By Bridget Castner
Medellin is the second largest city in Colombia and is named the "City of Eternal Spring" because of its year-round warm weather. Located in a valley surrounded by the Andes Mountains, Medellin is a beautiful city with incredible views and tons of things to do, including budget-friendly activities. Here are some free things to do in Medellin!
Visit the Botanical Garden
Jardin Botanico is the place to be if you love being immersed in nature and exploring new things. Take a walking tour through the garden for 1hr 30 minutes, or check out one of their many exhibits! This garden is filled with gorgeous trees and florals to take in, and is home to the largest butterfly house in Antioquia. People describe the garden as magical and relaxing, and it's truly no wonder why. With restaurants and coffee shops on site as well, it’s the perfect place to spend a beautiful afternoon!
Take in the Art Culture
Medellin has one of the greatest art scenes in South America, and Comuna 13 is a great place to start your art journey! During the 1990’s this was considered one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in the city, but has since gone through an incredible metamorphosis which can be seen in its lively art. The artwork ranges from harsh and political to colorful and filled with hope. You can get an incredible sense of the history of Medellin through these murals. The stunning Open Sky Gallery alongside the Ayacucho Tram is the perfect place to go for a walk and admire paintings and street art.
Hang Out at Plaza Botero
Did you know that Fernando Botero was born and raised in Medellin? While you may have seen some of his instantly recognizable sculptures lounging around Park Avenue in New York City, Plaza Botero is home to more than 20 of these incredibly unique statues. All pieces in the park were donated by Fernando himself, and have been residing there for almost twenty years! Each sculpture is made from bronze and most were formerly housed in museums in New York, Paris, and Madrid. The park is the perfect place to take an afternoon stroll, or walk off those calories after dinner!
Hike in Parque Arvi
With over 10 hiking trails available, you have your pick of adventures at Parque Arvi! There is no entrance fee, however you can choose to purchase tickets for a guided tour or other activities the park has to offer. With trees and flowers and the comforting sounds of wildlife around you, it’s a perfect spot to clear your mind or just sit down to ground yourself with nature. The park is home to a small coffee shop where you can stop in and grab a drink, as well as an Educational and Cultural Center that is open year-round.
Explore the Churches
Medellin is packed with history, including its extravagant architecture. Many of the churches date back to the 1800s, so there is a ton of history to take in no matter which one you choose to visit! The largest in the city is the Metropolitan Cathedral of Medellin. Made up of over one million solid bricks, this church is one of the largest structures in the world! Next to a popular park in Medellin, Iglesia de Santa Gertrudis stands tall and majestic. Gaze upon amazing art pieces and the stained glass windows, or take a trip up to the second floor to see what is considered to be one of the best (and oldest) organs in the country. You can also visit La Candelaria Church, the oldest Roman Catholic church in Medellin that boasts a main altar that's made of gold-painted wood.
Which of these activities will you enjoy on your trip to Medellin?
