Medellín Colombia, also referred to as “The City of Eternal Spring,” is known for its temperate weather, vibrant culture, and rapid transformation. It’s also quickly become a beacon for digital nomads looking for a mix of old-world charm and flexible visa options for longer stays. With a push for innovation, public spaces, and art, Medellín is the perfect stop on a South American digital nomad tour. Here’s what to know and how to plan with the help of your Odyssey App.
Why Medellín is Ideal for Digital Nomads
Medellín’s transformed itself from a seedy city with a turbulent past to a vibrant, innovative metropolis that attracts worldwide travelers. It boasts a robust infrastructure, high-speed internet, architectural wonders, and a growing community of digital nomads and entrepreneurs. Over the years, the Colombian government has also proved proactive about supporting the area’s technology and innovation to make it a more appealing hub for remote work and wanderers alike.
Medellín Colombia is also a good spot if you’re looking to stay somewhere for several months to an entire year. The country offers several visa options, but the tourist visa provides flexibility for a six-month stay. If you fall in love with the city, you can also extend your visa for up to a year.
Top Co-Working Spaces in Medellín
Medellín’s dynamic neighborhoods are dotted with numerous co-working spaces that cater to the needs of digital nomads, offering not just a desk but a support community.
Selina CoWork Medellín: Located in the trendy El Poblado district, Selina offers an excellent balance of work and leisure with its vibrant community events and comfortable working environment.
WeWork Medellín: Known for its global community, WeWork in Medellín provides sleek, modern workspaces and networking opportunities right in the heart of the city.
La Casa Redonda: Situated in the Laureles neighborhood, this co-working space is known for its cozy atmosphere and strong community vibe, perfect for those looking to blend in with local entrepreneurs.
Espacio CoWork: For those seeking a quieter spot, Espacio CoWork in Envigado offers a serene setting with plenty of natural light and greenery.
For something more flexible, try Café Velvet, where comfy chairs and hot brews are plentiful. Café Noir is another solid option to work along the river for waterfront views.
The Best Time to Visit Medellín Colombia
Medellín enjoys glorious spring-like weather nearly year-round, making it an idyllic place to stop most anytime of the year. If you need to narrow down your options, the best time to visit is during the dry season, which extends from December to February or July to August. The city’s clear skies make it easier to explore without the threat of rain. Or time your trip with the famed “Feria de las Flores” (Flower Festival) in August for a vibrant and spectacular way to soak up the city’s culture and festivities.
Must-See Attractions for Digital Nomads
Make sure your trip to Medellín Colombia isn’t just about work when there’s so much to see and do. Here’s your short list to get started.
Comuna 13
This neighborhood, which was once a cartel-run no-go area, has transformed into a vibrant canvas for street art and a representation of resilience. Also known as San Javier, this neighborhood is home to outdoor escalators with breathtaking views of the city. Stroll through Comuna 13 to take in the graffiti, street art, music, and street vendors selling snacks and trinkets.
Botanical Garden of Medellín
A green oasis in the heart of the city, the Botanical Garden of Medellín is an ideal stop for a peaceful workday outdoors or a leisurely stroll alongside exotic plants and birds. With over 4,500 flowers and 139 bird species, you’ll never run out of things to see across multiple visits.
Pueblito Paisa
Perched atop Nutibara Hill, Pueblito Paisa is a replica of a traditional Colombian village. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the city and sample the local culture and cuisine. Guided tours are available to make the most of your experience.
Metrocable
Take a ride on this aerial cable car for a unique perspective of the city and access to parks and nature reserves. Metrocable is a local gondola lift system and is among the world’s first aerial cable cars to be fully integrated into the local transportation system. It’s also a fabulous and inexpensive way to enjoy views of the city.
Where to Stay in Medellín Colombia for Digital Nomads
El Poblado is the most popular area to stay among digital nomads for its safety, modern amenities, and vibrant nightlife. Laureles is another option to settle in as your home base for a more local Colombian experience with leafy streets and cafés. If you’re on a budget, Envigado provides a quieter, more affordable alternative to the bustling neighborhoods in Medellín. Serviced apartments, boutique hotels, and hostels like Rango Hostel Boutique and Los Patios Hostel Boutique are good options that cater to short-term and long-term stays.
Medellín Safety and Transportation Tips
Medellín once had a terrible reputation for safety but has transformed over the years into a safe option for Colombian travel. For ultimately safety, choose options like El Poblado and Laureles. However, it’s wise to stay vigilant about your surroundings, especially after dark. Digital nomads should be advised that while violent crimes aren’t generally an issue for tourists, there has been a recent string of armed robberies, muggings, and petty crimes against travelers.
Medellín Colombia, features not one but four types of well-regarded public transportation options. You can travel by subway, cable car, bus, or tram, and which one you choose depends on which is the most direct to your final destination. It’s a convenient and affordable way to travel, especially if you buy a monthly pass. Taxis and ride-sharing options like Uber are also available.
Excursions and Day Trips from Medellín
Medellín Colombia is ideally situated to enjoy the breath-taking landscapes and charming towns in the surrounding Antioquia region. Start with a tip to Guatapé, famous for the towering El Peñol rock and colorful zocalos. It’s a must-visit for stunning views and water activities to spend the day with your new digital nomad friends.
Jardín, or Garden, is a picturesque town known for its beautiful architecture, coffee culture, and the opportunity to explore the Andean landscapes. Over at Santa Fe de Antioquia, you’ll find a colonial town with quaint cobbled streets and ancient churches that offer a glimpse into Colombia’s rich history.
You can branch out from Medellín and take a weekend trip to Bogota, which is about an 8 and a half hour drive or just under an hour flight. Cheap fares can be found on Wingo, LATAM, and Avianca to make the most of your budget and time in Colombia. Rio Clair is just four hours southeast of Medellín and a great place to spend the weekend in the outdoors. Or spend a weekend hiking and exploring the aqua river and tropical rain forest that surround the marble canyon.
Start Planning Your Medellín Adventure
If you’re ready to explore “The City of Eternal Spring” for yourself, Medellín’s blend of modern amenities, rich culture, and welcoming community makes it an unforgettable stop for digital nomads. Start by choosing your neighborhood and home base with a few solid co-working options to help get you through the stay. Make your travel planning to Medellín Colombia even easier by downloading the Odyssey App here.
