From vegetables with difficult-to-pronounce names to fruits that in other countries are considered a delicacy, you can take a walk around the different stalls around Medellin and experience some of the true paisa cultures.  

So, what do you say? Are you ready to light your taste buds with fresh delicacies directly from the garden? Then let’s look at the top farmer’s markets and bazaars.

Plaza de Mercado La America

Built in 1969, La America is a farmer’s market perfect for rainy days due to its indoor businesses.  Many locals advise visitors o try the Bandera paisa, a typical dish of this part of the country.

Here you’ll not only find a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and traditional legumes from Colombia, but at this market, you can also find other services such as

• Artisan shops
• Coffee shops
• Liquor shops
• Pet shops
• Health food stores
• Tech store
• ATMs

The atmosphere is a little like India. There are crowded markets with people everywhere selling their products and farmers showing their freshest products.

However, what stands out most about this place are the flower shops full of stunning bouquets and gorgeous floral arrangements. The city of eternal spring never disappoints its visitors. 

If you missed the 2022 flower festival, take a walk around this place for a taste of the typical floral art of Medellin.

One of the charms of La America is the healthy nut market, not to mention the delicious aromas you can enjoy when you first step in. It’s the perfect opportunity to try new spices to garnish your dishes or bring home an exotic souvenir.

In addition to tasting the fruits of each small row of food stands, you can stay hydrated while strolling the stalls by tasting the juices (in water or milk) of fruits such as lulo, blackberry, mango, uchuva, guanabana, and many more.

Take the opportunity to have lunch in one of its 14 restaurants! Come hungry!

You can also order food delivery without having to leave your hotel or Airbnb.

Website: https://www.plazalaamerica.com/

Address: Cl. 45 # 79A – 100, La América, Medellín, Antioquia

Placita de Florez

Located in the Comuna 10 or La Candelaria, Placita de Florez is also an old farmer’s market of Medellin that opened in 1891. In its early years, called Mercado de Oriente. The peasants of Santa Elena came to sell the fruits and vegetables of the seasonal harvest.

Despite being a slightly smaller market, Placita de Florez still manages to supply groceries and other family basket products to more than 300,000 residents and tourists in Medellin.

The last floor of the shop has beautiful floral arrangements. Many people also find other pot plants or floral and aromatic plants to grow in their garden.

On the other two floors, you can find a wide variety of foods such as meats, fruits, health food stores, candle shops, sweets, ice cream shops, and much more.

You can even find a small shop where they sell arepas based on different types of corn flour, such as Peto corn or Choclo corn, definitely something new to try on your trip to Medellin.

Website: https://www.placitadeflorez.com/

Address: Carrera 39 # 50-25 Medellín, Colombia

Plaza Minorista Jose Maria Villa

Plaza Minorista is a more authentic experience of an informal farmer’s market. The main goal of the business is for farmers and informal vendors looking to sell their products at better prices.

That is why it’s still one of the most crowded and bustling markets, usually on weekends, when most locals get up early for vegetables.

Being at Plaza Minorista feels like being in a small town filled with rows of small warehouses and other stalls of fruit and vegetable baskets stacked on top of each other.

This market is unique because it hustles and bustles early in the morning. The products are harvested the day before their sale, which makes the quality so fresh!

Many packages arrive early and are transported directly from the truck to the food stall racks.

This market is a great family outing for those looking to taste the most exotic delicacies and chat with the local vendors. 

Website: https://www.plazaminorista.com/sitio/inicio

Address: Calle 55A # 57-80, Medellin, Colombia

Mercado La Presidenta

An outdoor farmer’s market perfect for organic grocery shopping on a sunny day in Medellin. You can also find other items from the family basket, such as natural honey, spices, exotic fruits, juices, and more.

Mercado La Presidenta is in the El Poblado neighborhood. It is a busy spot dedicated to promoting the consumption of green food free of chemicals and preservatives.

Website: https://medialab.eafit.edu.co/raices-medellin/mercado-la-presidenta-2/

Address: Parque Lineal La Presidenta – Cl. 8 #42-25, El Poblado, Medellín, Antioquia

Enjoy the Farmer’s Markets Tour at Medellin

Whether you want to start a healthier lifestyle or try the most exotic fruits that seem to come from a sci-fi story, you can’t miss this tour that promises to show you a lot of new flavors and textures and teach you something new!

So, what do you say? Will you try your luck in Plaza Minorista or take a quiet walk in La America? Let us know in the comments!

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Having a little bit of finger-pointing about where to find the best fresh ingredients with the top quality to fulfill the dream of having a fitness lifestyle and accompanying your workout never hurts.

That’s why we prepared for you a list of the top organic grocery stores in Laureles where you can find everything you need to start your healthy diet and discover new flavors and textures. 

Let’s jump in!

Alimentos Sostenibles

By far, the best organic grocery store in Laureles. Alimentos Sostenibles is located in the heart of Laureles.  However, there are other venues in the city like San Lucas and Mall Lemont.

Finding your way around is very easy. Located in the Laureles Mall (129 Store),  these shops are popular amongst locals for the wide variety of  options. Non-vegan, vegan, and vegetarian brand products are sold here. Also, If you want to find products that fit a specific diet, try:

• Gluten-free products
• Fat-free products
• Organic groceries
• Energetic products 

One of the most popular products, the vegan popsicles,  are made with sweetened almond milk and low-calorie stevia. 

The entire catalog of products is on the website, so you can do the market shopping without leaving home. Delivery can take 20 to 30 minutes, depending on your location.

Check out these organic stores that offer everything needed for a specific diet or shopping on the go. treat yourself with a low-calorie snack.

Website:https://www.alimentossostenibles.com.co/

Address: Calle 37, Mall de Laureles # 80-32 Lc.129, Medellín, Antioquia

Saludpan

Saludpan is a restaurant and health food store that competes with Alimentos Sostenibles for the top place on the list. Saludpan is a perfect place for lovers of healthy food.

There is usually  a long line of people waiting to have lunch or buy something from the store, so please come with patience! This restaurant is completely vegan and vegetarian, so you’ll not find any meat dishes. If that disappoints, some imitations are very convincing!

Among the other products found in the eco shop:

• Raw food 
• Wheat bread
• Products based on vegetable protein (Chorizo, lentil burgers, jam, etc.)

Do not miss the Garden Saturdays! 10 am only on Saturdays, the store is full of fruits and vegetables recently harvested from Tierra Paraíso, completely free of pesticides and fungicides.

If you run out of ideas about what to cook for lunch or dinner, check the recipe book of vegan and vegetarian dishes on the Saludpan website.

An insider tip for lunch at Saludpan is the raw lasagna, with layers of zucchini, mushrooms, vegetables, sprouts, almond cream cheese, avocado, and dehydrated tomato paste. This meal also comes with a fresh salad. 

Website:https://saludpan.com/sitio/index.php

Address: Cq. 4 #70-84, Laureles, Medellín, Antioquia

Carulla

Carulla is a big supermarket chain where there are national and international products. Carullas are mostly located in Laureles and Poblado. Some items in Carulla are familiar to those sold  in US supermarkets. 

Most stores have a café, a snack bar inside, and a place to sit and enjoy your food. It’s a very convenient spot to have lunch while grocery shopping.

The things that most stand out at Carulla are the colorful shelves full of fruits and vegetables. 

They are so vibrant that it catches the eye in an instant! 

In Medellin, there are multiple stores located all over the city.  Grocery shopping or getting a snack is accessible even when leaving the Laureles neighborhood.

Some locals think Carulla is expensive compared to other big stores in Medellin.

While that may be the case, many products are reasonably priced. 

Carulla also allows you to shop online, then pick up the bags at the store. Feel free to have the bags delivered to your hotel or Airbnb instead. 

Website:https://www.carulla.com/

Address: Transversal 39B, Cq. 73B #22, Medellín, Antioquia

Vita Integral

In addition to finding a wide variety of healthy organic foods, you can also try organic beauty and wellness products. Vita Integral offers good quality products at low prices.

Among other types of food you can find in this store, the most interesting are:

• Lactose-free products
• Sugar-free products
• Keto diet products
• Paleo diet products

Vita Integral is an organic grocery store that functions as the middle ground in terms of price and convenience between Carulla and Saludpan.

Website:https://vitaintegral.co/

Address: Av. Nutibara Trv. 39B 77-40

Eat Fresh and Healthy Food in Medellin

Nourishing your body with the freshest ingredients of Medellin is very easy. It’s even better if you’re lucky enough to stay in one of the most community-based neighborhoods of the city, Laureles. 

So, what do you think? Are you ready to start or continue with your healthy eating? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!

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No need to spend hours scrolling through your phone to catch eco-conscious fashion stores. One of these shops can be just a few blocks from your hotel or Airbnb.

Are you ready to renew your wardrobe and shop until you drop at Medellin’s best sustainable clothing stores? Then there’s no time to waste.  Here’s a look at the top picks!

What Is Sustainable Clothing?

In short, sustainable clothing refers to fashion made with less use of natural fibers, water, and reduced resources. However, sustainable clothing also means that workers have decent working conditions and fair wages.

Also, the clothes are cruelty-free, as they don’t contain animal origins.

Its goal is to last over time and stop the impact the fashion industry is leaving on the planet and society.

Now,  jumping into the best places to find eco-friendly fashion in Medellin is next!

My Green Life Shop

This is a sustainable fashion store for the little ones of the family. The goal of this Colombian brand is simple.  The  goal is to make everyday living easier for all mothers while caring for the environment.

My Green Life uses 100% organic cotton from Peru to make its garments. The Green Life garments process in an ecologically and socially responsibly way. 

This stylish clothing store avoids using chemicals, modified seeds, or pesticides. Plus, they care  about the quality of their garments by using natural dyes, so the fabrics are anti-allergic.

On their website and in their store, you’ll find stylish clothes for babies and children of different ages:

• Babies from 0 to 18 months: Sets, pajamas, jumpers, shirts, dresses, pants, blazers, vests, and newborn sets.
• Children up to 6 years: Dresses, skirts, boy sets, and girl sets

Alongside the wide variety of racks of clothes carefully made with the best materials, the store also sells dolls, bathroom accessories, blankets, bibs, baby carriers, and stockings.

Being a small brand, you’ll find the clothes in the ‘Tribu Mujeres con Vision’ store in the Oviedo Mall. There, different brands of women entrepreneurs from Colombia meet.

Website:https://www.mglifeshop.com/

IG: @mglifeshop

Address: Cl. 6 Sur #15-43a, El Poblado, Medellín, Antioquia

Cuery Sustainable Leather Goods

Cuery began as a project created by a young man from Comuna 13 of Medellin. He decided to employ single mothers, women, and vulnerable young people.

The product’s designs inspire versatility, safety, and elegance.  The manufacturing process of all bags and accessories use eco-leather. Eco leather goes through a less polluting tanning process than most  manufacturers. 

This leather uses reconstituted leather, produced by the waste from the production chain of leather, footwear, and leather goods.

Their catalog of eco-leather products includes 

• Logbooks with eco-leather covers
• Jewelry
• Backpacks
• Purses

Overall, a local brand with sustainable initiatives that seek to support the people who need it most and take advantage of waste by creating products of very high quality. 

Something to highlight from Cuery is that you can get their products at low prices from the website or store. The store is in the San Javier neighborhood. 

Website:https://cuery.com.co/

IG: @cuery_ecomarroquineria

Address: Cra. 99 #44-20 Interior 202, San Javier, Medellín, Antioquia

Eco shopping by Islu

This small family business sees used clothing as an opportunity to take care of the environment. The founder and inspiration of the brand are Absalon Abad, a 70-year-old peasant who supported his family by recycling clothes.

Many people contribute to the cause and recieve money by donating or selling clothes that arent wanted anymore! It’s a win-win.

There are two options if interested. The  most popular action is to fill out a form on the website. The company will pick the clothes up from home.  There are also five collection points in the city to go to in person!

The clothes they sell on their website and store go through an arduous and careful process:

1. They collect the garments from the collection points.
2. Selection of garments that are in good condition and suitable for use.
3. Then clothes go through a cleaning process to remove 99% of impurities and bacteria.
4. Now they’re ready to be used by someone else

Eco-shopping leads to  social projects. Donating clothes allows the store to collect  money to pay university fees for young people who need them.

Website:https://ecoshopping.com.co/

Address: Cra 48A #118-22 , Medellín – Colombia

Pura

A sustainable clothing store located in El Poblado neighborhood. Their clothes are a little more pricey.  However, the products are high quality, and 60% of pure garments are eco-sourced materials.

This brand also supports a group of local women as they’re committed to social responsibility in Medellin.

Pura has a showroom in El Poblado where there is the seasonal collection. Many customers support their entrepreneurship by buying some clothes. Placing your order from the website is also available!

Website:https://puraclothes.com/

Address: Cl. 10b # 36-13, El Poblado, Medellín, Antioquia

Support Conscious Shopping in Medellin 

Nothing is more satisfying than helping the planet while supporting local craftsmanship, plus renewing wardrobes with local Colombian designers.

Sustainable clothes are the first step to making way for new things in your life.  Remember that the garbage of some can be a treasure to others!

So, what do you say? Are you ready to update your wardrobe with sustainable clothes? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!

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Horseback riding tours in Medellin are a family-friendly experience not to be missed. You’ll feel like a cowboy riding into the wilderness.

Does this sound like something you might like? Then keep on reading to discover the best places to go horseback riding in the city!

Types of Horseback Riding Tours in Medellin

Depending on your budget or the desired kind of experience, you’ll be able to enjoy different types of horseback riding tours.

Let’s get into the three main options when it comes to horseback riding tours so that you can pick the right one for you.

Small Group Tours

This is the most budget-friendly option where you can enjoy the stunning landscapes in the company of a small group of people. Usually, these small groups are made up of 10 to 12 riders.

Personally, I think it’s the best way to enjoy the ride while practicing Spanish and meeting new people. You might even make a friend or two to grab a drink with afterward!

This is also a good pick if you don’t know too much about horseback riding. These groups teach you the basics of horseback riding before you hit the trail, so you’ll be all set to go on a great ride.

In these small groups, you can surround yourself with people looking for a cross-country race or groups that prefer slow but safe rides—it all depends on the type of ride you ask for. 

Private Tours

If you want a slightly more exclusive and personalized experience, then a private tour is the right choice for you. It’s a great option for couples, families, and even groups of friends.

Usually, private tour agencies offer half-day and full-day excursions. They ask you about your skills, the type of tour you want, and the location.

These tours are super personalized, so feel free to have fun creating a tour you love!

Combination Tours

Combination tours involve combining other activities or extreme sports with a horseback riding tour. 

For example, you’ll ride the horses down to an epic waterfall where you can jump in and go canyoning! In essence, you’ll use the horse as a means of transport to spend all day doing adrenaline-filled activities.

These are great tours for thrill-seekers who want a little extra adventure on their tour.

How to Prepare

For some, riding doesn’t need any kind of preparation. However, this is an activity that many tourists aren’t used to, and often the next day, they feel muscle aches or find some bruising on their legs and arms.

Your tour agency will give you a list of instructions you should keep in mind for the tour. But, if you want to get a headstart, you can check out this list of things to bring:

• A wide-brimmed hat or sunhat
• Long-sleeved shirt
• Jeans
• Rubber boots or hiking shoes
• Water bottles
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Bug-spray
• ID card or valid passport
• First aid kit (Unless your guide has one)
• Snacks
• Cash 
• Small backpack

Most tours include transportation and pictures. So, you don’t need to bring valuables like cell phones, cameras, or keys. Just double-check with your guide beforehand to make sure he’ll pictures and videos of the adventure.

Best Horseback Riding Tours in Medellin

Now that you know how to prepare for your horseback riding tour, it’s time to choose among the best places in Medellin to carry out your adventure.

Cabalgatas Medellin

By far, the best place to go horseback riding in Medellin is Cabalgatas Medellín. Here, you get much more than just a tour through the most amazing landscapes of the city.

The agency has over 20 years of experience in training horses and leading guided rides. Plus, they have a wide variety of ecological trails that fit your requirements depending on your budget and skills. 

One of the things that make Cabalgatas Medellin stand out is the fine horse rental, whether you already have experience in horse riding or just want to take a picture with a beautiful steed, a fine horse will always give a special status to your experience.

Another amenitiy that they offer to enhance the experience is a burroteca. This is basically a donkey carrying a boombox (Yes, really!) to brighten the mood on the tour

Despite being one of the most popular agencies in Medellin, the prices are super affordable. These are the three plans that they offer:

1. Basic: 2-hour guided horseback ride.
2. Parrandero: A longer tour with lunch included.
3. Mega-plan: A full-day tour with alcohol included.

Website: https://www.cabalgatasmedellin.com/

Address: Cra. 43A #9 64, Medellín, El Poblado, Medellín, Antioquia

Cabalgatas Oriente

This is a great place to celebrate events or have two-hour or four-hours horseback ridings. You can also include lunch, alcohol, and transportation in your plan. 

Celebrating your birthday on a horseback riding tour is a different and original way to celebrate another year of life. And, once you’re done, you can have a birthday party at the fonda while having lunch. 

I highly recommend having the barbecue at the end of the tour (when everyone needs a break anyway) while enjoying the beautiful Antioquian landscapes.

Website: https://www.cabalgatasoriente.com/

Spend a Day Going Horseback Riding in Medellin

Doing a horseback riding tour is a different way to appreciate the city’s landscapes and get in touch with nature while enjoying the view with your family or meeting new people.

Now that you know everything you need to spend a day between horses and farms, put on your boots and get ready for the adventure!

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To commemorate this important part of Colombian culture, the city of Medellin hosts a flower festival every year. The festival celebrates the history of flower farming in the country and the importance of this crop.

If you’re visiting Medellín this summer, you can’t miss the 2022 Flower festival. Read on to learn all about this popular festival that takes place every year in Medellin!

What is the Flower Festival?

The first flower festival, or Feria de Flores, was held in 1957, and as you can imagine, it was not as spectacular as the current annual fairs. 

The event aimed to celebrate the trade of the silleteros, peasants who carried a silleta (big wooden boards adorned with flowers) on their backs. Although these silletas are mostly for show today, they were once an important part of gathering and harvesting flowers. 

Anyone who dares to carry one of these silletas -which can weigh up to 140 lbs- is called a silletero. At the time of the first flower festival, only 40 silleteros participated. However, the fair was so successful that today it’s grown into a huge national event and is one of the oldest traditions of the city.

You’ll find things like concerts, parades, and local vendors selling wares at the fair. The flower festival was not held for three years (thanks to Covid-19), so this year will be a big party.

The 2022 Flower Festival Schedule

Luckily, we already have the confirmed time and place of each festival event. Don’t forget to consult the website of the festival beforehand, as there may be some unplanned changes.

Below are some of the most important events, however, there are many other side events that you can attend as well. 

What to Expect at the Festival

At the festival, besides the famous flower parade, you’ll find diverse concerts and tons of other activities that are great for the whole family.

Whether you want to taste all the Antioquian food in the traditional food festivals or spend the day enjoying the beautiful flower arrangements carried by the silleteros, we’re sure you’ll find something you love. 

Let’s take a closer look at a couple of the key events at the flower festival. 

Concerts

Music and dance are two major aspects of Colombian culture, and the annual flower festival is the perfect place to experience both of these activities.

You’ll find several concerts every day, all celebrating different musical genres, so you can really get a feel for a couple of different Colombian musical styles. 

Don Omar and Juan Luis Guerra will perform in the last days of the festival, but you can also see artists, such as:

• Marc Anthony
• Silvestre Dangond
• DJ Pope
• Jessi Uribe
• Pipe Pelaez
• ChocQuibTown

If you’re not already familiar with these artists’ music, head over to YouTube to check out what they’re all about!

Vasquez Building Flower Decorations

Every year the city decorates the Vazquez building, covering it from head to toe with colorful flowers. You can head inside and pose with the beautiful arrangements or snap some selfies for your Instagram.

The building’s decorations went up on August 5 and will be around until the festival ends, or even after. Since the festival sometimes lasts past the official end date, you’ll likely be able to snap some photos even a couple of days after the festival is over.

Parade of Silleteros

Although the party and the concerts are very entertaining, you can’t forget the main reason for the festival: the parade of silleteros.

On the last day of the festival (August 15) is the huge silletero parade. This is really the main attraction of the flower festival so you can’t miss it. 

Artists usually prepare months in advance to have their silletas ready to be shown to the public. The arrangements are specially designed to represent Colombian culture.

Some Tips for the 2022 Flower Festival

Before you buy your tickets, there are a couple of things to keep in mind about the Feria de las Flores. Here are some tips for attending festival events: 

• Take care of your personal belongings. Leave your valuables behind and pack light to avoid pickpockets or losing anything important.
• It’s important to hydrate, so make sure to bring a bottle of water. You can purchase these while you’re out as well, but expect prices to be hiked up for the festival.
• Wear lots of sunscreen, wide-brimmed hats, and long-sleeved T-shirts to prevent sunburn.

With these tips in mind, you’re ready to spend a day at the festival!

Get Ready for the Medellin Flower Festival

Now that you know about the festival’s schedules, events, and history, you’re ready to attend the 2022 Medellin Flower Festival. 

This is an unforgettable experience that will teach you a lot about Medellin and Colombian culture.

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One of those museums is the Pedro Nel Gomez House Museum. This is a place dedicated to keeping alive the life and work of this renowned Colombian artist. 

Does this sound like something you might like to check out? Then keep reading to learn more about the Pedro Nel Gomez House Museum!

Getting to the House Museum

The quickest way to get to the house museum is by taking a taxi or uber that will drop you directly at the museum. You can also take the metro line A and get off at the Universidades station.

Then take one of these two buses from the station:

• 022
• 023

However, if you don’t mind a short stroll (about 15 minutes), you can walk from the metro and give yourself a chance to explore the Aranjuez neighborhood. 

You’ll pass by some of the other popular tourist spots in Medellin, such as the botanical garden Joaquin Antonio Uribe, Parque Explora, Parque de Los Deseos, and the Parque Norte.

Once you arrive at the museum, you’ll need about an hour to go through the exhibits. Afterward, you can enjoy one of the libraries or seating areas around the outside of the building. Or, head back the way you came from to check out one of the aforementioned tourist spots.

Inside the House Museum

To get into the museum, you’ll be asked to make a voluntary contribution, which is intended for the maintenance of the place and other activities such as workshops or recreational activities. It’s pay-what-you-will, so you can pick how much you’re willing to donate. 

This house museum was built in 1975 by the artist himself on one of the Aranjuez neighborhood’s surrounding hills. When he built the house, Gomez wanted to fulfill the wishes of his wife, Giuliana Scalaberni, and create a space that could be dedicated to the city of Medellín.

This engineer, sculptor, and Colombian artist did just that by leaving a legacy of hundreds of frescoes, oil paintings, watercolors, pastels, drawings, engravings, and sculptures. His art aimed to paint a picture of Colombian life, showing the country’s political, economic, and cultural landscape.

While at the museum, you find a large collection of personal belongings of the artist as well as his art. This gives you a unique look into who the artist was and what his life might have been like back in the day.

The museum features four permanent exhibits:

• Collection of fresco murals
• Studio-workshop
• Tribute exhibition to Giuliana Scalaberni
• Meeting room 

It also features temporary exhibits that change all the time. We recommend visiting the museum’s website to find out about future exhibitions, schedules, and prices.

Other Cultural Spaces

In addition to the art exhibitions, you can find a great diversity of musical and artistic groups in Medellin that use these spaces to rehearse their performances. 

The house museum also has a small library where you can find information that relates to Gomez and his art processes. Plus, there’s a small auditorium where films, documentaries, or other cultural events are shown from time to time.

Behind the building, you’ll find a small garden full of native vegetation of the region and a play area for children. You can take in the incredible views of the Antioquian mountains and the city. 

Activities and WorkShops

In addition to being home to an important part of Colombia’s cultural history, you can use these city spaces to learn something new and why not, take some of Gomez’s artistic inspiration.

Ceramics Workshop

Aimed at anyone seven years or older, this workshop teaches you the basic techniques for making ceramics. You can enroll in the ceramics initiation course or skip to the advanced group if you feel adventurous or already have some experience in the field.

This workshop is perfect for having a friendly time with new people and practicing Spanish. Just keep in mind that you must bring your own utensils to learn to sculpt, mold, and paint. 

Tango Lessons

If you enjoy dancing, you might want to check out the tango lessons at the house museum. This is a free activity and a cool way to explore a bit more of Medellín’s dancing scene.

Sewing Workshops

You can also g to know Colombia’s cultural roots through design, patronage, and haute couture at a sewing workshop! This activity is also free to the public. However, you should bring your own tools necessary to sew and design.

Yoga Lessons

The museum sometimes puts on yoga lessons, which are ideal for anyone who wants to do some mindfulness meditation. The classes are free, and you don’t need to have any prior experience.

Just bring your mat and a small towel and join in the class!

Spend a Day in Pedro Nel Gomez House Museum

The Pedro Nel Gomez House Museum is a place where you can learn more about Colombian art. Whether you want to kill some time on a rainy day or learn a new skill, this artistic corner is a Medellin must-visit that you can’t miss!

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Whether you hail from Mexico itself or are just a fan of authentic Central American meals, there’s nothing quite like sinking your teeth into a tasty burrito. 

And the good news is that you can find some pretty fantastic burritos in Medellin. So, are you ready to find your new favorite lunch spot? Keep reading for a run-down on the best burritos in Medellin.

Barrita Burrito

Barrita Burrito is a Tex-Mex restaurant specializing in burritos that come jam-packed with all the ingredients you can imagine.

This burrito place lets you build your own burrito, customizing your meal at the bar full of proteins, cheese, and sauce. In other words, this palace is much like Chipotle for our US-based friends out there. 

If you don’t feel like ordering a burrito, you can also get things like tacos and fajitas. A few other choice options on the menu include: 

• Quesadillas
• Nacho bowls
• Mexican soups
• Corn on the cob

It’s all good—regardless of what you pick, you’ll go home with a full belly and a smile on your face.

You can find Barrita Burrito in all sectors of the city, from the extreme north to the center and south of Medellin. Basically, wherever you’re staying, there’s one of these bad boys close by.

Pro Tip: Barrita Burrito offers delivery, so if you don’t feel like dining out, just order takeout to your hotel room or house! 

Roll Up Sushi Burrito

While this isn’t technically a Mexican place, it’s definitely a burrito place. This restaurant makes creative Asian food, such as their famous sushi burrito. 

The sushi burrito is basically a giant sushi roll, complete with seaweed, rice, and tasty fillings. 

Just like Barrita Burrito, you get to pick your fillings to make something you love. Go for classic sushi fillings like salmon or opt for veggie-only rolls—we won’t judge!

You can find this restaurant in Laureles, Envigado, and El Poblado. That makes it super accessible no matter where you happen to be staying in Medellin.

Pro Tip: the restaurant is pet-friendly, so you can go with your four-legged friends!

Brije Restaurante

Brije is a gourmet Mexican restaurant that seeks to highlight all the flavors of the Central American country in an elegant and haute cuisine way.

Brije burritos are distinguished by a pink tortilla filled with rice, beans, cheese, a protein you choose, lettuce, pico de gallo, guacamole, and pickled onion. 

The restaurant has a sit-down atmosphere, so this might be a good place to bring a date if you want to impress that special someone. 

Besides burritos, you can also find quesadillas, fajitas, Mexican bowls, tacos al pastor, enchiladas, Mexican soup, and cuts of meat with accompaniments in this restaurant.

Plus, Brije is super central. It’s located on Via Primavera in El Poblado, close to many shops and hotels and making it an obvious choice for explorers back from a day of traversing Medellin’s streets.

El DF Comida Mexicana

El DF stands for “El Distrito Federal,” which is the capital city of Mexico. This is one of the best-known Mexican restaurants in Medellin and has a pretty extensive menu. 

Aside from things like tortillas, tacos, casseroles, and Mexican grill, you can also find signature burritos: 

• The Burrototote: basically a build-your-own burrito
• Burrototote Campechano: made with chicharron and pork carnitas.
• Burrototote: featuring BBQ ribs.

You can accompany all this food with one of the special drinks on El DF’s menu, including sodas, lemonades, and margaritas.

Now, while there are tons of great meals to be had here, that’s not what really makes this place stand out. What’s cool about El DF is that the decor is made to emulate that of a traditional Mexican town. 

The walls are adorned with Mexican symbols and icons, such as sugar skulls and historical figures (think Frida Kahlo).

Another perk of El DF is that the prices are very affordable. Despite the low prices, the quality and vibe of the place are fantastic! It’s definitely a spot to check out if you want great food at great prices.

Milagros Restaurant

Milagros is another of the most recognized Mexican restaurants in Medellin. It’s also got one of the most authentic atmospheres, so if you’ve spent time in Mexico, this is a good place to go. 

This restaurant has five special burritos, which the restaurant calls burricos. We couldn’t tell you why they named them that, but we can tell you that they’re delicious. 

The five burritos are: 

1. Street burrito
2. Sea and land
3. Maria del Carmen
4. Milagros de Luz
5. Alma Burrito

Each of these has different fillings, such as shrimp, shredded chicken, breaded chicken, pork rinds, and fish. You can also order a combination of different proteins so that you can try out two flavors at once. 

If you want to eat the burrito alone, you absolutely can. Or, you can pair your burrito with salad, nachos, or rice. 

Milagros offers other traditional Mexican meals for those who have already had enough burritos already, too. They’ve got soups, tacos, and grilled meat on the menu, so feel free to pick something you like. 

There are three different places around the city where you can find Milagros: in the south, in the north, and in the Laureles neighborhood. 

Find the Best Burritos in Medellin

In Medellin, there are many places where you can enjoy Mexican food. But, the real secret is knowing how to choose a good place. 

With this guide, you should have a good starting point when it comes to finding some tasty Mexican meals around the city. 

Not in the mood for Mexican? Check out some of our other posts on local meals and where to find the best ones in the city. 

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Even if you’re only spending a few weeks in Medellin, you can always try something new at one of the city’s gyms.

Now, while there are many gyms around the city, the best has definitely got to be Smart Fit. Here’s what you need to know about heading to this gym.

What to Know About Smart Fit in Medellin

Smart Fit is the largest gym chain in Colombia, and they’ve got tons of locations around the city.

They also have some pretty reasonable prices and are super inclusive of all types of fitness levels and body types. 

Whether your goal is to weight train for sports or you just want to have a good time while maintaining a healthy lifestyle, this place is great.

What’s especially cool about the gym is that if you don’t want to leave home, Smart Fit has developed an exclusive training app for its customers (it’s 100% pandemic-proof!).

Smart Fit also has an exclusive digital series about nutrition. If you want to pair that with one of their workouts, you can!

Finding Your Nearest Smart Fit

I get around Medellin quite a bit, and as I explore other parts of the cities, I’ve counted up to about 20 Smart Fit venues.

In other words, it really doesn’t matter where you live in the city; you’ll be able to find a Smart Fit nearby. 

Just look online to know which is the closest to you. There’s more than likely one a few streets from your hotel or Airbnb.

There are many options to choose from, and even if the closest one to you doesn’t have what you’re looking for ( each one has its own equipment and facilities), it’s very easy to take the metro or rent a bike to get to the gym you like.

Smart Fit Membership Options

Once you’ve found a gym you like, you’ll have to pick a membership. 

There are a couple of different options out there, but it can be confusing at first glance. Here are the available options.

Smart Plan

This option allows you access to a single Smart Fit location. It’s great for low budgets or those who want a quick workout close to home. 

The membership includes: 

• Free weight area
• Integrated weight area
• Cardio
• Group lessons
• No cancellation fees
• Smart Fit Go
• Smart Fit App
• Smart Vital

Bear in mind that if you want to cancel the service, you have to notify the gym 30 days before the charge is made.

Black Plan 

If you like traveling and don’t just plan to stay in Medellin, you might want to get the black plan. With this plan, you’ll have access to any Smart Fit location, even those outside Colombia!

This plan includes all the benefits of the Smart Plan as well as: 

• Access to other locations in the chain
• The Smart Spa
• The ability to invite 5 friends a month

This plan charges a cancellation fee even if you give 30 days’ notice. Also, you have to agree to a 12-month contract.

Still, if you’re staying in Medellin or in Latin America for a while, this is a pretty good option. 

Temporary Black Plan

If you don’t know how long you’ll be in Medellin, but want something a little more comprehensive than the Smart Plan, this is your plan. 

With this plan, you get the same benefits as the Black Plan and you agree to a 12-month contract.

However, you can cancel without a fee as long as you give notice 30 days in advance. And, your contract will not have a stay clause (this means you can’t finish the contract before).

This is the most expensive Smart Fit membership, but it’s also the most useful for tourists who don’t know how long they’ll be staying.

Finally, bear in mind that, every three months you’ll be charged an administration fee along with the monthly fee. This money is used for the maintenance and repair of the gym facilities.

Smart Fit Go

Perfect for introverted athletes or those who don’t have enough time to go to the gym, Smart Fit Go is an app that works on Android or iOS devices. 

In the app, you can organize your own workouts with videos of routines. Or, you can learn how to prepare healthy recipes!

There’s also the option to attend virtual classes with your favorite teachers. These begin at 8 am and you can find activities such as:

• Yoga
• Zumba
• Tabata method
• ABS
• Strength training

Smart Spa

If you get a Smart Fit membership you‘ll have access to a spa that’s specially designed to soothe sore muscles after training. 

They offer massage chairs, hydro beds, music therapy, and light therapy that help improve mood and relax your muscles.

Sports massage specialists at the spa can also advise you on what stretching to do and how to relieve pain and swelling.

Smart Fit Nutri Store

As I mentioned earlier, your diet is an essential part of getting results from your exercise routine. If you don’t want to try cooking, you can always pick up products such as milkshakes, supplements, and energy bars at the Smart Fit store!

Don’t forget to ask a dietitian if you have any questions or need advice on what to eat or how much.

Get Fit at Smart Fit

Without a doubt, Smart Fit is one of the best gyms in Medellin. It’s a perfect way to maintain a healthy lifestyle regardless of the time or budget you have.

Do you have a membership? Let us know what you think about this gym in the comments! 

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Trust me, I would know. I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve gone on some adventure or other and woken up the next day with aches and pains.

Luckily, in Medellin, you can find some cheap places to relax and get the treatment you deserve with a good massage. There are many places to choose from, but in this guide, I’ll help you find not only the cheapest massages but the best in the Laureles sector. 

Let’s jump in!

What to Take Into Account

But before we start talking about where to get a massage, let’s talk about what to keep in mind when going into your session.

First, it’s important to know that in some places even if you order a standard massage, they might give you something a little more specialized in case you need it. 

For example, let’s say the masseuse discovers big knots in your neck. The masseuse might ignore your request for a standard massage and instead give you a deep neck treatment. 

For this, you can agree with the price before starting or buy one of the packages that some spa or massage places offer.

Finally, not all places accept credit or debit cards. Some only use virtual payment platforms such as Daviplata or Bancolombia. 

It’s a good idea to ask before getting your massage. And, if you plan to pay by card, bring some extra cash just in case.

Where to Get a Great Laureles Massage

Now that you know what to keep in mind, it’s time to get started with a Laureles massage. Here are the best places in town to get one. 

Viva Spa 

Viva Spa is a beauty parlor that offers therapeutic treatments. Whether you want a basic massage or spend a spa day with your date, this is a place that offers packages for all types of budgets. 

At the end of the massage, you’ll get to sink your teeth into one of the best fruit salads I’ve ever eaten in my life. If you don’t just want to relax, you can also try one of their beauty treatments:

• Waxing
• Reductive massage
• Post-surgical massage
• Facial hydration
• Deep facial cleansing
• Facelift

There are also some exotic treatments with different ingredients:

• Chocolate therapy
• Fruits therapy
• Mud therapy

There are packages ranging from 30 minutes to four hours. In other words, even if you’re in a rush, there are some pretty good packages for you to pick from.

The spa has two locations in the most privileged places of the city, Poblado and Laureles, so there’s no excuse not to relax a little.

Amatsu spa

Amatsu is another place where you can find good massage packages at a reasonable price. They’ve also got treatments for kids, so if you want to bring the little ones, you can. 

On their website, you can also find promotions and discounts. They change all the time so it’s a good idea to check them regularly.

If you thought that the previous spa offered a lot of services, you’ll be surprised to know that here you can find even more. Here are a few of their most popular treatments:

• Shiatsu massage
• Hawaiian massage
• Lulur massage
• Sabai massage

Also, if you’re a sporty person and maybe you have a pulled muscle or minor strain, you can also get a sports massage. 

What stands out most about this place are its aesthetic treatments that specialize in rejuvenation and body fat loss. You can also try a chakra leveling treatment, which is great for anyone who wants to get in touch with their spiritual side. 

Ashanti Massage 

One of the best spots with reasonable prices, Ashanti Massage is a spa run by a Belgium pain relief specialist. 

At Ashanti massage, you can get anything from a relaxing massage (great for an afternoon nap) to a high-impact sports massage.

Just keep in mind that this is one of the most famous places in Laureles, so it’s better to make a reservation in advance.

You can also learn some stretching techniques and attend small relaxation and yoga events offered by the masseuse. Much like the massages, you’ll want to book your spot at these events early before they sell out.

Brassia Spa

Located in Laureles, Brassia Spa is a relaxation center with a modern vibe. 

Even though the spa specializes in aesthetic treatments such as botox and laser hair removal, you can always request one of their extreme relaxation massages or Brassia Gold treatments. 

The packages Brassia Spa offers are designed for couples, although if you just want to have a glass of wine and relax, you can always go alone.

Treat Yourself to a Massage in Medellin

If you’re looking for a place in Medellin to take a day off or celebrate a special date, a massage might be just what the doctor ordered. 

Thankfully, you’ve got tons of options for a massage that doesn’t empty your wallet. 

Have you tried one of these massages? Do you have any other recommendations? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!

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The trouble is, with so much to enjoy, it can be tough to know how many days to spend in Medellin.

It all depends on what your priorities are when planning your trip, what you prefer to visit, what you like to do, and if you prefer a more relaxed or super-active vacation. 

Still have questions? Keep reading for a guide on how long to spend in Medellin.

How Many Days Should You Stay in Medellin?

Medellin is a place where you could stay for months and not get bored. However, you can still see a good chunk of things if you’re there for a short time.

In general, we’d say you need at least three days to get a feel for the city. However, if you’re wanting to really see the city you should spend at least one week in Medellin. 

This will give you the time to enjoy cultural tours, nightlife, and ecological getaways to the city’s surrounding pueblos.

Think About What You Want to See and Do

Choosing what to do in Medellin is the first step to planning how long you’ll stay. 

Medellin proper has tons of amazing things to offer such as beautiful views from the Antioquian mountains like in Pueblito Paisa, and luxury stays in penthouse suites. Plus, there’s some exquisite local and international cuisine and incredible nightlife.

On the other hand, if you prefer spending time in the great outdoors, visiting some of the towns around Medellin is an experience that you shouldn’t miss! Places such as Guatape, Parque Arvi or Santa Elena, and Santa Fe de Antioquia offer unique experiences for nature lovers. 

Think about what it is that you want to do to get a clear idea of how long you want to stay in Medellin.

Itinerary for Urban Explorers

If your goal is to explore everything the city has to offer, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a sample itinerary to help you plan an urban vacation in Medellin.

First day

Your first day in Medellin is the perfect time to go on a walking tour of the city. There are some iconic outdoor parks and plazas that you can check out as you stroll through the city:

• La Plaza Botero
• El Parque de Berrio
• El Paseo de Junín
• El Edificio Coltejer
• The Palace of Culture
• El Parque de las Luces
• The old Antioquia Tram station

Although you can simply visit these places alone, there are organized tours that you can take. These are generally a safer way to explore the city.

Day Two

Day two is the perfect time to go museum hopping! Medellin has tons of great museums, such as the Museo de Antioquia, located downtown, Parque Explora, and the Botanical Garden. 

At night you should head up to Pueblito Paisa, which is a viewpoint located on the Nutibara hill. This place is a reenactment village in the style of a traditional Antioquian town. The place is complete with colorful buildings where you can enjoy local food and buy some handicrafts.

Day Three

Today it’s time to take a tour of the urban art gallery in the streets of Medellin: Comuna 13. You can visit on your own, or you can take day tours there by bus or foot.

Comuna 13 is a once derelict part of town that’s been transformed by colorful murals. Today, it’s one of the most-visited parts of the city.

Itinerary for Nature Lovers

If you want to get out of the city and explore the surrounding hills and towns, that’s an option too. This three-day itinerary gives you a jumping-off point for planning your trip!

Day One

Your first day in Medellin is the perfect opportunity to explore Parque Arvi. There you can enjoy walks, local food, handicrafts, and animal sightings. 

What’s cool about the park is that to get there you’ll need to take the Metro Cable. This is a cable car system that takes you up into the hills of Medellin. It’s quite a ride!

Just exploring the park can take an entire day, so go early and plan to be back around dinner time.

Day Two

Your second day is the perfect time to head out to Santa Fe de Antioquia. This is a colonial village that is part of the Colombian heritage and preserves the architecture of days gone by.

Ten minutes from this town, you’ll find the Puente de Occidente, a suspension bridge and national monument that crosses the Cauca River and measures almost 300 meters. 

You can cross by car, on foot or by moto-taxi, a very common means of transport in Colombian towns.

The experience is a great way to get out of the city and see a more authentic side of Colombia.

Day Three

Guatape is one of the jewels of Antioquia. It’s located to the east of Medellin, approximately an hour and a half away.

From this town, you can see the Piedra del Peñol, a huge monolith that overlooks a beautiful lake. You can even climb to the top of it for sweeping views of the lake!

In Guatape you can also enjoy tons of water activities, including boating, swimming fishing, zip-lines, and just walking around town.

Key Times to Visit Medellin

Although the locals will welcome you with open arms at any time of year, there are two times of the year when you’ll really get a unique experience:

1. La Feria de las Flores, literally the Flower Fair, is held at the end of July and the beginning of August each year.
2. Colombiamoda, held in mid-July each year.

Each of these events takes place for about a week, and are cultural festivals that are honestly a once in a lifetime experience.

Visit Medellin, and Take Your Time!

Medellin is so beautiful that it’s actually known as the second capital of Colombia, after Bogota! Take your time to go on an unforgettable trip in Medellin and its surroundings. Enjoy its culture, music, food, its friendly people, and the most beautiful landscapes!

And, if you’ve already visited the city, how long did you stay? Let us know in the comments how many days you stayed and what your ideal itinerary in the city was!

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