surrounding hills. It is a unique and picturesque way to discover the city while enjoying spectacular views of the mountains and surrounding neighborhoods.
The cost of living in Medellin is generally lower than in major cities in North America and Europe, making it an affordable destination for travelers. Here are some examples of common costs in Medellin:
The cost of renting an apartment varies depending on the location and size. Generally, the rent for a one-bedroom apartment in a central neighborhood can cost between $500 and $800 per month.
Restaurants and grocery stores in Medellin are relatively affordable. A meal at a cheap restaurant can cost around $5 to $10, while a meal at a higher-end restaurant can cost between $15 and $30.
The public transportation system in Medellin is affordable, with metro and bus fares ranging from 0.70 to 1.50 dollars. Taxis are also relatively affordable, with fares starting at 2.50 dollars.
Movie theaters, museums, and cultural events are generally affordable in Medellin, with admission fees ranging from 2 to 10 dollars.
It is recommended to research safe areas of the city and consult with local authorities' advice and recommendations before going on excursions or traveling outside the city. Additionally, it is advised to stay informed about the latest updates on the city's security situation by checking local and international media.
TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR MEDELLIN
Travel insurance is particularly important if you plan to travel to Medellin, Colombia.
Although the city is relatively safe for tourists, it is still possible to encounter unexpected situations such as health issues, lost or stolen luggage, or transportation delays.
In such cases, travel insurance can help you resolve the issues quickly and efficiently, without having to bear high costs or additional complications.
MONEY / BANKS
When traveling to Medellin, it is important to consider several practical aspects to manage your money as efficiently as possible. Firstly, it is recommended to use ATMs to withdraw Colombian pesos in cash.
However, make sure to withdraw money from safe and well-lit locations such as shopping centers or banks. Avoid exchanging money in the streets or non-official locations as it can be risky and you may be scammed.
It is also important to travel with international credit or debit cards, such as Visa or Mastercard. Check with your bank for transaction fees that may apply to using these cards abroad. It is also recommended to notify your bank of your international travel to avoid any blockage of your card due to suspicious activity.
Finally, it is recommended to use online payment apps such as Revolut to avoid transaction fees and benefit from competitive exchange rates. Make sure to download the app and set it up before your trip to Colombia.
