After spending 8 unforgettable days in this bustling city, I’m here to be your guide to the best areas, neighborhoods, and places to stay in Medellin, Colombia! Don’t forget to add these spots to your itinerary as you plan your trip to the “City of Eternal Springs”.
Nestled in the postcard-worthy Aburrá Valley, Medellin is a vibrant city with a rich history, colorful culture, and wild nightlife. As Colombia’s second largest city, there’s a spectacular diversity in what you can do and experience.
After taking a week long trip with my work colleagues, I highly recommend you pick activities across the city. You’ll find each neighborhood has its own unique personality!
In my comprehensive guide, you’ll discover the best districts for first-time travelers, the authentic areas, and what parts to avoid. From expat communities to residential hubs, Medellin has so many interesting places to stay.
If you plan to take a trip to Medellin, you don’t want to miss the info in this blog. You’ll get a mix of firsthand knowledge and lots of in-depth research to help make your trip planning even easier!
Let’s not delay anymore and find out where to stay in Medellin, Colombia…
The 5 Best Places to Stay in Medellin
In the urban area of Medellin, neighborhoods are dubbed communes, or “comunas” in Spanish. This city has 16 communes in 6 different zones. Out of all 16 communes, here are my recommendations best places to stay in Medellin:
- El Poblado
- Laureles
- El Centro
- Envigado
- Belen
5. Comuna 16: Belén
If you’re wondering where to stay in Medellin, Belen is the best choice if you’re looking for a local experience.
Sitting in the western part of Medellin, Belén is a diverse neighborhood framed with a fusion of residential and commercial districts. Crowned with a series of cultural attractions, Belén is a popular place for both tourists and locals.
Do you identify as a budget traveler or backpacker? In that case, Belen is one of the best places to stay in Medellin, and you’ll find bargains on every corner.
4. Envigado
There are many neighborhoods in Medellin, but Envigado, outside of the main urban area, offers something unique. If you’re looking to take a step back from the hustle and bustle of city life, Envigado offers a more sedate experience.
Located just south of Medellin, this neighboring municipality is famous for its tranquil atmosphere, traditional architecture, and personality-packed town square.
Envigado offers a more local experience away from the hordes of tourists while still having great access to Medellin’s main sites.
Travelers can explore Envigado’s local markets, go wild in the nightlife scene, and hike in the nearby jungles, waterfalls, and mountains. If you plan to explore, pack some exotic fruits for the whole Colombia hiking experience!
One of the most popular hiking paths is the trail from Envigado to Mirador de los Valles.
3. Comuna 10: El Centro (Officially La Candelaria)
Nestled in Medellin’s downtown area, El Centro is the city’s beating heart. This is an ideal place to stay for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and those looking to stay centrally located. For convenience, El Centro is one of the best neighborhoods in Medellin.
Sip on authentic Colombian coffee in the old-school cafes, soak up the sunshine in the beautiful parks, and tick off the bucket list opportunities. This color-packed district flaunts several architectural gems, like the Metropolitan Cathedral and the historic Plaza Botero.
Interested in exploring the city’s history? Museums like Museo de Antioquia and Museo Casa de la Memoria are sitting right around the corner. El Centro is a wonderful option for you art and history lovers!
2. Comuna 11: Laureles
If you’re seeking a more local and authentic experience in Medellin, consider staying in the Laureles neighborhood. Located west of downtown Medellin, this area is home to tree-lined streets, lush parks, and cute cafes.
Offering a quieter alternative to the buzz of El Poblado, Laureles is still within easy reach of the city’s main attractions, so you won’t miss out on any of the fun.
Travelers can discover the iconic Estadio Atanasio Girardot, the bustling 70th Street, and the picture-perfect La Floresta neighborhood, known for its bohemian atmosphere. If you’re looking for laid-back vibes and a taste of the local scene, Laureles is the best area to stay in Medellin.
1. Comuna 14: El Poblado
Situated in the southeastern part of the city, El Poblado is one of the most popular neighborhoods to stay in Medellin. As a crowd favorite, you can expect to find a colorful mix of tourists, expats, and locals.
El Poblado is an ideal choice if you’re wondering where to stay in Medellin. My friends and I loved staying here!
Famous for its lively ambiance, El Poblado boasts trendy restaurants, upscale bars, and fashionable boutiques. El Poblado is ideal for partygoers and social travelers since it’s home to some of the city’s best nightlife, particularly in the Parque Lleras area. El Poblado is home to some of Medellin’s best hotels and hostels!
We were warned that staying in hostels in this area would mean little to no sleep because of the lively nightlife. But, in my personal experience, I had very little issues with noise. And I was in bed earlier than most…
Another great thing about this district in Medellin is that it’s well-connected with convenient access to Parque Lleras, El Tesoro Mall, and Provenza. So whether you’re a backpacker, solo traveler, or it’s your first time visiting Colombia, El Poblado is one of the best places to stay in Medellin.
