Medellín is a city transformed. Once known for gang violence and drug trafficking, today it’s a trending tourism destination known for its lively culture, lush mountain landscapes, and near-perfect weather. 

A few tips for first-time visitors to Medellín: Stick to the safe, tourist-friendly neighborhoods, and don’t wander alone late at night. Be cautious using dating apps while you’re there (these are commonly used by scammers). And say “meh-deh-jeen” (not “meh-deh-yeen”) if you want to sound like a local.

Get more tips on staying safe, plus advice on where to stay, what to eat, and the best things to do in Medellín.

Is travel insurance required for Colombia?

Travel insurance isn’t mandatory for U.S. visitors to Colombia. However, the Department of State “highly recommends” buying insurance before your trip.¹ Why?

1. Travel insurance can reimburse emergency medical costs. Medical care in Colombia is not free for U.S. visitors. Not only that, but hospitals and health care providers expect you to pay all medical costs out of pocket before you’re released.² Travel insurance with emergency medical benefits can cover the costs of care for a covered medical emergency.
2. Travel insurance is the best protection against unexpected cancellations. If you have to skip your trip to Colombia or cut it short due to illness, a natural disaster, a job loss or relocation, or any other covered reason, trip cancellation/interruption insurance can help reimburse you for lost, prepaid, non-refundable costs.
3. Travel insurance provides expert assistance when you need it. Medellín has become much safer in recent years, but street crime still occurs. If you’re traveling elsewhere in Colombia, review the official U.S. travel advisory so you understand the risks and areas to avoid. In case you are the victim of crime or have any other emergency, contact 24-hour assistance by phone or with the Allyz® app.

3 of the best travel insurance plans for Colombia

Why do 59 million American travelers each year trust travel insurance from Allianz Partners? Ask them! Here are just two of our nearly 200,000 reviews on Trustpilot:

• “I had a minor medical issue while traveling to Colombia, I submitted the expenses while still on the trip and Allianz PAID THE CLAIM within 48 hours!”
• “I was sad because my illness stopped me to go to Colombia; nevertheless, Allianz returned the whole price I paid for.”

Travel insurance plans recommended for Colombia include:

1. OneTrip Prime, our most popular travel insurance for international trips. This plan includes all the essential protections, as well as Global Doctor Visits at no additional cost. Plus, kids 17 and under are covered for free when they’re traveling with a parent or grandparent (not available on policies issued to Pennsylvania residents).
2. AllTrips Prime, a wise choice for frequent travelers. One plan gives you affordable protection for 365 days’ worth of travel, both international and domestic, plus rental car damage and theft coverage (available to residents of most states).
3. OneTrip Premier, with our highest levels of trip protection. OneTrip Premier can protect trips up to 366 days in length, making it a good option for digital nomads and other long-term travelers.

Get a quote for your next trip.

3 of the best things to do in Medellín

1. Dance salsa. Don’t know how? That’s no excuse. Take a class or two at Dancefree (no reservation needed, just drop in). You can also learn for free at salsa bars like El Tíbiri or Son Havana.
2. Hunt for treasure at the city’s outdoor markets. Find secondhand gems at the flea markets at San Fernando Plaza and Envigado; flowers at Placita de Flórez; street food at Mercado del Rio; and works by local artisans at San Alejo in Parque Bolivar.
3. Explore Medellín’s history through its neighborhoods. Comuna 13, a neighborhood that was defined by gang violence for decades, has today become a daytime tourist hotspot and a haven for street art. Some worry that the tourism is damaging locals’ quality of life, however, so consider taking a guided tour of Comuna 3, Comuna 4, or another neighborhood instead.³
   

3 of the best boutique hotels in Medellín

For a fun stay in El Poblado: The Click Clack Hotel Medellín is hard to miss, with its distinctive stacked architecture rising from a lush garden. Guests love the modern style and lively vibe (though it’s a little too lively for some; this is not the best hotel for a silent retreat).

For a serene retreat in Prado:  A restored 1930s house that once was a Masonic lodge, Hotel Boutique Casamía is beloved for its beauty and its welcoming staff. Stay in one of the hotel’s nine light-filled rooms and enjoy views from the terrace.

For luxury in La Florida: Patio del Mundo is a high-end hotel in a quiet, upscale neighborhood in Medellín. Some of the rooms have private patios opening onto the garden.

3 of the best restaurants in Medellín

For fine dining without pretention: Created by Chef Laura Londoño in 2013, Ocio is a pioneer in Medellín’s culinary scene. Her concept was simple: a fun, relaxed place to eat with a menu based on local ingredients and renewed every 6 months. Chef Londoño specializes in slow-cooked meat: beef tongue, arepas made with pig jowl, short ribs cooked for 12 hours and served with lemon and chili caramel sauce.

For a culinary journey in a pretty garden setting: Carmen, in Medellín’s El Poblado neighborhood, is the place to go for thoughtfully composed cocktails and imaginative food. Try the seven-course tasting menu with beverage pairing (vegetarian version available), which showcases flavors from the Andes Mountains to the Amazon to the Caribbean Sea.

For mouthwatering traditional meals: Bandeja paisa is one of Colombia’s signature dishes. Picture a pile of rice served with several meats and sides: chicharron, sausages, ground beef, red beans, fried plantains, arepas, avocado, and a fried egg. One of the best restaurants to try it is Restaurante Mondongo's El Poblado, a busy spot serving bandeja paisa, mondongo (tripe soup) and other homestyle food.

What do I need to travel to Colombia?

Related Articles

• 9 of the Best Cultural Festivals Around the World
• Destination Guide: The Amazon Rainforest
• 5 of the Best Birding Destinations Around the World