If you’re coming to Medellin for the first time you’re in luck! There are so many great neighborhoods to live in that you’ll be spoiled for choice. Here’s are list of the best neighborhoods in Medellin.
For more information on Medellín in general, read our Ultimate Visitor Guide
El Poblado
By far the most popular spot for visitors and expats, El Poblado has everything that you’re ever going to need. Great restaurants, shopping malls, bars, night clubs, hotels, hostels, and bars. You’ll also find a great community of English speakers, who hang out in the modern cafes. If you’re in town for work many of the city’s businesses have offices here as well as meeting rooms, so staying in El Poblado will cut down on journey times. However, there are certain drawbacks to staying in El Poblado. Accommodation is noticeably more expensive than other parts of the city and it can be very lively at night, especially on the weekends. If you’re looking for a more relaxing time in the city you may want to stay elsewhere.
Laureles
This neighborhood has been becoming more and more popular over the last few years. If you decide to stay here you will see lots of other visitors enjoying the laid back atmosphere. In the evenings the countless restaurants and bars are full of chatter and in the days the small cafes and shops are a great place to hang out. There are not as many bars and clubs as El Poblado but there is definitely a great evening scene. Unfortunately, Laureles is not close to the city’s fantastic metro line but you can easily find inexpensive taxi without trouble. The cost of living is lower than El Poblado but still more expensive than other options.
Estadio
Close to Laureles and with its own Metro stop, Estadio is a very residential area perfect for longer-term visitors. At its center is the impressive stadium and sporting park, which includes Olympic size swimming pools, gyms, a running track, and much more. Outside of the sports park there are many apartment buildings and houses popular with the city’s middle class. There is not many restaurants or bars but it’s only a $2 taxi away from Laureles or a 75 cent metro journey from El Poblado. On the night of football matches the area is filled with fans from either of the two teams which can be noisy. However, overall the area is very relaxed and safe.
Envigado
Another popular area with its own Metro stop, Envigado is used to be a separate town until the city’s growth took over. This means that it’s a little ‘out of town’ but it’s perfect for anyone looking for a different vibe. You’ll find traditional bars alongside some great restaurants as well as a thriving night scene. It’s proximity to El Poblado makes it a very popular place for families to stay.
