5 places to visit in Medellin

I have been writing a list of Medellin places that I really appreciate, and I have decided to share with you those leading it. If you wish to get away from the hubbub, to enjoy the nature, breath clean air and know the wealth of Colombia, and... If you are also looking for party, if you want to know people, to taste the delicacies of the Colombian cuisine, to enjoy day and night, Medellin is the city!  Here goes my list:

1. Parque Arví:

The Arví ecological park, with an area of 4351 acres, is located in the small town of Santa Elena, in the highest part of Medellin, from where you can look at one of the most wonderful views of the city. It has a great wealth of flora, among which you can find the well-known orchids, an incomparable diversity of mosses and beautiful old trees.  Likewise, a wide variety of fauna, birds, butterflies, mammals, reptiles, all the colours in the middle of the green, so typical of this place and, of course, of Medellin. The best option is asking for a guided tour to know the park curiosities and enjoy a hike in group. Arriving is really easy, on horseback, by bicycle, car or by the known Cable Arví, an air cable from where you can appreciate the Medellin mountains while you get into the forest. 

2. Botanical Garden

Another recommended place is the Botanical Garden of Medellin, although it is smaller, it is closer to the city centre without stop being a peaceful corner where you will bump into an amazing nature.  It is common that while sitting on the park enjoying the beauty of the trees, you suddenly see a squirrel approaching you or an iguana leisurely walking.  You can visit the collections, among which stand out the Butterfly House and the Orquideorama.  Besides, it is situated in a strategic point: next to it, there is the Parque Explora, Parque de los Deseos, Parque Norte and the University of Antioquia. It is a perfect place to spend the afternoon in the City of Eternal Spring and know the natural wealth of our city. 

3. Parque Explora

One of the most important interactive science parks of Colombia dedicated to spread the technology and the science. It stands out for its modern and quite interesting spaces, among which should be noted the Planetarium, a spot to know more about our planet and the space, the Aquarium, where you will know more than 150 species and the biggest collection of fresh water fishes in Latin America.  If you go to Medellin, you can not miss the Parque Explora.

Double room in Medellin

4. Parque Lleras

If you look for nightlife, the Parque Lleras is the ideal place for you. Located in El Poblado neighbourhood, also known as the Gold Mile, it is without a doubt the most tourist park of the city. There are found the best hotels of Medellin and an incredible variety of restaurants, bars and discos that allow you to enjoy the best of the Colombian cuisine, drinks and parties, it is the perfect place to stay in Medellin. Right in this park you will find The Charlee Hotel with its wide offer of possibilities: from gazing at art exhibitions to relaxing in the top of the hotel while you look at the sky, the mountains and the night lights, swim and, why not, dance.  It is just a matchless hotel.

5.  Parque de los pies descalzos

One of my favourite ones for offering a cosy atmosphere where spaces for all tastes converge: guadua forest, Zen garden, water fountains, sandy area, restaurants, bars, café bars.  The idea, as its name suggests, is that you walk barefoot on the sand or on the grass while you enjoy the nature.  It is next to Plaza Mayor, a well-known convention and exhibitions centre of Medellin, to the Metropolitan Theatre and the Edificio Inteligente, and very close to La Alpujarra, the administrative centre of the city.  So that, without going too far, you will know one of the most important areas of the region.