Comuna 13 & Downtown: From violence to innovation
Active
4h - 4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Immerse yourself in the daily life of the city; live, walk, smell and taste the culture of Medellin while sharing your time with a local, discovering the fascinating urban and social transformation of what was once the most dangerous city in the world.
Initially in our tour we will experience Downtown Medellin; we will recognize it's history, it's culture and it's art, we will discover what day to day is like at Downtown Medellin, where approximately 1'200.000 people move daily.
We will start our trip using the public transportation, first we will take the train to the Comuna 13, then we will transfer to the cable car that will take us to some of the communities in the hills.
At the Comuna 13, we will go to the famous Outdoor Escalators, a unique project in the world framed by the greatest amount of graffiti in Medellin, previously one of the most dangerous areas in the city, we will understand the incredible history and the transformation process that it's inhabitants experienced.
Available options
Comuna 13 & Downtown: From violence to innovation
What's included
Tiquetes de Metro, Metrocable y bus
Soda/Pop
Snacks
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Veremos 23 obras del maestro Fernando Botero
2
Recorrido por la mayor cantidad de graffitis en Medellín y una de las galerías más importantes en Latinoamérica
3
Recorrido por uno de los proyectos de infraestructura e innovación más representativos de la ciudad
What's not included
Alcoholic Beverages
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.9
40 reviews
5★
39
4★
0
3★
0
2★
1
1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
"Basílica Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria"
- If you come by Metro, get off at "Parque Berrio" Metro Station and walk towards the church
- You can take a Taxi or Uber to the meeting point
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
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
