Medellín Travel Guide

Colombia

5.0M
Population
EOH
Nearest airport
$117
Daily Budget
85
Walkability
MEDIUM
Safety

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Plan your arrival in Medellín

Arriving

  • Enrique Olaya Herrera Airport (EOH) · 3 km away
  • Jose Maria Córdova International Airport (MDE) · 20 km away
  • Main stationsTerminal del Norte

Getting online on arrival

  1. Install your Colombia eSIM at home over Wi-Fi: iPhone or Android steps.
  2. When you land at Enrique Olaya Herrera Airport (EOH), turn on the eSIM line and data roaming for it.
  3. Networks listed on our Colombia plans: Claro (4G) and movistar (5G).
  4. Colombia plans currently start at $2.99, for 100MB over 7 days. Compare all 12 plans.

New to eSIMs? How an eSIM works · How much data you need

Landing late or with kids? Pre-book an airport transfer

Staying connected

  • Coverage4G/5G · good
  • Wi-Fiwidespread
  • Suggested dataabout 1.5 GB a day · work it out
  • Weak signalSome areas in the outskirts
Compare eSIM plans

Useful apps

  • Food deliveryDomicilios.com and UberEats

Medellín at a glance

Region
Antioquia
Elevation
1,475 m above sea level
Currency
Colombian peso (COP)
Plug types
A and B
Emergency numbers
123
Drives on the
right
Official language
Spanish
Calling code
+57

Sources: Wikidata and OurAirports open data, checked 29 October 2026.

Top Attractions

1
Comuna 13
Known for its street art and vibrant culture.
2h Free
2
Botero Plaza
Famous for its sculptures by Fernando Botero.
1h Free

Best Areas to Stay

El Poblado
Trendy area with vibrant nightlife and dining options.
TouristsNightlife
Laureles
Quieter neighborhood with local restaurants and parks.
FamiliesBusiness

Typical Costs (USD)

$100
Hotel/Night
$15
Meal
$3
Transport
$4
Coffee
Estimated Daily Budget (USD)
Backpacker: $52 Tourist: $117 Family: $364

* Estimated from typical costs

Local Tips

Peak Hours:7-9am, 5-7pm
Best Day:Weekdays
Custom:Colombians are warm and friendly; greetings are important.
Common Mistakes
  • Underestimating the hilly terrain
  • Not trying local food

Food & Drink

Must Try:Bandeja Paisa, Arepas, Sancocho
Vegetarian:Medium
Tap Water:Unsafe
Mercado del RioEl Poblado restaurants

Getting Around

Public Transport:Excellent
Rideshare:Uber
Walkability:85/100
MetroBusTram

Climate & Weather

Best time to visit: March, April, October

Warmest monthAug29°C average high
Coolest monthOct17°C average low
Wettest monthMay219 mm of rain
Driest monthJan72 mm of rain
Average daily high and low (°C) Rain (mm)
Monthly figures
MonthHigh °CLow °CRain mmRainy days
Jan27.917.5728
Feb28.317.8819
Mar28.218.013214
Apr27.817.918118
May27.918.021919
Jun28.417.714514
Jul28.617.513414
Aug28.717.612614
Sep28.117.517116
Oct27.317.421220
Nov27.117.617117
Dec27.317.611511

Averages for 1991–2020, not a forecast. Source: WMO climate normals (Olaya Herrera AUT, 3 km from Medellín).

Medellín travel FAQ

When is the best time to visit Medellín?

March, April and October are usually the best months to visit Medellín. Average daytime highs range from about 27°C in November to 29°C in August.

How much does a day in Medellín cost?

Plan from about US$52 a day on a backpacker budget to around US$117 for a typical visitor, covering accommodation, meals and local transport (estimates).

How do I get around Medellín?

Public transport includes metro, bus and tram and is rated excellent. Ride-hailing is available through Uber. Walkability scores 85/100.

Which airport serves Medellín?

The nearest airport with scheduled flights is Enrique Olaya Herrera Airport (EOH), about 3 km from Medellín. The nearest larger airport is Jose Maria Córdova International Airport (MDE), about 20 km away.

Is Medellín safe for tourists?

Overall safety is rated medium. Watch for fake taxi scams and pickpocketing in crowded areas. Areas generally considered safe include El Poblado and Laureles. Check official travel advice before you go.

How do I stay connected in Medellín?

Install a Colombia eSIM before you travel and turn it on when you land at Enrique Olaya Herrera Airport (EOH). Our Colombia plans list Claro (4G) and movistar (5G).

Is tap water safe to drink in Medellín?

Tap water is generally considered unsafe.

Explore more of Colombia

Colombia travel guideColombia eSIM plans

Straight-line distances from Medellín.

Disclaimer

The information in this guide is intended for general travel planning purposes only and may change without notice. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, Graba SIM does not guarantee the completeness, reliability, or timeliness of the content. Travellers should verify entry requirements, local laws, health advice and services with official sources before and during their trip. Graba SIM is not responsible for any loss, injury, or inconvenience arising from reliance on the information provided. Always check with relevant government and health authorities for the most up-to-date travel requirements.