Well, start with the free city tour of Real City Tours! A walking tour through the city center guided by two really knowledgable and entertaining local guys, or better said; storytellers. In four hours they tell you all about the history, culture, and inhabitants of Medellin, with all its flaws and achievements. Proud as Paisas are, they talk about their city with such admiration and passion, even about their horrible history. It’s refreshing to hear the stories behind this city and leave all the prejudice behind.

If you’d like to escape the bustling city, there’s plenty to do in the rolling mountains around Medellin. About two hours outside of Medellin there’s a town that seems to have walked out of a children’s book. The moment you set foot in Guatapé it’s like you just took a time machine to a different world. All the houses are painted in different colors and patterns, the tuk-tuks have adapted to the houses, and the men with their bowler hats fit right in. Just sit on a bench and see how life passes by here. If you’re keen on walking 740 steps I would recommend climbing la Piedra del Peñol while you’re there. It’s a bit of a climb, but the view is worth it! Guatapé is surrounded by little islands and the 360 view upon this monolith is one to take in for a while.