What to expect when visiting Medellin
Medellin is a vibrant city that overcame its dark and violent past to become a symbol of innovation and growth. Its colourful history alone attracts millions of tourists every year. And with a wide array of attractions and things to do, Medellin is bustling with activity from day ’til night.
A huge plus: the city enjoys temperate weather all year round, no wonder it’s called the ‘city of eternal spring’. Surrounded on all sides by the Andes, you’ll get a stunning view no matter where you are in Medellin!
1 way to get from Salento to Medellin
The flight is the only suitable way for travellers to cross the distance of 250 km (155 miles) from Salento to Medellin. The journey takes around 1h and costs start from 168,000 COP ($42.00).Where to stay in Medellin?
Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in Medellin at the bottom of this page.
Salento to Medellin by Flight
To take a flight from Salento to Medellin, you need to head to Pereira Airport.
TIP: If you decide to travel by plane, please consider including a carbon compensation fee to reduce your impact on the environment.
Step 1: Salento to Pereira Airport
There are two ways to get to Pereira: by taxi or by bus. The choice depends on your budget and preference for travel time.
Option 1: Salento to Pereira Airport by Taxi
The easiest and fastest way is to take a taxi that will drop you directly at Matecaña International Airport (PEI). However, it can be a little expensive, with prices starting at around 100,000 COP ($23.00). You can arrange it at the tourist information point in Salento or directly at your hotel/hostel.
Option 2: Salento to Pereira Airport by Bus
Buses to Pereira depart every 30 minutes from Salento Bus Terminal, which is within walking distance from most places in town. This service operates from 06:30 to 20:30.
The company covering this route is called Expreso Alcalá and you pay the 7,500 COP ($1.70) for the tickets directly to the bus driver.
From Pereira bus terminal to the airport the best option is to take a taxi for around 10,000 COP ($2.30). The ride is about 15-20 minutes.
It is also possible to go by bus using the local metrobus system, Megabus. However, you need to change buses twice and it takes around 45 minutes.
First take the yellow bus #27 in the direction of ‘Cuba’. Get off at the station ‘Cuba’ and transfer to lines 1, 2 or 3 of the bigger green bus. Then get off at station ‘Viajero’ and transfer to a yellow bus #25 that will take you to the Matecaña International Airport (PEI).
Megabus tickets cost 2,200 COP ($0.50).
Step 2: Pereira to Medellin by Flight
There is only one airline that offers a direct flight between Pereira and Medellin. It is called Easy Fly and offers a basic but good service for such a short distance. Prices start at 160,000 COP ($37.00).
There are four departures a day from 05:35 to 15:55. They all arrive at Medellin Olaya Herrera Airport (EOH) located within the city.
Step 3: Medellin Airport to City Centre
When you arrive in Medellin, the best option to get to the city centre is to take a taxi for around 10,000 COP ($2.30) or Uber starting at 8,000 COP ($1.80).
In case you want to take the metro, the closest station is called Poblado and it’s a 20-minute walk from the airport. However, the area may not be the safest to walk and therefore it’s recommended to take a taxi.
Our favourite places to stay in Medellin
Medellin has transformed from one of the most dangerous cities in the world to a destination that people are dying to visit. Through innovation and resilience, Medellin is now a modern and stylish city with some amazing and inexpensive accommodation.
El Poblado, one of the richest and safest areas to stay in Medellin, is a hotspot for visitors — if you want to stay here, make sure to book in advance.
Here are our favourite places to stay in Medellin:
Patio del Mundo - Treating Yourself
As soon as you step foot into Patio del Mundo, you can see that every detail has been carefully thought out. Every room is uniquely designed and decorated with local artcraft.
The hotel feels like a retreat within the city. You can enjoy massages, yoga and reiki in the big private garden. Alternatively, you can relax in the onsite bar or indulge in the premium coffee, teas and water that are included in your stay.
- Great location
- Balconies and jacuzzis available in some rooms
- Onsite bar and yoga
- Exceptional breakfast included
Double rooms cost $80+ per night
14 Urban Hotel - Mid Range
14 Urban Hotel is an ultra-stylish hotel, boasting an interesting urban design (as the name suggests). All of the rooms are large and luxurious, with some of them offering jacuzzi-style baths.
The rooftop terrace is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the incredible views over Medellin. You can’t really get a better location than this too. You’re only moments from El Poblado’s best restaurants and bars.
- Stunning design
- Rooftop terrace and restaurant
- Great location
- Delicious breakfast included
Double rooms cost between $40-$80 per night
Rango Hostel Boutique - Mid Range
Rango Hostel Boutique has achieved the perfect balance between luxury and social. This place feels more like a hotel than a hostel, but its friendly atmosphere makes it a great place to meet other travellers.
It’s tempting to spend all your time in the hostel with the rooftop pool, terrace, bar, restaurant, chill out spots and game facilities. There’s a lot to keep you entertained!
- Great location in El Poblado
- Stylish and modern design
- Rooftop pool and terrace
- Private and dorm rooms available
Double rooms cost between $40-$80 per night
574 Hotel - Budget Friendly
Medellin is a hip and stylish city. 574 Hotel perfectly emanates that vibe through its beautifully-designed interior.
It’s located within the highly-demanded neighbourhood of El Poblado: you can’t ask for a better location. The fresh and modern design creates a peaceful escape from the busy city of Medellin.
The friendly staff also help to make your stay as relaxing as possible. It’s hard to believe that this is a budget-friendly option.
- Beautiful and peaceful design
- One of the best locations in Medellin
- Room with jacuzzi available
- Delicious breakfast included
Double rooms start from $30 per night
Frequently Asked Questions about Salento to Medellin
What is the distance from Salento to Medellin?
The distance from Salento to Medellin is 250 km (155 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Salento to Medellin?
The fastest way to get from Salento to Medellin is by flight and takes 1 hour.
What is the cheapest way to get from Salento to Medellin?
The cheapest way to get from Salento to Medellin is by flight with ticket costs starting from 168,000 COP ($42.00).
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Salento to Medellin. If there's anything else you're wondering about, drop us a comment and we'll do our best to answer you within a few days.
PS: If you've recently travelled this route, share your experience with fellow travellers and help us improve this post. Thanks for helping out our travel community!
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Ela is a storyteller, content producer, solo traveller and a mermaid-in-training. When she’s not in front of her laptop, you will find her barefoot and living her best tan on some island in the Philippines… Or exploring the depths of its seas as a budding freediver. An island girl at heart, she’ll be happy anywhere there is sea, sand, sun and coffee.
