Downtown Medellín (El Centro): Botero, History and Markets

Chaotic, noisy and fascinating, El Centro is the Medellín that most tourists skip, and the one that tells you the most about the city. It's where you'll find Fernando Botero's famous sculptures, the city's main museum, historic buildings and endless street markets. Visit by day, ideally with a guide.

What to see

• Plaza Botero: a square with 23 bronze sculptures donated by Fernando Botero, the city’s most famous artist. Free and open to everyone.
• Museo de Antioquia: right on the square, with a large collection of Botero’s paintings and sculptures. It usually opens daily from 10 am; check the hours before you go.
• Palacio de la Cultura Rafael Uribe Uribe: the striking black-and-white Gothic Revival building facing the square.
• Parque Berrío and Junín: the historic heart of the city and its classic pedestrian shopping street.
• El Hueco: a maze of wholesale markets and shops where you can find almost anything at local prices.

Staying safe downtown

• Go during the day and avoid the area after dark.
• Carry only what you need, keep your phone in a front pocket and don’t wear jewelry.
• Pickpockets work the crowds around Plaza Botero and the markets; keep your bag in front of you.
• A guided tour or a private driver is the easiest way to see the highlights without worrying.

Private city tour

© 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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