The Colombian city of Medellín is the capital of the Antioquia department. Its residents are commonly called "los paisas" and are incredibly welcoming!
Getting to Medellín...
There are several bus companies (Brasilia Express, Rápido Ochoa, Bolivariano) that can get you to Medellín. From Bogotá, I recommend taking an overnight bus (about a 10-hour trip), which costs around 60,000 Colombian pesos. Be sure to book your ticket in advance if you're planning to travel over a long weekend.
Sightseeing and tasting...
There are plenty of museums to visit in the city. However, having spent months suffering through the cold in Bogotá, I preferred to soak up the warm sun and stick to outdoor activities instead...
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The Cable Car (Metrocable): If you want to gain some perspective, get high above the city, and take in a panoramic view. Once you're at the top, enjoy the scenery while sipping on some paisa coffee (mixed with agua de panela) or a delicious fruit juice.
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Pueblito Paisa: This is a replica of a charming, traditional Antioquian village. The square is surrounded by lovely, colorful little houses. You'll also find plenty of local handicrafts here and a magnificent view of Medellín.
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For art lovers, take a stroll through Botero Plaza and admire the beautiful, voluptuous forms of the Colombian artist's famous sculptures.
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Guatapé and the Piedra del Peñol. A day trip is all you need to escape the city. From the Medellín bus terminal, the ride takes about 2 hours. I suggest starting by climbing the 740 steps of the Piedra del Peñol. It’s a bit of a workout, but the view is absolutely worth the effort. And since every effort deserves a reward, I recommend tucking into a delicious and hearty Bandeja Paisa, the region's signature dish. It’s packed with various meats, rice, eggs, beans, avocado, and an arepa. Once you've refueled, head over to the town of Guatapé, just a few minutes from the rock. This little village is stunning, thanks to its vibrant colors and the intricate carvings that decorate the house facades.
Paisa music to accompany your reading: El Paisa es el Rey
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