I love Medellin. I remember the first time I visited the former “world’s most dangerous neighbourhood” Comuna 13, I was absolutely hooked by my guide’s explanations of how his family had survived living there in the midst of Pablo Escobar’s drug wars, and how it had transformed into an arts hub today.
It’s important to learn about the damage caused by the notorious drug lord, but I also loved listening to the catchy rhythms of the Trovadores performing in Pueblito Paisa, partying until the sun comes up in Provenza, and taking a day trip to perhaps the only rock that’s ever wowed me at Guatape.
Even though Medellin is pretty safe for tourists, it can be scary knowing where to stay without knowing the city. There are still some neighbourhoods that are a bit rough around the edges, or downright dangerous.
Conversely, there are others attracting expats from around the world to live here and have some fun in the sun.
We created this guide to help you choose where to stay, so you don’t end up in the places to avoid! Our team has stayed all over Medellin, so we have a ton to share with you from our experiences.
Laureles
Laureles may not be the most famous neighbourhood in Medellin, but it’s our recommendation for the best Medellin neighbourhood for a first-time visit.
La Candelaria (El Centro)
La Candelaria, which is also known as El Centro, is the downtown area of Medellin. It’s one of the most touristy areas by daytime, but not so popular by night.
El Poblado
El Poblado is one of the most popular areas in Medellin. If La Candelaria offers history and Laureles provides the peaceful life, El Poblado is all about the fun factor.
Belén
Belén is our pick for the coolest neighbourhood in Medellin for several reasons. Firstly, it’s one of the best places to mingle with locals and stay in a former working-class neighbourhood with industrial roots.
Envigado
Previously a separate city but now part of the ever-expanding sprawl of Medellin, Envigado is our top recommendation for where to stay in Medellin for families.
In Detail: My Top 5 Neighbourhoods in Medellin
Staying in the right part of this top Colombian city can really make or break your trip. Below, we’ve highlighted where to stay in each decent neighbourhood, according to different requirements and your interests.
1. Laureles – Where to Stay for First-timers
Laureles may not be the most famous neighbourhood in Medellin, but it’s a decent place to base youself for a first-time visit.
It’s quieter and more pedestrian friendly than other parts of the city while still being within easy reach of the hustle and bustle. Laureles offers a mixture of modern comforts and conveniences with a taste of typical Colombian life.
You can live like a local, with access to supermarkets and small locally owned restaurants and stores, while still having a wide selection of chain stores and eateries on the doorstep. Although the closest metro station is around a 15-minute walk away, frequent buses connect the neighbourhood with both the metro station and the wider area.
It’s considered to be one of the city’s safest neighbourhoods, and it’s a pleasant area from which to explore the rest of the city. And finally, it’s tipped to become the next big thing here, so come before everyone else!
If you only have 3 days in Medellin, check this neighbourhood out!
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Top Things to Do
- Experience the bohemian coffee culture in Medellin’s prime area for quaint cafes.
- Enjoy the diverse nightlife along streets 70 and 33, with energetic salsa bars, rock bars, live music, and more.
- Watch an Independiente Medellin football match at Atanasio Girardot, the city’s main stadium. I’ve watched football in 40+ countries and never experienced a better atmosphere than here.
- Relax outdoors in the pretty Primer Parque Laureles.
- Tuck into food from around the world in the many restaurants.
- Shop till you drop in large malls like Unicentro and Mall Laureles.
- Have an unusual night out at Ping Pong Drinks, which has ping-pong tables, live music, a table-tennis museum, and cheap drinks.
Best Hotel: Hotel Florida Inn
The comfortable private rooms all have their own bathroom, a wardrobe, a desk, a fridge, and a TV. There is free Wi-Fi and the hotel has an onsite restaurant that serves western cuisine. Breakfast is included in the price. Laundry facilities are available.
Best Hostel: Gastón Coliving
This epic coliving hostel is one of the coolest places to stay in the entire city – the many, many perfect reviews speak for themselves! They have both private rooms and shared dorms, and the location is conveniently right near the metro station. They serve a delicious free breakfast every morning, which always got my day off to the right start. The wifi is fast, and overall the place feels really homey, which is always what you want from a hostel!
Best Airbnb: Incredible 5th Floor Apartment
This private apartment can sleep up to four guests, with plenty of space for everyone! There’s a kitchen and a dining table, TV, and free Wi-Fi. It’s clean, comfortable, attractive, and in a good location. I personally loved the balcony and the sleek, modern finish of the interior design. It’s a solid pick for couples or groups of up to 4 people.
2. La Candelaria (El Centro) – Where to Stay on a Budget
La Candelaria, which is also known as El Centro, is the downtown area of Medellin. It’s one of the most touristy areas by daytime, but not so popular by night.
This means that, for those who don’t mind an edgier atmosphere, it is one of the cheapest places to stay in the city. This is, however, a place where you should keep your wits about you when exploring and try to avoid walking around after dark. There are many restaurants and bars, but you should plan to take taxis at night. I always use Uber here.
Photo: HaseyJDBS (WikiCommons)
Top Things to Do
- Appreciate art at The Cultural Palace of Rafael Uribe, the Museo de Antioquia, and the murals of Pedro Nel Gomez next to Berrio metro station.
- Take pictures of beautiful religious buildings, including La Candelaria Church, which is Medellin’s first church and the landmark after which the area is known, San Antonio Church, the Metropolitan Church, the Church of San Ignacio, and Veracruz Church.
- Admire the architecture of the grand Palacio Nacional, now home to a shopping centre.
- Visit charming squares such as Plazuela San Ignacio and Plaza San Antonio.
- Visit the now-disused railway station of Ferrocarril de Antioquia and see one of the country’s few remaining steam trains.
- See the illuminations at Parque de las Luces.
- Marvel at the sculptures at Plaza Botero.
Best Hotel: Hotel Hawaii Suites
Hotel Hawaii Suites has double, twin, triple, and quad rooms, all with a private bathroom and a TV, phone, fridge, and wardrobe.
It’s a “love hotel”, so not an ideal place to take the kids, but it’s super clean and a great base for couples who want a place to sleep and have fun. The hotel has a Jacuzzi and steam room that can be privately booked and there’s a communal terrace.
Best Hostel: Centro Hostel Medellin
You get free breakfast here. Okay, you’ve probably already decided to stay here and don’t need any more info. I’m generous though, so I’ll also tell you about the other perks of Centro Hostel too!
I found the staff to be super friendly. But let’s be honest, that’s just a Colombian thing. Great bunch of people. The location is super central, Wi-Fi works well, and the shower is decent which makes a change from the shitty ones that zap you (yeah there’s quite a few of them in Latam). Decent budget option.
Best Airbnb: Bohemian Apartment- Amazing Views
The view from this two-person apartment really are incredible, and the large windows in the bedroom and living room let you admire the surroundings to your heart’s content.
The stylish and arty private pad has a bathroom and kitchen, there’s a gym in the building, and it’s near to the metro.
3. El Poblado – Where to Stay for Nightlife
El Poblado is not just one of the most popular areas in Medellin, but also one of the safest. If La Candelaria offers history and Laureles provides the peaceful life, El Poblado is all about the fun factor. I always stay here during my trips and have even seen people working on their laptops outside cafes here, a no-no in much of Colombia (personally I wouldn’t do this myself).
There are large shopping malls, international restaurants, and a ton of bars and clubs. It’s our top recommendation for where to stay for access to great nightlife (nearby Provenza has some banging bars and clubs), and is great for people who love to stay right in the thick of the action.
It’s also the wealthiest part of the city, which attracts more of an expat scene.
Top Things to Do in El Poblado
- Experience the vibrant nightlife of Zona Rosa.
- Stroll along the tree-lined Golden Mile.
- Visit the small church of Parroquia Santa Maria de los Dolores.
- Stand where Medellin was founded at Saint Joseph of El Poblado Church.
- Shop in the large malls, like Santafe Shopping Mall, El Tesoro Commercial Park, Oviedo Shopping Mall, and Viscaya Shopping Mall.
Best Hostel: Viajero Medellin Hostel
Situated in the lively El Poblado, Viajero is more than just a hostel. It’s a social and working community with the coolest coworking space in the city and some of the best parties in town! It’s within easy reach of many bars, restaurants, and sights. I stayed here during the New Years 2019 party and it was spectacular! Another guy on our team used their coworking space for 3 full months (obviously, he loved it)! The dorms and private rooms have all the usual amenities, plus impressively comfortable mattresses and modern bathrooms.
Best Hotel: Hotel Madeiro
A quiet sanctuary close to the action, Hostel Madeiro has a rooftop pool and sauna, great for relaxing after a day of exploring Medellin. There’s a lift in the building. Breakfast, parking, and Wi-Fi are free.
There’s a choice of room types, including some that come with a spa bath. All rooms are en-suite.
Best Airbnb: Industrial Loft
This lovely Airbnb loft can sleep two guests, making it ideal for solo travelers, friends or couples. It has a nice studio vibe with a living room and a full kitchen. A major plus point is the balcony – I ended up spending so much time out there! You’ll also be in a perfect location near all of the best restaurants and shops Medellin has to offer!
4. Belén – The Coolest Neighbourhood in Medellin
Belén is our pick for the coolest neighbourhood for several reasons. Firstly, it’s one of the best places to mingle with locals and stay in a former working-class neighbourhood with industrial roots.
Secondly, it’s an up-and-coming area with plenty of soul. Belén offers a good nightlife and is within easy reach of major places of interest. It’s also one of the city’s largest and oldest neighbourhoods and is served by good transportation.
Top Things to Do
- Climb up to Pueblito Paisa and enjoy the museum, church, and small restaurants on top of the hill.
- Lap up the relaxing atmosphere and green surroundings of Parque Belén.
- Admire the views from the top of Cerro Nutibara, a rocky hill that’s known as one of Medellin’s guardian hills and is home to a pleasant sculpture park.
- Visit Unidad Deportiva de Belén for a range of leisure and sporting options.
- Call into one of many small pastellerias for a quick bite to eat on the go.
- Enjoy shopping, movies, and dining in the large Los Molinos shopping centre.
- Have fun at night along Calle 33 with its eclectic collection of bars and clubs.
Best Hotel: Mandala Medellín Belén By GyC Hotels
Staff here are friendly and were even willing to facilitate check-in late at night. They offer a simple breakfast every day, the location is decent, Wi-Fi works well, and they even have parking.
If I have to throw in a negative, I’d say the maintenance could be a little better, I found the lights didn’t work properly. But overall, it’s a decent value option.
Best Hostel: International House Co-Living
A friendly and welcoming hostel, you’ll find a lovely courtyard with stunning hand-painted wall murals, with plenty of places to work from. You won’t find dorms here but various types of private rooms, some with shared bathrooms and a bit more pricey ensuite options. The beds are comfy and you’ll defo feel a type of privacy you rarely see in hostels!
Best Airbnb: Modern And Stylish Apartment
This modern, wood-filled apartment is one of the most modern options I’ve seen in Medellin. The one-bedroom apartment has a ton of natural light and a dedicated workspace, making it a perfect choice for digital nomads in particular. The second-floor home is in a lively neighbourhood with the bus station conveniently right across the street.
5. Envigado – Where Families Should Stay
Previously a separate city but now part of the ever-expanding sprawl of Medellin, Envigado is our top recommendation for families.
Enjoy suburban living while still being within easy reach of Medellin’s major sightseeing hotspots, and sleep well in a peaceful and relatively safe part of the city that has everything you need to be comfortable and happy.
With a more rural vibe than other areas of the city, a range of outdoor adventures can be found right on the doorstep.
Top Things to Do
- See the charming colonial-style Envigado Church.
- Take children to Parque Recreativo.
- Visit the museum of Otraparte, the previous home of a famous philosopher that now contains many cultural treasures.
- Browse and buy at City Plaza shopping centre.
- Hunt for souvenirs in the cute shops near Parque Envigado.
- Have a fun night out at La Tienda, a place for eating, drinking, and dancing.
- Check out the bars and clubs of La Bota del Dia.
- Wander around and snap pictures of the many shrines to saints.
- Go nature spotting, bird watching, and hiking at Parque EcoTuristico Salado just outside Envigado.
Best Hotel: Arame Hotel
A four-star hotel with rooms suitable for families, and all rooms at Arame Hotel have a private bathroom, cable TV, free Wi-Fi, a fridge, and ample storage space. There are elevators in the building, and breakfast is included and free parking is available. This costs a little more than we’d normally spend on a broke backpacker budget, so I suggest only coming here if there’s a group of you.
Best (Former) Hostel: Hospedajes el Jardín
This stunning hostel was the last one in Envigado. Since I first stayed, it has ditched the dorms and converted into more of a hotel. It’s still catered toward digital nomads who are keen on basing themselves in the city.
The coworking space still exists, and has amazing chairs perfect for long days on the laptop, and a fantastic communal kitchen with everything you need to save money on meals. There are even rooms with balconies, which I highly recommend! So technically no longer a hostel, but it retains the social common areas, so we’ll keep it in here.
Best Airbnb: Studio With Balcony
This super cute Airbnb has everything you need for a comfy, cozy and safe stay in the city. With a kitchenette and a hammock ready for you to chil out in on the balcony, the stay is absolutely ideal for solo travelers or couples. The beds and pillows are actually soft, and you’ll be right near a mall and eateries.
FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Medellin
Here’s what people usually ask us about where to stay in Colombia’s most popular backpacking and party hub.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Medellin
This city is a ton of fun, but it’s also home to some dodgy stuff that can ruin your trip. I’ve heard numerous horror stories of people who have been “scoped” (had their drink spiked with scopolamine) which has killed in the past. Illness, injury, road accidents and more make it vital to buy insurance ahead of your trip.
Sort out your insurance before you go. There are several good options, but our overall pick is SafetyWing. Most of the Broke Backpacker team has used it at one point or another, and we’ve filed claims for rabies jabs in Bali, a hospital stay in Mexico, and a clinic visit for a stomach bug that wouldn’t quit. All paid out.
It’s month-to-month, no lock-in, no itinerary required, and you can buy it after you’ve already left. A little over $2 a day if you’re under 40.
New SafetyWing customers: use code BROKEBACKPACKER for 8 free weeks of electronics theft coverage. You have to scroll down and click the pink camera on their landing page to enter it, and you have to do it before creating your account.
My Thoughts on Where to Stay in Medellin if You’re Still Unsure
Medellin has stepped out of cocaine kingpin Pablo Escobar’s shadows, and into the limelight as Colombia’s trendy city, full of history, great nightlife, and excellent weather.
My top hostel and hotel are both in the upscale, legendary El Poblado neighbourhood, which is my favourite spot for nightlife. I’ve had some memorable nights in Provenza over the years! The best hostel in my eyes is Viajero Medellin Hostel with a ton of activities on offer, and my favourite hotel is Hotel Madeiro.
Medellin hostels are generally very backpacker-friendly with daily activities, wild parties, bars and pools to meet people, and breakfast available (often for a fee). But there are also a ton of budget options which are more basic, albeit with a small breakfast available – arepas and eggs are common. Hotels aren’t too pricy though, so they’re still really cheap for 2+ people.
If you want an alternative to El Poblado, Envigado and Laureles are both pretty safe, the latter especially has a growing expat scene. Personally I wouldn’t stay in Centro as it’s not safe at night, but it is cheap. That’s my opinion though, if budget is your only concern, then perhaps you’ll love it.
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Medellin.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Medellin.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Medellin instead.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth South America backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
