Cheap Flights to Medellin

Discover Medellin

Nestled in a small valley, Medellin rises in skyscrapers from its centre, and then ripples outwards up and long the hillsides that shelter it. Called the City of Eternal Spring because of its gorgeous and temperate climate, this metropolis welcomes visitors to its streets all year round. Medellin’s controversial reputation has been shucked completely, and the city has reinvented itself as a centre for commerce, fashion, food and culture. Make no mistake, Medellin is sophisticated, chic, and one of Colombia’s most exciting destinations.

Things to do in Medellin

Start touring this city by visiting Plaza Botero, named for arguably Colombia’s most famous artist, Fernando Botero. See his sculptures in the square, and then pop into the Museo de Antioquia if you’d like to see more of his work, including his wonderful paintings. Then throw yourself into the real hustle of this city by visiting El Hueco, a street crowded with stalls selling trinkets, gifts and clothes.

For a little taste of the city’s architecture, visit the Metropolitan Cathedral, an impressive church in the Romanesque style, and known for being the largest baked clay buildings in the world. Or wander the city’s delightful green spaces, such as its Botanical Gardens, or the large Cerro El Volador Eco-Park, which spans over 250 acres.

For views of the city as a whole, hop on the Medellin Metrocable, which can take you to Biblioteca Espana. This architecturally impressive library is an attraction in itself, but many come for the view; sit on the library’s patios for a perfect panorama of Medellin.

If you are interested in an unusual tour, you can take one that explores the life and times of the infamous Pablo Escobar and learn about his complex and fascinating character that left an indelible mark on the country.

Best time to visit Medellin

·         If you love the heat, and sunny days, then the summertime (June-August) is your best bet for those conditions, with days typically reaching 25°C.

·         For slightly cooler weather, spring is great for touring the city, whilst still being pleasant. Expect the days to sit at 20°C.

Best time to book

·         For long-haul trips out to locations in South America, it is generally best to look to reserve your flights about seven monthsbefore you intend to leave to snag the best deal.

Expect to pay

·         Colombian Peso (COP).

·         Enjoy a hot coffee in a country famous for this brew. Expect a regular cappuccino to cost about 3,300COP ($150).

Arriving in Medellin by plane

·         The Jose Maria Cordova International Airport (MDE)is the primary facility for Medellin. You can fly to this airport with codeshare and connecting flights with airlines like Qantas, Delta, Copa, Avianca, United and American Airlines.

·         Medellin’s airport has ATMs, free WiFi, a pharmacy, foreign exchange services, duty-free shops, and a few eateries you can choose from.

·         It is likely you will be required to layover in two destinations; these are usually Los Angeles (LAX), Miami (MIA), Santiago (SCL) and Bogota (BOG).

Visa requirements

·         Australians travelling to Colombia are typically allowed to enter the country for 90 days, but there are some requirements that you must meet, and to check through these you must go to the Foreign Affairs smart traveller portal page on Colombiawhich will list whether or not you will need to pay a fee on entry, or will require any vaccinations.

Transportation to city centre

·         Grabbing a taxi from the airport into town is often the easiest way into town, as you can pick up a cab just outside the terminal. The fare should be approximately 65,000COP ($29).  

·         Buses and shared taxi rides are also available from Medellin’s airport, or you can organise an airport transferonline and in advance.

·         If you’d like to rent a car, this can be done in Jose Maria Cordova International Airport (MDE) or hire a car onlineusing Skyscanner’s search tool.

Where to stay in Medellin

·         El Poblado is the most popular area to stay, as there are lots of hotels and hostels, as well as bars, restaurants and clubs to while away the wee hours. Booking here is a great place to start your tour of the city.

·         For a more authentic feel of Medellin though, look in and around the Laureles/Estadio area, where there are good transport links, more locals, and a great nightlife.

Useful tips before you go

·         Though Medellin is a great city, it is important to stay safe, and that usually means just making sure you do not wear expensive jewellery or carry too much cash on you when touring the city.

·         You do not need to tip taxi drivers, and it can lead to confusion. However, in restaurants there is usually a recommended 10% tip on the bill, which you can choose to pay, or not. For porters and tour guides, you can tip at your discretion.

Please note that the information provided above is accurate as of September 2016