If you are searching for a vibrant, family-friendly city full of history, culture, and color, Medellin, Colombia, should be at the top of your list! Known as the “City of Eternal Spring,” Medellin offers pleasant weather year-round, making it perfect for exploring with kids. We discovered so many incredible neighborhoods, breathtaking views, and unforgettable experiences during our trip! From charming plazas filled with unique art to adventurous cable car rides high above the city, Medellin captured our hearts from the moment we arrived. Whether you love history, street art, or exploring parks and gardens, there are so many top things to see in Medellin with kids. Let’s dive into our favorite stops!
Colombia is a stunning country filled with vibrant cities, breathtaking mountains, lush rainforests, and warm Caribbean coastlines! Its location in the northwestern part of South America makes it a gateway to so many diverse experiences. Visitors will find bustling cities, tranquil countryside, and incredible biodiversity. It is truly a traveler’s paradise!
When we told friends we were visiting, many asked about safety. We were happy to discover that Colombia felt incredibly safe during our stay! The country has worked hard in recent years to transform itself into a welcoming destination for travelers of all ages. We felt comfortable walking around, exploring neighborhoods, and using public transportation with the girls.
Colombia’s rich culture blends Indigenous, Spanish, and African influences. This fusion is reflected in its music, food, and festivals! We loved sampling new flavors and hearing rhythms drifting through the streets. From bustling markets to peaceful parks, there is something for everyone here. The warmth of the people and the beauty of the country will make you want to return again and again!
What is Medellin?
Medellin is Colombia’s second-largest city, tucked into the lush Aburrá Valley in the Andes Mountains! Once known for its turbulent past, the city has transformed into a vibrant hub of innovation, art, and culture. The nickname “City of Eternal Spring” comes from its pleasant climate, which hovers around the mid-70s year-round. This means exploring outdoors is always comfortable!
The city is made up of distinct neighborhoods, each offering its own personality and charm. Poblado is popular with travelers for its restaurants, shops, and family-friendly hotels. We stayed in the Financial District at Hotel San Fernando Plaza, which was a wonderful choice! The location felt peaceful while still being close to the action.
Medellin’s public transportation is one of the most impressive in South America. The metro and cable cars connect neighborhoods across the hillsides, making it easy to explore without a car. The city’s layout stretches along the valley floor, with surrounding mountains offering breathtaking views!
Top Things to See in Medellin Stop #1:
Pueblito Paisa
Pueblito Paisa is a charming replica of a traditional Antioquian village, perched on the top of Nutibara Hill! This spot offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and sweeping views of the city below. The recreated village includes a small church, town square, shops, and a fountain, giving you a glimpse into rural Colombian life.
This site is a favorite among families because it feels like stepping back in time! Our girls loved wandering through the cobblestone streets, peeking into artisan shops, and sampling traditional snacks. Street vendors sell everything from sweet treats to fresh juices. We recommend trying a classic Colombian arepa while enjoying the view!
The location is easy to reach, just a short taxi ride from the Financial District. Once you arrive, make sure to take your time exploring the surroundings. There is also a small museum that shares more about the Antioquian culture and history.
Top Things to See in Medellin Stop #2:
Plaza Botero
Plaza Botero is one of Medellin’s most iconic public spaces, dedicated to the world-famous Colombian artist Fernando Botero! Located in the heart of the city center, this open-air plaza features over 20 large bronze sculptures, each with Botero’s signature style of exaggerated proportions. The statues are whimsical, intriguing, and fun to explore!
We had such a great time wandering among the sculptures. The girls loved posing with the oversized animals, people, and shapes, turning it into a playful photo session! It was fascinating to see how art can be both interactive and inspiring.
The plaza is surrounded by beautiful architecture, including the striking Rafael Uribe Uribe Palace of Culture. If you have extra time, step inside to explore the exhibits and enjoy the view from the rooftop terrace.
Plaza Botero is also conveniently located near the Museo de Antioquia, which houses an impressive collection of Botero’s paintings and works by other Latin American artists. This makes it a great spot for combining outdoor and indoor art experiences.
Top Things to See in Medellin Stop #3:
Comuna 13
Comuna 13 is one of Medellin’s most inspiring neighborhoods, famous for its vibrant street art, powerful history, and community transformation! Once considered one of the most dangerous areas in the city, it has become a symbol of hope, resilience, and creativity.
The best way to experience Comuna 13 is with a local guide who can share stories of its past and present. We were captivated by the colorful murals that line the streets, each telling a unique story about the community’s struggles and triumphs. Our girls loved spotting hidden details in the artwork!
We listened to street musicians and watched energetic dance performances along the main walking routes. Local vendors sell refreshing drinks, snacks, and handmade crafts, making it easy to spend hours here. The outdoor escalators make the neighborhood more accessible while offering a fun ride for kids!
This visit was a highlight of our trip! Seeing how art has transformed Comuna 13 into a tourist-friendly and creative hub left us feeling inspired! It is an unforgettable stop in Medellin that combines history, culture, and incredible visuals.
Top Things to See in Medellin Stop #4:
Medellin’s Metrocable
Medellin’s Metrocable system is an adventure! These cable cars connect hillside neighborhoods to the main metro lines, offering breathtaking aerial views of the city and surrounding mountains. Riding the Metrocable is a must for families visiting Medellin!
We started by taking a short taxi to the Poblado Metro Station. From there, we boarded Line A heading north to Acevedo Station, a scenic 17-minute ride. Without leaving the station, we transferred to the K Line Metrocable and rode to Santo Domingo Station in about 10 minutes. The views during this section were incredible! At Santo Domingo, we made a second transfer to the L Line Metrocable for a 17-minute ride up to Parque Arvi. The higher we climbed, the more lush and green the scenery became. The girls were glued to the windows, pointing out tiny houses, gardens, and winding roads below.
The Metrocable is safe, affordable, and a fantastic way to see Medellin from a whole new perspective!
Top Things to See in Medellin Stop #5:
Parque Arvi
Parque Arvi is a breathtaking nature reserve located high above Medellin in the mountains! After riding the L Line Metrocable up from Santo Domingo, we arrived at this peaceful escape surrounded by lush forests. The change in scenery is remarkable! The city’s bustle is replaced with the fresh scent of pine and the sound of birdsong.
The park covers more than 16,000 hectares and is perfect for families who enjoy the outdoors! There are walking trails for all skill levels, guided nature tours, and spots to enjoy a picnic. We chose an easy trail so the girls could explore at their own pace while spotting butterflies and wildflowers.
Parque Arvi is also home to a charming weekend market near the cable car station. Vendors sell local fruits, snacks, and handmade crafts. We sampled fresh strawberries with cream and browsed through colorful woven bags.
The air feels cooler up here, so bring a light jacket even on sunny days! This park offers a beautiful balance to Medellin’s urban adventures, giving you a chance to recharge in nature.
Top Things to See in Medellin Stop #6
Santo Domingo
Santo Domingo is a vibrant hillside neighborhood that became our surprise favorite! We stopped here on our way back from Parque Arvi and were instantly drawn to its colorful buildings and lively atmosphere.
This area is known for its street art, with walls covered in bold murals that reflect the community’s history and culture. We strolled through the streets, admiring the creativity and stopping often for photos. The girls loved pointing out their favorite designs and colors!
On our way back from Parque Arvi, we detoured to Santo Domino. We enjoyed outdoor seating at a pub near the metro station. Here, we enjoyed a refreshing beverage while watching daily life unfold around us. Children played soccer in the street, music drifted from nearby homes, and neighbors chatted in doorways.
Santo Domingo is not as touristy as other neighborhoods, so you truly get a feel for local life here. It is also a great reminder that Medellin’s charm extends far beyond its main attractions.
Top Things to See in Medellin Stop #7:
El Castillo
El Castillo is Medellin’s very own fairytale castle! Located in the El Poblado district, this French-inspired mansion was built in the 1930s and now serves as a museum. Its grand architecture, manicured gardens, and mountain backdrop make it feel like a step into another world!
We joined a guided tour to explore the interior, which is the only way to see inside. The rooms are filled with antique furniture, fine art, and decorative details that tell the story of the wealthy family who once lived here. The girls were fascinated by the elegant dining room and ornate bedrooms!
Outside, the gardens are perfect for a leisurely walk or a family photo session. There are fountains, sculptures, and flowerbeds bursting with color. The view of Medellin from the terraces is also spectacular!
Visiting El Castillo gave us a glimpse into Medellin’s more glamorous past and added a touch of European elegance to our trip. It is a hidden gem worth visiting!
Top Things to See in Medellin Stop #8:
Ciclovía & Local Markets
On Sundays and holidays, Medellin hosts Ciclovía, a citywide event where certain streets close to traffic and open for pedestrians, cyclists, and skaters! It is such a fun way to experience the city alongside locals. We joined the crowd, walking and chatting while soaking up the cheerful atmosphere.
Along the way, we visited local markets brimming with fresh produce, flowers, and street food. Vendors called out their specials while music played in the background. We could not resist sampling the local treats! My favorite was a warm, cheesy arepa. The girls loved aguapanela con limón, a sweet drink made from sugarcane and lemon.
These markets are perfect for picking up picnic supplies or simply enjoying a snack while people-watching. They also offer a chance to practice Spanish with friendly vendors!
Ciclovía captures the community spirit of Medellin. It is active, social, and filled with delicious flavors. If your visit falls on a Sunday, do not miss it!
Day Trips and Excursions
We ventured out of Medellin to the charming town of Guatapé! Nearby we climbed El Peñol rock. The views from the top are worth every step! Follow along on our posts “Discover the Best Things to Do in Guatape, Colombia” and “A Traveler’s Guide to El Penon: What You Need to Know” to learn more.
For coffee lovers, there are nearby coffee farms that offer tours where you can learn the process from bean to cup. These tours often include hands-on activities and tastings, making them fun for the whole family. We combined our coffee tour with a horseback ride through the countryside. Follow along on our post “Your Essential Guide to Colombian Coffee Tours” to learn more.
Other Recommendations
While we could not fit everything into our visit, there are plenty more family-friendly activities in Medellin! Jardín Botánico is a beautiful botanical garden with walking paths, a butterfly house, and plenty of space for kids to run. The Explora Park Science Museum is another great spot, featuring interactive exhibits, an aquarium, and outdoor play areas.
Medellin is also home to many neighborhood parks and playgrounds, perfect for spontaneous stops while exploring. The city truly offers something for every age and interest, making it an ideal destination for families who love both culture and adventure!
The Family Verdict
Our adventure in Medellin was an absolute success! From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed with warmth and kindness. Locals were eager to help, share recommendations, and even chat with the girls so they could practice their Spanish. We saw their confidence grow each day as they ordered food, asked questions, and learned new words!
The city’s combination of urban energy and natural beauty kept our days exciting and varied. One moment we were wandering through bustling markets, and the next we were gliding over green hillsides in the Metrocable. Every neighborhood had its own unique character, and each stop added a new layer to our experience. We left Medellin with full hearts, happy memories, and a deep appreciation for the people who make this city so special. It is a place we would return to in a heartbeat!
Make sure to check out our adventures nearby in Guatape, El Penon, and on a Colombian coffee adventure. Also, follow along on our complete family adventure in Colombia!
Follow along on our other amazing family travel adventures at www.adventureisinoursouls.com.
Recommended Supplies
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