The Top 5 Neighborhoods to Stay in Medellin, Colombia

Medellín is an absolutely amazing city in Colombia, South America and is home to a variety of neighborhoods to choose from, each with its own unique charm and attractions. The city is known for it’s moderate climate with an average of around 24° and often rainy. For this reason it is home to lush vegetation and greenery. I’ve ordered each of the most popular neighbors below by popularity and consequently price high-to-low.

El Poblado

El Poblado is the most popular neighborhood for tourists and expats, and for good reason. It’s home to some of the best restaurants, bars, and shopping in the city, as well as the famous Parque Lleras, a bustling nightlife hub. El Poblado is also one of the safest neighborhoods in the city and has a variety of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. This area has unsurprisingly doubled in price in the last few years since the pandemic and is getting to be quite expensive. Although on the pricier side, it is still an amazing area that you must visit.

Provenza is an amazing area to eat various international cuisine and party at some of the cities best nightclubs and bars.

Laureles

Laureles is a more laid-back neighborhood with a mix of residential and commercial areas. It’s known for its tree-lined streets, parks, and charming cafes and restaurants. Laureles also has a vibrant nightlife scene, with a variety of bars and clubs. It’s a great neighborhood for those who want to experience local life in Medellín. This area is a lot more local than Poblado but be wary for non-Spanish speakers as it is not as common to find anyone speaking English as it is in Poblado.

Carrera 70 is an amazing place to eat local cuisine and dance to some of Colombia’s best local sounds.

Estadio

Estadio is located in the center of the city right next to Laureles and is named after the Atanasio Girardot Stadium, which is home to several professional sports teams. The neighborhood has a mix of residential and commercial areas, with a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops. Estadio is a great option for those who want to be close to the city’s attractions but prefer a more local feel.

Carrera 70 is a short walk or taxi ride away.

Belén

Belén is another residential neighborhood located in the western part of the city. It’s known for its beautiful parks, including the Parque de los Deseos, which has a planetarium and science museum. Belén also has a variety of shopping and dining options and is a great neighborhood for families. It’s located just South of Laureles and close to the Unicentro Shopping Centre.

Segundo Parque de Laureles is also a short walk or taxi ride away where you can find some amazing restaurants and nightlife.

Envigado

Envigado is a charming suburb located in the Aburrá Valley, just south of Medellín, Colombia. It is known for its peaceful and residential atmosphere, making it a popular choice for both locals and expats who prefer a quieter lifestyle while still having access to the amenities of a big city. One of the defining features of Envigado is its abundance of green spaces. The neighborhood is home to several beautiful parks, such as the Parque Envigado, which offers plenty of recreational areas, walking paths, and picnic spots. These green areas provide residents and visitors with a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The architecture in Envigado is a mix of modern buildings and traditional Colombian houses, creating a unique blend of old and new. The streets are often lined with trees, adding to the neighborhood’s overall aesthetic appeal. You’ll find a variety of supermarkets, local markets, shops, and restaurants scattered throughout the neighborhood, offering a range of cuisines to suit different tastes. Envigado also boasts a vibrant nightlife scene, with several bars and clubs where you can enjoy a night out.