Short Trips food and culture tour medellin

Medellín, Colombia’s second-largest city, is a vibrant and modern metropolis known for its striking architecture, innovation, and remarkable transformation. Often called the “City of Eternal Spring,” Medellín charms visitors with its ideal climate balancing warm, sunny days with cool, refreshing nights.

Renowned for its breathtaking views and urban sophistication, Medellín has evolved into a global hub of innovation and sustainable development. Beyond its skyline, the city is surrounded by lush flower farms, making it one of Colombia’s leading centers for flower production.

The José María Villa Market, known as Plaza Minorista, is one of Medellín’s most iconic and traditional markets. This space brings together producers and vendors from all regions of Colombia, offering a wide variety of fresh products such as fruits, vegetables, meats, spices, and artisanal goods. More than just a market, it is a cultural meeting point where the country’s culinary traditions are preserved and celebrated.

As you explore the market’s aisles, you’ll discover the rich diversity of Colombia’s gastronomy through a guided fruit tasting experience, sampling a vibrant array of exotic fruits, many unknown outside the country. From the tangy sweetness of lulo and creamy guanábana to hidden gems like zapote, uchuva, and mamey, each bite reveals the natural and cultural richness passed down through generations.

This emblematic neighborhood has transformed from Medellín’s former garbage dump into a vibrant and resilient space, filled with powerful stories of change and perseverance.

The local community offers an innovative and authentic approach that connects visitors with the cultural, gastronomic, and social richness of Medellín.

Here, experiences are designed with a sustainable focus, creating a deep impact on those who participate and reinforcing the values of inclusion and social responsibility.

Learn how to prepare traditional Colombian empanadas alongside locals in the heart of Medellín. This hands-on class introduces you to authentic techniques passed down through generations, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

You’ll create a savory filling made with hogao a traditional blend of tomato and onion combined with seasoned, cooked potatoes. The dough, made from yellow corn flour (harina de maíz), gives the empanadas their signature texture and flavor.

As you cook, you'll hear powerful stories from the community and gain insight into how food reflects local identity and resilience. To finish, enjoy your delicious empanadas with your hosts an experience that’s as meaningful as it is flavorful.
 

A cute and colourful town, Guatape is located about 2.5 hours outside Medellin. It is located in a beautiful zone wedged between a government created reservoir and a colossal stone, called el Peñol de Guatape.

Upon arrival to the town of Guatape, you'll be surrounded by the most colourful houses, each one intricately decorated with zócalos, traditionally painted carvings, along the lower parts of the main entrances.

Each zócalo tells a story about daily life, local traditions, or natural elements of this region of Colombia. This artistic tradition dates back to the early 20th century, originally serving as a protective and decorative element for the homes.

Explore the colorful streets in an authentic way, tasting small bites of traditional food from various local stalls and restaurants. As you stroll through the town’s main avenues, known for their unique zócalos, you’ll discover traditional flavors and the local culture that make this destination so special.

Learn the history and meaning behind each zocalo these small works of art that tell stories about the region and its people. Plus, interact with friendly locals and artisans who will warmly welcome you and make you feel part of their community. This tour is not just a culinary experience but also a cultural journey that lets you uncover the true story that defines Guatape.

The artistic work of painting zocalos in the houses is part of the Guatape's culture and tradition, so what better way to immerse yourself in the local culture than by painting a zocalo?

As part of this immersive experience, you'll participate in an interactive workshop where you can create and paint your zócalo. This workshop will allow you to express your creativity and take home a unique and personal souvenir from your visit. Led by local artisans, this workshop will give you an interesting perspective into the rich history and cultural significance of these traditional artwork.

El Peñol is a enormous rock that you can't miss as you arrive to Guatape. The Peñol is said to be millions of years old, and if you ask local residents how the rock was formed, everyone will have a different story for you! Regardless of how the rock was formed, though, it offers an incredible view over the surrounding area. Be prepared to climb a whopping 740 stairs to reach the top of this gigantic rock!

El Peñol is not only a natural wonder but also a symbol of the area's rich history and cultural heritage, attracting adventurers and nature lovers alike.

NH Collection Royal Medellín is located in El Poblado. The hotel offers an on-site luxury spa, wellness centre, and outdoor pool. In addition, guests can enjoy free WiFi access. The rooms at this 5-star hotel have bright and modern décor and include a flat-screen cable T.V., a work desk and a coffee station. Additionally, guests have access to 24-hour room service and the hotel's laundry and dry cleaning service.

The hotel is located within steps of the Santa Fe and Oviedo shopping centres, Edificio Forum Business Centre and the Hard Rock Café Medellin