When I first learned about Colombia, it was through a high school textbook. The name Pablo Escobar stood out as a symbol of drug cartels and chaos. Like many, I had a single, fearful image of Colombia.
As a world history nerd (and a big fan of coffee and Shakira!), that impression stuck—until I traveled to Medellín in May 2024. What I found was a vibrant, resilient city that changed everything I thought I knew.
This colorful city in the Andes Mountains welcomed me with warmth, creativity, and breathtaking nature. If you’re planning to travel to Medellín, prepare to be inspired by its beauty and bold transformation.
Medellín called “Eternal Spring”
Nicknamed the City of Eternal Spring, Medellín has a perfect climate year-round. Warm days, cool evenings, and no extreme seasons make it an ideal travel destination any time of year. Pack light clothes, a thin jacket, and walking shoes—you won’t need more.
Most buildings don’t use air conditioning, and honestly, they don’t need to. The air is naturally fresh, thanks to Medellín’s abundant greenery and eco-friendly design. The city breathes with nature—literally.
On my last night, the power went out for an entire day. Oddly enough, the weather was so pleasant that I didn’t mind. A gentle breeze came through the windows, and soft Latin music from nearby homes lulled me to sleep. It felt authentic—like the city was showing me its soul, unplugged.
Innovation and Green Living
Medellín was named the Most Innovative City in the World in 2013, and it shows. Many buildings are wrapped in lush vertical gardens that help cool the air and improve air quality. Cafés tucked beneath blooming vines and parks integrated into neighborhoods make the city a model for urban sustainability. I personally really enjoyed Cafe Pergamino. It’s a local cafe chain around Medellin. While I was in the town, I treated myself to an almond croissant and a café latte from a cozy neighborhood café. The croissant was buttery and flaky, and the espresso—rich, smooth, and expertly crafted—was easily one of the best I’ve ever had. Sipping that perfect cup of coffee beneath the lush, green canopy of the city felt like a small, quiet ritual of joy. Medellín’s blend of nature and urban charm made even my morning coffee feel magical.
From green corridors and outdoor escalators in hillside neighborhoods to the Metrocable system connecting underserved areas, Medellín proves that innovation and community can thrive together. As we face global climate challenges, there’s a lot to learn from how Medellín is designed.
Comuna 13: From Violence to Vibrance
Of all the things to do in Medellín, visiting Comuna 13 was the most unforgettable.
This neighborhood was once one of the most dangerous in the world. It was deeply affected by Pablo Escobar’s reign in the 1980s and 90s, when he controlled the Medellín Cartel with a policy known as “Plata o Plomo”—“silver or lead”—meaning take a bribe or face death. He used this brutal tactic to manipulate politicians, police, and locals, leaving deep scars across the country.
Even after Escobar’s death in 1993, Comuna 13 remained a hotspot for violence due to paramilitary groups and poverty. But today, the area is undergoing a powerful transformation.
When I told my Colombian husband I wanted to go, he was hesitant. He asked me to remove all jewelry and even my smartwatch. “You stand out,(Because I look tourist) ” he said, “and it’s still a slum beneath the surface.” And yet, we went—cautiously, respectfully.
What I saw blew me away.
You’re welcomed with vivid street art, live music, and hip-hop dance performances. Murals tell the stories of grief, resilience, and hope. This isn’t just a tourist spot—it’s a living museum of a community that decided to heal through art.
One of the most iconic features is the outdoor escalator system, climbing the hillside that was once a physically exhausting and dangerous barrier. Now, it symbolizes accessibility, dignity, and forward movement.
Despite the crowds, Comuna 13 is still home to many families. Walk just a few meters off the main path and you’ll see laundry hanging above alleyways, tiny corner stores, and the humble rhythm of daily life. I’d never been somewhere that felt so alive—so layered.
Tips for Visiting Comuna 13
- Take a guided tour: I skipped this because my husband and his cousin guided me, but I regretted it. A local guide can share the powerful backstories behind the murals and community.
- Wear good shoes: It’s hilly and a bit of a hike—even with escalators. I had to stop for water, so bring a bottle if you’re sensitive to heat.
- Bring small cash: For souvenirs, snacks, or restroom use (note: most public toilets aren’t free).
- Be respectful: Ask before taking photos of people or private homes.
- Go during the day: Morning or early afternoon is safest and most vibrant. Don’t forget- it is still considered not fully safe area.
How to Get to Comuna 13 from San Javier Metro Station
The most convenient place to begin your visit to Comuna 13 is San Javier Station, the final stop on Metro Line B in western Medellín. From here, you have a few simple ways to reach the heart of the neighborhood and its iconic street art scene:
1. Walk It (20–30 Minutes)
If you’re up for a bit of a workout and want to soak in the local atmosphere, you can walk from San Javier to Comuna 13. The route takes about 20 to 30 minutes uphill, winding through residential streets. As you get closer, the walls start to come alive with color and stories.
A word of caution: this is the most physically demanding option. Once you arrive, you’ll still be walking quite a bit to explore the area. We spent half a day just wandering through the hills and murals of Comuna 13. If you’re sensitive to heat or not a fan of stairs, this might not be the best choice.
2. Take the Local Bus (225i or 221i)
For a quicker and easier ride, hop on one of the local buses—225i or 221i—just outside the San Javier station. These buses head directly toward the outdoor escalators, the main entry point for most visitors and tours.
You might hear the term “Escaleras Eléctricas”—that’s the landmark you want to aim for. The fare is inexpensive (less than 2,000 COP- I believe), and the ride is short and straightforward. I took the bus myself and found it easy and convenient—plenty of tourists do the same.
If you’re unsure, you can always ask one of the many local guides near the metro station. Most of them will recommend the bus as the most economical and hassle-free option. Some even offer combined walking tours that start right from the station.
3. Taxi or Rideshare (Uber, InDrive)
While you can take a taxi or use a rideshare app like Uber or InDrive, I honestly recommend the local bus unless you’re traveling with someone familiar with the area. Rideshare is definitely comfortable and direct, but you’ll miss out on the local flavor and the community vibe of taking public transit.
Bonus Tip: Near the San Javier station, you’ll find plenty of local guides offering tours—many speak English and are easy to approach(But please be careful, sometimes they will come to you bit persistently.) If it’s your first time, this can be a great way to explore Comuna 13 with extra context and safety.
Medellín’s True Magica! (Magic)
Medellín doesn’t hide its past—it transforms it.
It’s easy to fall in love with the weather, the coffee, and the creative energy. But what stays with you long after you leave is the people—their kindness, courage, and pride.
If you visit Medellín, don’t just stop at the Instagrammable spots. Go deeper. Sit in a leafy café. Walk the streets of Comuna 13. Learn from the murals. Let the city show you how pain can be turned into purpose.
Because once you do, you won’t just remember Medellín—you’ll carry it with you.
P.S: There is another blog about Coffee Farm Experience at Medellin.