7-Day Itinerary for Medellin, Colombia on a Shoestring Budget

  1. Day 1: Botero Plaza & Pueblito Paisa
    20 minutes (4.2 km) from Jose Maria Cordova International Airport

    Admire the larger-than-life sculptures by Fernando Botero in the bustling plaza. Follow it up with a hilltop visit to Pueblito Paisa for stunning city views.

  2. Day 2: Arvi Park & Metrocable
    45 minutes (12.1 km) from your accommodation

    Take a scenic metro ride to explore the lush flora and fauna of Arvi Park. Try the local cuisine from vendors before returning.

  3. Day 3: El Castillo Museum & Explora Park
    33 minutes (10.7 km) from Arvi Park

    Get a glimpse into a bygone era at the historic El Castillo Museum. Have a fun-filled learning experience at Explora Park next door with interactive exhibits.

  4. Day 4: Santoficio & Nutibara Hill
    35 minutes (9.5 km) from your accommodation

    Unwind in the quaint town of Santa Elena at the artisanal Santoficio. Complete your day trip with a hike up Nutibara Hill for panoramic views of the city.

  5. Day 5: Parque de los Deseos & Jardin Botanico
    20 minutes (4.6 km) from Nutibara Hill

    Explore the striking Parque de los Deseos filled with art, amphitheaters, and gardens. Visit the serene Jardin Botanico for a peaceful escape from the city.

  6. Day 6: Comuna 13 & Casa de la Memoria
    23 minutes (8.2 km) from Jardin Botanico

    Discover the vibrant street art and cultural history of the once volatile Comuna 13. Then, pay respects to the victims of the civil war at the thought-provoking Casa de la Memoria.

  7. Day 7: Mercado del Rio & Poblado Neighborhood
    30 minutes (9.1 km) from your accommodation

    Taste diverse cuisines in the bustling Mercado del Rio near the river. Later, walk through the upscale Poblado neighborhood lined with shops, cafes, and nightlife.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Arvi Park & Metrocable (3-4 hours, COP 7,000)
  • Casa de la Memoria (1-2 hours, free entry)
  • Comuna 13 Tour (2-3 hours, COP 25,000)
  • El Castillo Museum (1-2 hours, COP 13,000)
  • Explora Park (3-4 hours, COP 30,000)
  • Jardín Botanico (1-2 hours, COP 17,000)
  • Mercado del Rio (1-2 hours, varies)
  • Nutibara Hill (1-2 hours, free entry)
  • Parque de los Deseos (1-2 hours, free entry)
  • Santoficio (1-2 hours, varies)
  • Total Estimated Costs: COP 89,000-104,000 ($23-27 USD)

Useful Tips:

If you have more time, consider visiting the stunning Guatape, known for its colorful houses and giant rock. For those with less time, prioritize Botero Plaza and Pueblito Paisa on Day 1, along with one more location of your choice from another day.

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