Medellin: Comuna 13 Street Art, Metrocable & Pueblito Paisa Tour

Summary

Comuna 13 graffiti stories, Metrocable rides and city flavors in Medellin

You’ll walk barefoot through green parks, ride Medellin’s Metrocable above sprawling neighborhoods, taste local dishes at Pueblito Paisa, and see Comuna 13’s powerful street art with guides who know every story behind each mural. Expect laughter, honest moments with locals, and views you won’t forget.

What’s the experience like?

The van picked us up right outside our hotel in Medellin — I was still finishing my coffee when our guide, Andrés, waved from the lobby. He had this easy way about him, cracking jokes in both Spanish and English (I tried to keep up). First stop was Botero Plaza. The sculptures are way bigger than I imagined — I remember touching the bronze and it felt surprisingly cool even though the sun was already out. There were families everywhere, kids climbing on Botero’s giant cat. Andrés pointed out how people rub the statues for luck; I gave it a go, just in case.

We made our way to Barefoot Park next. Shoes off — literally. The grass was damp from last night’s rain and there was this faint smell of earth mixed with street food from somewhere nearby. It’s meant to make you feel grounded or something; honestly, it worked. There were school kids running around and one of them splashed water on my jeans by accident — his mom apologized but we both laughed it off. After that came Pueblito Paisa up on the hill. The view over Medellin is wild; hazy mountains in the distance, rooftops packed tight below us. Lunch here tasted homemade (I still think about that arepa) and Andrés explained how this spot recreates a typical Antioquian village.

Then came the Metrocable ride — I didn’t expect to feel nervous but seeing the city stretch out beneath your feet is something else. The cabins sway a little in the wind; you get these flashes of color from painted rooftops below, then suddenly everything goes quiet except for that soft humming of the cable. We talked about how this system changed life for so many people living up on those hills.

But Comuna 13 was what stuck with me most. Our local guide there, Luisa, grew up in the neighborhood — she knew everyone, waved at every second person we passed. She showed us murals telling stories I’d never have guessed at: violence and hope all tangled together in bright spray paint. There was music everywhere — kids breakdancing right on the steps (Luisa cheered them on), someone rapping about “cambio” and “futuro.” We took those famous electric escalators up through winding streets covered in graffiti; at one point we watched an artist working on a new piece and he let us ask questions between brushstrokes. I tried to say thank you in Spanish but probably butchered it — he just grinned.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Medellín city and Comuna 13 tour

• Pick up at hotel lobby
• Visit Botero Plaza and take photos
• Walk and relax at Barefoot Park
• Explore Pueblito Paisa and enjoy views
• Ride the Metrocable for city views
• Visit Medellín River area
• Tour Comuna 13 with local guide
• See street art, break dance, and rap shows
• Use electric stairs in Comuna 13
• Return to hotel

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included in this Medellin tour?

Yes, travelers are picked up directly from their hotel lobby or waiting area before the tour begins.

What attractions are visited during the tour?

The tour includes Botero Plaza, Barefoot Park, Pueblito Paisa, Metrocable ride, River Parks area, and Comuna 13 with its graffiti murals.

Is lunch provided on this day trip?

Yes, a traditional lunch is included during your visit to Pueblito Paisa.

Do guides speak English?

Yes, certified professional guides lead the tour in English (and Spanish), including bilingual local guides in Comuna 13.

How long does the tour last?

The full experience typically covers a full day with multiple stops across Medellin.

Are entry fees included for attractions like Metrocable?

Yes, entrance fees for Metro and Metrocable are included as part of your booking.

Is this tour suitable for families with children?

Yes—infants can join with strollers or sit on an adult’s lap; public transport options are nearby if needed.

What makes Comuna 13 special on this itinerary?

You’ll explore Comuna 13’s transformation through its urban art scene guided by locals who share personal stories behind each mural.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off by air-conditioned vehicle, all entry fees for Metro and Metrocable rides across Medellin’s neighborhoods, a guided walk through Barefoot Park and Botero Plaza, time at Pueblito Paisa with a traditional lunch included, plus guided exploration of Comuna 13’s vibrant street art—with bilingual local guides sharing their own experiences along the way before returning you safely back to your hotel.