How Much Is a Trip to Medellín, Colombia? (2023)
In 2022, I spent two delightful months in Medellín, Colombia, a city hidden away in the heart of the Andes Mountains.
Known as the “City of Eternal Spring” thanks to its pleasant year-round weather, Medellín has emerged as a must-visit destination in South America.
It’s fast become one of my favorite cities in the whole world – partly because every day here is a fiesta – but also for its affordability.
In this complete guide, I’ll share my insights on the cost of a trip to Medellín, including transportation, accommodation, dining, and attractions.
If you’re a digital nomad or remote worker looking to relocate to Medellín, then keep reading, as we break down all the costs you’ll need to worry about!
Table of Contents
How Much Is a Trip To Medellín?
In the sections below, we break down every aspect of a trip to Medellín so you have a complete idea of the costs involved.
However, if you just want to know the average prices in a quick summary, we also have you covered!
Here are the average prices for a trip to Medellín (as of March 2023)
Budget traveler: $40 to $60 per day
Mid-range traveler: $80 to $150 per day
Luxury traveler: $200+ per day
1. The Cost of Getting There – Medellín International Airport
Your journey to Medellín begins with a flight to José María Córdova International Airport.
The average cost of a round-trip ticket from major cities in the US ranges from $400 to $700, but prices vary depending on the season and how far in advance you book.
From the Medellín airport, a taxi ride to the city center will cost about $25, while the airport shuttle service charges around $5.
Top tip: Ride-hailing apps like Cabify and Uber are available from the airport.
2. Medellín Accommodation Guide Costs
Medellín offers a variety of accommodations to suit all travel budgets.
Luxury hotels in the El Poblado district, the city’s hotel zone, charge upwards of $150 per night, while budget-friendly hotels in Laureles and downtown Medellín can be found for as low as $20 to $30 per night.
In fact, the hostels in Poblado are some of the best I’ve seen in the whole world, complete with restaurants, great bars, and even rooftop pool parties!
For those seeking a more authentic experience, vacation rentals in local neighborhoods start at around $30 per night.
3. How Much Does it cost to Explore Medellín’s Neighborhoods and Attractions?
To save money while visiting Medellín attractions, opt for public transportation like the Medellín metro, which costs around $1 per ride, or bike rentals available for approximately $10 per day.
The Medellín cable car is another affordable option, with a round-trip ticket costing around $2.50.
For a memorable day trip, visit the colorful town of Guatapé, about two hours from the city.
A bus ticket to Guatapé will set you back around $7, and the entrance fee to climb the iconic El Peñol rock is approximately $6.
4. Prices: Colombian Cuisine and Dining in Medellín
When it comes to food, Medellín offers a range of options from street food to high-end restaurants.
An average meal at a mid-range Medellín restaurant will cost between $5 and $15, while cheap eats like empanadas can be found for as little as $1.
Local cuisine in Medellín is characterized by authentic Colombian food such as bandeja paisa, arepas, and mondongo.
5. The Cost of Getting Around in Medellín
Medellín is a walkable city, but local transportation options are also budget-friendly.
The Medellín metro is an affordable and efficient way to explore the city, while buses and taxis are also widely available.
A typical taxi ride within the city center will cost between $3 and $8, depending on the distance.
If you prefer to rent a car, daily car rental prices start at around $30.
Keep in mind that parking in popular areas like El Poblado can be challenging and may incur additional costs.
Search car rental prices in Medellín
If you want to know all the options, check out our guide on How To Get Around Medellín
When to Visit Medellín and Special Events
The cheapest time to visit Medellín is during the low season, from April to June, and from September to November, when accommodation prices and airfares tend to be lower.
However, if you want to experience Medellín’s rich culture and festivities, consider visiting during the annual Medellín Flower Festival in August, which features parades, concerts, and breathtaking flower displays.
Safety, Insurance, and Other Considerations
Medellín has come a long way from its troubled past, and it’s now considered a relatively safe city for tourists.
However, it’s essential to exercise caution and avoid certain areas at night.
Travel insurance is always a good idea, and basic plans for a two-week trip to Medellín can cost between $50 and $100.
That’s why we suggest Safety Wing travel insurance – at $1.50 per day it’s a no-brainer.
Enjoying Medellín’s Parks, Museums, and Viewpoints
Medellín offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy public parks and green spaces, such as the Arví Park and the Botanical Garden.
These public parks are generally free to enter and provide a pleasant break from the bustling city.
The city’s museums, including the Museum of Antioquia and the Museum of Modern Art, offer a fascinating insight into Colombian history and culture. Museum entrance fees range from $2 to $5.
Medellín viewpoints, like the one at Nutibara Hill, are also worth a visit for their stunning panoramas of the Aburrá Valley and surrounding Andes Mountains.
Creating Your Medellín Travel Budget
To help you plan your trip to Medellín, here’s a rough breakdown of daily expenses for a budget, mid-range, and luxury traveler:
- Budget traveler: $40 to $60 per day
- Accommodation: $20 to $30
- Food: $10 to $15
- Transportation: $5 to $10
- Attractions: $5 to $10
- Mid-range traveler: $80 to $150 per day
- Accommodation: $40 to $80
- Food: $20 to $40
- Transportation: $10 to $20
- Attractions: $10 to $20
- Luxury traveler: $200+ per day
- Accommodation: $100+
- Food: $50+
- Transportation: $20 to $50
- Attractions: $20+
So How Expensive is Medellín?
In conclusion, a trip to Medellín, Colombia, can be as affordable or as luxurious as you make it.
I spent two months there and felt like it was one of the cheapest places I’ve ever lived – especially if you eat and drink locally, outside of El Poblado.
With its rich history, vibrant neighborhoods, and beautiful landscapes, the city offers unforgettable experiences for travelers of all budgets.
Whether you’re exploring Medellín on a shoestring budget or indulging in the finer things, this Medellín guide will help you get the best deals and make the most of your time in this remarkable South American city.
Check out our Medellín Digital Nomad Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
Prices range from $20 per night for budget hotels to $150+ per night for luxury hotels.
The Medellín metro costs around $1 per ride, while bike rentals are about $10 per day.
An average meal at a mid-range restaurant costs between $5 and $15, while street food can be as low as $1.
The low season, from April to June and from September to November, offers lower airfares and accommodation prices.
Budget travelers: $40-$60 per day, mid-range travelers: $80-$150 per day, luxury travelers: $200+ per day.
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