Comuna 13: Street Art, Escalators and a Story of Change

For decades Comuna 13, on the western hillsides of the city, was one of the most dangerous places in Medellín. Today its murals, hip-hop and outdoor escalators have made it the city's most famous symbol of transformation. Going with a local guide, ideally someone from the neighborhood, is the best way to understand its story.

What you’ll see

• The outdoor escalators: opened in 2011 in the Las Independencias area, they replaced hundreds of concrete steps that residents had to climb every day.
• Graffiti and murals: entire streets painted by local artists, many of them telling the neighborhood’s history.
• Hip-hop and street dance: young local artists perform along the route; tips are welcome.
• Viewpoints: terraces with views over the city, and plenty of small shops selling art, coffee and the famous mango biche.

How to get there

Take metro Line B to San Javier station, the usual meeting point for graffiti tours. From there it is a short Uber ride, or about a 25-minute uphill walk, to the escalators. The easiest option is a private city tour that takes you straight there. For a view from above, take Metrocable Line J from the same station.

Private city tour with Comuna 13

© Bernard Gagnon · CC BY-SA 4.0

Private tour with Medellín Private Transfers

Private Medellín City Tour & Comuna 13

By the hour, flexible schedule

See Medellín's most iconic sights and experience the incredible transformation of Comuna 13, all on your own schedule. You pay by the hour, so you choose how to spend your day.

Itinerary

1. 1

   Plaza Botero

   See Fernando Botero's famous oversized bronze sculptures up close.

2. 2

   El Hueco

   Dive into the bustling shopping district in the heart of downtown.

3. 3

   Palacio Nacional

   Explore a historic landmark that's now a busy local shopping center.

4. 4

   Metrocable

   Ride the cable car for sweeping views over the city.

5. 5

   Pueblito Paisa

   Get a taste of traditional Antioquian culture, with great views from Nutibara Hill.

6. 6

   Comuna 13

   Walk among the street art, outdoor escalators, and hip-hop shows, and soak up the neighborhood's energy. Stay as long as you like.

What's included

• Private transportation in a modern SUV or van, just for your group.
• A fully flexible schedule, so you choose where to stop and for how long.
• Bilingual driver or guide (subject to availability).

Not included

• Metrocable tickets: $4,000 COP per person, paid at the station.
• Meals, drinks, souvenirs, and personal expenses.
• Extra hours beyond your agreed tour time.

Optional extras

• Longer Metrocable Ride$4,000 COP ticket per personCOP 4,000≈ US$1
• Local Ice Cream or Popsicle Tastingoptional snack in Comuna 13COP 5,000≈ US$2

Price

COP 100,000 (≈ US$35) per hourYour total depends on your group size and the number of hours.

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