Get around easily and safely from Hotel 23
Getting around Medellín is surprisingly easy. The city has one of the most efficient, safe, and well-organized public transportation systems in Latin America, along with reliable apps that allow you to request taxis or private rides with complete peace of mind. For visitors staying at 23 Hotel, located in the heart of Provenza, understanding how to move between neighborhoods, tourist attractions, and cultural activities is key to enjoying a comfortable, safe, and hassle-free trip.
This guide covers the essentials: how to use the Medellín Metro, integrated buses, the Metrocable system, and the safest apps to request private transportation in the city. It also includes practical recommendations, approximate travel times, and ideal routes for tourists, explained clearly from a local perspective.
Why Is It Important to Understand Medellín’s Transportation System Before Traveling?
Medellín is a city of contrasts: modern neighborhoods like El Poblado and Provenza, historic areas in the downtown district, iconic comunas with urban art, natural areas such as Santa Elena, and cultural destinations throughout the city. To make the most of your visit, it’s helpful to know how to move around safely, efficiently, and comfortably.
1. Medellín has one of the best transportation systems in Latin America
The Medellín Metro is known for its cleanliness, punctuality, organization, and civic culture. It’s a fast way to travel long distances without traffic.
2. Safe taxi apps are practical and reliable
In Medellín, transportation apps are widely used by both locals and tourists. They allow you to request verified taxis or private vehicles with clear fares and real-time tracking.
3. It helps you optimize your time and experience
By knowing the basic routes, you can move smoothly between tourist neighborhoods, museums, restaurants, viewpoints, and cultural events.
4. Understanding the system helps you save money
The Metro is an economical option for long distances, and apps let you preview prices before confirming a ride.
Practical Guide to Public Transportation and Safe Taxi Apps in Medellín
Below you’ll find a clear explanation of how to use the main modes of transportation during your stay. All these systems are used daily by locals, expats, and tourists.
1. Medellín Metro: Fast, Clean, and Efficient
The Metro is the backbone of the city’s transportation system. It operates with two main lines:
- Line A: runs north–south through the valley.
- Line B: connects the west with the city center.
Advantages for tourists:
- Easy to use
- Affordable
- Safe
- Ideal for reaching downtown, museums, and Metrocable connections
How to pay:
Use the Cívica card, which you can request or recharge at major stations. You can also buy single-ride tickets at the ticket booth.
From 23 Hotel:
You can reach Poblado Station easily by safe taxi or by walking approximately 20–25 minutes.
2. Metrocable: Transportation + Aerial Viewpoint
The Metrocables are cable-car lines integrated into the Metro. They connect the mountainous areas and offer spectacular aerial views of Medellín.
Recommended routes for tourists:
- Line L to Arví Park: nature, trails, farmers’ markets.
- Line K to Santo Domingo: excellent for urban photography.
The ride is safe, panoramic, and perfect for understanding Medellín’s geography.
3. Integrated Buses and Main Routes
The bus system is extensive and connects all neighborhoods. Although it may seem complex at first, it’s very useful for reaching areas of Poblado, Laureles, or Envigado.
Tips for tourists:
- Look for buses marked “Poblado,” “Laureles,” “Manila,” “Envigado,” or “Centro.”
- Ask the driver before boarding—they’re friendly and used to helping visitors.
- Bring cash to pay.
4. Safe Taxi and Ride Apps
These are the most widely used and safest apps in Medellín:
InDriver
Allows you to negotiate the price before the trip. Very popular among locals.
Didi
Favorite for safety, pricing, and availability. Works with taxis and private cars.
Uber
Operates in a regulated format; reliable for tourists.
Cabify
Known for safety, predictable fares, and verified drivers.
Tax Individual
Official taxi app in Medellín; ideal if you prefer the traditional taxi option.
General recommendations:
- Always request rides through the app—avoid taking taxis off the street.
- Verify the plate and driver before getting in.
- Share your trip with a contact if you want.
- At 23 Hotel, the lobby staff can call a safe taxi for you if preferred.
5. Walkability in Provenza and El Poblado
One of the advantages of staying at 23 Hotel is the ability to walk to many places:
- Signature restaurants
- Specialty cafés
- Rooftops
- Concept stores
- Bakeries
- Creative markets
- Bars, galleries, and theaters
The area is safe, lively, and pleasant to walk during the day and part of the night.
6. Special Recommendations for Tourists
Ideal times to move around
- Morning: light traffic, great for exploring museums and parks.
- Afternoon: perfect for cafés and viewpoints.
- Night: ideal for rooftops, restaurants, and events (always use apps).
Areas to avoid walking at night
Although El Poblado is safe, avoid walking toward isolated or poorly lit areas after 11 p.m. Use taxi apps.
Safety for solo travelers
Medellín is friendly and welcoming, but like any major city:
- Keep your belongings close.
- Avoid displaying high-value items.
- Use safe transportation.
FAQs
Where is the closest Metro station to 23 Hotel?
Poblado Station is the nearest—about a 20–25 minute walk or 5–7 minutes by safe taxi.
Which taxi app is the safest for tourists?
Didi, Uber, Cabify, and Tax Individual are all reliable. The key is always requesting them through the app.
Which Metrocable route is best for tourism?
Line L to Arví Park—perfect for nature, trails, and panoramic views.
Is it easy to take buses around El Poblado?
Yes, although less intuitive at first. Buses are safe and connect to Manila, Envigado, and Parque Lleras.
Getting around Medellín is simple, safe, and comfortable once you understand the routes, Metro system, and the right apps. Whether you want to explore museums, visit the historic center, discover urban art, or enjoy valley viewpoints, this guide helps you do it with ease.
And if you want the ideal home base—surrounded by gastronomy, design, nightlife, and boutique hospitality—23 Hotel is the best starting point. After a day of exploring, nothing beats returning to its warm atmosphere or enjoying a cocktail at Rooftop del Sol.
Book your stay and explore Medellín with style, safety, and comfort.
