Medellin Historic Walking Tour with Expert Guide
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Medellin Historic Walking Tour with Expert Guide

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(313 reviews)
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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About this experience

Over 280,000 satisfied travelers have experienced the first free walking tour in Medellin since 2013.

Don’t miss out on this authentic local adventure, guided by passionate experts who offer eye-opening insights, captivating stories, and the best insider tips.

Our tour covers the main highlights of the city center, but it’s much more than just sightseeing. We delve into the origins, tragedies, and remarkable resurrection of Medellin.

Renowned for exceptional storytelling, our certified local guides bring history to life in an engaging way. They share personal experiences and simplify complex histories. Additionally, we explore Colombian culture and the current social landscape.

The amount you pay here is equivalent to the suggested tip per person for our guide’s efforts. This payment, minus the commission, goes to your guide. You won’t be expected to give any further contribution at the end of the tour. If you didn’t enjoy the tour, you can request a refund to the booking platform.

Available options

Medellin Historic Walking Tour with Expert Guide

What's included

Activities Recommendations
Bilingual Tour Guide
Group Picture
Restaurant Recommendations

Detailed itinerary

1

We visit the Old Medellín Train Station. The place where the modern Medellín started.

2

Your certified guide will give you a generous and entertaining context of the history of Medellín and the paisa people.

3

We will see and understand the meaning of the gigantic Monumento A La Raza made by Rodrigo Arenas. A huge monument of concrete and bronze dedicated to the Paisa People. The locals of Medellín and Antioquia

4

Get surrounded by 300 pillars that light up at night, understand what they mean and why it's a place that has a significance in the transformation of Medellín

5

Vasquéz and Carré buildings, together with the square of lights have a deep significance in the resurrection of Medellín. We explain why they are a showcase of the renown Social Urbanism of Medellin

6

Once a polluted and noisy street, Carabobo Street is now a green tunnel and pedestrian boulevard, full of colors, people, and street vendors. It leads us into the pumping heart of Medellin downtown.

7

Dating back to 1920s, this is an architectural gem of Medellín. It used to house the courts and even a jail, now it's a shopping mall with art galleries on the upper floors. We visit the place and take a break for coffee and toilet here.

8

You'll have a chance to see the largest collection of local art in the city.

9

We discuss the contradictions of modern Colombian society by explaining the reality of what happens in front of what many argue is the city's second oldest church.

10
Stop 10

We'll talk about the role of Fernando Botero in the resurrection of Medellin, we'll explain his art, and walk through the 23 sculptures he donated to the city

11
Stop 11 Pass by

We'll show you the main Art Museum in Medellin and explain why Fernando Botero is so important for the city

12

We'll explain why the building looks halfway built and its connection with a Belgian architect

13

Right between the police station and the metro station Parque Berrio there is a hidden gem of Medellín, the frescoes painted by Pedro Nel Gómez. We'll talk about the significance of the Metro system to the paisa people

14

This is the oldest square of Medellin and although it's not a colonial square anymore, we will explain how the old-school spirit lives here in the shape of folk music.

15

We'll see the Birds of Peace by Fernando Botero and your local guide will explain how, after the bombing of 1995 they became symbols of resilience and resurrection for the city.

What's not included

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9
7 reviews
5★
6
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
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Tripadvisor 5.0
306 reviews
5★
299
4★
6
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

We meet on the pedestrian bridge of Alpujarra metro station.

About Medellín

Medellín, nestled in a valley and surrounded by mountains, is renowned for its pleasant climate, vibrant culture, and remarkable transformation from its past. Known as the 'City of Eternal Spring,' it offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty, making it a captivating destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Comuna 13

A vibrant and historic neighborhood known for its street art, community spirit, and the famous outdoor escalators that connect the hillside community to the city.

Cultural 2-3 hours Free (tours may have a small fee)

Botero Plaza and Museo de Antioquia

Home to a collection of Fernando Botero's famous works, including his distinctive 'fat' style paintings and sculptures, as well as other notable artists.

Art/Museum 1-2 hours Free (donations appreciated)

Parque Arví

A vast nature reserve accessible via cable car, offering hiking trails, wildlife spotting, and a peaceful escape from the city.

Nature Half day Cable car: $6,000 COP (approx. $1.60 USD) one way

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bandeja Paisa

A hearty platter featuring rice, beans, ground beef, chorizo, plantain, avocado, arepa, and fried egg.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian versions available

Arepas

Cornmeal patties grilled or fried, often stuffed with various fillings like cheese, meat, or avocado.

Snack Vegetarian and vegan options available

Sancocho

A traditional soup made with chicken, beef, or fish, along with plantains, yuca, and other vegetables.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Popular Activities

Hiking in Parque Arví El Peñol rock climb Paragliding in San Antonio de Pereira Coffee tours Spa day in El Poblado Strolling through Parque Lleras Street art tours in Comuna 13 Visiting museums in El Centro

Best Time to Visit

December to March (dry season)

This is the best time to visit Medellín due to the lower rainfall and pleasant temperatures. It's ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city.

18-26°C (64-79°F) 64-79°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Spanish
  • Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas and among younger people)
  • English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Colombian Peso (COP)

Time Zone

GMT-5

Electricity

110VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Medellín has undergone a significant transformation and is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Staying in tourist areas and taking basic precautions can help ensure a safe visit.

Important Precautions:
  • • Use official taxis or app-based services.
  • • Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas.
  • • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.

Getting there

By air
  • José María Córdova International Airport • 30 km (18.6 miles) from city center
By bus

Terminal del Norte, Terminal del Sur

Getting around

Public transport

The metro is efficient, clean, and affordable, with two lines covering key areas. It's the best way to get around the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Tappx, Cabify

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

El Poblado Laureles El Centro

Day trips

Guatapé
80 km (50 miles) from Medellín • Full day

A colorful colonial town known for its vibrant houses, the famous El Peñol rock, and the nearby Lake Guatapé.

Jardín
250 km (155 miles) from Medellín • Overnight

A picturesque town in the Antioquia region, known for its coffee plantations, waterfalls, and traditional architecture.

Santa Fe de Antioquia
80 km (50 miles) from Medellín • Full day

A charming colonial town with cobblestone streets, historic churches, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Festivals

Feria de las Flores (Flower Festival) • August Festival de la Música del Pacífico Petronio Álvarez • Late August to early September Medellín International Poetry Festival • June

Pro tips

  • Use the SITV card for seamless transfers between metro, Metroplús, and cable cars.
  • Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals.
  • Visit Comuna 13 for a unique and authentic cultural experience, but be respectful of the community.
  • Take the Metrocable for stunning views of the city and to explore the hillside neighborhoods.
  • Explore the city's street art scene, which is a vibrant and important part of Medellín's cultural identity.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 11-99
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 10
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Free cancellation available
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