#10 Visit Catedral Metropolitana, the largest church in the world built entirely of bricks
The fortress-like Catedral Metropolitana at the northern end of Parque de Bolívar, six blocks northeast of Plaza Botero, claims to be the largest church in the world built entirely of bricks – 1.12 million, if you’re counting. Not only the outside, but also the rather dark interior, is completely faced with bare brick.
The cathedral was designed in Neo-Romanesque style by French architect Émile Charles Carré. Construction started in 1875 but proceeded in fits and starts, and matters were not helped when the building was struck by a bolt of lightning in 1928, igniting a major fire. The cathedral was finally inaugurated in 1931.
Best areas to stay in Medellin
From the upscale and vibrant El Poblado to the relaxed and authentic charm of Laureles, these are the best areas to stay in Medellin.
El Poblado
Although most of the sights are in the downtown area, most foreign tourists prefer to stay in El Poblado, an upmarket neighbourhood in the southeastern part of town. This has the highest concentration of lodgings, including some cool boutique hotels and decent hostels.
Laureles
The Laureles neighbourhood, within walking distance west of the city, is increasingly popular as a place to stay. It has a number of decent hostels and a fair whack of affordable, high-quality hotels.
City centre
Although most of the sights are in the downtown city centre, it’s quite a seedy area, with a lot of prostitution and drug dealing, and you certainly want to watch your step here, especially at night. For all that, the centre has a buzz that outlying areas don't, and there are a handful of decent, clean and friendly places to lay your head.
Browse the best hotels in Medellin.
Best restaurants and bars
If you're a food enthusiast or enjoy vibrant nightlife, Medellin offers two neighbourhoods renowned for their culinary scene: El Poblado and Laureles.
Upmarket El Poblado has tonnes of places to eat and party, including the city’s Zona Rosa, which is centred on the Parque Lleras in the middle of the barrio.
A lot of people just hang out in Parque Lleras, buying beer in the shops at its western end – Lleras Park Minimarket at Cra 40 No. 9–21 – even tthough drinking in the square and on the street is officially illegal.
A short walk west of the centre, hip Laureles is a good spot to grab some food, including some cool new vegetarian restaurants.
The streets just west of the metro line between Parque Berrio and San Antonio stations have a bustling market vibe with a handful of decent traditional restaurants to eat at.