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The Ultimate Guide to Laureles in Medellin Colombia

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Laureles is my favorite barrio (neighborhood) in Medellin, Colombia, and one that I would wholeheartedly recommend to both tourists and those considering living in Medellin. Laureles in Medellin has become my home away from home… Indeed, this is my #1 recommendation when people ask me where to stay in Medellin .

The most popular and well-known neighborhood in Medellin is Poblado, this has traditionally been the place where the well-to-do live and is full of high-rise apartment buildings, upscale restaurants, boutique shops, and the center of weekend nightlife, and is ringed by Medellin’s best malls.

In my opinion, Poblado is a great place to visit while in town or visit every once and a while, but there are far better neighborhoods when it comes to day-to-day living.

Laureles is certainly one of them.

Before I chose to settle down in Medellin, I stayed in many different neighborhoods, all over town, for varying periods of time: Poblado, Envigado , Estadio, Conquistadores, Belen Fatima, Patio Bonito, and Suramericana just to name a few.

I am pretty familiar with most of the major neighborhoods in town, except for maybe those on the north side. For me, Laureles stands out as the best.  But if you don’t want to take my word for it, check out my more comprehensive article about where to stay in Medellin .

This is a monster post, which took quite a while to put together–please give this article a quick share on Facebook , Twitter , or Pinterest if you find it helpful.

Also, be sure not to miss my monster post on 35 things to see and do in Medellin (and one thing to avoid) .

Table of Contents

About laureles, medellin, getting your bearings in laureles, hostels in laureles.

• Want to Travel More for Less Money?

Italian Food

Mexican food, coffee shops, desserts and ice cream, health food, colombian staples, peruvian restaurants, asian restaurants, misc. restaurants, gyms and exercise, supermarkets and groceries, coworking space.

Laureles is located west of downtown Medellin , a more quiet and residential neighborhood, featuring nice walkable streets and an atmosphere that is a blend of the more typical of Colombia with a bit of the upscale. Cheaper prices, a better quality of life, and access to everything I need or want (by foot) are the main things that draw me to Laureles.

You’ve got everything you need to live life like a local–something that Poblado really can’t offer with few supermarkets and when the only options to eat are pricey chain restaurants with hot wings, hamburgers, and so forth.

Poblado, despite the huge towers, is more suburban and car-centric in character, with entire city blocks taken up by countless malls or gated apartment buildings with a doorman that no longer allows space for the little tiendas and restaurants. Whereas Laureles, despite the lower skyline, is more urban and walkable in nature.

Laureles offers most of the big-name chain restaurants that are popular throughout Medellin while also still offering plenty of mom-and-pop businesses opportunities to thrive. From affordable restaurants with menu of the day, and bakeries with fresh goods, to small tiendas selling fresh fruit, vegetables, eggs, and arepas.

Laureles is west/northwest of UPB (Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana) a local private university, which is rated among the best in Colombia.

I love Laureles because it is such a pedestrian-friendly neighborhood in a city/country that isn’t very pedestrian-friendly. Almost anything you need is located within walking distance, though the unique, meandering layout of the neighborhood can be a little disorienting at first. You may want to download Google Maps for offline access to the area and refer to it on occasion.

The heart of Laureles is Avenida Nutibara (Transversal 39b on the map above) running diagonally across the neighborhood from the SE corner to the NW.

The barrio is bordered, more or less, to the north by San Juan, a major transportation thoroughfare also known as Calle 44; Avenida 33 (trenta y tres) to the south, which is a major center of nightlife in Medellin; Avenida 80 (ochenta) to the west, and Carrera 70 (setenta) to the east.

You can quibble with the exact boundaries since technically small parts of those areas may fall within other barrios, but that is what I and many locals would consider being Laureles.

Along or just off of Nutibara avenue is where you will find all the biggest name restaurants. From Nutibara you will find a unique street layout that defies the modern grid style for a more Hausmann Parisian flair.

Off of Nutibara, you will also find Tranversales running parallel to Nutibara (diagonally) as well as Circulares (which make circles). Just try to keep Nutibara as your reference point.

Activity isn’t limited to Nutibara, you’ll also find a number of not to be missed places along the secondary streets, particularly in the areas around El Primer Parque de Laureles, and El Segundo Parque de Laureles (the first and second park, respectively).

More on specific places you shouldn’t miss in a moment…

Two things to keep in mind in Medellin: Calles run east-west and Carreras run north-south. So Calle 44 and Carrera 72 is a very different part of town from Carrera 44 and Calle 72. The former is in Laureles, while the latter is way off in Manrique, where the Tango Museum is.

Calles begin at 1 in the south and increase numerically as they head north. While Carreras begin in the east and increase in numerical value as they head west.

Getting Around

The one principal drawback of living in Laureles is that there is not a metro station in the barrio, though Poblado’s station is a pretty decent walk from Parque Lleras as well (and it’s uphill on the way back).

Depending on where you are coming from it is generally a short (and flat) walk to the closest station. Floresta and Estadio are the two closest stations and are about 15-30 minutes walking, and the metro will take you to a myriad of things to do in Medellin .

To reach the Floresta metro station you simply walk north on 78, past San Juan, and keep going straight until you run into the elevated subway rails. From there the station is just a few blocks to the west (left). To reach Estadio you would just walk north on 70 past San Juan until reaching the station.

If you prefer not to walk you can also reach the metro by taking an Integrado bus which runs north along Nutibara avenue. These are buses that service the metro system directly and allow you to purchase just the bus fare or the bus fare AND a metro ticket at significant savings to you.

You MUST have a free tarjeta civica card in order to get the cheaper, combined bus fare, however. You can get the tarjeta civica from a few metro stations like San Javier or San Antonio.

If you don’t have the tarjeta civica, you can still use the integrado by paying in cash, but then you will be paying the normal price for both the integrado and the metro, rather than getting a cheaper overall rate.

The bus ride will only take a few minutes to reach the Santa Lucia metro station where you can then easily reach any part of the city.

The integrado buses will be lined up outside and make the return trip down Nutibara avenue.

Buses in Medellin are cheap and frequent, and they are one of the best ways to get around. Beyond the integrado bus on Nutibara which will get you on the metro system, you have a number of options for getting around town.

Buses are now around 2.500 pesos.

Circular Sur

The Circular Sur buses run in big circles through the city, both clockwise and counterclockwise. Near Laureles they run along 80 and San Juan.

With the Circular Sur bus running clockwise (heading east on San Juan) you can easily reach the Parque de los Pies Descalzos (Barefoot Park), the northern part of El Centro, the San Diego shopping mall (which is also where you can catch a collectivo to the airport), the Museum of Modern Art , and also provides an alternative route to get to Poblado.

The Circular Sur heading west on San Juan will take you down by Los Molinos Mall , which is the closest big, modern mall to the neighborhood, though Unicentro has improved in recent years. This route will eventually circle back to all the places mentioned above as well.

Comercial Hotelera

The Hotelera bus is another convenient bus that runs down Nutibara. From here it passes by the San Diego shopping mall and heads up Las Palmas for a while before dipping into the neighborhoods above Poblado. You can easily reach El Castillo (the Castle) or even hop off a block or two from Parque Lleras (much closer than most other public transportation options). This bus also directly serves the Terminal del Sur bus station.

Going to El Centro

There are a number of buses that serve El Centro, practically all of them run eastbound on San Juan, where you can join the Medellin free walking tour , visit the Museo de Antioquia , El Hueco, or the other numerous attractions downtown (be sure to read my detailed guide to the Medellin Centro , too).

Medellin Bus Route Maps

The best way to discover routes throughout the city is through a Github bus map which allows you to place pins on the map (points of origin and destination) and see which bus routes serve that area.

Check out the Github bus map.

Riding the Buses

Buses in Medellin generally aren’t too comfortable. The buses are often old and worn down and the drivers are some of the craziest in town. For the most part, you can hail buses virtually anywhere, not exclusively from bus stops, just hold your arm out as it approaches. Pay is normally as you board. Hold on for dear life as you try and make your way to a seat (if there’s one available).

Buses frequently feature salesmen who hop on and make the rounds between different routes. They will jump over the turnstile and hand out candies or pens or whatever to every passenger on the bus before giving a spiel and then recollecting their goods or payment.

Prices are generally cheap, so if you understand how much they are charging when they give the spiel, you shouldn’t worry about getting ripped off on the prices.

Getting around by taxi is another option. They are quite affordable and use the meter system with the prices displayed for what you will actually pay. No tricky codes to decipher or any of that nonsense.

There is a 24-hour taxi stand located on the west side of the Primer Parque de Laureles.

You can hail cabs pretty easily on the street on any primary or secondary street. Some people recommend, for safety reasons, that you don’t hail cabs from the street, especially at night.

I hail cabs on the street and have never had a problem, but there have been reports of problems related to robberies  by accomplices. It is best to sit in the back with the windows rolled up and, as always, don’t show off lots of cash or other valuables (even cell phones).

Uber: Uber is actually illegal here, but it is still a good option. I generally trust Uber drivers more than taxi drivers since I can see their reviews, know the price beforehand, and don’t have to use cash. There are probably 20 taxis for every one Uber though, so expect to wait a little longer for your Uber ride. Usually, they will want you to sit up front like a friend rather than in the back like a taxi in order to avoid trouble with the law. Sign up for Uber here .

A growing service here in Medellin is the Encicla bike-share service… Bike shares are an amazing service that allows you to pick up a bicycle at one of the stations scattered throughout the city, ride around, and then drop it off at any other station.

I used bike share quite frequently in Washington DC and I forgot how much I missed it after a few years on the road!

Medellin hasn’t quite yet reached a critical mass of bike stations, but Laureles is easily the best-serviced neighborhood in the city in terms of the number of bikes and available stations (nearly half of the city’s stations are in Laureles). Laureles also happens to be a flat part of town that is much more suited to bicycle life and also features plenty of bike lanes as well.

In order to use the bike share, you will need to have a tarjeta civica card which you can get from a select few metro stations around the city, including the San Javier metro station nearby. Thankfully you can register for a card as a foreign visitor with just your passport.

Drivers in Medellin are particularly terrible though and have little regard for pedestrians, so always be a little more cautious or aware (definitely one of the things bad things about Colombia ).

Where to Stay in Laureles

I would try to find somewhere on the northern half of Laureles, ideal for me would be north of the parks and between Nutibara and 70 (outlined roughly in yellow below). That way you are closer to public transportation like the metro and closer to the most interesting parts of the neighborhood.

Airbnb is my favorite way to find an affordable place that offers a bit more of a relaxed and home-like atmosphere if you plan to come for a few weeks or longer. Over the years, we have also hosted many travelers in our awesome apartment via Airbnb.

If you are new to Airbnb, you can sign up and receive a $20 travel credit to use toward your first booking .

There are a number of hostels in the area, which tend to offer better opportunities for socializing and meeting fellow travelers.

While there aren’t a ton of hostels in Laureles proper like you see in Poblado, the best far and away is Backpackers Inn Medellin which is located just a few blocks from the Primer Parque in a great location.

There are more options up in Estadio, which isn’t as ideal of a location but is still pretty good. The best of the bunch is Hostal Cattleya Medellin (my #2 pick for the best in all of Medellin).

For more picks in Estadio or even Floresta, as well as other locations throughout the city, don’t miss out on my article on the best Medellin hostels .

The Wandering Paisa Hostel is well known, particularly for the numerous social events such as free language exchanges and salsa classes.

Click here to reserve your stay on Booking.com.

Hotels in Laureles

If you’re more of a hotel type of person, then you’re in luck because there are plenty of options in Laureles-Estadio for all budgets.

Here are my top picks for Laureles:

#1 Budget Hotel in Laureles: Hotel Pomarosa   #1 Mid-Range Hotel in Laureles: Inntu Hotel  

And for Estadio:

#1 Budget Hotel in Estadio: Obo Hotel   #1 Mid-Range Hotel in Estadio: El Portón de San Joaquin  

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Exploring Laureles Medellin

Laureles is an amazing neighborhood in part because of the incredible variety and selection of where you can eat out. No, it doesn’t have the truly upscale dining (like El Cielo , Carmen’s , etc) that Poblado has, but you will find almost all of the mid to lower upscale chains as well as some real gems exclusive to the neighborhood.

Below you’ll find a comprehensive overview of all of my favorite places in or around Laureles (located within walking distance). Including some places that I still need to go check out…

Consider this an evolving list as I continue to explore the neighborhood. There are a bazillion places to explore with more opening all the time.

PRO TIP: If you haven’t already, be sure to check out Rappi — which is basically like the Colombian version of Uber Eats. I love this service, it’s quick, it’s cheap, and it goes well beyond just food delivery. Definitely check it out! New users can get free deliveries by signing up through my link .

You’ve got the typical Domino’s Pizza that you’re probably already familiar with. But there are some local hits as well. My top choices are Piccolo and Ammazza. The rest are okay, but nothing to write home about.

#1 Piccolo : My absolute favorite pizza in Colombia. If you like thin crust and pepperoni, this one is hard to beat! Andrea’s preferred topping is cabano, which is kind of like a mini-pepperoni. We usually do half pep, half cabano. You can expect to spend around 50,000 for a pizza for two with sodas. It’s not just a good pizza for Medellin, it’s good pizza anywhere in the world.

Ammazza Pizzeria & Gin Garden : A great addition to the neighborhood, with some amazing pizza that even gives Piccolo a run for its money. It specializes in thin-crust artisanal pizzas and fancy cocktails.

Ragazzi : Another favorite of mine and a previous winner of the Medellin Pizza Master competition. They have some truly delicious pizzas that are a must-try.

Papa John’s Pizza: Unlike the U.S., Papa John’s here is a sit-down restaurant that boasts some pretty good pizza for a really cheap price. It’s probably the best cheap pizza in Medellin. You can get a medium pepperoni pizza for around 20.000 pesos.

Pizza Doble Pizza : a decent pizza, the catch is that you have to purchase two pizzas. Hence the word doble in the name… Two personal pizzas works.

Pizza a la Lena : a really thin and crispy wood-fired crust. I like thin crust, but this is like so thin and crispy it breaks as you eat it. Not my style.

Pizzeria Olivia : offering up some of the more artisan and interesting topping combinations. Not exactly my preference, but it is quite popular.

If I’m craving a really good American-style hamburger, my go-to choices are:

#1 Jack & Roll: Killer hamburgers with some interesting variations including avocado burgers, chorizo burgers, pork belly additions, and more. The sauce is based on Jack Daniels is amazing. These are some really, really burgers.

#2 Chef Burger : Probably among the best hamburgers that I’ve had in Colombia. The burgers are made of fresh ground beef, made to order, with delicious buns and lots of great topping options. They’ve even got sliders and the occasional live music. Really lovely atmosphere too.

Firehouse : This place almost gives Chef burger a run for its money with some really great burgers at a decent price. They also specialize in hot wings here.

El Corral : offering up decent fast-food style hamburgers and fries that will feel familiar, albeit at a price that is more expensive than fast food in the States.

La Pampa Burger & Ribs : The Argentinian steakhouse, which is excellent, now has two burger offshoots in the neighborhood with one near each of the parks in Laureles. The burgers are fine, but not the best — and certainly not for the price, at least.

Hot Wings also offers up a pretty good burger combo at a super cheap price for burgers, fries, and soda.

There is also, of course, a McDonald’s halfway down Nutibara, but I haven’t eaten at a McDonald’s since high school, as well as a Burger King located next to the Segundo Parque de Laureles.

Nothing like a big ol’ plate of pasta!

#1 Il Forno :  Probably my favorite Italian in the area with a lovely atmosphere and good food. The second floor with the plant wall and the park view is the best. A great place for a nice date night.

Parmessano : Located near the Second Park of Laureles, you’ll find this popular chain restaurant which is comparable to Il Forno. I like this one a lot too, but Il Forno wins for ambiance.

Caduff Pasta Fresca : This is a really welcome addition to Laureles, offering not only incredible pasta dishes but selling fresh pasta that you can buy to take home and prepare rather than the stuff in a box. Feels a bit like Argentina in that respect!

Della Nonna : One of the places I have yet to go to, but another popular Italian restaurant in Medellin.

Pomo d’oro : An awesome little gem tucked away near 70. Delicious food and a beautiful patio garden dining area. The plates are around $5.

Lots of Mexican food in the area (of the Tex-Mex variety). My top three choices would be Orale, Tacohouse, and Barrita Burrito, each with a slightly different style, but you won’t find much in the way of truly authentic Mexican food.

#1 Orale : A great Tex-Mex choice just a block from 70th. Great flavor and decent portions for about $5.

Guadalupe : This is a place I still need to visit, but it is super popular with multiple locations including Bello and Belen. It is a mix of authentic, Tex-Mex, and inventive Mexican-inspired dishes.

Cuernavaca Taqueria : A pretty authentic taqueria joint specializing in Mexican street tacos among other dishes. You can get a tray of 10 tacos for about $10-12. The tacos al pastor are pretty good.

Tacohouse: An awesome place right on Nutibara avenue which will feel very familiar if you’ve been to Chipotle or Qdoba. Love me an awesome burrito bowl! About $5 for a chicken burrito bowl.

Barrita Burrito : Another build-your-own burrito place in the style of Chipotle, but with a slight Colombian twist on the ingredients (for instance you can add fried plantains to the burrito). Delicious burritos for about $5.

El DF : Okay Mexican food, but it is definitely not my favorite.

Milagros : Located right on the most prominent intersection on Nutibara, it’s a popular place that is more presentation than good food. Not worth it for the price, in my opinion. I’m not a fan, but this place remains very popular with locals.

Laureles has easily become the most coffee-centric neighborhood in all of Medellin. When I first arrived here there were maybe two coffee shops in the neighborhood, now there are a dozen indy coffee shops and a few chain stores, with new ones opening all the time. The coffee culture is just one reason that I love this neighborhood so much. Very bohemian!

#1 Rituales: This small little shop has quickly emerged as one of the best local purveyors of coffee in the city and a popular spot among the local community of baristas. Not only that, but they also serve truly local coffee, from La Sierra, a neighborhood in the western hills of Medellin. The place is tiny, but it’s definitely a gem.

Cafe Cliche : Cafe Cliche is a French cafe that has a great atmosphere, and offers up some tasty food and desserts from wine and cheese to crêpes and hamburgers. I love the interior of the shop, and they serve an okay brew. Regardless, this is probably my favorite in the neighborhood for just hanging out and working on my computer or reading a book. They offer up some cool events as well from movie nights to DJ nights.

AMIgo Compincheria : This place is cool, it’s almost like a pop-up coffee shop in the middle of a bookstore. Not only that, but they serve up some truly great coffee with Chemex, V60, etc. They were serving up the same coffee as Rituales, but my understanding is they plan to rotate beans. They could go for a few more comfy couches, but this big space is worth checking out.

Cafe Revolucion :  A favorite for a good cup of coffee in the neighborhood. This place was an original part of the coffee revolution here in Laureles, truly. The biggest drawback is the tiny size of the space.

Tostao: This chain has literally exploded all over Bogota and Medellin, billing itself as a more economic and accessible version of Starbucks or Juna Valdez which is much more affordable for locals. I think Tostao offers up a pretty decent cup of coffee at a price that is half that of their neighbors. They have great pastries here too. I’d consider them to be the best big chain, to be honest.

Mina Rica: They took over the old spot where De Los Andes used to be and is one I still need to check out.

Delmuri : Another decent little coffee shop near the Primer Parque. If you’re familiar with Pergamino in Poblado, then you’ll feel at home here since the owner and employees have previous ties to Pergamino. They were even serving up the same beans when we visited. They’ve got great pastries, for sure.

Cafe Zeppelin : In Laureles, this coffee shop is pretty great in terms of atmosphere, with so-so coffee. Comfy couches, quirky designs, and a great patio area. If you want to hang out for a while and socialize, come here. There is a distinct lack of power outlets for long work sessions though.

Cafe Vallejo : Another decent choice, with solid coffee in a little coffee shop.

La Taza : A small hole-in-the-wall coffee shop near Second Park. Nice atmosphere and an okay cup of coffee. They have since expanded to offer Greek gyros and Turkish coffee, which isn’t necessarily my vibe when I want a coffee shop experience.

Starbucks: After a huge buildup of Starbucks locations in the Poblado area, Starbucks finally moved beyond and opened a shop on the most prominent corner of Laureles. While the coffee can’t be considered the best, it’s still good and familiar, and they do have an awesome second floor that is perfect for hanging out or working diligently.

Oma : A local chain coffee shop that isn’t my favorite, but I make an occasional stop. Located near the Segundo Parque de Laureles.

De Lolita: Another chain coffee shop located on Cra 76. I highly recommend you get the corazoncitos to accompany your coffee… They are SO good.

Dunkin’ Donuts : Located in the basement of the super Exito on 80th, I occasionally spring for a Dunkacino (iced mocha) and an arequipe (caramel) stuffed donut when I’m passing through. Mmm good.

Juan Valdez : The heavy hitter in the Colombian coffee world, which surprisingly doesn’t have a big presence in Laureles. The best you can find is a little stand in the Viva Laureles shopping mall or in one of the other local malls.

#1 Reposteria Astor : This place is a MUST go. The chocolate cake is absolutely amazing… Incredibly rich but so delicious. Astor is an institution in Medellin (the original is on Junin Street in El Centro , which is also worth a visit) and features a wide variety of sweet treats. The little animal figures are famous but aren’t my favorite. We always go there to split a piece of chocolate cake and have a tinto.

Soft Touch : If you want ice cream, this is the place to go. They’ve got a ton of great sundaes, milkshakes, etc. Prices are around $5 for a sizable cup. Go on your birthday and get 2×1.

Deli : Another place with sweet treats. They have a pretty incredible chocolate cake here that almost gives Astor a run for its money. Definitely worth trying! They’ve got a whole range of desserts here and all of them have impressed me. I like the cinnamon rolls here.

Mimo’s : Soft serve ice cream, for about $1 you can get it dipped in chocolate… delicious! Tuesday’s are 2×1. There is a Mimo’s located in the basement of the super Exito on 80.

Percimon : Ice cream… On my list of places to go.

#1 Saludpan : An amazing restaurant located near 70 that serves up a non-traditional menu of the day at a decent price, with both a vegetarian or meat option for about $4. More options are available from the menu, of course. It also has a small health food store on site. This is probably the best healthy restaurant in all of Medellin.

Mezzaluna : Fresh greens and salads are very hard to come by in Colombia. If you’re looking for a big ol’ salad, this is your place. Not cheap, but not too bad either.

Lenteja Express : Specializing in healthy vegetarian fare, if you are looking for lentil or garbanzo bean hamburgers or falafels and hummus, this is your place. It’s pretty delicious for what it is, but of course, I couldn’t help but wish I was eating a burger from Chef Burger… 🙂

Naturalia Cafe : Located just a block south of Saludpan, they’ve got a vegetarian menu of the day for about $4, and you can add meat protein to that for an extra price. Pretty tasty food for a reasonable price, especially if you want a change of pace from the normal menu of the day. The salmon here is pretty good, considering we are so far from water and the natural habit of salmon. Naturalia also hosts tons of cool events in the evenings.

Vita Integral : An amazing health food store near Cra 77 and Nutibara with all you could need from quinoa, coconut oil, seeds and nuts, cereals, and on and on. The prices are pretty good, really. They also act as a sort of center for the whole healthy living community and frequently have folks offering up samples of new products, selling handmade goods, and so forth.

Cosechas : These chains are everywhere and can also be found all over Laureles. They offer up healthy smoothies for affordable prices. I love the Batidos Verdes (green smoothies), I went through and tried every combination they offer. My favorites are the Enermax, Verde Fit, Plus Balance, and Tropical smoothies. ccccccvcetfrgttinftrnhuldhbnljtcentnjjhhhjv

You can find Cosechas near the football field at UPB, on the north end of Nutibara near Cra 80, in the Viva Laureles mall, or on San Juan near Cra 74… Just to name a few… They are everywhere.

Below are a few of the recommended places to get great traditional Colombian dishes, but don’t miss out on my guide to Colombian food for a better idea of what to eat in Colombia.

#1 Donde Dario : This is a great place for moderately priced, traditional Colombian fare, just over the border in the Belen neighborhood. If you want to try the infamous Bandeja Paisa (a must!), this is a great place to do so. Chicharron, frijoles, cazuelas, it’s all delicious! Just a block south of 33 and Cra 76.

J&C Delicias : The arepa is a staple of life here in Medellin… A thick corn tortilla is most often eaten for breakfast with cheese or butter. I generally use cream cheese on top at home though. But arepas can be topped with almost anything savory, and J&C serves up a wide variety of options.

Mi Bunuelo: Bunuelos are little fried bread balls that have cheese mixed in… Reminiscent of a donut hole. When they are done right they are incredibly delicious! When they are done wrong, they are kinda gross. They must be fresh and not reheated . It can be difficult to find a great bunuelo, but Mi Bunuelo is a reliable source for a pretty good one. You may be able to find better ones at a local panaderia, but it can be a hit or miss search. Mi Bunuelo also serves up cheese sticks, empanadas, and other fried goods like egg arepas, all for very cheap.

Crepes and Waffles : A very popular chain in Colombia, serving up all manner of delicious sweet and savory crepes, and you guessed it, waffles! Not exactly Colombian food, but definitely a Colombian institution, serving up crepes for decades. Try the Thai chicken crepe, I love it. There are so many good options here and prices are very, very cheap even for Colombia — just about $4 for a crepe loaded. This chain also specializes in only hiring single mothers for waitstaff.

Menu of the Day

There are tons of traditional menu-of-the-day restaurants throughout the area which serve up your choice of soup, your choice of meat served usually with rice, avocado, plantains (though specifics vary), and your choice of juice. These places offer the best value without a doubt and they are all over the neighborhood (just ask around). Here are two that I frequent:

Palo Santo : What I have found to be the best menu of the day offering in the neighborhood. They serve up a limited menu but one that changes every day, with more interesting combinations. For instance, the meat usually has some sort of different sauce, salads that change each day, and non-typical side dishes. It comes, of course, with the soup and juice, but also includes a little dessert.

Restaurante Blasu: Affordable and delicious menu of the day eating, located near the corner of Nutibara and 79. You get your choice of soup, your choice of meat (chicken, pork, beef) on your “seco” (dry) plate which comes with rice, plantains, and salad usually, as well as your choice of juice.

So there are about a million Peruvian restaurants in the area now, with new ones continuing to open. I haven’t been to too many of them at this point, but Peruvian food is some of my absolute favorite!

Kusi: This is a pretty authentic Peruvian place with a spot on Pollo Saltado and a decent Papas a la Huancaina. It isn’t 100% like Peru but pretty close. You can even find Inca Kola here too.

Puerto Inka: One I need to visit still. Right on the Second Park of Laureles.

There aren’t a ton of places that serve authentic Asian cuisine, and while there are a number of sushi houses in the neighborhood, I haven’t explored too many of them at this point. Part of the reason is that I’m from Seattle and used to really, really good Asian cuisine from virtually any country.

District 1: Authentic Vietnamese restaurant that I still have yet to try.

Oppa Asado: Korean BBQ joint located near the First Park — still on my list to try, although I’m personally not a big fan of Korean BBQ.

Bracos: A gourmet pita place that has been getting rave reviews just over the border in Belen, this place is high on my list of places to try.

La Pampa : An Argentinean restaurant serving up amazing cuts of meat. If you want a great steak, you will not be disappointed here. It is one of the very best restaurants in the neighborhood, in my opinion. Though it isn’t cheap, about 36,000 for the steak, with sides and a salad bar.

La Migueria : This is a French bakery, not really a restaurant per se, but it is without a doubt the best bakery in the entire city… They’ve got great empanadas, fresh bread, and amazing desserts. I haven’t tried everything here yet, but everything I’ve tried, I’ve LOVED.

Delirio: A fancy restaurant on the most prominent corner of Laureles. It is a sort of Asian and Mexican fusion mix. I really wanted to like this place, but it was underwhelming for the price. Not only that, but Andrea and I both got sick after eating here. I’d avoid it!

Fenicia : a delicious Lebanese restaurant that serves up all the typical stuff: falafel, kibbe, hummus, etc. Really good! Now located in a modern new building as well.

Full Arabe : Another great Lebanese restaurant, but more of a hole in the wall. They’ve got all the typical stuff, including shawarma wraps. The Full Arabe platter is perfect for two and has a bit of everything. Delicious!

Konico Cono Express: An interesting idea… They serve up a variety of savory treats inside a cone (either crunchy like a taco shell or soft like pizza dough) with things like fajita, Thai chicken, greek, etc. Quite delicious, but a little challenging to eat (it’s like a meat ice cream cone).

Pecositas: Serves up a wide variety of small snacks and traditional Colombian fare. The Cazuela de Pollo was delicious. The menu of the day (lunch hour) is the best deal, which costs around 15,000 pesos or nearly twice as much as a normal menu of the day. But the quality is excellent. Prices for a single dish outside of lunch hour are 20k+ pesos and a bit expensive for what you get.

Submarino Express:  Submarino Express specializes in seafood with things like shrimp hotdogs, lobster hotdogs, crab burgers, and so forth. I had the fried shrimp hotdog, which was delicious. They’ve got a number of special sauces too, like mayonnaise maracuya.

La Brasa Roja : An okay restaurant that serves up some traditional Colombian fast-food fare. Nothing out of this world… And not particularly cheap.

Choripanes Caminito: I love choripan in Argentina, but this is a place I have yet to visit in Medellin… Definitely on my list to try.

Frisby : A fast-food chicken place. I go there once in a while for the Frisnacks, an incredibly portable combo that has the soda topped with a little divided bowl for the chicken tenders and french fries (the straw pops up through the middle). The Frisnack costs around 10,000 pesos.

Ego’s Fast Food Gourmet: Specializing in cuts of meat and fast food like hamburgers and hot dogs, but of better quality, than you’d find on the street. Prices are surprisingly cheap for all that you get.

The majority of my exercise consists of running through the streets. My favorite place to go running is doing laps around UPB (the university). It provides a loop of approximately 1.8 kilometers (1.1 miles) where you don’t have to deal with dodging traffic, crossing streets, and other things that slow you down.

You may have to dodge students and people walking around on occasion, but I prefer that versus fighting my way across busy intersections.

Or I will head up to Estadio and run around the entire complex. There is a 400m track down in Unidad Deportivo Belen which is quite nice and tree-lined. Or you can head to Parques del Rio for a pretty nice running area. All three of these options are close.

Check out Strava.com for an idea of the most popular routes among all users of their app. It’s pretty cool!

I joined a small neighborhood gym called Magnum Gym , located on Circular 75 around the corner from the First Park. This is NOT a fancy gym at all, but it’s got a decent selection of run-down cardio machines and a large selection of weights and weight machines. It’s primarily a bodybuilding gym, but the atmosphere is friendly enough.

If you’re looking for a fancier gym, check out SmartFit or BodyTech located at the extremes of Laureles.

There are a handful of other options for gyms and exercise throughout Laureles.

Centro de MVMT : A cross between salsa, CrossFit, and group exercise classes, I believe.

Flying Tree Yoga : A popular, albeit expensive, yoga studio down by UPB.

Our shopping style is generally as follows: purchase most of the staples from D1 (discount store), fruits and veggies from the Plaza de la America market or occasionally from the mobile carts, and then whatever else leftover that we need from the Super Exito or Euro. Sometimes I hit Carulla when I’m looking for something hard to find (they have more imported stuff).

Laureles has a handful of great supermarkets to choose from and all within easy walking distance:

D1 (De Uno) : They are located all throughout Laureles and are a chain of discount grocery stores. They have a limited selection of everything (don’t expect to find 20 different boxes of cereal or even 3 different boxes). They offer what they offer, but it’s all much more affordable than Exito. Though they don’t have vegetables and not many fruits. We shop here for all the staples first and buy fresh produce from the market (La Plaza de La America).

Exito: The biggest and most popular of the chains. This super Exito along 80 is more akin to a Wal-Mart which also sells clothes, household goods, electronics, food, etc. It is located alongside the Viva Laureles shopping mall which offers up a decent amount of stores and restaurants. I also often head here to use the ATMs and withdraw cash.

Exito #2: There is another grocery store only Exito located just north of San Juan near Plaza La America (a traditional Colombian market offering up all manner of goods including foodstuffs, plants, and beyond).

Exito #3 : Located on the corner of 70th and San Juan.

Carulla: located along Nutibara, Carulla, in general, is thought of as more upscale and pricier. A modestly sized market that offers up a wider selection of imported goods, perhaps.

Euro : Just down Nutibara is another big supermarket. Similar products to Exito, though perhaps slightly cheaper prices.

Consumo : Yet another big supermarket, this one near the intersection of San Juan and Nutibara or another near 33 and Cra 76.

La Plaza de La America: located just a few blocks north of San Juan and Nutibara, this traditional Colombian market is a great place to pick up exotic Colombian fruits and produce. You can find all the food items you need here (not just fresh produce), and prices beat the local tiendas and supermarkets. They carry much more than just food as well.

Tiendas: Nearly every other block has a local tienda that offers up everything from arepas, eggs, snack food, drinks, and basic fruits and veggies. Prices in many tend to be comparable with Exito (so not super cheap).

Fruit Carts: these mobile fruit carts make the rounds throughout the day announcing what they have. In general, you can find avocados, pineapples, bananas, and mangos at a minimum. Prices are the cheapest of all, but you should either know the normal prices or understand when he announces the prices over the loudspeaker, in order to ensure you aren’t overpaying.

I’ve never used a coworking space, but they have been gaining popularity among location-independent laptop warriors like myself. There are a few that come to mind in the area:

Semilla Coworking : They have a true coworking space upstairs and a more informal coffee shop-type workspace on the first floor. Probably the nicest and most inviting coworking space, located right in front of the First Park of Laureles.

Ivy Laureles : Located near the Primer Parque and also a wellness center with massages and such.

Kamado Coworking : Located furthest to the north

In Laureles proper, there aren’t too many big nightlife spots, although there are tons of little places throughout the neighborhood for sure. The real concentration of nightlife is along 70 or 33 and there are tons and tons of choices, thankfully all within easy walking distance.

Due to the proximity of both major nightlife destinations, there are probably more options in terms of sheer numbers near Laureles than there are in Poblado.

I’ll mention a few places that either stand out to me or those that we frequent, but if you’re just searching for something cool, walk along 70 between the Estadio station and the UPB campus, or walk along 33 between UPB and 80. You’ll find something up your alley undoubtedly.

Son Havana :  One of the best salsa bars in the city, located one block north of San Juan on Cra 73. It’s a little out of the way, but this place has a great vibe if you enjoy salsa and dancing.

El Tibiri on 70 is another one of the top salsa bars in the city and is also located within walking distance.

Pub Rock 33 :  There is definitely a lack of rock ‘n roll along 70 and 33 (in all of Medellin, really), but there are a few good rock bars on 33. Pub Rock is one that we frequent which usually has a good crowd on the weekends with a few different rooms and frequently features live music. The service isn’t the greatest though and the music can frequently stray into pop rock or 80s. Located on 33 between Cra 78 and 80.

Underground : A pretty great alternative to Pub Rock, and located nearby. They’ve got live shows on the weekends with music that ranges from the 80s to 90s typically. The prices are cheap and the service is pretty good. Fewer crowds than Pub Rock and slightly better music.

Punto 70 Rock ‘n Roll:  Literally the last bar on La 70 right across the street from the UPB campus. This is a much more chill bar, with a small space, and sparse crowds (even on the weekends). They’ve got pretty good music, fast service, cold beers, and cheap prices. This is kind of a go-to if it’s just to hang out and talk over a couple of beers.

Public House: One of the few options right in the heart of Laureles, but haven’t been yet.

Bogota Beer Company: A good choice for a craft beer in the neighborhood.

So there you have it! My ultimate guide to Laureles, Medellin… As mentioned above this is a living document that will be added to and revised as time goes on.

There’s still a lot to explore and much still missing from this article, I know. But if you have some favorite places, please be sure to sound off in the comments below.

Traveling to Medellin soon?

Book your lodging on Booking.com now to save, or if you plan to stay longer, I highly recommend looking for a place on Airbnb . And don’t forget to purchase travel insurance for Colombia that will help protect you against illness, injury, and theft. I recommend World Nomads or SafetyWing which are both made for backpackers or digital nomads, and provide great coverage at an affordable price.

Read Next: Guide to Traveling to Colombia

Colombia Travel Tips

Important tips and resources for planning an amazing trip to Colombia, based on my years of traveling and living in Colombia.

Colombia Trip Planning

• Lonely Planet Colombia
• Momondo Flight Search
• ViaHero Itinerary Planning
• Booking.com
• SafetyWing Travel Insurance
• Get Your Guide Tours

Instructions

• Book a cheap fligh t to Colombia with Momondo , or better yet, start travel hacking so you can fly for free. Traveling between major cities is much better by flying, trust me.
• Plan a rough itinerary and how long you will spend at each destination. Use an itinerary planning service for custom recommendations and pick up Lonely Planet Colombia .
• Work a little every day to teach yourself Spanish , you'll want to know as much as possible before you arrive.
• Book cheap accommodation in advance, at least for the first destinations -- For hostels use: Booking , for cheap hotels use: Hotels.com , for apartments use: Airbnb .
• Reserve your on the ground tours and activities through Get Your Guide .
• Purchase travel insurance for Colombia with SafetyWing to protect yourself from illness, injury, and theft while in Colombia. VERY important. And be sure to read my article: " Is Colombia Safe? " for my honest opinion and safety tips.
• Sign up for my free emails about planning a better trip to Colombia, and be sure to check out my comprehensive guide about traveling to Colombia .
• Learn more money-saving tricks with my top budget travel tips .
• Put together your Colombia packing list .
• Enjoy this incredible country!

I hope this helped you plan your travels in Colombia! I know it can be a struggle to find accurate and on the ground information when traveling to a new place like Colombia, which is why I started writing so extensively about it!

If you have any questions about Colombia, budget travel, or anything else shoot me an email at [email protected].

(I love getting questions! That is how I get ideas for my blog posts and what to write about!)

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Comments 74

Wonderful & super helpful post. I’ll be moving to Medellin in December & will be using your travel tips and guide- thanks, Ryan!

Great info! Any recommendations on the best high schools near Laureles? Preferably non-religious schools. Thanks!

No, no idea. The only one I’m aware of is UPB, but that’s obviously religious.

Hi Ryan, We did indeed settle here in Laureles. We did a blog post about our first 90 days and added a link to your site with all this wonderful Laureles information.

Cheers, John and Susan

Thank you so much for this guide! I am going to be staying in the Laureles-Estadio area for a month working digitally and this guide is so helpful. I’m arriving in Medellin this weekend and now I’ve already got an idea of places to shop, eat, and work out even. Thank you for such a helpful guide!

So Laureles is said to be more “Colombian” than Poblado. Yet all you list is Pizza, Burgers and Mexican restaurants?

Pretty sure I listed a lot more than that.

To be fair Pizza, Burgers and Mexican restaurants are pretty popular amongst the Colombians!

Throwing a good Panderia in or 2 would be helpful though.

The most popular restaurants, for sure… After Crepes & Waffles! La Migueria is the best panaderia in the area — it’s on the list! Santa Leña right on Nutibara is pretty good too.

Have you tried La Migueria on cl 35 and Cra 77? It’s an amazing French bakery. It’s my favorite in Laureles

I have not… Looks great though — going to check it out soon!

Awesome post, thanks for putting it together. I lived in Poblado 10 years ago and it was awesome, but it’s pretty chain store/mall generic now, so now that I’m back I’m living in Laureles. Way better over here. Many of those restaurants I haven’t tried yet, but I will! Bookmarked.

great piece. any info on apartment rental 1-3 months would be appreciated

Airbnb would be your best bet.

Ryan, thanks for this great post. Just out of curiosity, are there any hidden gems in Belen? I’m going to Laureles for 2 weeks at the end of August. I’ve been there a couple of times and wanted to venture into Belen this time. Thanks for all your help

Awesome post with so much info! Could you recommend any nice condo buildings that cost between 1.5 to 2.5 per month? Any that are walking distance to unicentro? And do you know any agents that offer month to month to gringos?

Thanks if you have any answers and even if you don’t thanks for the great info here.

Can’t say that I know about specific buildings, but I could probably put you in touch with someone if you are interested, depending on how long you are looking to rent for and whether furnished or unfurnished. Shoot me an email to discuss.

Thanks Ryan! We just moved down for a 2-3 month stay to learn Spanish and are living in Sabaneta for the first month. Any recommendations here? We’ll more than likely head to Envigado or Laureles for our second month (this quiet town is now booming with construction!).

I don’t have much in the way of specific recs in Sabaneta, just because I rarely get beyond Barrio Primavera or Mayorca. But Envigado I’ve explored much more, so let me know. La Magnolia and Jardines are my favorite neighborhoods in Envigado.

Awesome! We are going back to Medellin for our second trip and I feel like we have a handle on Poblado y Envigado but we really wanted to spend a few hours hanging out in Laureles to check out the ‘hood, this is perfect! Thank you! It really helps to have the barrios broken down since it’s such a huge place, thank you!

Really great, informative post! Thanks so much! I’ve been living in Poblado for the last three months, and recently moved to Laureles. Had no idea what to expect, and this guide has been more than valuable to me! Cheers!

Im planning a trip to Medellin for the months of july and august. I would really like to find a sublet or short term rental property in the neighborhood, but i am having trouble doing so. would you have any suggestions? thanks.

Best bet is to check out Airbnb, the Facebook group for Medellin apartment rentals, or contact one of the foreigner focused real estate firms like Life Afar. Good luck!

I just arrived in Medellin and this time I selected Laureles as my hood. Thanks for a very informative post!

I will be in the neighborhood (Circular 4) next week to stay for a month long visit, and I am so appreciative of this guide you have bestowed on us here. I have an appointment with a Dermatologist already, but I was curious if you had a resource for other services near the Laureles area where I could find a good Dentist and Optometrist?

….and I wonder if they have “Open Mic Nights” in the area? Thanks so much!

Hey James — I’m not really aware of too many open mic nights, since it’s not something on my radar, but I believe I’ve seen an open mic night or two at Naturalia Cafe, which is included in this article. Check out their FB events, perhaps.

I’m not really well versed in the medical tourism. I went to a little place in Belen for my dental work, which was fine. Shoot me an email if you’d like that info. Optometrist I’ve never done in Colombia.

Your hard work and thoroughness in putting this guide together are excellent! We are considering Medellin for our next chapter of adventure!

John and Susan

Thanks! Hope it proves helpful to you as you land in Medellin.

excellent write up, this great city has so much to offer, unfortunately, that is why so many people are going there, let’s hope that too many tourists don’t cause negative implications down the road

It probably will — hopefully Laureles doesn’t turn into another Poblado…

Hi. I just read your blog. I will be in Medellin for all of November of this year. I had planned on studying Spanish at UPB. Given your advice to do 1:1 with a private teacher, I would appreciate a recommendation. In case it matters, i am older (67), and speak barely fair Spanish. Gracias.

Sent you an email!

Hey Ryan, I am in a similar boat, plan on going to Medellin and wanted to know if you had any recommendations for good homestays and 1v1 private tutoring as a beginner spanish speaker. I have a pretty good handle on the basics and have some concerns that if I were to do group tutoring that the pace may be too slow.

I can’t really weigh in on home stays, but check out my article about learning Spanish in Medellin for the run-down, including who I used for 1:1 lessons.

Hi Ryan, Thanks so much for the great info! Would you recommend UPB for Spanish language classes for foreigners? Or have you heard of better language programs within the city? Thanks! Charlie

Hey Charlie,

Spanish classes at UPB would be excellent, particularly if you’re looking to get a student visa. But personally I would always recommend taking 1:1 classes with a private teacher if you’re looking for the best bang for your buck. Group classes at a local university, especially a private university like UPB, will be expensive and you won’t get anywhere near the amount of practice that you would with a 1:1. I’ve studied many languages over the years, in both formal class settings, self taught, and 1:1, so that’s my perspective anyway. If you need the name of a good teacher, shoot me an email.

First off thank you so much for this incredible guide to Laurales. I’ve now got a ton of places to check out since I’m moving there next week. Really appreciate it! I also noticed that someone was asking about private Spanish lessons – id love to connect with someone if you have a reference? Thanks so much again for your awesome blog! ??

Hey Graham, I just sent you an email, keep an eye out for it!

Great article, im looking to move to Medellin with my 12 year old son next year and struggling to find any info on football clubs for him to join. If you could provide any info on this would be most helpful,

Wow! This a fantastic resource for anyone thinking of living in the Laureles area or staying for an extended period of time. I just got back after 3 weeks in Medellin (stayed with friends in Laureles). I got to see a lot of the city and I really can’t imagine living anywhere but Laureles. It reminds me of the quieter part of NYC, but there’s still plenty to do. It just felt like ‘home’ to me. Not too busy, but not boring by any stretch. I’m planning on making a permanent move next year and I’m sure I’ll be referring to this guide quite a bit. Thanks for putting it together.

Thanks Alan, I think you’ve captured it well, it gives me a similar sort of vibe as a more residential area of NYC. Love Laureles, and I can’t imagine settling down anywhere else when I return to Medellin.

Amazing work you have done here. We are super exited to spend time in Laureles very soon.

Diana & Stefano

Thanks for checking out the article! Hope you enjoy Laureles. Be sure to check back in with a few of your favorite places…

Nicely put together. Informative. I am sitting in my Laureles hotel ready to wander. Thank you Ryan!

Awesome, Jerry! Hope you enjoy the neighborhood…

Thanks for the running tip around UPB.

You’re welcome!

What a great guide to the neighborhood – I’ll definitely be sharing this with our guests! We’d love to have you come join us for a class at Flying Tree some time 🙂

Once dubbed “The Most Dangerous City in the World” by Time magazine due to the drug-fueled violence of Pablo Escobar, in the last 20 years Medellín has undergone a transformation. In addition to big improvements in public safety, there’s been a huge surge in urban development projects, including Colombia’s first metro system and cable cars to service poorer neighborhoods located high on the mountainsides, as well as new parks and libraries.

Hey! Thanks for this- I’ll definitely be sharing. Do you have tips for where to meet people other than at hostels? I’m planning on coming down for an extended time and normally I’d go to a neighborhood bar or something.. or perhaps a coworking spot but there seem to be too many options! I’m also a woman, so am a bit wary of the night scene being alone and all. I’m a pretty fluent Spanish speaker and have lived in a lot of places in Latin America, so very much looking forward to Medellin!

Hey Christina, I find a good way to meet people (locals alike) is to engage in some sort of hobby like sports, dancing, hiking, other activities, or taking classes about things you might want to learn about whether it’s cooking classes, music lessons, etc. Since you’re a fluent spanish speaker, you’ll have an advantage in access to the myriad of local activities (and much cheaper prices). Hope you enjoy the city!

Thanks so much for this guide—I lucked out on airbnb and ended up staying exactly in the subsection you recommended…you really went above and beyond with this!

Thanks for sharing. Great article. I LOVE Laureles! And I agree it is the best of Medellin neighborhoods.

Hi Ryan! Great article, thanks. We are coming to the end of 7 months of cycling across South America and are ready to stay in one place for a while and considering Medellin! We may have an opportunity to do some volunteer/homestay in the Conquistadors area around calle 39. Do you know this area, and is the walk between here and Laureles generally safe (and cyclable!?) or is it a bit far removed from the action? Sorry for the really specific question! Thanks

I’ve stayed in Los Conquistadores for a little bit. I would say it’s about the same as Laureles in terms of general safety. It is a bit closer to El Centro though, which is rough, but it’s an upscale neighborhood for sure. Laureles is certainly walkable, but it’s located on the opposite side of the UPB campus. In terms of cycling, I think there are a few major bike lanes on that side, namely 65th and Bolivariana, I think, though they don’t lead directly to Laureles. Medellin is definitely a great place to settle down for a while. Sounds like you could use a rest! 🙂

Love the article. I have stayed there many times. I like it because it is flat. It gets a little hotter than Envigado , Poblado, et, al because it is in the valley floor. Belen is nice too.

Thanks Esteban. Which part of Belen do you like? It’s such a massive area. I’ve stayed in Belen Fatima and frequently visit Almendras, but I still much prefer Laureles to Belen. The biggest problem with Belen is how far removed it is from public transport.

Belén isn’t far removed from public transport. The Metroplús lines 1 and 2 go to Belén with many stations in Belén including Nutibara, Fatima (walking distance to Unicentro mall), Rosales, Parque Belén and Los Alpes (walking distance to Los Molinos mall). The Metroplús lines 1 and 2 also connect to Metro line A at Industriales station.

Well, I suppose nowhere in Medellin is far removed from public transport, only that I find Belen to be not as convenient as other neighborhoods like Laureles. I’ve lived in Fatima and frequently make the trek down to Parque Belen or La Mota to visit the girlfriend’s family. I didn’t mean to make people think that public transport doesn’t exist, just that it’s relatively poor and that much of it is physically cut off from the city due to a massive landing strip.

HI. This is great. We live here and have found most of this stuff already. Recently Cafe Ondas (coworking) is now a hostel too. Maybe you would like to update that. Thanks for putting this wonderful resource together.

Thanks Sierra, yeah I’m aware it is a hostel too, but I’d still recommend staying at the places mentioned rather than at Ondas.

Great article. I also live in Laureles and agree its by far the best place to live in Medellin.

Thanks! Glad to hear you agree…

Now, Medellín is becoming one of the “it” cities in the world, with tons of tourists visiting and foreigners settling and retiring here.

Medellín is one of the few cities I’ve fallen in love with at first sight. Beautiful mountains, warm weather, friendly locals, and a vibrant culture are just a few of the reasons I’ve spent more than two years living in Medellín. And I’m here to show everyone that there are more than enough things to do to keep any visitor busy.

Plus, travel in Colombia continues to be an excellent bargain compared to other countries in South America. While it’s not as cheap as Ecuador or Bolivia, your money will go a lot further than it does in Brazil, Argentina, Chile, or Uruguay.

Couldn’t agree more, Maria! While it wasn’t love at first sight for me, I did find myself quickly falling for the city. Obviously, since I never, ever planned to stay in Medellin, and then I just never left, haha.

Hola Ryan! Any tips on Sushi?? I saw an old post on living Medellin but it was 6 years old. I’m hoping “sushi nights” still exist!

I don’t, only because I’m always a bit leery of sushi so far inland. But there are a handful of places here in Laureles, at least three or four. You’ll have to check back in if you find one you really recommend.

Will do! I get your hesitation…. so if I end up sick I will report back.

SIDE NOTE! I just came back from Blueberry and OMG… the gelato was to die for. They let me try 5+ kinds and were so nice! I opted for pistachio and bluberrycheesecake. Came to 7000, but it had me totally feeling like I was in Florence it was soooo creamy and delicious. I much preferred Blueberry to Percimon, which was just meh for Froyo IMO.

🙂 Astor is on my list, I have a thing for sweet treats. Thank god walking is a thing here.

Wonderful guide. Much to do in Laureles. !! We wait again in Algarabia with a delicious Mocca !! Bye.

Wow, this is a really great detailed guide to the barrio. I am saving this page for my upcoming trip to Colombia so don’t delete it. 🙂

It does sound like it is a good neighborhood. Are there any decent hostels in the barrio?

Do you have a backup neighborhood in addition to Laureles?

Thanks Mark! I stayed at the Buddha Hostel back in the day when I first arrived in Laureles and quite enjoyed the vibe there. Airbnb would be a good option if you’re looking for something more than a hostel. As for backup neighborhoods, I spent a lot of time around Estadio back in the day as well, and there are many more hostels up that way. It’s still located in walking distance to Laureles as well. In Estadio I’ve stayed at the Paisa City Hostel and the Palm Tree Hostel (both good). I’ve heard good things about the Wandering Paisa hostel as well.

Awesome, that’s a great variety of recommendations. I will consider AirBnB for longer term stays when I find an area I want. It will take some exploring because of certain needs. But you have given me several great starting points here though.

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Complete Guide to Laureles, Medellin with Insider Tips!

We spent two months working online while living in Laureles, Medellin. To us, Laureles is the best place to stay in Medellin! It is full of tree-lined walkable streets, great cafes, bars and restaurants.

It is also a very safe part of the city that has everything a digital nomad or slow traveler could need. So let’s dive in and find out everything you need to know about Laureles Medellin! ✨

Why should you stay in Laureles Medellin?

We stayed in Medellin for 2 months and Laureles was our favorite area in terms of living and everyday life. It is a very walkable area full of green leafy streets and great cafes, bars, and restaurants.

There is also an amazing free workout park in Belen just south of Laureles. So if you like being outdoors and walking around I think it is the perfect area!

Read also: 29 Proven Ways to Travel Cheap 💰

Laureles vs El Poblado vs Envigado

The most popular place for expats to live in Medellin is El Poblado. El Poblado is full of great restaurants and is home to the city’s most wealthy people.

But what I didn’t like about El Pobaldo is that it is very hilly and full of busy roads. While it is a nice part of Medellin we missed the local feel. Plus it is much more expensive than Laureles!

Another area of the city that many expats choose to stay in is Envigado. It is a very nice part of the city and feels a lot more “Colombian” than Laureles. Many families choose to live there but to us, we felt better connected in Laureles.

Benefits of Laureles : 👟 Walkable 🌳 Very green 💛 Safe & quiet 💰 Cheap! ☕️ Great cafes 🍽️ Yummy Restaurants 🏋️‍♀️ Best Free Outdoor Gym

Laureles Medellin Map (It’s bigger than you think!)

Laureles covers a huge area in Medellin as you can see in the red area on the map below. But I think if you are thinking of staying here many areas are much more desirable than others.

Certain areas of Laureles have much more restaurants and cafes than others. Also, you can have much fewer green leafy streets in some parts. So it is good to choose wisely where to stay in Laureles.

The marked square on the map contains most of the best cafes, bars, and restaurants in Laureles. If you stay in the southern part you are also closer to Belen which is another nice area with an amazing free workout park.

If you are north of the square you will probably find cheaper rent . But there are fewer nice restaurants, bars, cafes and parks up there. So I don’t recommend staying there.

To the west of the square, there are some very nice areas so it is also a good place to stay. But you are just a little bit further away from the city center and the hip places to eat and hang out.

Read also: 12 Best Cafes in Laureles Medellin ☕️

Laureles Medellin Accommodation

There are tons of affordable and great places to stay in Laureles Medellin – for singles, backpackers, couples and digital nomads!

Airbnb Laureles

Medellin is full of Airbnbs. You will see new condos being built that say they are purpose-built to be rented out as Airbnb’s. So there is no shortage of apartments in Laureles.

Costs: We were able to find a small studio for 300 USD a month. But most basic apartments will start at about 500 USD per month. If you want a nice apartment you will have to pay 700 USD per month or higher.

🏠 If you are looking for a cheap mini apartment greatly located in Laureles then we can recommend our Airbnb host here . Jonathon is super nice and has 3 listings. We loved the neighborhood, tons of great cafes nearby!

Co-Living Laureles

Because Medellin is so popular with digital nomads a few co-living hotels have started to open. Staying at one of these can be a great way to meet other digital nomads.

One particular advantage is that you will have dedicated workspaces outside of your room. I find it better to have a space to work that isn’t inside your room so you can have a change of scenery.

Hotel Casa Santa Fe is a co-working hotel with a great location in Laureles and very good reviews. The most basic rooms start at just over 700 USD (for singles/couples) if you book on their website.

All the rooms are super clean and comfortable. There is a rooftop area with a barbeque and dedicated co-work with 120 MB of internet.

👉 Book Hotel Casa Santa here 👈

Hostels Laureles

If you are only coming to Medellin for a few days or a couple of weeks then a hostel may be a good idea. Oasis Hostel has very good reviews and capsule-style beds that look like a great place to stay.

Book Oasis Hostel here or search for more hostels here 👇

Hotels Laureles

If you are looking for a reasonably priced hotel then Hotel Brana is a great option. They have rooms starting from 45 USD with a good breakfast included.

Book Hotel Brana here or search for more hotels here 👇

House Sitting Medellin

A great way of living in Laureles like a local is to look after someone’s house and pets while the owner is on holiday. We have done tons of housesits around the world and can highly recommend joining TrustedHouseSitters .

Sign up to TrustedHouseSitters via this link for free + use code HAPPYHEALTHYNOMADS at checkout for a 25% discount on your membership! 🐶 Read about our experiences here .

Read also: How to Stay for Free in Colombia 🏠

Co-Working Laureles Medellin

Working online is super common in Medellin. But it is not just foreigners who visit as digital nomads . In Laureles, most cafes, co-works, or even shopping malls are full of locals working online.

So if you decide to come to Laureles and work online you will have no shortage of great places to choose to work from.

Our Airbnb and every cafe that we worked at had great internet as well. So you should not have trouble at all with wifi speed.

The most well-known co-work in Laureles is Semilla It is always packed full of people and is a great place to work. The downstairs of Semilla has a cafe and upstairs you can hire a private workspace.

Tip: If you have travel insurance with SafteyWing you get discounts at Semilla. Read why we choose SafetyWing here .

What to do in Laureles Medellin?

While Laureles is one of the best areas in Medellin to live like a local and enjoy daily life you will also have no shortage of cool things to do!

1. Go to a Football Match

If you are a football fan then Laureles is an awesome place to stay. No matter where you are in Laureles the soccer stadium is within a 30-minute walk.

You will usually know when a game is on because you will see a lot of people with the local team’s jersey on heading to the stadium.

The easiest way to buy a ticket for a Nacional game is at the stadium at the merchandise shop. Two teams play at the stadium but Nacional (the green team) is the most famous.

Tip: If you do not want to go to the game by yourself you can join a Medellin Soccer tour including a team jersey, a drink, and an English-speaking guide ⚽️

2. Enjoy amazing Colombian Coffee

Colombia is known around the world for great coffee and Laureles has one of the best cafe scenes in Medellin. We became coffee snobs!

Surprisingly it was only very recently that you could find great coffee in Colombia itself. Up until around 2009 all of the good coffee was exported overseas because it could be sold for a higher price.

But luckily in recent years, the local artisanal coffee scene has exploded in Colombia. So there are now lots of cafes in Medellin that specialize in making coffee from locally produced beans.

Read also: ☕️ 12 Best Cafes in Laureles 👩‍🌾 Medellin’s Best Coffee Tour 🫘 Book a Coffee Farm Tour here

3. Visit Parques del Rio Laureles Medellin

Medellin is an amazing city but there are not many parks within the city. But if want to escape from the concrete jungle you can head to Parques del Rio in Laureles.

Parques del Rio is located on either side of the river on the edge of Laureles. It is quite a new park and the city has made great use of the area.

It is a great place to go for a walk or run or relax with a picnic on the grass. There are also some nice cafes and restaurants.

Tip: If you are in Medellin in December check out the gigantic Christmas statues an lights there! 🎅

4. Join a Laureles Medellin Food Tour

One of the best things that we did in Medellin was to go on a free walking tour and the Barrio Transformation Tour with Real City Tours . They have superb guides and it is a great way to get to know the city.

Real City Tours also offers a Laureles food tour for 100,000 pesos (20 USD) where you will sample 10 Colombian foods and snacks. You will also learn about the history and culture behind it.

On the tour, you will also get to visit Cielo Tostado which is one of our favorite cafes in Laureles! In case you make it to Jerico, Antioquia – you can visit their coffee farm there.

5. Dive into Laureles Nightlife

Laureles is a well-known area in Medellin for nightlife. The main street with all the bars and clubs is Carrera 70 known as La 70. Nearly every night of the week you will find locals hanging out at the bars and restaurants along this street.

To be honest La 70 was not my kind of scene. The music was crazy loud and the bars and restaurants are quite tacky . But if you want to party this is the place to go in Laureles!

Read also: 25 Free Things to do in Medellin ✌️

Laureles Gyms

There are plenty of options to get a (free) workout in Laureles Medellin!

Free Workout Park Belen

The best place to work out in Medellin is the free workout park in Belen . It is only a 10-minute walk from the south of Laureles.

The park has tonnes of free workout machines that allow you to do everything you would in a normal gym. Usually, free machines in parks are for old people and the resistance cannot be increased much.

But the machines at this park are super well designed and will be more than enough resistance for most people.

There is also a running track next to the workout area in case you want to do cardio. The park is also full of basketball courts and soccer fields. So there is something for everyone!

Read also: Best Free Workout Parks in Medellin 🏋️‍♀️

Best Laureles Indoor Gyms

If you feel like going to an indoor gym then there are also many options in Laureles.

• Magnum Gym isn’t pretentious and caters more to lifting weights than cardio
• Smart Fit has multiple locations all over Medellin. There is one located in the Uni-Centro Mall and memberships start at 69,000 pesos (17 USD) per month

Read also: How to stay fit while traveling 💪

Laureles Restaurants

Laureles is one of the best areas in Medellin to find great restaurants of any cuisine and preferences.

• Salud Pan makes healthy meals with natural ingredients. Try the menu del dia for 30,000 pesos (7 USD) including soup, drink, main dish and little dessert!
• Roll Up Sushi Burrito is great for a casual meal with an Asian twist
• INA Restaurant serves fantastic vegan food surrounded by plants
• Zacatecas Bolivariana is a popular Mexican restaurant with authentic food

Food Shopping in Laureles (An experience!)

Laureles is a great place to get your groceries. If you are looking for shops and other things you can head to Unicentro Shopping Mall which also has a cinema.

Local Tiendas (Support locals)

If you want to grab a few fruits and vegetables then look for a small corner store. They are scattered all throughout Laureles and Colombia.

I like to buy as much as I can from tiendas because it helps to support the community. Plus in Colombia, the corner stores can have great produce and are usually cheaper than the supermarkets!

I got to know the owner of the local corner store where we stayed. He told me they buy their produce directly from the farmers . This means the farmers get a better price and so do you. If the farmers sell to the supermarkets they get a much lower price. So it is a positive in all regards.

Read also: How to eat healthy and cheap while traveling 🥑

Plaza de Mercado la America (Try fruits you don’t know)

If you want to visit a larger local market then you should head to Plaza Mercado la America . It has all the fresh produce you could want plus local meats and fish.

The prices at the market are also generally cheaper than at supermarkets. Plus there are some food stalls where you can grab a cheap authentic Colombian meal like Bandeja Paisa or Mondongo.

Colombia also has a wide range of fruits – some that you probably haven’t seen before ! When we first arrived we went to Plaza de Mercado la America and bought every fruit we didn’t know and had a taste test at home. It was good fun!

Health Food Stores (Everything you can dream of)

We are always looking to eat healthy while on the road . Luckily there are plenty of great health food stores in Laureles Medellin. Our favorites are:

• Vita Integral has a large selection of products such as tempeh, tofu, pasture-raised eggs, kombucha, kefir and so much more!
• Nutri-Light located right next to the Unicentro shopping mall

Supermarkets (Plenty of big ones)

There are plenty of supermarket chains and department stores in Laureles Medellin. They are scattered throughout so you will have one nearby.

• Exito is the most popular one to visit. There are 3 of them in Laureles!
• Euro is another chain similar to Exito and has 1 in Laureles
• Carulla is a bit fancier with higher-end products
• Tienda D1 is smaller, cheaper and convenient for snacks

Most Exitos also have department stores where you can buy clothes and household goods. It is a good place to buy cheap clothes if you need some.

Colombia has a huge textile industry so a lot of the clothes are made in Colombia and are actually very good quality.

How to get around Laureles Medellin?

Laureles is a very walkable neighborhood which is one of the best parts about staying there. Many of the streets are full of big green trees and quiet.

But it can still take a long time to walk from one side of Laureles to the other. So the best options to get around are:

• Rideshares such as Uber📱
• Yellow taxis 🚕
• City bikes 🚲

There are also buses but it is not easy to figure out where they go. There are no cable cars and trams in Laureles Medellin but in other parts of the city.

1. Use Ride Share Apps Medellin

There are 4 main ride-share apps in Medellin:

We usually found Uber to be the best option but during rush hour we would try multiple apps to see which service was available.

Fun fact: In Colombia, it is rude to slam doors when getting in or out of cars. So gently close your door or you will see your Uber ranking decrease! It makes no sense because many of them drive like maniacs and then have a heart attack if you close the door a little too hard. But that’s just part of the culture 😆🤷🚗

2. Wave down a Yellow Taxi

There are local yellow taxis everywhere that are also very cheap. But there is a slightly higher risk of getting ripped off or something bad happening. So it is almost always better to grab an Uber.

But if you are confident with your Spanish and are an experienced traveler they can be a great option. They are usually just as cheap as Uber and you can easily wave them down at the side of the road.

3. Rent an Encicla Bike

Medellin has a system of public bikes that you can use for free for up to an hour at a time. To use the bikes there is a signup process where you need to register on the Encicla website with copies of your passport and a personalized travel card.

Read how to sign up for Encicla bikes here 🚲

4. Take the modern Metro

Medellin has a very clean and modern metro system with a line that passes through Laureles. You cannot use it to travel around Laureles but it can be useful to travel from Laureles to El Poblado or other parts of the city.

The metro can be useful if you want to travel long distances (for example to Parque Arvi or Comuna 13 ) or if the traffic is bad. Because Ubers are so cheap it is usually more convenient and not much more expensive to take one.

Read also: How to get to Parque Arvi by cable car 🚠

Is Laureles Medellin Safe?

Compared to many other areas of Medellin, Laureles is very safe . However, you should take precautions walking around at night just like anywhere else in the world.

Book: Flexible travel insurance with  SafetyWing . Read about our experience plus other options  here  ✈️ We are already 2+ years insured with SafetyWing!

Read here: Best travel & health insurance for digital nomads 🩺

Best time to visit Medellin, Colombia

Medellin is also called “ the city of eternal spring ” so it never gets too cold or too hot. Expect some rain with clouds followed by sun on most days. We loved the weather!

The drier season is from December to March, with January being the driest. But that’s also high-season! The wettest days in Medellin are from April to November, with October being the wettest.

We have been in Medellin in August and September (off-season) and barely had rain. So the best time to visit Medellin is when it fits your schedule! If you are on a budget, choose the “rainy season”.

Tip: To see Medellin in blossom visit in August for their annual flower festival 🌸

Enjoy your stay in Laureles, Medellin!

Our 2 months in Medellin were awesome and we really enjoyed staying there. It is one of the best places to live and work online that we have visited in Colombia.

If you prefer to stay in Envigado or El Poblado or have any questions about Laureles please let us know in the comments below! We are always interested in your opinions.

• 12 Best Cafes in Laureles
• 25 Free Things to do in Medellin
• Go on Medellin’s best Coffee Tour
• Comuna 13: All you need to know

Hey there! Some of the links on this page are affiliate links. This means that if you choose to make a purchase we may get a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us to generate income and keep creating content for you. So we greatly appreciate your support! Thanks!

Hi, I am Allan, a travel, health and fitness fanatic from New Zealand. I'm a former lawyer who turned into a full-time nomad in 2020. For the last 4+ years I've been traveling the world. I'm always on a hunt for good food, activities on a budget and workouts on the go. I hope you find my tips helpful and get inspired to travel more!

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2 thoughts on “complete guide to laureles, medellin with insider tips”.

Hi, how safe would you say Medellin is to visit? What are some things to be particularly aware of considering the climate in Columbia at the moment.

Hi Lena, we stayed for 2 months in Medellin and found it very safe. Of course, we took the usual big-city precautions. Stay away from the city center (Plaza Botero area) after 5pm and take extra precautions at night in general. If you are unsure join guided tours – there are plenty in Medellin!

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Laureles: Medellín's under-the-radar culture hub

May 30, 2019 • 5 min read

Leafy Laureles is a neighborhood worth exploring © Jesse Scott / Lonely Planet

Medellín breaks every stereotype imaginable and carries a comeback story that few cities have. As more folks venture to the City of the Eternal Spring, the Laureles-Estadio neighborhood has cemented itself among the best places to experience all that Medellín has to offer.

Spanning the bustling stadium home for the country’s most popular soccer team, one of the city’s most colorful streets to crack open a bottle of aguardiente and unwind, and avenues blossoming with lush fauna and towering brick buildings, there has never been a better time to be in Laureles.

Founded as a working-class neighborhood in the 1940s, the Laureles of today is a haven for middle to upper-class living. The barrio generally encompasses the urban mass south of Avenida Colombia, west of Autopista Sur, north of Avenida 33 and east of Avenida 80.

Estadio and La 70: goals and good times

The Estadio Atanasio Girardot complex is home to Medellín’s two soccer teams that compete on a national and, occasionally, international level. On one end, Atlético Nacional is easily the most popular soccer club in all of Colombia. Its bitter intercity rival, Deportivo Independiente Medellín (DIM), also calls the orange- and yellow-seated stadium home. On game days, the venue is drenched in either green (for Nacional fans) or red (for DIM fans). When the teams play each other, it can make for an even rowdier scene.

On game days, La Setenta (Carrera 70 or “La 70”) is the place to be. Fans, proudly donning flags and tattoos of their team’s logos show up hours before the showdowns and spill out of La 70’s seemingly endless stretch of tiny bars, open-air clubs, Mom-and-Pop eateries and street food stands.

When there isn’t a game to be glued to, La 70 is still where folks from across the valley flock to party. You can take your pick of the hopping joints, but it’s hard to go wrong with buying a bottle of Aguardiente Antioqueño at a liquor shop, cozying up with amigos at a roadside table and watching the madness swirl by. For that experience, one of several Lico Express establishments along La 70 is your best bet.

The neighborhood's artistic side

There’s more to Laureles than the hustle and bustle. In fact, the neighborhood is home to a handful of the city’s best-kept cultural secrets. Nestled in a white building one block north of the generally-hectic Avenida San Juan is the Fundación Aburrá . The small, gallery-esque museum with four principal rooms boasts a rotating collection of nearly 3,000 pre-Hispanic era statues and art pieces.

For a splash of modern art, an open-air, graffiti and mural gallery owns the walls of the aquatic complex near Estadio Atanasio Girardot. In total, there are 13 colorful, Instagram-worthy pieces displayed, all inspired by the people and activities that frequent the arenas, courts and areas that make up the complex.

Live performances in Laureles

Theater and comedy.

On the theater front, Teatro Barra del Silencio is a glimpse into Medellin’s dynamic theatre scene. The group was established in 1982 by a handful of mime-enthusiasts at UPB. Today, it has its own 50-seat, black box theater and attracts talent from across the valley for weekly performances on Fridays and Saturdays. While its shows are in Spanish, their work visibly transcends languages. For comedy, the Teatro de Laureles on Avenida Nutibara is stellar. The spot landed in the neighborhood in 2006 and has 250 seats.

A musical evening in Medellín

For tunes, Naturalia Café will be music to your ears. Tucked off La 70, the expansive, naturally-lit spot is a haven for remote-working warriors by day. On Friday and Saturday evenings, you can catch intimate sets from some of Medellín’s best musicians, spanning Colombian rock and international genres.

Where to find the best eats

Taste colombia's favorites.

Laureles is loaded with family-owned restaurants and some of Colombia’s favorite chains including Crepes y Waffles (anything imaginable stuffed in a crepe), El Corral (massive burgers) and Bogotá Beer Company (craft beer delights).

Steakhouses are quite popular in the neighborhood. Barbara Cocina Primitiva leads the charge in this category, with a dimly-lit, no-frills ambiance and a buzzworthy 1,000-gram Tomahawk Steak that lives up to its hype. If you somehow have room for dessert, its banana lasagna (with layers of arequipe cream and caramelized bananas) will not disappoint.

For authentic Colombian fare and the best bandeja paisa (or slight variations) in all of Medellín, head to Restaurante Las Delicias de La Nena (Carrera 70, Circular 3). Its bandejas include massive pinto beans, a giant chunk of avocado and perfectly grilled chicken (among other meat selections). You’ll want to douse everything in its homemade ají, which is placed on every table and has a truly fiery yet infectious kick. The spot is located across the street from another Laureles-bred favorite, Mondongo’s .

Go international

When you tire yourself of endless empanadas and arepas, Laureles has a number of international dining offerings, too. The Mercado del Parque gastronomic market opened in 2018 and is located just off the Primer Parque de Laureles. It has 14 fast-casual options under one roof, spanning Arabic, sushi, Mexican, pizza, Peruvian and more.

Get coffee-buzzed

And, of course, no day in Colombia is complete without coffee. Tucked off Avenida Nutibara, Rituales Compañía de Café has the specialty coffee vibe down pat, with a pour-over bar (Kalita Wave and V60 devices, among others) and photos of the farmers they source beans from displayed throughout.

Where to stay

Inntu Hotel overlooks the Segundo Parque de Laureles, which hosts a lively local market on Saturday mornings. Its 18th-floor  rooftop has panoramic views of the city as well as a Turkish steam room and jacuzzi. TRYP Medellín is on the northern edge of the stadium complex and is a short walk to the Estadio metro station.

Getting there

Whereas in some parts of Medellín (and Colombia in general) there is a somewhat logical street grid, the geography of Laureles can be tricky throughout, with periodic roundabouts and the circular streets just north of the Universidad Pontifica Boliviarana (UPB) area.

Within Medellín, Laureles is approximately eight kilometers northwest of El Poblado and less than five kilometers west of El Centro. You can easily access the neighborhood by taxi, or Medellín’s modern and extensive metro system has an Estadio station, which is also a nice, central spot to start your Laureles adventure.

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Laureles Medellin Colombia: The Best Travel Guide

Laureles is a vibrant neighborhood in Medellín that should be on your itinerary . As Medellín’s lesser-known cultural hub, it’s more low-key compared to El Poblado. I stayed here for a month and I can tell you that Laureles-Estadio is one of the top destinations to experience the city’s charm. If you don’t believe, that’s fine but TimeOut magazine also touted Laureles as one of the coolest neighbourhoods to visit in 2023.

From the bustling stadium that is home to Colombia’s beloved soccer team, to colorful streets perfect for unwinding with a bottle of aguardiente , and avenues lined with green parks and striking brick buildings, Laureles Medellin Colombia offers plenty of options for those wanting to really experience Medellin’s urban culture.

Originally a working-class area established in the 1940s, today’s Laureles is synonymous with middle to upper-class living. Stretching across the urban landscape south of Avenida Colombia, west of Autopista Sur, north of Avenida 33, and east of Avenida 80 are upscale establishments and restaurants, which is a stark difference from what Medellin was once known for.

Laureles Medellin Overview

Laureles, also known as Laureles-Estadio or la Comuna 11, is a trendy spot in Medellin. It has every reason to be one: it’s right in the heart of the city and it’s right along the eastern edge of the Medellin River, just south of El Parque Natural Cerro. With around 120,000 people living here, it’s its own bustling little city, covering almost three square miles.

I was surprised to find out that Laureles is made up of 15 different neighborhoods, each with its own vibe. From the lively streets of Estadio to the peaceful corners of Florida Nueva, there’s something for everyone. And don’t forget about La 70, a popular nightlife spot in Laureles, which comes alive at night with restaurants and bars. I’m personally not a night owl nor do I enjoy going to bars, but friends I’ve met on the way highly recommend going to La 70 for a lively evening.

And finally, there’s Estadio Atanasio Girardot, home to Medellín’s favorite soccer team, Atletico Nacional. We watched many exciting playoff matches here during our month-long stay in Laureles.

As you wander through Laureles, keep an eye for intriguing sights on the streets. People watching in Laureles outside a cafe is not a bad way to spend your afternoon. If you want to venture a bit further, you’ll also find that even areas just a bit outside of Laureles can offer hidden gems.

Best Time to Visit Laureles

If you’re already convinced that you should come to Laureles in Medellin, Colombia, your next question may as well be, “Okay, when’s the best time to visit Laureles then? ” Medellin is known as “the city of eternal spring,” so you won’t find extreme temperatures here. Expect a mix of rain, clouds, and sunshine most days—and trust me, the weather is quite lovely!

If you prefer drier weather, visit between December and March, with January being the driest month. Keep in mind though that that’s also high-season, so things might be a bit more crowded.

On the flip side, the wettest days in Medellin fall between April and November, especially in October. However, I’ve been here from April to August, which are considered off-season months, and barely saw any rain.

So, when’s the best time to visit Laureles? Honestly, it depends on your budget and your schedule! If you have a tight budget, you might want to consider the rainy season. Here’s a tip: if you want to catch Medellin in full bloom, don’t miss the annual flower festival in August!

Our Favorite Things to Do in Laureles

Of course you want to experience everything there is to experience in Laureles, so I’m listing all the things I think are worth doing when you’re in Laureles.

Atletico Nacional Football Match

Love football? Great. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just enjoy catching a game, you’re in luck because the soccer stadium is just a short 30-minute stroll from anywhere in Laureles.

One way to know when a match is coming up is to walk around the streets. If you notice people sporting the local team’s jersey, then it’s almost a surefire sign there’s a match fairly soon. If you’re interested to watch the match, just swing by the stadium’s merchandise shop and you can get yourself a ticket. One thing to know is there are two teams that play here. You don’t need the other team but know that Atletico Nacional is the one to watch out for (I may be biased here).

Salsa Dancing

Maybe you’re not into sports but you like dancing. If so, Laureles has got you covered, especially if you’re into salsa and bachata. Swing by El Tibiri bar on a Thursday night or hit up Son Havana on a Friday or Saturday if you’re looking for a place to either learn the basic or just enjoy yourself on a full night of dancing. My buddy and I were regulars during our stay in Laureles, and we’d stay there for hours just dancing the Thursday night away.

Parques del Rio

There’s a new park just along the river banks and it’s a great place to take a break from the busy streets of Laureles. Parques del Rio has plenty of spots to stretch and jog in this green space.

Expect to see people walking their dogs or people doing their afternoon yoga by the grass. It’s a nice place to chill in the afternoon with friends or go people watching. Although I have to admit that while the park is nice, the river beside it isn’t the cleanest but Medellin is making some efforts to make their rivers also a tourism highlight.

Before I also forget, if you find yourself in Medellin come December, find some time to enjoy the spectacular Christmas decorations lighting up Parques del Rio.

In any city I visit, I make it a point to do a food tour. After all, good food speaks volumes about a city’s culture. Let me tell you, it’s one of the best experiences I had in Medellin! Real City Tours offers an awesome Laureles food tour for just 100,000 pesos (that’s about 20 USD).

With this tour, you get to sample 10 delicious Colombian foods and snacks while learning all about their history and culture. One of its stops is Cielo Tostado, a café that quickly became one of my favorites in Laureles.

Theatre and Comedy

Arts and culture are huge aspects of Medellin’s personality, so you shouldn’t skip their theatre and comedy shows.

Teatro Barra del Silencio is one of the top spots to experience the arts culture of Laureles and Medellin. Established back in 1982 by mime enthusiasts at UPB, it’s now a hotspot for weekly performances. If you’re worried about the language barrier, don’t be. Their performances is enough to tell you the story, plus points because you’ll be more acquainted with the Spanish language.

If you prefer comedy over all other genres, head over to Teatro de Laureles on Avenida Nutibara. With 250 seats, it’s the perfect spot for comedy nights. This might be one where you should at least have some basic understanding of Spanish to appreciate the art and humour behind their jokes.

See Laureles Artistic Side

There’s also another popular art form in Laureles, and you don’t need to go too far to see them. Fundación Aburrá is a small museum where you’ll find a rotating collection of nearly 3,000 pre-Hispanic era statues and art pieces—definitely worth a visit! Tucked away in a white building just a block north of the bustling Avenida San Juan, this small museum is a true hidden gem.

If you’re a fan of modern art, don’t miss the open-air graffiti and mural gallery near Estadio Atanasio Girardot. With 13 vibrant and Instagram-worthy pieces inspired by the local sports culture, it’s a feast for the eyes!

Getting Around Laureles

Laureles is very, very walkable. It helps that Medellin has a very mild temperature hovering in the low 20’s all year round. Lush green trees line the quiet streets of Laureles—perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Compared to other neighbourhoods in Medellin, Laureles does not have cable cars or trams, but that’s a good reason for you to go outside and walk around.

Medellin Metro

Getting around Medellin is easy, they have a train system called Medellin Metro. Their trains are clean and sleek, and they offer a convenient way to explore the city. Compared to other metro systems in larger cities, metro stations in Medellin are among the top ones I’ve tried. Aside from being clean, they have attendants to help ease the flow of traffic and guide tourists who are looking for directions. They really did a great job in making their public metro the best option for transportation.

While you can’t use it to travel within Laureles itself, it’s handy for journeys to El Poblado or other parts of Medellin. Taking the train is a great way to beat the traffic although, with Uber fares being so affordable, it’s often just as convenient to hail a ride.

Encicla Bike

Another way to get around the city is through Encicla bikes. It has a good coverage of Medellin, especially in Laureles. You can rent these public bikes and you can leave them in stations throughout the city. You can use these public bikes for free for up to an hour at a time.

The sign up process is fairly simple, you just need to signup on the Encicla website and register with copies of your passport and a personalized travel card.

Ride-Sharing Apps

I’m a big fan of public transportation but if you ever find yourself in a tight timeline, a ride share is a better option. Medellin has plenty of options like Uber, Cabify, DiDi, and Indrive. Personally, I’ve found Uber to be the most reliable, but during rush hour, it’s worth checking out multiple apps to snag a ride.

🔗 Related : 15 Best Travel Apps in Colombia

One thing I learned while there is that it’s considered impolite to slam car doors in Colombia. So, be sure to close them gently to avoid a ding in your Uber rating.

Sometimes, especially in the rush hour, it’s really hard to get an Uber. An alternative is to flag down a yellow taxi in Laureles. They’re pretty much everywhere, and they’re usually just as cheap. While there’s a slightly higher risk of running into issues compared to using Uber, it’s a solid option if you’re confident in your Spanish and seasoned in your travels.

Best Areas in Laureles

By now, I’ve already established that Laureles is THE neighborhood to stay. But where in Laureles should you visit? Let me list the top spots.

Bolivariana and Florida Nueva

Bolivariana is home to the famous La 70 strip, buzzes with energy, especially around the Estadio metro station and soccer stadium. It’s lively and vibrant, drawing in a younger crowd. Adjacent to it is Florida Nueva, which roughly has the same vibe as Bolivariana but less busy and hectic.

I stayed in Florida Nueva during my stay and I did not regret it, it’s close enough to where the hip spots are but not as noisy. For accommodation, you’ll find plenty of options along La 70, often at a more budget-friendly price, though with fewer frills. If you prefer a quieter vibe, make sure to head towards the south end of La 70.

🔗 Related : Where to Stay in Medellín: 6 Best & Safest Neighborhoods

Central Laureles

Central Laureles is the nicest part of Laureles. It is similar to El Poblado, where you’ll find fewer budget options but more upscale hotels.

Being at the centre meant that Central Laureles is the first option for travelers looking for accommodations, so it’s not surprising that there are plenty of international restaurants to choose from, along with fancy bars and familiar chains like McDonald’s, Starbucks, and KFC. Plus, there’s no shortage of things to do, from chilling in the parks to browsing art galleries or hitting up the mall.

North Laureles

Similar to Central Laureles, this area is predominantly residential, with streets lined with neat houses and well-maintained condo buildings. A good reason to stay here is that it has easy access to the Atanasio Girardot soccer stadium.

Being just a stone’s throw away from the games and the buzzing nightlife around La 70 means that it can get busy in this area. Plus, most hotels in this area cater to soccer fans, offering vacation apartments perfect for families looking to catch a match and explore the nearby bars and restaurants.

That’s not all—North Laureles also offers convenient access to the metro, parks, sports complexes, and the Obelisco shopping mall.

East Laureles

To be honest, East Laureles is not my top pick. In my experience, this neighborhood has a different vibe compared to the rest of Laureles. When I first explored Los Conquistadores, it felt like a whole other area. While it’s not particularly unsafe, it’s considered the least safe barrio in Laureles. Plus, there’s not much lodging options here, except near the university. So, if you’re looking for a place to stay with the Laureles charm, you might want to explore other areas.

Belén is another communa just south of Laureles. The border zone in northeast Belén has a vibe similar to Laureles and is worth considering.

In my opinion, northeast Belén feels suburban, just like Central Laureles. It’s not overcrowded and boasts plenty of local bars, cafes, and gyms. One of my favorite spots here is La Unidad Deportiva de Belén Andrés Escobar, featuring an extensive outdoor gym, play area, and Olympic swimming pool.

Sure, hotels might be a bit scarce in this area, but you can still find some great rental apartments.

La Castellana and La America

La Castellana and La America are technically separate from Laureles, but they share a similar vibe. La Castellana sits in the southwest corner, somewhat isolated from the rest.

In my experience, both areas are very residential and suburban. But here’s the thing—I wouldn’t recommend staying here. It’s not about safety or cleanliness, but rather the distance from everything else.

Getting to nightlife, bars, cafes, the soccer stadium, and public transportation could easily take up to an hour. Plus, there aren’t many hotels or rental apartments here anyway.

Laureles Accommodations

There’s no shortage of accommodation options in Laureles. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or as a digital nomad, you’ll find plenty of affordable and cozy accommodations waiting for you.

Laureles Hotels

From budget-friendly options to more upscale choices, there’s something for everyone. Here are my top picks for hotels in Laureles.

Hotel Casa Laureles

Hotel Casa Laureles offers a stylish and elegant experience with 4-star amenities. Guests are welcomed by a charming courtyard adorned with hanging plants and an opulent lobby featuring dark olive pillars and marble floors. Rooms boast turquoise wallpaper, wooden furniture, and floor-to-ceiling curtains, along with minibars and cable TV. Select bathrooms feature baths for added luxury. A full buffet breakfast, including world-renowned Colombian coffee and regional treats, is served daily and can be enjoyed in-room or on the terrace.

Click for the latest price

Hotel Indie Universe

Hotel Indie Universe, offers convenient access to local attractions like Laureles Park and Plaza de Toros La Macarena. This 4-star hotel features a tour desk and amenities including a terrace and a 24-hour front desk. Free WiFi is available throughout the property. Rooms are equipped with desks, with selected rooms offering kitchenettes with a fridge and stovetop. Bed linen and towels are provided in every room. Guests can enjoy a continental or American breakfast during their stay.

Laureles Hostels

Considering a short stay in Medellin? Hostels in Laureles might just be your best bet. With several options available, you’ll have ample opportunities to socialize and connect with fellow travelers. While Laureles may not have as many hostels as Poblado, there are still some excellent choices to explore.

🔗 Related : 10 Best Hostels in Medellin for the Ultimate Stay

The Wandering Paisa Backpackers Hostel

Conveniently situated near Medellin’s Metro and the vibrant “LA 70” party zone, The Wandering Paisa offers an authentic cultural immersion. Dedicated to showcasing Paisa culture, the hostel ensures a safe, comfortable stay with diverse activities. Accommodation includes quality bunks with privacy dividers, orthopedic mattresses, and under-bed lockers. The hostel boasts six renovated bathrooms, round-the-clock hot water, and new computer workstations, ensuring a serene experience for guests. No wonder it was our go-to place to stay.

Rock Hostel Medellin

Rock Hostel, situated near Medellin’s bustling Avenida 70, aims to provide a home-like atmosphere for guests. The location offers easy access to bars, restaurants, exchange offices, and supermarkets, making it ideal for exploring the city. Opposite the hostel is the Atanasio Girardot Stadium, offering opportunities for various sports activities and attending concerts and soccer matches. Additionally, guests can enjoy free Latin rhythms classes every Friday evening with a renowned dance instructor.

Oasis Hostel

Located in the heart of Laureles, Oasis Hostel offers a unique experience with convenience at every turn. With a commitment to providing a welcoming environment, the hostel aims to make guests feel valued and at home. Their mission is to ensure visitors fall in love with Medellin, offering assistance to create unforgettable experiences. Accommodation includes new semi-orthopedic mattresses and outlets for each bed. A rooftop terrace fosters socialization, while a spacious lounge and balcony provide relaxation and productivity spaces. The well-equipped kitchen allows for meal preparation, complemented by free Wi-Fi and abundant real plants for fresh air.

Laureles Co-Living

If you’re a remote worker or a digital nomad, you can easily find a vibrant community. Co-living hotels might be worth considering especially if you’d like to meet other people. With dedicated workspaces outside your room, you’ll have the perfect balance of social interaction and focus. We didn’t stay at any of the many co-living options, but from our research, Indie Studio – Creative Coliving is the place to be.

Where to Eat in Laureles

Let’s dive into some local favorites in Laureles, these are the top places if you want local Colombian cuisine:

Parrilla Dejame Q’ Te Cuente: Located in Laureles, they serve up mouthwatering Colombian dishes like plato tipico and lengua en salsa criolla (beef tongue in creole sauce).

Chicharron City: Craving chicharron? This spot offers a variety of fried pork belly delights, perfect for sharing with friends over their Trilogia platter.

Mondongo’s: A local gem for Antioquian and Colombian classics, try their sopa de mondongo and ajiaco for a taste of authentic flavors in a vibrant atmosphere.

Cucayito Cocina Costeña: Indulge in Costeño cuisine with dishes like sobrebarriga asada and sancocho de rabo. Don’t miss their daily specials for a something new.

Mi Bunuelo: Satisfy your cravings with delicious bunuelos, reminiscent of fried bread balls with cheese. Pair them with cheese sticks, empanadas, or egg arepas for a tasty treat.

J&C Delicias: Dive into the staple of Medellin, arepas, with a variety of savory toppings to choose from. Whether it’s breakfast or a snack, J&C has you covered with their wide selection.

Nightlife in Laureles

Looking for a night out in Laureles? Here are some hot spots to check out:

Son Havana: Dance to live music and sip cocktails at this iconic salsa bar. Don’t miss their dance classes on Wednesdays and stay updated with their Instagram for the latest events.

Fidelina: A lively bar/restaurant with unique decor and a wide selection of cocktails and beers. From pasta to burgers, their menu has something for everyone to enjoy.

Bogotá Beer Company: Known for its craft beers, BBC offers a taste of European-style brewing. While they don’t serve food, you can bring your own snacks to pair with their brews.

El Tibiri: This hidden gem is a must-visit for salsa enthusiasts. Located on Carrera 70, it’s a popular spot for dancing the night away. The place to be every Thursday night. This was my go-to place for salsa dancing.

Along Carrera 70: Explore the diverse dining and entertainment options along La 70. Whether you’re craving Italian, Chinese, or local cuisine, you’ll find it here. Don’t forget to check out the nightlife scene with bars offering live music and discotheques for dancing.

Gyms & Fitness in Laureles

Here are some great options to maintain your fitness while traveling:

Estadio Atanasio Girardot Stadium: A large sports complex with facilities open to the public. From athletics stadium to tennis courts, there’s something for everyone here.

El Muro Escalada Deportiva: An indoor climbing gym with routes for climbers of all levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, you’ll find some nice routes here.

Magnum Gym: A no-frills gym that focuses on weightlifting. If you prefer pumping iron to cardio, this is the place for you.

Free Workout Park in Belen: Just a short walk from Laureles, this free outdoor gym offers a variety of workout machines and a running track. Perfect for a full-body workout.

Flying Tree Yoga Studio: Join daily yoga classes in English or Spanish, or participate in teacher training programs. A welcoming community for yoga enthusiasts of all levels.

Laureles Digital Nomads

For digital nomads and remote workers seeking a lively yet fairly affordable destination, Laureles in Medellín, Colombia, offers a balance of work and play. With a Digital Nomad Visa , remote workers can extend hassle-free while enjoying a variety of accommodations tailored to remote work. From co-living spaces to hostels with dedicated coworking areas, Laureles caters to our nomadic lifestyle. At one point, Czarina and I considered making Laureles our homebase but opted to just go with the regular visa-free length allowable for Canadians like us.

The active digital nomad community in Laureles provides ample networking opportunities. Medellin has been on nomads’ radars for quite a while now so there’s a lot of events and meetups to find valuable connections. Plus, there plenty of options for language courses, enabling me to improve my Spanish while immersing myself in Colombian culture.

🔗 Related : The ULTIMATE Medellin Digital Nomad Guide

Laureles Co-working

Laureles buzzes with locals and expats tapping away on laptops in cafes and co-working spaces. Remote work culture is very much alive here. There’s a lot of cozy cafes and dedicated co-working hubs, with most having reliable internet connectivity. Semilla, a popular co-working space, boasts a bustling atmosphere and private workspaces that is ideal for focused productivity.

Best Cafes in Laureles

Semilla Cafe: With a dedicated coworking space, Semilla Cafe offers ergonomic workstations and fast Wi-Fi, making it perfect for productivity. Plus, it hosts regular meetups, fostering a vibrant community.

Rituales Cafe: Nestled in Laureles, Rituales Cafe offers a serene atmosphere and reliable Wi-Fi, ideal for focused work sessions. The friendly staff and delicious coffee enhance the remote work experience.

Delmuri Cafe: Known for its lightning-fast internet, Delmuri Cafe is a cozy spot in Laureles, perfect for Zoom calls and uninterrupted work sessions.

Safety in Laureles

Laureles, Medellin, is generally safe, but it’s wise to remain cautious, especially at night. Taking standard safety measures, like staying in well-lit areas and avoiding isolated streets, ensures a secure experience.

🔗 Related : Is Medellin Safe? All You Need to Know

Grocery Shopping in Laureles

Food Shopping: Unicentro Shopping Mall in Laureles offers a convenient shopping experience, including groceries and other essentials, along with entertainment options like cinemas.

Supermarkets: Laureles boasts several supermarket chains, including Exito, Euro, and Carulla, offering a variety of products at different price points. Tienda D1 provides affordable snacks and household items.

Local Tiendas: Supporting local corner stores not only benefits the community but also offers fresh produce at reasonable prices. These tiendas often source directly from farmers, ensuring quality and supporting local economies. This is my go-to option every time I travel. It allows me to practice my Spanish while keeping my grocery bill a bit cheaper.

Plaza de Mercado la America: This bustling market offers a wide array of fresh produce, meats, and fish at competitive prices. Visitors can also sample authentic Colombian dishes at food stalls and explore a variety of exotic fruits unique to Colombia.

Health Food Stores: For health-conscious travelers, Laureles features excellent health food stores like Vita Integral, offering a diverse range of products including tempeh and tofu for nutritious eating options on the go.

🔗 Related : 15 Pros and Cons of Living in Medellin Colombia: Things You Should Know

Finishing Thoughts on Laureles Medellin Colombia

Laureles, recognized as the coolest neighborhood globally by Time Out Global Magazine, has undergone a remarkable transformation. Formerly known as a retiree’s haven, it has evolved into a vibrant hub for urban travelers, digital nomads, entrepreneurs, investors, and adventurers. It offers a harmonious blend of modern amenities and traditional charm, making it an ideal place to stay when in Medellin.

Beyond its appealing co-living spaces, diverse international dining options, and exceptional coworking facilities, Laureles boasts a wealth of cultural and recreational activities. It’s situated in a central location plus there’s efficient transportation infrastructure that makes it easy to go around not only within Medellín and Antioquia, but throughout Colombia.

Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant nightlife or seek solace in its shaded streets, Laureles caters to a wide range of travelers. When in Colombia, find the time to stay in one of the world’s coolest neighborhoods, Laureles.

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20 Best Things to Experience in Laureles, Medellin

Laureles is becoming an increasingly popular option for visitors and those looking to settle in Medellin. Prices are lower, the area has all of the basic amenities needed, it is generally very safe and there is more of a community feel to the neighborhood.

Laureles is clearly a nice, sensible option but is it fun and is there enough to keep you busy?

I have lived in Colombia for almost 15 years and after almost a decade in Poblado, I made the move back to Laureles recently. In this article, I will share some of my top recommendations and my favorite things to do in Laureles.

1. Experience the passion and energy of ‘clasico’ at the Atanasio Girardot Stadium

📍 Calle 48 # 73 -10, Laureles – Estadio

Football is huge in Colombia and Medellin has two of the most popular teams in the country. You can choose to support the green and white striped “kings of the cups” Atletico Nacional or the red and blue “powerful” Deportivo Independiente Medellin (DIM for short).

The stadium is situated close to Estadio metro station at the end of the lively 70 street. You can buy tickets online or on the club apps, at club stores or at the stadium. The derby between the two is particularly intense.

Until you are familiar with attending games, I would avoid the “popular” sections of the stadium in the North and South tiers as this is where the most hardcore fans are. An amazing experience everyone will enjoy, whether you care about football or not.

Price : Prices vary depending on the game but expect to pay between 30,000 COP (US$7.30) for the North and South stands up to 115,000 COP (US$27) for the upper tier of the covered Eastern stand.

Why I like it:

• An amazing atmosphere with up to 45,000 fans singing, jumping and playing instruments for 90 minutes
• A chance to enjoy good continental football at one of the country’s best stadiums
• The perfect way to connect with the community by sharing the national obsession

Atletico Nacional Ticket Website

DIM Plus App Download Link

2. Test yourself and have fun at El Muro indoor rock climbing

  Ver esta publicación en Instagram   Una publicación compartida por El Muro Escalada Deportiva (@elmuroed)

Whether you are an enthusiastic beginner or an experienced climber, El Muro Sports Climbing Center will be a great place to spend the afternoon. You can pay to climb for the day, go for a guided session with an instructor or pay for a full month’s worth of classes.

The center has been open for 20 years and is a great place to improve your physical conditioning and test yourself.

Price : A day’s climbing costs 28,000 COP (US$6.80) or 33,000 COP (US$8) with an instructor. It is 174,000 COP (US$42) for a full month or 400,000 COP (US$97) for a month’s tailored plan with a personal trainer.

• A fun and challenging afternoon activity
• It is also a really intense workout which can improve your strength, agility and balance
• Great chance to make new friends and become part of a supportive, active community

https://www.elmuroed.com/

3. Enjoy sweet and savory treats at Crepes and Waffles

  Ver esta publicación en Instagram   Una publicación compartida por Crepes & Waffles (@crepesywaffles)

Crepes and Waffles has grown to become an important Colombian institution. The restaurant has a policy of offering training, employment and good working conditions for single mothers and the service is always of an exceptional quality. You really feel the staff are happy to be there and are a proud part of the organization.

The food is of a consistently very good standard and prices are very reasonable. You can enjoy breakfast, a savory crepe, a pita, a sweet crepe or a delicious ice cream. The Laureles branch is very nice and always popular. A great place for family lunch or a relaxed afternoon meal.

Price : Prices range from 10,000 COP (US$2.50) to around 30,000 COP (US$7.30) with most dishes at the lower end.

• Always excellent, friendly and professional service
• Delicious and affordable savory options
• Really nice ice creams cones or larger, more elaborate desserts

https://crepesywaffles.com/ubicaciones/laureles

4. Eat some delicious food and spend a relaxing afternoon with charming feline company at La Gatoria

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by La Gatoría Cat Café (@lagatoriacatcafe)

La Gatoria is a cafe in Laureles filled with sweet, playful cat residents as well as great coffee, high-quality food and tasty desserts. You must book in advance to reserve your place and the establishment has strongly upheld rules, to ensure the cats are comfortable and happy.

It is a really nice, relaxing place to spend the afternoon and reservations at the weekend are highly in demand.

Price : 20,000 – 25,000 COP (US$5-US$6) booking fee to be paid in advance which is taken off the final bill. Lunch with drinks can come to around 50,000 COP (US$12) per person.

• Delicious food and desserts
• Cute, friendly cats who love to play and are very well cared for
• Great place to take the family and a popular spot for sharing on Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/lagatoriacatcafe/?hl=en

5. Work out AnimalX

  Ver esta publicación en Instagram   Una publicación compartida por ANIMALX™LifeStyle 🇨🇴 🇺🇸 🇦🇷 (@animalxlifestyle)

I have been a member of most of the gym chains in Medellin at some point but for me by far the best option is Animal X.

There are a range of membership options which can include a single day up to a set number of sessions per month to a full monthly membership. You don’t have to pay to join and you are not committed beyond what you pay for.

They have an area dedicated to cardio with running machines but most of the space is used for hourly circuit training with multiple instructors who give guidance and support. You really feel the support of everyone else in your class and they push you to make the most of the hour. The circuit includes machines, free weights and a good range of activities. Classes run from 5am to 10pm and you just arrive at the time that is most convenient.

Price : The price per day is 15,000 COP (US$3.65), a full month is 167,000 COP (US$40) and 15 entries per month cost 110,000 COP (US$26).

• The encouragement and support from the trainers pushes you to complete a high intensity work out
• There is a great atmosphere and it feels like you are part of a team during sessions
• Animal X provides a semi-personal training experience with a lot of flexibility at a good price

https://animalx.com.co/

6. Enjoy a relaxing and rejuvenating afternoon at Amatsu Spa

  Ver esta publicación en Instagram   Una publicación compartida por AmatsuSpa | Spa en Medellin (@amatsu_spa)

Amatsu Spa offers a wide range of options including massages, therapies, full-day options and aesthetic treatments including facial cleansing and botox. Prices are very reasonable and it can be a great place to spend the afternoon with friends or your partner.

Packages often include massages, a range of therapies such as volcanic rock, time in the jacuzzi and a glass of wine.

Price : Prices range from 110,000 COP (US$25) for a full massage up to 350,000 COP (US$85) for four hours of massages and treatments.

• They have very talented and experienced professionals providing good treatments
• The space is relaxing and you leave feeling completely refreshed
• It is a great option to spend a romantic afternoon with your partner

https://amatsuspa.com/

7. Stretch, recharge and make friends at Flying Tree Yoga

  Ver esta publicación en Instagram   Una publicación compartida por Flying Tree 🌳 | Yoga Medellin (@flying_tree_yoga)

Flying Tree Yoga offers multiple daily classes in both English and Spanish for a range of experience levels. They aim to bring together people from a range of cultures and backgrounds through yoga.

As well as offering classes, they also have accommodation and a 200-hour teacher training course for those who wish to become certified.

Price : Options from 25,000 COP per class up to 170,000 COP for an unlimited monthly pass

• It is a great place to make new friends from Colombia and around the world
• They have highly trained and experienced instructors
• The spaces are perfectly designed to help you to relax and focus your energy

https://www.flyingtreeyoga.com/english

8. Swim outdoors for free at the Medellin Aquatic Complex

  Ver esta publicación en Instagram   Una publicación compartida por INDER Alcaldía de Medellín (@indermedellin)

INDER (The Institute of Sports and Recreation in Medellin) is the location government organization that manages the public sports facilities, classes and competitions. They do an incredible job in ensuring people all over the city can enjoy sports and work out for free using the high-quality amenities across Medellin.

The Atanasio Girardot is the home of the city’s biggest football stadium but also has basketball courts, a skate park, two further football fields, a baseball stadium, a gym and an Olympic-sized swimming pool. All of these sports facilities can be rented on the INDER website and the pool can be used free of charge.

Price : Free of charge

• The pool is a full olympic size, carefully managed and well maintained
• With Medellin’s near perfect year round weather, it feels great to go for a swim outdoors
• The pool is popular and open late into the evening, a great way to start or end the day

https://www.inder.gov.co/

9. Try all of the local favorites at Medellin institution Mondongos Restaurant

  Ver esta publicación en Instagram   Una publicación compartida por Comida Colombiana | Mondongos (@mondongos)

Mondongos has been one of Medellin’s most recognizable and popular restaurants since it opened back in 1976. The Laureles brand was the first to open, followed by a second in Poblado in 1995. The restaurant was named after Mondongo soup, a local dish made from diced tripe which is slow-cooked with chicken or beef, cilantro and vegetables.

The restaurant has a dedicated local clientele with a growing number of foreign visitors also looking to try the local classics. It is a great place to try Bandeja Paisa and the service is always superb.

Price : Prices for local dishes range from 20,000 COP (US$5) to 40,000 COP (US$10).

• Consistently excellent and highly professional service
• A great place to try classic Colombian dishes in a famous local restaurant
• Reasonable prices and a very typical Paisa experience

https://www.mondongos.com.co/medellin-mondongo-s-la-70/36/1283/cod1/

10. Help a local community and enjoy some amazing coffee at Rituales Cafe

  Ver esta publicación en Instagram   Una publicación compartida por Rituales, compañía de café (@rituales.cafe)

Rituales is a small cafe which has become a center for coffee aficionados and local baristas. As well as providing a delicious cup of coffee in a beautiful setting, the company also has a strong focus on supporting the community up in the hills of La Sierra. They offer hot and cold coffee options and it has been described as the best coffee in the city.

La Sierra is a neighborhood to the east of the city which has suffered from poverty and historically felt the impact violence and instability. Rituales have been working with locals to produce coffee in this region of the city and play an active role in the ongoing transformation. They sell the coffee in their cafe but you can also buy it online here .

Price : Drinks prices range from 7,000 COP (US$1.70) to 12,000 COP (US$3) with food options around 20,000 COP (US$5) to 25,000 COP (US$6).

• Amazing hot and cold coffee
• Really tasty desserts and great healthy lunch options
• A project that is having a positive and important impact on the local community

https://ritualescafe.com/

11. Half-price cinema on Wednesdays at Cine Colombia

📍 Calle 9 Sur #32-269, El Poblado, Medellín

All tickets are available at a 50% discount at Cine Colombia on Wednesdays across the country. This turns an affordable outing to an absolute bargain and there are some very good cinemas in Laureles.

Unicentro Mall is in the heart of Laureles while Los Molinos is also very close, just across into Belen on La 80. There is also a Royal Films cinema close to the stadium which doesn’t offer the 50% discount but generally has very low prices.

Price : Prices on Wednesdays are 10,500 COP (US$2.50) until 5pm and then from 8pm to midnight, from 5pm to 8pm an adult costs 12,100 COP (US$3).

• The cinema’s in Colombia are very modern, comfortable and well-maintained
• Most films are available with original English audio with Spanish subtitles (subtitulado) or dubbed into Spanish (dublado) – checking the cinema listings.
• Perfect option on a rainy day or if you want enjoy some media in English

https://www.cinecolombia.com/medellin/multiplex/unicentro-medellin

12. Tuck into some delicious, high-quality, Argentine beef at La Pampa Parrilla

  Ver esta publicación en Instagram   Una publicación compartida por La Pampa Parrilla Argentina (@lapampaparrillaargentina)

The restaurant offers really high-quality ingredients, simply and expertly prepared. La Pampa Parrilla specializes in beef cuts while the ribs, hamburgers and pasta dishes are also very popular. Add some delicious wine and it is the perfect recipe for a fun, filling afternoon of amazing food.

Prices are quite steep for Laureles but the quality is consistently good.

Price : Pasta dishes are around 40,000 COP (US$9.75) while the classic Argentine mains range from 50,000 COP (US$12) up to 136,000 COP (US$33) for a 900 gram mixed grill.

• Really high-quality meat perfectly prepared
• A comfortable but classy, sophisticated feel to the restaurant
• Good service with live music and a candle-lit setting in the evenings

https://www.lapampa.co/

13. Party at Jennylao, the best Afro-Colombian club in Medellin

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Jennylao Medellin (@jennylaomedellin)

The 70th Street has dozens of bars and clubs which are worth exploring but one I would recommend is Jennylao. The club is nicely designed with tables and booths facing towards the dance floor downstairs and an open second floor overlooking the action.

The club is inspired by and celebrates the predominantly Afro-Colombian community from the Pacific coast of Colombia, with the original Jennylao club opening in Quibdo, Choco. Many visitors to the club are originally from that area of Colombia, looking to enjoy and celebrate Afro-Colombian culture. The music is lively and energetic with everyone dancing all night.

Price : There is a cover charge to enter but drinks prices are reasonable. They often have 2 for 1 deals on bottles of local spirits such as rum or aguardiente.

• Great energy and a lively community feel
• A really nice opportunity to enjoy and celebrate music from all over Colombia and the Caribbean
• Affordable drinks places in a very nice club

https://www.instagram.com/jennylaomedellin/?hl=en

14. Play beach volleyball

  Ver esta publicación en Instagram   Una publicación compartida por Club Diamante Voley Playa (@diamantevoleyplaya)

The Atanasio Girardot Sports Complex also has a number of beach volleyball courts just outside the stadium. It is possible to rent these courts for free directly from INDER or you can join one of the clubs that play competitively.

Price : Free of charge to rent with membership costs to play competitive games

• A really fun, challenging team sport
• Medellin has everything but a beach so this is as close as you will get
• Nice facilities and completely free of charge with a reservation

https://www.instagram.com/diamantevoleyplaya/

15. Salsa at Son Havana

  Ver esta publicación en Instagram   Una publicación compartida por Mercado Del Rio – Medellin (@mercadodelriomedellin)

Son Havana is one of the best salsa bars in the city. The famous venue sits one block from San Juan on Carrera 73 with great live musicians and enthusiastic dancers enjoying the great vibes all night.

A real classic traditional venue where you can enjoy some of the best music ever made with passionate local fans. The space is quite tight with chairs and tables filling the room but the cozy atmosphere is all part of the fun.

Price : They offer free salsa classes on Wednesdays and prices are very reasonable for local beers (Aguila, Club Colombia, Pilsen) and spirits (Ron Caldas or Ron Viejo de Medellín and Aguardiente).

• Amazing musicians playing some of the greatest salsa ever made
• A close community of salsa lovers of come to dance all night
• Foreign visitors are made welcome and encouraged to learn to dance

https://sonhavana.co/

16. Naturalia Café

📍 Cq. 3 #70-39, Laureles – Estadio

Naturalia has a very tasty, reasonably priced menu with great baked goods and pizzas. The space is beautiful and they have a huge space in the back for events such as movie nights, live model drawing, live music and ping pong tournaments.

Popular dishes include homemade breads and pizzas, brownies and healthy vegetarian lunch options.

Price : Lunch options start from just 10,000 COP (US$2.50) with visitors typically spending around 25,000 COP (US$5) each at the restaurant.

• A beautiful space which is very comfortable and well-designed
• Great food at affordable prices
• Regular interesting, cultural events held at the venue

https://www.instagram.com/naturaliacafe/?hl=en

17. Panorama Rooftop Bar

  Ver esta publicación en Instagram   Una publicación compartida por Rooftop Bar | Brunch Medellin | Panorama Rooftop Bar (@panoramarooftopbar)

Panorama offers a fun, relaxing escape with a strong menu of Latin American fusion dishes plus a good range of drink options including sangria and cocktails.

A really nice atmosphere with DJs at the weekend, it is a great place for a fun date or to hang out with friends.

They also have brunch available on Sundays.

Price : Most food options range from 30,000 COP (US$7) up to 55,000 COP (US$13) with cocktails between 40,000 COP (US$10) and 50,000 COP (US$12).

• A really nice space surrounded by trees up above the busy street
• Great food with lots of tasty seafood options
• A good range of delicious, well-prepared cocktails

https://panoramarooftopbar.negocio.site/

18. Enjoy authentic Korean food at Oppa Asado Coreano

  Ver esta publicación en Instagram   Una publicación compartida por Oppaasado (@oppaasado)

Oppa Asado has an experienced Korean chef and owner who prepares excellent, really authentic food. Some of their most popular dishes include Bulgogi (thin slices of barbecue cooked beef, pork or chicken), samguopsal (barbecued pork belly), bokkeumbap (fried rice with sauce and vegetables) and galbi (barbecue pork ribs).

They also have great ramen and a good range of beers available.

Price : Prices for mains range from around 15,000 COP (US$3.65) to about 25,000 COP (US$6).

• Really good quality and truly authentic Korean food
• The staff are friendly and the small restaurant has a nice intimate feel
• Very competitive prices and a real change from typical Colombian food

https://oppaasadocoreano.com/

19. Play SNES and N64 with your mates at Game Over Arcade Bar

  Ver esta publicación en Instagram   Una publicación compartida por GAME OVER RESTO BAR ® (@gameovermedellin)

Game Over is a great place to have fun on a date, to hang out with friends or take the children. When making a reservation you confirm the number in your party and you choose your games system with options ranging from the original Nintendo, up to the Super Nintendo, the N64, PS1, PS2 and Xbox 360.

They have a well-stocked bar, tasty desserts and gourmet fast food options. They also have a good range of arcade cabinets to enjoy. Game Over also hosts events and competitions on their classic consoles.

Price : Most food costs around 30,000 COP (US$7.30), beers are around 10,000 COP (US$2.50) and video game-themed cocktails are 30,000 COP (US$7.30).

• Great nostalgia-filled fun with friends
• Really good burgers and snacks
• Nice cocktails and sangria available

https://gameovermedellin.com/

20. Experience the art and music of the nearby Comuna 13

📍 San Javier, Medellín

Comuna 13 may be just outside of Laureles but given it is less than 10 minutes by taxi or a couple of stops on the metro, I am including it!

This neighborhood was once the most dangerous area of Medellin but it has been rejuvenated by the local community which has used art, music and culture to transform perceptions. The government installed the world’s first urban escalator network to help locals climb the steep hills and the area has become a shining example of what is possible.

You can get a guided tour of the graffiti across the neighborhood, listen to rappers improvise rhymes about those passing, enjoy some breakdancing and then grab a drink overlooking the city.

Price : During the day it is possible to visit the area without any problem and there are many guided tours available.

• It is impactful and interesting to hear from locals about the difficult times and how things have improved
• The art, music and dance is incredibly impressive
• Towards the end of the day, DJs play in the small bars overlooking the city and it is a great place to grab a beer

https://colombia.travel/es/medellin/graffiti-tour

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Every year, TimeOut engages city-dwellers around the globe to pinpoint neighborhoods that exemplify the best in fun, food, culture, and community. In their latest roundup, Medellín’s very own Laureles secures the top spot, surpassing even the most famous urban quarters. Here’s why Laureles is not just a place to visit but a community to be part of.

🕺 The Heartbeat of Laureles

Unlike its more renowned neighbor, El Poblado, Laureles doesn’t need a hit song by Karol G to prove its allure. Centered around the vibrant La 70 , this neighborhood is where the rhythm of Medellín beats loudest. From spontaneous dance parties to live music events at Estadio Atanasio Girardot , Laureles invites everyone to revel in its festive spirit.

🌳 A Blend of Lively and Serene

Laureles uniquely marries its effervescent street life with peaceful retreats. Just a few steps from the hustle and bustle, you’ll discover tranquil parks, yoga studios, and an array of coffee shops. This balance makes Laureles an ideal locale for those seeking both excitement and a relaxed pace of life.

🍽 Culinary Delights and Local Flavors

The culinary scene in Laureles has seen a remarkable transformation, with an increasing number of dining options reflecting its cultural diversity. From traditional Colombian dishes at local bistros to international cuisines in trendy restaurants, the neighborhood caters to all taste buds.

🏡 A Place to Call Home

For those looking to invest or settle in, Laureles presents a golden opportunity. Its central location and the rise of digital nomad-friendly residences like Indie Universe and Los Patios Cool Living highlight its appeal as a top destination for both locals and expatriates.

Why Invest with Us?

At EVERYPLACE , we understand the unique charm and potential of Laureles. We specialize in connecting investors with prime real estate opportunities in Medellín’s most desirable neighborhoods. Trust us to help you find a property that aligns perfectly with your aspirations—be it a chic apartment, a cozy home, or a lucrative investment property.

Explore Our Featured Properties in Laureles

🌇 Duplex Loft Strategically Located in Laureles Neighborhood

This unique 75 m2 duplex offers a tranquil yet connected lifestyle in Laureles. With one bedroom and 1.5 bathrooms, it features a dual-level design perfect for work and relaxation. Equipped with modern amenities and close to nightlife, it’s an urban dream.

🛏️ 1 Bedroom 🚽 1.5 Bathrooms 🚗 1 Parking Space 🎵 Ceiling Speakers 🏢 Dual Office Spaces 💼 Perfect for Remote Work 🔗 Explore this property

🏠 Ample Fully Remodeled Apartment in Laureles, Estadio [Medellin]

Discover spacious living in this beautifully remodeled 161.5 m2 apartment. With three bedrooms and four bathrooms, it offers an open, luminous layout ideal for relaxation and hosting. Enjoy a modern, fully equipped kitchen, a cozy TV room, and stunning views from the balcony. Ideal location near key amenities and transport links.

🛏️ 3 Bedrooms 🚽 4 Bathrooms 🚗 1 Parking Space 🍳 Modern Open Kitchen 👚 Utility Room 🌆 City & Mountain Views 🔗 Explore this property

🌟 Exceptional Fully Renovated Apartment in “La 70” / Laureles

Perfect for urbanites, this fully renovated two-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment spans 44m2 on the 10th floor, offering panoramic views and modern amenities. Positioned near bustling bars and the Estadio Metro station, it provides both comfort and convenience.

🛏️ 2 Bedrooms 🚽 1 Bathroom 🚗 1 Parking Space 📺 TVs in Each Room 🌐 High-Speed Internet 🔒 24-Hour Security 🔗 Explore this property

Explore Our Featured Rentals in Laureles

🌟  spacious apartment in laureles with air conditioning, views, desk, bbq.

Located in the Primer Parque area, this 108 m2 apartment offers luxurious living with three bedrooms, each with individual climate control, Smart TVs, and private bathrooms. The 11th-floor balcony provides stunning city views, complemented by a BBQ grill for entertaining.

• 🛏️ 3 Bedrooms
• 🚽 3 Bathrooms
• 🖥️ Smart TVs in Each Room
• 🌐 WIFI & Workspace
• 🔥 BBQ Grill on Balcony
• 🔗  Explore this property

🏢  Renovated One-Bedroom in Laureles with Air Conditioning and Stunning Views

This 31 m2 refurbished apartment features modern conveniences in a compact space, perfect for individuals or couples. Enjoy the ease of a smart layout with a bedroom that has AC, stunning views, a SmartTV, and a full bathroom.

• 🛏️ 1 Bedroom
• 🚽 1 Bathroom
• 🌤️ Air Conditioning

Whether you’re dancing the night away on La 70 or enjoying a quiet coffee in one of the many serene spots, Laureles offers a rich, diverse lifestyle that’s hard to match. We invite you to explore this vibrant neighborhood with us and discover why it’s not just cool—it’s the coolest. Join us in celebrating the local culture, community, and the countless opportunities that await in Laureles.

🌐 Visit us to explore more about Laureles and other exciting real estate opportunities in Medellín. Let’s make opportunities happen together!

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Laureles: The world’s coolest neighborhood for 2023 by ‘Time Out’ is in Medellín, Colombia

We are proud to announce that Laureles has been classified as the coolest neighborhood in the world , in the first place of a long list of worldwide places that Time Out Global Magazine  launches every year.

Photo by Bureau Medellin .

Photograph: Light House Cinema .

Photo by David Spence del Valle/Shutterstock

Laureles, a neighborhood once popular among retirees , is now gaining popularity among digital nomads . Entrepreneurs , investors , and foreigners are attracted to the area, seeking a comfy lifestyle filled with adventure, peace, and opportunities. Medellin has transformed into a desirable city , attracting remote workers who want to experience Colombian culture while working.

Other places in Colombia offer incredible nightlife and weekend activities. Still, Laureles and other neighborhoods, such as El Poblado , are now the centers of digital nomadism . With a vast infrastructure composed of co-livings and hostels with all the amenities needed by remote employees and entrepreneurs , streets full of colombian and international restaurants , a variety of coworking places with the best internet service to execute activities or create content, and a great offer of visas to choose , Laureles and all the city of Medallo are great options to visit and live in Colombia for months, or even for years.

Laureles is the best place to live in Medellin

In Medellin and Colombia, there are a lot of neighborhoods and towns that are eligible as an option to live if you want to experience something new, but Laureles surpasses all of them , not only for its low-cost lifestyle and affordable rentals but also for its wonderful climate and dynamic lifestyle. In Laureles, every day can be different for you. One day, you can work from a rooftop with a large city view; the other, you can work from a coworking cafeteria with the best colombian coffee and delicious desserts .

• Restaurants

Coffee shops

Hospitality.

There are many things you can do if you live there. On weekends, you can opt to go near Medellín to great places like Guatapé , Jardín , San Vicente, Jericó , or any other wonderful village. If you like the city’s activities more, you will find many things to do inside Medellín to enjoy the colombian culture. Museums , restaurants , sports events , and concerts.

Laureles: Everything in just one place

Laureles is located in Comuna 11 , in the city’s western center, and connected with other unique places. That’s why you can get to any place in Medellin from there. Even if you want to go to any place in the center of town , go on a tour around Comuna 13 , or go outside of the city, you can go easily from Laureles.

Although it is a great and quiet place to live and work, the nightlife in Laureles is very attractive for all kinds of people. With many restaurants to get amazing dinners, bars, and dancing clubs to have fun, or only if you want to go on a walk with friends, this is a safe place to enjoy the nightlife of Medellin. 

And related to the cost of living, Laureles is a premium neighborhood with a low-cost lifestyle. You can find single accommodation options for one person or unfurnished, furnished apartments and houses for a couple or an entire family with all the necessary amenities. Public services, food, and the internet are very cheap, and the quality of life can be increased with the minimum investment.

Bring your laptop and work from anywhere in Laureles

Laureles is ideal for digital nomads who are looking for a place where they can work, live, and have fun at the same time. With only a Digital Nomad Visa , remote workers can stay in Colombia for a long time. They’ll have access to a lot of options, such as co-livings, hotels, and hostels with entire floors and spaces dedicated to coworking activities.

There are a vast and active digital nomad community. You can access a great offer of valuable events to make new friends and establish new relations in your business area. It can be advantageous because it can open new opportunities to know people from all over the world in just one place.

The educational offer is more significant, too. You can study languages or any other courses with bilingual teachers in Laureles or the nearest neighborhoods of Medellín. If you want to live in Colombia for a while and study here, you can opt for a student visa and continue your studies here without leaving your job or business.

A complete offer of internal and international transportation

Compared with other countries or even many colombian cities , the transportation in Medellín is one of the best. You can get to Laureles by Metro B Line and Metro Plus O line. Those are near and cover some zones of the neighborhood. The metro connects it with all the city. Other public transportation options are very accessible and cheap, and the cost of taxis is lower than in cities like Bogotá .

The strategic location of Medellín in Colombia makes access easy to any region of the country. If you choose Laureles as your next destination, you will not only enjoy the beautiful things of Medellin and Antioquia, but you will also be able to discover all the wonderful things that Colombia has to offer with just one or two hours by plane .

The best thing about this place is that it’s near the Olaya Herrera International Airport and the José Maria Cordoba International Airport . You can go from the airport to your new home quickly after arriving in Medellin. Even if you choose to travel inside of Colombia or if you are a frequent traveler who visits various countries for work or pleasure, choose Laureles as your base, which can give you freedom and facilities to maintain your nomadic lifestyle without losing your stability.

Medellin Guru Guides

Download the guide Colombia: a must-see destination from ProColombia with helpful information about Medellín and Colombia.

How to enjoy Laureles?

As you can see, Laureles is definitely a neighborhood that accommodates all tastes, ages, and preferences.

You will find an extensive and desirable gastronomic offer, with restaurants specializing in not only local food but also Mexican, Asian, Argentinian, Peruvian, and Italian food, among many others, where you will not know which one to choose, so to help you, we leave you here our latest guide that brings together the 20 best restaurants in Laureles . 

In addition to delicious food, it has spaces to enjoy just a good coffee. Of course, you can have a Starbucks while working on your laptop or meeting with a friend, but we share here our complete guide on where to find good coffee: 8 top Laureles Coffee Shops . We invite you to tour them and tell us which you liked the most.

Furthermore, in Laureles, you can find all types of businesses to meet your needs. You even have a Shopping Center at your disposal: Unicentro . This shopping center has cinemas, a supermarket, a gym, clothing, shoes, and accessory stores for you, your home, pets, technology, restaurants, and much more.

Laureles also has a place for dancing, enjoyment, and nightlife along Popular Avenue 70. It also houses the Atanasio Girardot Stadium, the main stadium in the city and one of the most important in Colombia; it is also a place that has brought together thousands of people around different events and concerts of an international nature.

Even so, it not only has a place for a busy life and adventure but also has very quiet spaces, which even encourage walks through its shady streets thanks to the numerous trees and low traffic flow. 

We could continue listing things to do in Laureles. Still, we encourage you to discover it yourself and fall in love with the coolest neighborhood in the world.

Find more information about Laureles

At Medellin Guru, we have written valuable content over the years. Here, we share the list of all our articles related to Laureles. They will surely be helpful to you:

• The ultimate guide to Laureles for Expats living in Laureles .
• Pros and Cons of Laureles: A popular neighborhood for expats in Medellín .
• El Poblado vs Laureles: Wich is the better neighborhood to live in?
• 20 Best Restaurants in Laureles in Medellin – Updated 2023 .
• 8 Top Laureles Coffee Shops: Where to find good coffee .
• Unicentro: A guide to the Most Popular Mall in Laureles .
• Mercado del Parque: A gastronomic market in Laureles .
• District 1: A Vietnamese restaurant reopens in Laureles .
• Popular restaurants in Laureles with domicilio (Delivery) .
• Salud Pan: A popular restaurant in Laureles with good healthy food .
• Café Cliché: A popular French Café in Laureles with good food .
• Medellín Burger Company: A popular burger restaurant in Laureles .
• Opera: A popular pizzeria in Laureles, Medellín with good pizza .
• Toro Restaurante: A popular steak house in Laureles, Medellín .
• Starbucks in Medellín Opens Sixth Coffee Shop in Laureles .

Digital Nomads

From our posts, we leave you some helpful articles about Digital Nomads.

• How to obtain a Colombia Digital Nomad Visa.
• Why Medellín is a perfect place for digital nomads
• Why Medellin? 27 Reasons I Choose To Live In Medellín.
• Top 20 Tourist Attractions in Colombia: Top Things To Do.
• Popular Colombian Visas for Foreigners: Which visa is the most popular?
• 37 Top Things To Do In Medellín and Nearby: Top Tourist Attractions .
• 3 Best Cities to live as a Digital Nomad in Colombia .
• Medellin VS Cartagena: Which is the Best City To Live In?
•  Medellín VS Bogotá: Which is The Best City To Live In?

The Botton Line: Laureles: The world’s coolest neighborhood for 2023 by 'Time Out' is in Medellín, Colombia

Laureles, crowned the coolest neighborhood in the world by  Time Out Global Magazine , has rapidly transformed from a retiree’s haven to an enticing hub for digital nomads, entrepreneurs, investors, and adventurers.

With a unique blend of modernity and tradition, Laureles offers a dynamic lifestyle, a thriving community of remote workers, and many amenities for a comfortable and affordable living experience. Beyond the charm of co-living spaces, international dining, and top-notch coworking facilities, Laureles presents diverse cultural, recreational, and educational opportunities.

Its strategic location and excellent transportation options allow you to explore not only the beauty of Medellín and Antioquia but the entire richness of Colombia. Whether you seek the excitement of nightlife or the serenity of shaded streets, Laureles caters to all tastes, making it an unparalleled choice for those seeking a unique Colombian adventure.

Come and discover the world’s coolest neighborhood: Laureles.

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Why Chapinero is the Best Place to Stay in Bogotá, Colombia

The response to my piece  Bogotá is the #1 tourist destination in Colombia ranged from regional patriotism to flat out denial and disbelief. Despite the city’s 465 tourist attractions, the city has had a major marketing problem.

If you stay in Bogotá near the Parque 93, and take an Uber to a Gold Museum on a grey day, chances are you will scoff at comparisons to Berlin or London. Bogotá requires commitment, pavement pounding, local interaction and local advice to truly experience the best things to do in Bogotá .

Guide books can barely do the city justice. Here’s the thing, I don’t envy the guys at in the IDT Bogotá marketing department , because the most interesting parts of Bogotá are everything that happens in between the tourist attractions, and that is difficult to describe.

They have made a couple attempts at capturing the essence of Bogotá, including the 2013 Infinite Possibilities music video , that feels like a bohemian, Macklemore music video and Surpass Your Expectations video in 2015 that is actually pretty good, but comes across a bit too clean shaven.

It turns out the best place to stay to experience Bogotá properly, is also in between all of the tourist attractions, Chapinero. In particular Chapinero Central & Chapinero Alto. Here’s why you should reconsider staying in La Candelaria.

About 95% of the best things to do in Bogotá are located in this triangle of stars. Don’t sit in traffic or limit yourself to experiencing Bogotá from just one of these zones. You are going to need to travel across major sections of the megacity to see the most interesting areas. Centrality is king.

Star 1: Parque 93 (Fine dining, luxury shopping), Zona Rosa (Zona T, Andino, Calle 85 Nightlife, Andres DC ), Zona G (Gourmet Restaurant District), Financial Center (Calle 72)

Star 2: Centro (Plaza Bolivar, Museo del Oro, Museums, Galleries, Commerce), La Candelaria (Backpacker mecca, Museo de Botero, Colonial neighborhood), La Candelaria (Backpacker Mecca, Museo de Botero, Colonial neighborhood), Monserrate (Church & Lookout towering above Bogotá), Centro Internacional (Modern, urbanized, financial hub), La Macarena (Bohemian, restaurants, local)

Star 3: Salitre (Residential, upper middle class neighborhood), El Dorado Airport, Corferias Conference Center, Calle 26 Multinational business parks. US Embassy

Regardless if you get around by cheap taxis, the Transmilenio or Uber, Chapinero will position you the best place geographically and logistically in Bogotá. Why stay in a hotel when you can get your own  furnished apartment in Bogotá and live like a local for 30% less than a hotel.

It’s trending

Vegetarian restaurants, Head shops, indie Coffee shops, Colombian-grown organic markets, a metric ton of student bars, urban fashion boutiques, culturally adventurous live gig bars / restaurants , Theatron the largest open-minded, LGBT club in South America and Video Club, an ultra-cool electronic club are all just a fraction of the Chapinero scene which is rich in entrepreneurial spirit and experimental, new wave products & services.

Just one example (plenty more in our locals guide to Bogotá ), Matik-Matik is a culturally independent events space in a refurbished garage that has held 650 alternative music events & performances.

Sure, if your budget is high-end and your style is traditionally refined, position yourself on Parque 93, or Parque Virrey, but as in many Latin American cities, their first attempt of luxury in a globalized world, usually feels a bit too… foreign.

The park-side locales of Parque 93 are now occupied by some local chains and Carls Jr, Starbucks, McDonalds, Renault Cafe and a shopping mall. In my opinion, it is one of the most over-rated areas to stay in Bogotá. Chapinero has been a quiet breeding zone for edgier, local entrepreneurs setting up shop in unique, unconventional spaces.

A restaurant with 3 chefs, and one table , modern Colombian fusion cuisine , one the last big tejo clubs , the best  live music clubs , and full of places that exemplify the famous Bogotá nightlife . As Colombia goes mainstream, and the current foreigner hotspots go tourist-centric & cookie-cutter, Chapinero may be the best place to experience authentic modern Colombian culture.

Why not eat fried chicken everyday? Why not have friends that think exactly the way you do? Why not marry your sister? Because humans need diversity. We learn and grow stronger from it. It’s the sole reason why North Korea shuts down communication to the outside world. Foreign ideas evolve our thinking.

Chapinero is known as the Locality of Positive Diversity . It is not just the LGBT community that chooses to stay in Chapinero , it is a colorful selection of Colombians from all over the country, filled with characters and stories to spice up any visit to the corner bakery.

And its not just the people, the architecture is a mix of styles built by the well educated  Cachacos who traveled to Europe and the rest of the world, bringing back blueprints for magnificent country houses to be situated in estates between the old Centro and the village of Usaquen. Today the area is being redefined once again.

The restaurants are experimental, the people are alive, the streets are unpredictable, and 45% of the official locality of Chapinero is like this.

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These Are the World's Coolest Neighborhoods

Colombia must be feeling pretty cool right now.

Edinson Arroyo/Bloomberg via Getty Images

Laureles, a college-centric neighborhood in the middle of Medellin , Colombia , should be feeling pretty good about itself right about now. Because it was also just named the "coolest neighborhood in the world," according to Time Out readers. 

Time Out revealed the findings from its annual survey, which asked 12,000 “city dwellers” to share their favorite neighborhoods around the globe. And out of the 40 coolest neighborhoods to make the list, Laureles came out on top. “The laid-back but still quintessentially Colombian patch of this animated city is a renowned nightlife hotspot – but also a place to flock to for great parks, coffee, and yoga studios,” Time Out shared in its findings . 

As for the rest of the top 10 neighborhoods, a whopping five can be found in Europe, including second and third-place finishers Smithfield, located in Dublin, Ireland, and Carabanchel in Madrid, Spain. 

“Historic pubs sit alongside trendy new businesses, and at the end of August each year is a two-day celebration of all things local and Irish,” Time Out wrote about Smithfield. As for  Carabanchel, it made it in the top three thanks to its “swanky new modern artist collectives meet traditional tapas restaurants” and for being the “home to creatives and locals who have lived there for decades.”

Rounding out the top 10 are Havnen in Copenhagen, Denmark; Sheung Wan in Hong Kong; Brunswick East in Melbourne, Australia; Mid-City in New Orleans; Isola in Milan, Italy; West in Amsterdam, Netherlands, and Tomigaya in Tokyo, Japan.

“What stands out with this year’s Time Out Coolest Neighbourhoods is that, while most of them have seen transformation over recent years, they remain resolutely local-at-heart,” Grace Beard, the travel editor at Time Out, shared in a statement obtained by Travel + Leisure . “Exciting new openings across culture, food, and drink are bringing in new crowds, but neighborhood stalwarts — from old pubs to family greengrocers — keep it real. And they’re fun! These are places where the city comes to play, be it an all-night party, a spot of urban fishing, or a nighttime bike ride. After a few tumultuous years, it’s heartening to see communities coming together to hang out, support local businesses, and have some fun.” 

Want to see if your favorite neighborhood made the cut? Check out the full list of winners at timeout.com . 

• Laureles Medellin: Culture And Nightlife Within Walking Distance

Moving to Colombia is an experience that checks every box for any digital nomad. Medellin is a city that offers stunning mountain views of the Andes from practically anywhere you are—and there’s a lot to see and do around town. Laureles, Medellin is a destination for many expats and digital nomads passing by, but why?

Laureles Medellin is considered a quiet part of town that is within walking distance of vibrant nightlife, eateries, shopping, and cultural activities. Move to Laureles if you want to stay for a longer stretch of time but don’t want to miss out on the club scene and other activities.

We’ll cover everything you need to know about the Northwest side of Medellin, including the various reasons you should consider moving there as an expat. Even if you’re just stopping by, we think Laureles, Medellin is a great place to stay as a digital nomad.

Why Should You Move To Laureles Medellin?

Laureles is a residential area that is pretty close to the hustle and bustle of city life (literally within walking distance). This makes it a perfect choice for expats whether they are moving to Colombia with families or not. You can work during the day and enjoy the serenity of a calm neighborhood while still being a few minutes away from all the fun. 

Another reason people like this neighborhood is the walkability—there are very few streets that go uphill so it’s pretty easy to walk around the area. That’s a great way to reduce your carbon footprint while enjoying Medellin the way the locals do. It’s also a great area for cyclists.

Because this barrio is mainly upper-middle class, it’s considered one of the safer areas in Columbia. However, we’d like to point out that you’ll probably need to speak Spanish well to get by in this neighborhood. That’s a good thing too! You’ll get the full Columbian experience by socializing with the locals.

Activities And Things To Do Laureles Medellin

Living in Laureles, Medellin opens up the opportunity for digital nomads and tourists to participate in a variety of activities. Being surrounded by very busy neighborhoods is not the only perk of living in this area. You’ll find many co-working spaces which are perfect for most nomads, but here are a few fun things to do on your time off:

As you admire the colorful buildings while walking along the green avenues of Laureles, you’ll probably want to explore the local culture. Visit the Teatro Barra del Silencio, a silent theater that will blow your mind even though it’s a mime act. 

Digital nomads also like to visit Naturalia Cafe for live music for brunch on the weekends—you’ll find some of the best local musicians playing here.

For an art and culture experience, we recommend that you visit Fundación Aburrá in Laureles Medellin. It is a museum that showcases thousands of art pieces from the indigenous peoples of Antioquia. 

You won’t find many clubs and bars all over Laureles, but right in the center of the neighborhood is La Setenta (Carrera 70) which is a long stretch of bars, cafes, and nightclubs. At the end of La 70 you’ll find the Pontifical Bolivarian University (UPB), and then another avenue (Avenida 33) of vibrant nightlife.

Our favorite for rock n’ roll is Pub Rock 33 , which you can find on Avenida 33. However, we recommend bar hopping because there are many great spots all within walking distance of each other. 

Within about a mile you can reach a sports complex with two stadiums, a baseball field, a basketball arena, and more. Soccer is the national sport and you can expect the entire Estadio area to be full of excited fans before and after a match. 

Even if you’re not a die-hard soccer fan, it’s worth it to take a walk down to the Estadio area to join the locals just to feel the energy of the city when the local teams are playing against each other. 

Best Restaurants In Laureles Medellin

Note: This blog has been updated August 23, 2022. Several of the restaurants on our list have been negatively affected by Covid-19 and may either be temporarily or permanently closed. If you have any information to the contrary, please let us know in the comments below!

The food scene in Laureles, Medellin is mouth-watering, to say the least. Whether you’re craving international cuisine, American cuisine, Colombian, or other Latin-American cuisines—it’s all available in and around Laureles. Here are some of the best restaurants in Laureles:

• J&C Delicias: (Temporarily Closed): The best arepas in town. If you’re willing to explore a variety of toppings, this is the place to go. It’s a staple in Colombian cuisine for a good reason. Try the shrimp arepas, you won’t regret it. 
• Mondongo’s: For more typical Colombian dishes you’ll want to visit Mondongo’s. Don’t skip some of their more bizarre foods such as their Mondongo soup—that’s made of diced tripe (cow stomach). It’s worth a try and you might even come back for seconds.
• Barbaro Cocina Primitiva: There are more than a few steakhouses in Medellin, and many are in Laureles as well. Barbaro is our top choice because of its passion for cooking meats using different slow cooking methods.
• Caduff Pasta Fresca: Italian food is very popular in Laureles, and the competition is fierce. Caduff Pasta uses fresh ingredients, even making its own pasta. Try their lasagna, and you won’t regret it. They also sell fresh pasta. 
• Barbacoa Burger & Beer: (Temporarily Closed): When you’re craving a big juicy burger or other American food, this place hits the spot. Some might even argue that their burgers are better than some of the restaurants in the States. 
• Full Arabe: This was by far our go-to restaurant. We lived across the street from here and fell in love with the food. The sampler platter, pictured below, was a great sampling of all of their dishes, each of which was delicious.

Why Choose Laureles Medellin Over El Poblado

You’re more likely to hear about El Poblado from the expat community, but Laureles is arguably a better choice for many digital nomads. If you’re more interested in nightlife, El Poblado may be a more logical choice. Choosing Laureles is recommended because you can have your cake and eat it too—everything is nearby but you don’t need to sleep next door to a nightclub.

Move to Laureles, Medellin with your family or on your own as a digital nomad. You’ll get a laid-back experience of Colombia and a taste of eternal spring. If after reading this you think Laurales may not be for you, check out our list of other neighborhoods in Medellin for expats and digital nomads.

Anne Kamel is a content writer at Word Brokers, LLC that is passionate about writing informative articles about a wide array of topics. She is also a long-form content writer, specializing in travel, food, and technology.

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Laureles / Estadio: The Next Poblado

About a month ago, if you were living or staying in the Laureles/Estadio comuna, you probably heard the noise.

Atlético Nacional, maybe the country’s most popular club fútbol team, returned from Bogotá, Liga Postobón title in hand, ready to celebrate with the hometown fans. The party raged until 5 in the morning.

This is the kind of rumba scene synonymous with Parque Lleras, but lately Laureles/Estadio has been making a case for the best place to live in Medellín.

I ranked it the No. 1 in Medellín in a story earlier this year, and while I love Belén , I’ve come to love Envigado, and I’m starting to love La America, at this point I’ll still leave Laureles/Estadio in the top spot.

The pretty meandering streets have almost anything you could want, from entertainment to food to trendy places to live.

I’ll tell you more about all that here.

History of Laureles / Estadio

If you go to the museum at Pueblito Paisa in Belén, you’ll see some maps and blueprints.

They’re the plans for Laureles.

You can see the area more than 60 years ago, when German urban architect Karl Brunner teamed with famous paisa artist Pedro Nel Gomez to create a unique area of Medellín.

A lot of the city, if you look on a map, is a grid. Calles (streets) go east-west, Carreras (avenues) go north-south.

Laureles is nothing like this. Just look at the area bordered to the west by Carrera 80, to the east by Autopista highway, to the north by the San Juan (Calle 44), and to the south by Calle 33.

There are circulars and tranversals, snaking through the area to form a labyrinth for first-time visitors. I remember getting lost here all the time when I first moved to the area.

Gomez designed the neighborhood this way because he used to study art in Italy and he wanted to replicate the layout of the some of residential areas he saw while he was there.

Get outside the box, where you find the Laureles, Bolivariana, San Joaquin and Conquistadores neighborhoods, and the streets return to more of a normal grid.

Points of Interest

The comuna is the home of the city’s professional fútbol stadium, Atanasio Girardot , where both Atlético Nacional and Independiente Medellin play matches.

The stadium is 60 years old and its name comes from the man who played an important role in helping liberator Simón Bolívar free Colombia from Spanish rule.

But maybe the best part about the stadium is the area outside it, the recreational quarters open to the public such as basketball courts, swimming pools , a skate park , even rooms for dance and fencing.

They even offer free entrance for certain activities on specific days.

Right next to the stadium is Estación Estadio, one of two stops on the Metro line in the comuna. The other is next to the Suramericana neighborhood.

If you’re looking to relax, a nice place is Primer Parque Laureles, where the giant trees shade you from the tropical rain or vibrant sun.

The Laureles/Estadio area is also popular with foreigners taking Spanish classes , due to its proximity to  Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana  (UPB).

After Poblado, Laureles probably has your most diverse eating options.

You can find Italian at Il Massimo or Pomo d’ Oro , Mexican at Milagros or Orale, and sushi and Sushi House, Sushi Light and Sushi Market.

There are also numerous places for comida típica, such as Mondongos , to give you a taste of Colombia.

If you just want a snack , there are several places for that too.

La 70 is already popular among the city’s many nightlife districts.

This section of Carrera 70, between Estación Estadio and Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana, is lined with bars and restaurants.

The most famous is probably El Tibiri , the basement salsa club that almost every local knows. New places such as Oye Bonita and La Tienda de 70 draw quite a crowd too.

But the best club is probably Son Havana , at Calle 44A and Carrera 73. It’s a salsa place with great energy.

For a more laid-back night, with maybe just a few beers or some live music, head to the north side of Calle 33 where bars such as Underground and Wamba provide these alternatives.

Shopping Malls

The best and biggest is Unicentro , where you can find almost anything you want, including a movie theater.

Mall Laureles is another option if you’re near Carrera 80, while there’s Centro Comercial Guadalajara at Calle 50 north of the stadium, or the Multicine Carrefour shopping center next to Estación Suramericana.

You should be able to find almost anything you need in one of those places.

Safety in Laureles/Estadio

One of the first things someone told me about Laureles is, “The streets get lonely late at night. Be careful.”

The twists and turns make it easy for crooks to escape, especially on motorcycles.

That said, it’s very safe most of the time. It’s like anywhere else. Use common sense , blah, blah, blah, I’ve said it so many times on this blog I don’t think it bears repeating.

One funny story: I remember when I used to walk through Primer Parque Laureles, and there would be kids smoking weed and looking at me hard like I was trespassing, but even that was more a comedic nuisance than a threat — at least it was for me, because I never planned to report those kids so I always got a laugh out of their stares.

Someone apparently did, though, because police now monitor the park, to make sure no one is intimidated.

One note: If you’re going home from a night out at Son Havana, take a taxi. That area is especially lonely, making for easy crime.

Cost of Living

It’s not cheap here.

If you’re planning to stay long-term, and to furnish your own apartment, you’ll save money. You’ll do the same if you find someone renting out a room.

But for the people staying short term, people who want their own furnished place that includes your utilities and Internet, you’re going to pay for it.

It’s not unusual for a one-bedroom apartment like that to cost 1.4 million pesos ($740) per month.

Before you shout, “Gringo prices!” let’s review something.

You’re living in one of the best parts of the city, where you have every amenity you could want, arguably even more than in Poblado. And the apartment owner, who furnished the place, turned on the electricity, gas and water, and threw in the cable, phone and Internet, didn’t waive a magic wand to make it happen.

All of that cost money and is considered a service provided. In fact, good luck trying to get Claro or Une to hook up your internet if you don’t have a cédula (a Colombian ID card).

So to sum up….

Laureles/Estadio is nice. It’s full of things to do. And it’s quite safe.

No wonder it’s growing in popularity.

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39 COMMENTS

Great info, thanks. Is there a way you guys can write an article about La Estrella please? It was recommended to me by a paisa and thru youtube I can see it looks nice, very green landscapes and near Medellín. It even has a tube st. Thanks!

Yep, I wrote about it here http://medellinliving.com/la-estrella/

What do you mean by “tube st?”

Tube st. = metro stop

Sorry, I can see that you have written about it. Thanks.

I love Envigado as well. Went to a restaurant called Donde Gloria and it was so cheap and tasty

Sorry this statement is wrong from this blog post — “good luck trying to get EPM to turn your lights on if you don’t have a cédula (an ID)”.

You actually don’t need an ID for EPM services for electric, water and gas in a rented apartment in Medellín. These services are billed to an address (the apartment owner) and the rental contract will require the tenant to pay the bill. I know this from experience as I have been renting unfurnished apartments in Medellín now for more than three years – in both Estadio and Belén. The EPM bill is not in my name and I didn’t need a cédula to set it up — electric, water and gas was already turned on in apartments I rented and I simply started to pay the bill each month that was sent to the apartment address. However, you will need a Colombian cédula to set up Internet/phone services with Claro or UNE.

And while I like Laureles/Estadio, I sincerely doubt it will ever be like El Poblado. I lived in Estadio for a year and see it as more of a working class neighborhood like Belén. I think it is unlikely to ever be like El Poblado because Laureles/Estadio has no estrato 6 areas (which are only found in El Poblado). And I believe Unicentro may be located in Belén as I previously rented an apartment in Fatima in Belén a few blocks from Unicentro.

Great post! I live in Laureles (neighbourhood) and to me it the best place in Medellin (together with some parts of Belen). What I especially like is that it is plane which makes it nice to walk around (during the day). Lots of things to do here and lots of nice place are opening around Avenida Jardin.

My wife and I plan to move to Laureles summer 2014. She is from Cartagena. We will rent for six months, then decide if Medellin is where we want to live. We chose Laureles because, as I understand it, El Poblado is hilly and Laureles is flat. We want to live somewhere that is walkable. Can someone suggest an area in Laureles? How about near Los Molinos mall?

Yes, Poblado runs from the valley floor up the mountains, with apartments getting more expensive the higher up you go (and around Parque Lleras). Laureles is on the valley floor, so yes, it’s flat.

If you haven’t already, look up “Laureles, Medellin – Antioquia, Colombia” in Google Maps to see an outline of the district. The streets between the 1st and 2nd Parques de Laureles are filled with restaurants and cafes, many of them having started out first in Poblado and now opened up shop in Laureles. It’s also an area with lots of big trees lining the streets. Downside is it’s a 15-20 minute walk to the nearest metro station, though you can take a bus for under $1.

Living by Estadio (soccer stadium) is good or bad, depending on how much you like soccer, and the associated noise and commotion that goes along with the games. Upside is you’re closer to the metro station, and La 70 (a street with lots of little bars and clubs).

Be careul anyone visiting Colombia en general, I live in the States but visit family every year. This is not as safe as you may think, Poblado Medellin is full of thieves watching the right opportunity to rob you.

A few points….

The ‘kids’ smoking weed in the park would be the first to help should anything happen, having them there is a good thing. They’ve gone from our park now because they all got robbed and now no one uses the park at night – shame.

The problem with renting independently (rather than ‘gringo prices’) isn’t the services it’s that almost everyone needs at least 1 “fijador con propiedad raiz” (Guarantor with their own property). Unless you’ve someone willing to help you’re going to have problems. There are a few ways around it using a 3rd party but the deposit they hold is ridiculous. On top of that the concept of furnished apartments is pretty much unheard of.

Contrary to what you may see on ‘la 70’ on match day, living in Estadio/San Ignacio is a bit of a nightmare due to the football fans. They come down from the ‘popular’ barrios in groups robbing and generally causing trouble. We’ve seen so many incidents it’s stupid. All of them taking something and half of them armed (blanca). It’d be ok once a month or something but depending on the season it can be various times a week. We’ve lived in the area for 3 years and although the Police presence has increased recently we’re now looking for alternatives. All the residents in the area are sick of them, they are a tarnish on an otherwise pleasant barrio.

Everywhere has it’s up’s and downs and in general it is a nice place to live.

I have a girlfriend that lives and Medellin and she tells me that Laureles is not safe for foreigners. She says that Laureles is full of thieves. Can you comment on this? I am wanting to move to Medellin and am open minded about the area but she will not even consider Laureles as a safe area for me to live.

This is the first I’ve heard such strong words against Laureles.

I’ve heard just as many robbery stories over the years from Poblado as Laureles, Estadio and Belen.

The fact is thieves go anywhere they want in the city, but an issue unique to that area is the soccer stadium. It attracts kids and thieves who come down and cause trouble during or after the big matches. That’s part of why I wouldn’t live near the stadium itself.

But the area around Park 1 and 2 of Laureles is safe as far as I know.

Where does she suggest, Poblado?

Correct, she suggests Poblado. Do you have personal experience of living in Laureles? Or frequently visiting at night? Do you know expats or other foreigners living in Laureles? Just trying to gather as much information as possible. Thanks. p.s. I have visited Medellin several times and traveled around the city with my girlfriend but have always stayed in Poblado, which is a wonderful area. I will be back in Medellin the middle of May.

I’ve never lived in Laureles myself, but Ryan, who wrote the article has as well as many friends of mine do prefer it over Poblado. I have spent a lot of time there at night. We’ve had quite a few reader meetups at restaurants in Laureles, and I’ve gone out dancing often on La 70 over the years.

My friend Marcello at http://wanderingtrader.com recently bought an apartment there. Feel free to contact him through his blog to get his take.

I was talking to another friend who’s lived in Estadio/Laureles, and is looking to buy something now. He’s learned recently that real estate prices are now higher in Laureles than Poblado as more are looking to buy there since the collapse of the Space building in Poblado last year.

Not to scare you, but plenty of people get robbed in Poblado too. It’s a risk that comes with living in a city, especially one in Latin America. Safety should certainly be a factor in making your decision, but I don’t think it should be the only one.

Thanks for the information. It would be difficult for you to scare me. I presently live in Houston, Texas and there are many places in Houston that are not safe day or night. Even in the best neighborhoods you can be a victim of crime. I feel my fiancee is being overly protective but what can you do? I would like for her to be a little more open minded about areas in Medellin outside of Poblado.

Switching topics a little, I have been looking on the internet at apartment prices and notice a vary wide variance in prices. I would like to find a two to three bedroom apartment, 1200 to 1800 square feet. What price range should I expect to pay for something like that? Not looking for exact quotes just want some idea of the price range compared to what I am seeing on the internet.

I love playing tennis and don’t want to spend a pile of $ to do it….what does it cost per hour in Laurales??

hey steve, that depends on what area outside poblado you are looking. laureles has gotten quite expensive over the last year. and it depends on whether or not you want a furnished or unfurnished place. give me more info and i’ll try to better answer your question…

At first, I am looking to rent an unfurnished apartment in the Poblado or Laureles area, 1200 square feet or more, two to three bedrooms. After I settle in I would like to find something to buy as a permanent residence. I was hoping that I could find a nice apartment to rent in the $750 to $1000 range and purchase in the $80,000 to $120,000 range. Can I find something nice and safe for this amount?

hey steve, can you send me your email through the medellin living facebook page inbox? it’ll be easier to exchange info that way…

I only drove through Laureles and ate lunch there but my impressions are backed up by a Colombian tour guide who lives there. Laureles appeared to be very quiet and private. I did not count one person in the parks we drove by. The place is empty because everyone seems to keep to themselves in their apartments. Does not seem to be much community. Also everything is very spaced out as opposed to everywhere else in Medellin where shops and streets are close and comfy. And as far as safety I was told point blank by my Colombian friend that they do not like Americans in the clubs in Laureles. He said it can be on the verge of dangerous even when keeping to yourself. He said Colombians prefer Americans do all their womanizing and partying in Poblado…. Oh, and also, don’t let the whole “centrally located” thing fool you, the traffic is the worst in the valley here. Sure it is near every other neighborhood but there are clog points to get out of Laureles which are like parking lots a lot of times.

I don’t go out as much as I use to, but when I have been to bars and clubs on La 70 in Estadio, I’ve never felt threatened or any ill will. Son Havana, a popular salsa bar, attracts lots of foreigners and is super friendly.

I think it’s unfair to suggest all businesses in an entire comuna of the city don’t like foreigners, based on what a single Colombian friend told you. I know for sure that many restaurants and bars appreciate foreigners coming in and spending money.

The irony of Colombians saying they prefer foreigners do their womanizing in Poblado is beyond me. Colombian men have a terrible reputation amongst the women for cheating. And it’s a two-way street.

There’s no doubt traffic can be terrible in Laureles, Kevin, just like anywhere else in the valley. But I disagree with your other observations.

I’ve lost count how many times I’ve gone to a club in Laureles and random Colombians I had never met talked to me, asked me to do a shot with them, asked me to dance with everyone in their group, did just about everything they could to make me feel welcome.

Like Dave, I don’t go out as much anymore. But when I walk around during the day, I witness that sense of community you feel the area is lacking. Sure, there are people who stay in their apartments and don’t socialize as much. But I always see people out and about in Laureles, except maybe on Sundays and holidays, when people are out of town, at church, shopping, etc.

I hope you give Laureles another chance. I think you’ll be happy you did 🙂

Great discussions guys. We’re visiting Medellin for the first time in Dec/Jan. We thought we might want to change from a detached house we now have to an El Poblado high rise, but we’re now intrigued with all the info. about Laureles. It seems that there is more chance to have a single house there. Is that true? Thanks…I’m really liking this site.

I am just moving to Medellin next week to live in the city after 12 years in Cartagena. My step-kids have rented an apartment in Laureles for the last five years and on numerous visits I have seen continuous improvement to the neighbourhood. It was our free choice of where to buy property and Laureles won out over Poblado chiefly because of pedestrian mobility- Restaurants, bars and supermarkets are all accessible on foot. Also the place feels pretty secure to me.

Me again. I’ve lived in different U.S. and British cities…large and small. I’m married now, but did most of that traveling as a single, ex-model, Black woman. My feeling has always been that there’s a lot to be said for your physical presence. When I’m out late, I look like I know where I’m going and am on a mission. I don’t stop to check my makeup or hang out phoning friends and I’m ALWAYS paying attention to my surroundings. And, despite loving my good wine, I’m NEVER out alone drunk or loaded. That goes for any place I’ve been to on the planet. I just think that’s now common sense whether you’re surrounded by houses, shops, high-rises or bushes. And I’ve never been mugged. Hope this doesn’t sound too negative. By for now!

Hi, I found this post really informative, as well as the other articles that are published on this site. Great website and please keep up the good work! I’m an Australian citizen and potentially looking at working in Colombia next year, either in Bogota or Medellin. This will sound like a really peculiar question… But being a tropical climate city, can anyone share what the insects/creepy crawly creatures are like in Medellin, and how much there are?! LOL… I have an embarrassingly terrible phobia of these so it’s something I’m curious about. Appreciate any comments, thanks 🙂

Hi, it’s Ryan, the author of this article. There are not a lot of bugs in Medellin compared to the lower-lying areas of the country, especially the Amazon, but Bogota probably has the fewest, due to its constantly crisp weather and high altitude (about 9,000 feet). Hope that helps…

Thanks Ryan. That does help. On a scale of 1-10, what number would you say the creepy creatures ratio is at in Medellin? And when you say “not a lot”, what does the ‘lot’ generally consist of? Spiders? Mosquitoes? Rats? Sorry to pick your brain 🙂

In my experience I haven’t seen any rats or spiders or mosquitoes in over 4 years living in Medellín. I have seen ants a few places outside and small cockroaches in a few apartments and a few times flies and bees. I can sleep with the windows open without screens.

On a scale of 1-10 creepy creatures ratio I would put Medellín on the low end, perhaps a 3.

Keep in mind Medellín is nearly a mile high city, like Denver, which is why Medellín has a pretty nice climate all year round. The city is known as the “city of eternal spring”, even though it is located about 430 miles from the equator.

Thank you for this helpful information, Jeff!

No problem. Well, the thing with Medellin is, it’s no longer the City of Eternal Spring. Because of climate change, it’s a lot hotter there now, so there are more mosquitoes, spiders, etc. It’s probably a 6 on a scale of 1-10. I prefer slightly cooler weather, so I moved to Bogotá this year. More jobs and better pay here too, and a much more international city as well…

I respectfully disagree. Medellín’s average annual temperature is 22 °C (72 °F), which is only a few degrees higher than the average spring time temperature for where I am from (Texas). I have been living in Medellín for over 4 years and the temperature really hasn’t changed much. The average temperature in Bogotá is 14.5 °C (58 °F)

It is currently 70 °F in Medellín and 63 °F currently in Bogotá. It’s supposed to drop to 48 °F tonight in Bogotá and 59 °F tonight in Medellín. I much prefer the weather in Medellín and for me it is near perfect temperature wise. I would rather see low 80’s in the day and nighttime in the low 60s that is common in Medellín than the mid-60s during the day and mid-40s at night that are common in Bogotá. I would need a heater at night in Bogotá.

Unfortunately I have to go to Bogotá next week on business for a week and dread it as it is colder with much worse traffic. Also Bogotá is located much higher than Medellín, it’s 8,660 feet above sea level (1.64 miles high), which is the height that altitude sickness can start to occur. When I go to Bogotá I normally get bad headaches for the first day or two and feel weak and tired until I adjust to the altitude.

True there are more jobs in Bogotá with better pay. But I have a job in the U.S. with location freedom so I can live where I want.

Jeff’s right about the average annual temperature. But the last two years in July and August were really hot, and both years in September were kind of muggy with all the rain. Even my friends, expats and locals, took note of this and complained often. Not sure what this July was like and I won’t find out about August either, but I consider that a blessing.

And I have no idea how Jeff has never seen any rats, spiders or mosquitoes, because I have seen my fair share. That said, Medellín is much better than a place like Asunción, but I see much less of those critters here in Bogotá.

The downside of Bogotá is the traffic and chaos, but I love big cities. Those things don’t bother me. And rush hour in Medellín is madness too.

As for the altitude, if you live in Bogotá, it won’t be a problem. But there is an adjustment. I went through it a couple of weeks ago, when I got back from Cuba.

And like Jeff, I have a location-independent job so I can live anywhere I want as well. But it sounds to me Candice that you’re looking for work here and considering the minimum wage in your country is about $17 an hour, you’d be better off looking for a job in Bogotá.

I have likely avoided seeing rats, spiders or mosquitoes by living in newer high-rise apartments in Medellín that aren’t located near standing water that attracts mosquitoes.

My average temperature in a couple places I have lived has been a bit lower than the average in Medellín due to being located higher up hills (in Loma de los Bernal in Belén and in Sabaneta) where I also have felt nice breezes that help keep it somewhat cooler during the day.

Hi Candice, my name is Greg. My wife and I lived in Medellin for eight months. Ryan is right; there aren’t a lot of bugs in Medellin, but there are a lot of moths at night. We rented a seventh-floor apartment. The windows in the apartment did not have screens, so if we were in a room at night with a light on, we closed the window to keep the moths out.

On the subject of climate, to me, the climate felt more mountain-like than tropical. While we were in Medellin, we did not experience any temperature above 30 or below 15 degrees C. Most of the time the humidity was low. Skies are usually partly to mostly cloudy. There are two rainy seasons, with occasional thunderstorms.

Been staying in Laureles for about a week now and LOVE it! There are so many fantastic restaurants here, and I love running around the Universidad, its exactly one mile!

Hi Everyone, My family and I are moving to Medellin next year, and along with all of the other concerns/questions you’ve all touched on, I also have questions about elementary/middle schooling. I have found a few outrageously priced American/British schools, but was looking for more moderately priced English/Spanish schools. My daughters have lived in small town China for the past 4 years and I REALLY don’t want to force them into an immersion situation again. Please help if you can,ay info or contacts would be appreciated. Thanks!

FEEDBACK ON SAFETY IN LAURELES/GENERAL STUFF

First, I realize many posts are quite old, but, since many readers might be viewing them still, I wanted to give some recent feedback on the issue of safety which was brought up more often than it need have been in my opinion.

During soccer (football) games, I avoid the area and I live here. I go out in the day and stay off the streets. Alot of hoods from out of the area come and with all the drinking, it’s the only time I had to get physical with someone and I was just walking along minding my business. That was 3 years ago.

Calle 70, where all the clubs and restaurants are consolidated runs right from the Metro to a traffic circle which has UniCentro on the other side. This street is heavily patrolled by police and the shop owners frown on criminals as it’s bad for business. Never seen anything bad happen here.

TONs of beggars and people trying to sell you stuff. Say Gracias and they generally will leave. My rule is 3 times, then I tell them to move along. Rarely a problem, but it is tiring to have the constant barrage. If you live here, after a couple weeks/one month, they leave you alone (unless you are stupid). Treat them with courtesy though. I have had some of the vendors, shoe shine guys and the like very much look out for me. Helping me find rooms, giving me the low down on prices etc. A couple weeks ago I had a drunk bothering me and I was getting pretty pissed off and 3 of them moved into position to help if there was a problem. More likely, they would have just ushered off the drunk. Fights here will get you arrested, regardless. And everyone has a cousin or friends you will have to deal with.

NORMAL EXPERIENCES

Unbelieveable kindness and friendliness. My Spanish is not horrible, I don’t ogle every girl or act like an idiot, dress conservatively and am polite with all the locals. I can’t tell you how many times I have been having a beer alone to have groups of people (even beautiful girls adn I am an ugly old dude) to their table. Old fashioned manners go a very long way here.

Many customer service workers here are not used to people asking them how they are doing. Please, thank you and the like. It goes a long way.

So I say the safety concerns are over rated from the posts on here. Having said that, I have been abroad for almost 17yrs now. One of the only reasons I don’t go to Bogota where I like the climate better is the friendliness and decency of the people here.

Finally, closing time is 0400 here. If you are out alone drinking that late (you are me sometimes as it’s hard to sleep if there’s a soccer game) you are either me, or unwise. Common sense people.

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An Honest Review of Salon Malaga

Neighborhood guides: Live like a local in Laureles, Medellín

17 Aug 2022

Medellín is a city that offers stunning mountain views of the Andes, from practically any direction. There are plenty of culture-packed destinations to visit around town, which is why this Colombian city is having a renaissance of sorts. It’s the Laureles neighborhood, however, that piqued our interest.

The Laureles barrio – neighborhood – has cemented itself as one of the best places to experience Medellín, as it offers lush, tree-lined streets in a sector crisscrossed by a few shady boulevards. Scattered along the streets, you’ll discover a welcoming selection of cafés, restaurants, galleries, and shops. Take note: this laid-back ‘hood is mainly locals, so we recommend perfecting your Spanish to get by here.

Here are our favorite spots:

Rituales Café No day in Colombia is complete without coffee, and Rituales Café is the perfect place to start. Just off Avenida Nutibara, the spot has mastered the specialty coffee vibe with a pour-over bar and photos of the farmers they source beans from displayed throughout the space. Established to support 40 families in La Sierra, one of the most troubled areas on the edge of the city, Rituales has been roasting its award-winning Paraiso brew since 2017.

Mondongo’s For authentic Colombian fare, head to Laureles-local favorite Mondongo’s. Without a doubt, it’s the most popular place for mondongo – a typically paisa soup, made from slow-cooked meat and vegetables – the namesake dish that's made its way to Miami via the restaurant’s third location. We highly recommend trying both the sopa and the spot.

Fundación Aburrá This small, gallery-esque museum boasts a rotating collection of nearly 3,000 pre-Hispanic era statues and art pieces. Each piece is accompanied by their iconographic and iconological descriptions. Expect to be informed and intrigued.

MÂKUA MÂKUA works with Indigenous communities perfectly combining ancestral artisanal techniques with contemporary jewelry design. Collaborating primarily with two Indigenous communities in Colombia — the Embera Chami and the Kuna or Guna Yala people — MÂKUA’s goal is to empower the indigenous women in the communities they work with. At the main showroom in Laureles, you’ll find both the brand’s luxury line, featuring elaborate statement pieces, and the basic line, full of more commercial designs to complement the fine pieces.

Café Cliché Colombia is the second biggest exporter of coffee in the world, so naturally you’re going to want to try more than one cool café. Café Cliché is a French-owned café and bistro that’s a favorite with both foreigners and locals. They come here for the delicious food, friendly service, and cosy environment.

Bárbaro Restaurant Steakhouses are quite popular in the neighborhood, and this spot comes out on top. When you walk into the low-key, dimly-lit space you’ll notice a no-frills vibe, as it's the 1,000-gram Tomahawk Steak that causes the hype. Understandably so. If you still have room for dessert, opt for the banana lasagna — the layers of arequipe cream and caramelized bananas will not disappoint.

Teatro de Laureles If comedy clubs are your thing, why not try Laureles’ very own. Opening back in 2006, the 250-seat space also hosts musical guests from the region. However, if theatre is more your vibe, you should also check out Teatro Barra del Silencio , which offers a glimpse into Medellín’s dynamic theatre scene.

Son Havana This dark and moody Cuban-themed salsa joint draws dancing duos of all ages and skill-sets to its jammed dance floor. And for good reason: Son Havana is famed for its undeniably talented Cuban band. It’s almost impossible not to get up and dance the night away to salsa, cumbia, and merengue.

Al Alma Relatively new to Laureles’ café scene, Al Alma already has locations in Poblado and Ciudad del Río. Nestled above a restaurant, the entrance to Al Alma in Laureles is easy to miss but it's definitely worth the effort to find. Once upstairs, you’ll notice the modernist interiors, filled with lots of plants, as well as artwork dedicated to coffee. But it’s not only the coffee they come for here – in the centre stands the counter displaying fresh pastries from Tomasa Bakery (incidentally, the closest you’ll come to a European croissant in Medellín).

The Primer Parque de Laureles: Why It Is My Favourite Park in All of Medellin

It’s with good reason that they call it the Primer Parque!

By Kaveh Paymayesh

• June 8, 2022

I had the luxury of living in front of the Primer Parque back in 2016. After spending time throughout the valley, I’m here to explain why the Primer Parque is the best place to live in Medellin.

I know… It’s a bold statement. Medellin takes pride in its parks. The competition is fierce. Not long ago, the city realized a project to upgrade over 100 of them.

It may not be the biggest or oldest, but it has a whole lot going for it. All things considered, this is my favourite park in the city and could very well be yours, too.

Read on to see why the Primer Parque makes it to the top of my list of parks in Medellin…

What & where is the Primer Parque de Laureles?

The Primer Parque de Laureles is located in the heart of Medellin’s second most exclusive neighbourhood – Laureles.

The park was designed in 1943 by the same architect and engineer responsible for shaping Laureles, Pedro Nel Gómez.

Laureles is quirky; it’s different to any other neighbourhood in Medellin. Its convoluted circular design is no accident, but the result of meticulous planning.

Pedro Nel Gómez, in an attempt to distinguish the affluent neighbourhood, wanted Laureles to emulate European design. That is why Laureles is home to the first roundabout in Medellin, where the Segundo Parque is.

What you see in the Primer Parque, much like the rest of its surrounding neighbourhood, is an enviable urban design coming to life.

The name ‘Laureles’ means Laurels. Why? Pedro Nel Gómez recognized the importance of green spaces. In 1943, he planted laurels throughout the sector. What were once tiny trees are today some of the city’s biggest and most stunning trees.

The Primer Parque embodies the very thing that gives the neighbourhood its name… Laurels!

To get there, your best option would be to catch the metro to Estadio. From the station it is 1.3km away; a 17-minute walk.

The park is surrounded by the following addresses:

• Calle 39C – 39D
• Circular 74

Not that you’d need to give these addresses to your taxi driver. Most Paisas should know how to locate the Primer Parque.

1. Location, location, location - Medellin's nucleus.

So why is the Primer Parque such a great park?

First of all, I’d argue that it is Medellin’s nucleus (as far as foreigners should be concerned).

Medellin’s hub? Isn’t that going to be somewhere in Poblado? More like Provenza, right?

I’d argue otherwise. Laureles’ location is almost slap bang in the centre of Medellin, and even the Aburra Valley altogether.

Excluding the downtown area, the construction of Laureles marked the beginning of urban and economic growth in the city.

The barrio was designed to include all the trappings of an affluent neighbourhood. This includes plenty of greenspaces, bars, restaurants, gyms, shops and most importantly, proximity to the rest of the city.

By contrast, El Poblado is located further south. Whilst it may be the oldest settlement in the valley, it was long considered difficult to traverse from Medellin’s economic centre (El Centro).

Only during the turn of the 20th century did Poblado begin to earn its name (The Populated).

From the Primer Parque, the nearest station is only 1.3km away.  On the other hand, the closest station from Parque Lleras is 1.8km.

From Parque de El Poblado it is 900m. The caveat is that it’s on a steep gradient. Laureles is flat and so easier to traverse. I know that hills are a common complaint for many of Medellin’s inhabitants.

So, just remember that with a city as congested as Medellin, distance matters!

Oh yeah, the park contains a bike station and is surrounded by incredible, FLAT cycle infrastructure. It is a healthy, fun way to circumvent the motorised traffic.

The Primer Parque: surrounded by everything you’d need

Not only is the park a hub in the geographic sense, but it’s also surrounded by everything a tourist could need.

That brings us to my next point…

2. The park is a stone's throw from everything you'd want

I’ll never forget my first time at the Primer Parque back in 2016. I was lucky enough to live directly in front of the park. Back then, the foreign footprint was not perceptible. 

Perhaps that is why my Airbnb cost just $7 per night.

My good fortune hadn’t hit me until my second day when the rains finally abated and I could venture out.

I left the apartment and walked down Avenida 74 towards the Segundo Parque de Laureles.

The abundance of options… Trendy bars, and restaurants, both franchised and independent. They were everywhere…

It immediately became clear to me that I was in an extraordinary spot. Between the two parks, there was everything you could possibly want.

Everything is accessible by foot.

I’m not referring solely to restaurants & bars. In the subsequent months, I joined a gym and even got extensive dental work at a top clinic. Again, all a stone’s throw from the Primer Parque.

NOTE  that in 2022, Medellin has continued to prosper. Tourists and foreigners are no longer an odd sight throughout the district. There are now more trendy and international restaurants than there ever have been.

The growing ‘expat’ or foreign community (as we should call it) may be a bad thing for those looking to distance themselves from other foreigners. Conversely, if you’re looking to network with others like yourself, then you’ll have no problem. Surrounding the park are various coffee shops such as Café Revolución.

They are frequented by plenty of digital nomads. Café Revolución is an awesome spot to meet savvy tourists and nomads. They’re not hard to miss as they sit with their coffees, plugging away on the laptop.

3. Community

As I previously mentioned, foreigners are commonplace in Laureles, especially in the area surrounding the Primer Parque.

If you’d rather turn a blind eye to them, worry not! Laureles is home to a vibrant community of (upper) middle class Colombians. I’ve made some long-lasting relationships with cool Colombians by simply chilling in the park, and shooting the sh**. Not boasting, but I’ve met, and subsequently befriended some Colombian celebrities by simply chilling in this park.

That’s an awesome feature of Paisa culture that I never experienced back home. People are always chilling at the park, no matter the time. Unlike other parks in the city that are frequented by addicts and crooks, the crowd at the Primer Parque is typically a lot cooler, safer and friendlier. There are also dog walkers everywhere. 

So try it yourself. Leave behind that social stiffness; it doesn’t belong here. This is Colooombia baby!

If you would like to dive into the foreign community that exists around the park, search amongst the different Facebooks groups. There is always something going on.

4. Spanish/cultural immersion

Now, if you’ve read my other articles then you’ll know that for me, Medellin is one of the best places to learn Spanish.

• Low English proficiency amongst Colombians
• Friendly, outgoing people
• Smooth, rhythmic Spanish which is easy to understand and learn.

In the Primer Parque de Laureles, all of these factors come to life. In and around the park is a bustling community of workers and residents. Most of whom are curious and friendly – easy to talk to.

Speaking from personal experience, I learnt a lot of Spanish in Laureles, simply by engaging with locals. It’s pretty easy and very memorable. It’s an amazing feature of Paisa society.

Finding Paisas to chill with is much easier than with foreigners. Although there are now franchises that surround the park, you can still find traditional bars. They’re adored by locals. Anytime there is a live sports game, especially football, the crowds will be massive. Get amongst it!

So, earlier I was saying that I engaged and befriended many locals. Well, I made some lasting relationships – all of which were made and depended on my Spanish.

At the time, my Spanish was probably at a B1-B2 level. I had to fake it. It was like doing 12 rounds with Tyson.

Was it worth it? Absolutely. That, my people, is how you learn a new language, rapidly!

Maybe I’m slightly biased towards the Primer Parque. After all, that is where I learned a great deal of my Spanish. Parchando – a term used by Colombians when chilling at a certain spot, never felt so valuable…

The best part? It was all free!

Yes folks, SAFETY! Now, before some of you zealously challenge me by citing robbery figures for Laureles – hear me out.

I know, Laureles experiences the second-highest amount of robberies in the city (after El Poblado, by the way). Here’s the thing, the park itself is very safe. The Primer Parque is under surveillance  24/7. Furthermore, you have a police station just 2 minutes away.

While robberies can occur anywhere and at any time, it is not easy for ladrones to catch a break in this particular park.

If you lack common sense altogether, please don’t come to Colombia. It’s not the place for you.

That aside, I would maintain that the Primer Parque de Laureles is amongst the safest in the valley. It’s certainly safer than those located in Poblado, like Lleras or Parque de Poblado.

Unlike the parks mentioned above, the Primer Parque is not inundated with prostitutes and schemers. Due to the influx of foreigners in Poblado, these parks have become more unsafe. Not that they are particularly dangerous per se, they are teeming with suspect characters. By contrast, the First Park of Laureles is more catered to locals. The atmosphere is more genuine and relaxed. It’s better suited for living, and poorer suited for debauchery.

At the Primer Parque, there is a notable police presence, with patrols making routine visits to keep an eye on pot smokers.

It’s super chill at the Primer Parque so make sure to parchar.

The Primer Parque de Laureles is my favourite park in the city. It is far better suited to living than most of the parks found in Poblado, especially Parque Lleras, which is not what it used to be.

The park, much like its surrounding neighbourhood, is an exemplary display of good urban design. It is predominated by native flora, giving the neighbourhood its aptly given name, Laureles.

Laureles is located in the heart of the city, making everywhere else easier to traverse. Furthermore, it is a great place to socialise with locals and foreigners alike.

Finally, it is a safer choice than other parks found in Poblado thanks to its lower profile among foreigners.

Here are 10 reasons why you should visit Medellin.

Here is my guide to crime & safety in Medellin.

Here is my guide on how to stay safe & stop worrying about robberies whilst in Medellin.

If you enjoyed reading this then why not check out some more articles?

¡Hágale pues!

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E-bike city tour medellin with local beer and snacks, paraglading tour, fruit exotic tour, e-bike city tour medellin with local snacks and local beer, theme bike rental in medellín, laureles hotel deals.

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While visiting Belen, you might make a stop by sights like Centro Comercial Los Molinos and Belen's Park.

Laureles - Estadio

While you're in Laureles - Estadio, take in top sights like Atanasio Giradot Stadium or Second Laureles Park, and hop on the metro to see more the city at Estadio Station or Suramericana Station.

When in Santa Fe, you can plan a visit to Pueblito Paisa and Santa Fe Zoological Park, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

La Candelaria

You might enjoy the shopping while in La Candelaria. Antioquia Museum is a notable sight, and you can get around town at Parque Berrio Station or Prado Station to see more of the city.

Shopping and restaurants are notable features of San Diego. You might consider a stop by San Diego Shopping Center while you're exploring the neighborhood.

While visiting Guayabal, you might make a stop by sights like Juan Pablo II Airpark and Santa Fe Zoological Park.

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Popular places to visit, santafé mall.

During your visit to Medellín, you can search for that perfect souvenir at Santafé Mall. Check out the top-notch restaurants or lively bars in this walkable area.

Botero Plaza

Walk among comically obese statues made by the illustrious artist Fernando Botero in this spacious plaza full of artisans and restaurants.

Atanasio Giradot Stadium

Catch an event at Atanasio Giradot Stadium during your trip to Medellín. Check out the shops and lively bars in this walkable area.

Pueblito Paisa

Take a trip back in time to a replica of a typical old town from the region with a stunning view of the new city.

Medellin Botanical Garden

Explore the great outdoors at Medellin Botanical Garden, a lovely green space in Medellín. Check out the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.

Explore the great outdoors at Arvi Park, a lovely green space in Medellín. Check out the shops and lively bars in this trendy area.

• Things to do

Medellin: Bike City Tour with Local Food and Drink Tastings

E-bike city tour medellin with local beer and snacks, medellin bike tour - colombian cafe and viewpoints, paraglading tour, fruit exotic tour, e-bike city tour medellin with local snacks and local beer, laureles hotel deals.

Reviewed on Apr 15, 2024

Reviewed on Apr 24, 2024

Reviewed on Apr 26, 2024

Reviewed on Apr 23, 2024

Reviewed on Mar 28, 2024

Check Laureles hotel availability

Other neighborhoods around laureles.

While visiting Belen, you might make a stop by sights like Centro Comercial Los Molinos and Belen's Park.

Laureles - Estadio

While you're in Laureles - Estadio, take in top sights like Atanasio Giradot Stadium or Second Laureles Park, and hop on the metro to see more the city at Estadio Station or Suramericana Station.

When in Santa Fe, you can plan a visit to Pueblito Paisa and Santa Fe Zoological Park, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

La Candelaria

You might enjoy the shopping while in La Candelaria. Antioquia Museum is a notable sight, and you can get around town at Parque Berrio Station or Prado Station to see more of the city.

Shopping and restaurants are notable features of San Diego. You might consider a stop by San Diego Shopping Center while you're exploring the neighborhood.

While visiting Guayabal, you might make a stop by sights like Juan Pablo II Airpark and Santa Fe Zoological Park.

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The Best Restaurants In Laureles

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TLDR? One of the best restaurants in Laureles is Fidelina Casa Restaurante.

Medellin’s culinary scene is beginning to pop off in a major way. It’s ascending hand in hand with other aspects of the city as international interest descends onto the tropical mecca.

Out of Medellin’s neighborhoods, Poblado usually gets most of the attention when it comes to food. It makes sense since it has several quite lovely dining options in the densely packed party area it encompasses.

However, the neighborhood of Laureles is not to be overlooked when it comes to dining options either. There’s a plethora of locales here just waiting to be looked into and explored. Here are a few of my picks for the best restaurants in the Laureles neighborhood!

Fidelina Casa Restaurante

Fidelina Casa Restaurante is a unique joint that lies in one of the more central parts of the Laureles neighborhood. It’s right by the very pretty Primer Parque de Laureles. That park is notable enough to be included in a couple of posts, so feel free to read more about it over here .

Fidelina Casa Restaurante is, true to its name, a restaurant that’s built into a beautiful three-story house in Laureles.

The environment is a very enjoyable and unique place to dine in. The house is filled with all sorts of knickknacks and furnishings. I felt like they enhanced the dining experience by making it more entertaining.

In terms of the food, Fidelina serves up refined interpretations of classic Colombian dishes . For my part, I picked up some of the empanadas to start with and then moved on to the heaping plate of the Bandeja Paisa. This is one of the signature dishes of the region.

Fidelina Casa Restaurante is a great choice for either formal or casual nights out and in my opinion, wouldn’t make a bad date spot as well!

Address : Cra. 73 #3-44 C, Medellín, Laureles, Antioquia, Colombia

Website: https://qrco.de/bbiZ0x

I previously wrote about this restaurant on the blog with my post about places where you can buy organic groceries in Medellin .

Indeed, Saludpan has a small but wonderful organic market within its walls where you can buy all kinds of healthy staples and treats. But, it’s also a place where you can go for some delicious vegan and vegetarian food, all sold for very reasonable prices.

The menu at Saludpan is fairly extensive and features all kinds of vegan spins on classic Latin American cuisines. They also have a full coffee bar and a very robust juice selection that features some customization options.

The menu also features daily specials, which change quite frequently, so return visits to the restaurant are often rewarded.

Saludpan also seems to attract a very interesting and liberal crowd in Medellin. I’ve found that the times that I went there featured some good people watching.

And if you’re still hungry after your meal, the market at Saludpan does indeed offer some very tasty snacks to go—some of which I picked up on my way out.

Address: Cq. 4 #7084, Medellín, Laureles, Antioquia, Colombia

Website: http://www.saludpan.com/

Olivia Pizzeria Laureles

Every once in a while, you get a certain craving that can only be satisfied by one thing: pizza. With that in recognition, keeping tabs on the best options available for picking up a slice or a pie in your general vicinity is always good.

In the case of Laureles, the best place for pizza that I’ve discovered yet is called Olivia Pizzeria Laureles. Olivia Pizzeria Laureles is located conveniently close to another one of the beautiful parks in the neighborhood. This is the circular Segundo Parque de Laureles.

They’ve also got a location in the Manila neighborhood of El Poblado .

Olivia serves up Pizza in the authentic Neopolitan style of Italy, which means that you end up getting your pie when you go for that.

If you’re not the biggest fan of the Neopolitan style, you’re actually in luck. This is because the pizzeria offers a very inventive and fun method of choosing which style of pizza you would like to eat. They do this based on the thickness of the crust.

These styles are all based around regions of Italy. They include some varieties that were even from regions that I didn’t know had a specific style, such as Rome. The toppings and ingredients are very high quality and fresh, and the food in general is very well put together and presented in a classy way.

Aside from the pizza, Olivia Pizzeria Laureles also offers many Italian classics. These range from antipasti appetizers to more sizeable entrees such as burrata, pasta, and ragu.

The atmosphere at Olivia Pizzeria Laureles is lively but chill. It would be a great place to round up a collection of pals and hit for a birthday party or social gathering.

Laureles Address: Av. 74B #39-46, Medellín, Laureles, Medellín, Antioquia, Colombia

Instagram: @olivia_restaurante

La Pampa Parilla

La Pampa Parilla gets an honorary mention on this list due to its enduring popularity with the people of Medellin. This popularity has registered the franchise something of a somewhat iconic status in the city.

La Pampa Parilla is an Argentinian steak house that serves up heaping plates of meat that are grilled in-house. The cuisine overall isn’t too far off from the kind of food that you would find in a similar kind of grill restaurant in the US.

The meaty entrees are adorned with sides that are almost reminiscent of the American west. Mashed potatoes, whole potatoes, iceberg lettuce salads, and so on are offered to complement your main course.

This shouldn’t come as too big of a surprise, since there are many shared sensibilities between the Gauchos of the Argentinian plain and the Cowboy of the American frontier.

La Pampa Parilla is popular enough that it has multiple locations scattered throughout the city. There are even two within walking distance of each other in Laureles! So if you find yourself in a wait, then it might be worth turning the corner and seeing if the other location has availability.

Laureles Address: Cq. 73 #4-13, Medellín, Laureles, Medellín, Colombia

More Great Food Awaits In Laureles

This is a collection of places that I found to be among the best restaurants in the Laureles neighborhood.

That being said, I’ve barely scratched the surface of the options available. This is since the Laureles area is one of the most hustling and bustling areas of the city. There are dozens and dozens of restaurants just waiting to be discovered!

There’s enough to cover in this region that I ultimately wouldn’t be surprised if there ends up being a sequel to this post. Just so that the topic gets more fully explored.

Until then, hopefully, this selection finds you in a place where you can have some great food and great memories!

If you like this blog, you might like the Casacol Instagram page to keep up with all the new articles. Anything we need to update or correct? Care to contribute? Email us at [email protected].

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[Video] ¡Héroe anónimo! Comensal evitó atraco en restaurante de Medellín y se convierte en viral

Cámaras de seguridad captaron a un fletero que intentó asaltar a comensales en un restaurante de l barrio Laureles en Medellín . El delincuente, tras intimidar a los ocupantes de una mesa, se vio confrontado por uno de los clientes. 

Lea también:  Historia macabra: ¡Los dos cuerpos hallados en Altavista! ¿Un año enterrados?

El hecho ocurrió en las últimas horas en l a circular 2 con 69 , en esta zona del occidente de la ciudad. Las imágenes muestran al delincuente pasando por el restaurante minutos antes, observando a sus potenciales víctimas con "ojos de águila". Segundos después, el ladrón sacó un arma y apunta a las personas que se encontraban en el local. 

🚨¡Héroe anónimo! Comensal evitó atraco en restaurante de Medellín y se convierte en viral. En las imágenes se observa el momento en que el fletero pretendía atracar a varias personas en el barrio Laureles. #AlertaPaisa #Laureles #Medellín #fleteros pic.twitter.com/NxO7uQzBPU — AlertaPaisa 1140 AM (@AlertaPaisa) April 25, 2024

Más información:  Cinco heridos y casa colapsada: Tremendo accidente sacudió a El Retiro, Antioquia

En ese momento, un “héroe anónimo” vestido con uniforme de contratista de EPM saltó de la mesa y se enfrentó al criminal. Al parecer, el fletero intentó disparar, sin embargo, no se observa a nadie lesionado en el forcejeo.  Respecto al tema de hurtos a personas, la Secretaría de Seguridad informó que en lo corrido del año hay una reducción del 24% en comparación con el año anterior. 

Los ladrones en la mira de las autoridades:  Unos casos de fleteros  capturados 

Por decisión de un juez de control de garantías fue enviado a la cárcel Juan Guillermo Builes Tascón, alias ‘Mosco’, como presunto integrante de una estructura delincuencial dedicada al hurto de joyas y relojes de alta gama bajo la modalidad de fleteo. 

Según la investigación adelantada por un fiscal de la Estructura de Apoyo de Medellín, la  organización criminal denominada ‘Los Rolex’  delinque desde el año 2021 con injerencia en Medellín (Antioquia), Bucaramanga (Santander) y Barranquilla (Atlántico). 

Indicó la Fiscalía General de la Nación que se estableció que  alias ‘Mosco’ sería el presunto responsable de dos hurtos,  en los que fueron víctimas un comerciante de Medellín y un empresario de Bucaramanga, donde se habría apoderado de la suma de 120 millones de pesos en joyas. 

Además, el procesado habría participado en otros  15 hurtos cometidos en Barranquilla y Medellín,  en los que era el encargado de hacer seguimiento y marcar o señalar a las víctimas, para que otros integrantes del grupo delincuencial los despojaran de sus pertenencias. 

El procesado fue capturado por servidores del CTI y  no se allanó a los cargos imputados  por los delitos de concierto para delinquir agravado y hurto calificado y agravado.  

En el año 2022 fueron capturados  14 integrantes de la misma organización criminal , quienes ya fueron condenados. 

La Fiscalía invita a quienes se consideren  víctimas  de esta modalidad de hurto, a que se comuniquen al teléfono 3185322889 o al correo   [email protected] , para que interpongan la denuncia correspondiente. 

¡Justicia! Capturan a fletero que asesinó a su víctima en Medellín tras resistirse al robo

Mataron a empresario antioqueño por robarle $30 millones en Caucasia, Antioquia

Mataron a golpes a supuesto ladrón de carros en Bello, Antioquia

Capturan a dos fleteros cuando escapaban con celulares robados en Medellín

¿Cuántos fleteros le hacen “conejo" a la detención domiciliaria en Medellín?

UNP dijo que atracaron a escolta del expresidente Uribe en el barrio El Poblado de Medellín

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