Comuna 13 Escalators Medellín
A vibrant testament to resilience, Comuna 13 dazzles with its colorful street art and iconic outdoor escalators, transforming a once-troubled neighbor...

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Comuna 13 Escalators Medellín
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant testament to resilience, Comuna 13 dazzles with its colorful street art and iconic outdoor escalators, transforming a once-troubled neighborhood into a cultural hub.
"An amazing transformation of the neighborhood by the resilient people of Comuna 13!!! Fun, engaging, entertaining, and amazing!!!"
Wear Comfy Shoes! 👟
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring Comuna 13.
Consider a Guided Tour 🚶
Local guides offer deep insights into the history and art. Many tours are available in multiple languages.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Outdoor Escalators
Main thoroughfare
Glide up the vibrant, graffiti-covered escalators for breathtaking city views and a unique urban experience.

Street Art Galleries
Throughout the neighborhood
Marvel at the dynamic murals and graffiti art that tell the story of Comuna 13's transformation.

Panoramic City Views
Top of the escalators
Soak in sweeping vistas of Medellín from the highest points, offering a stunning perspective of the sprawling city.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Energy (and Crowds!)
Navigate with Ease
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
I was in Medellin, Colombia and attempted one of the most unusual hikes I've done... an unguided "urban" hike up 28 stories winding through what used to be the most dangerous neighbourhood in the world... what an amazing experience! [Medellin, COLOMBIA]
Wear Comfy Shoes! 👟
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring Comuna 13.
Consider a Guided Tour 🚶
Local guides offer deep insights into the history and art. Many tours are available in multiple languages.
Visiting the Comuna 13
Quick trip Medellín, Colombia this weekend, this was most of what I got to see.
Go to the Top! ⬆️
Don't stop halfway! The views from the top of the escalators are spectacular and worth the climb.
Stay Hydrated 💧
Medellín can be warm. Bring water or be prepared to buy it frequently from vendors.
Solo Travelling to Medellin - This December | Advice & Recomendations
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfy Shoes! 👟
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring Comuna 13.
Consider a Guided Tour 🚶
Local guides offer deep insights into the history and art. Many tours are available in multiple languages.
Go to the Top! ⬆️
Don't stop halfway! The views from the top of the escalators are spectacular and worth the climb.
Stay Hydrated 💧
Medellín can be warm. Bring water or be prepared to buy it frequently from vendors.
Embrace the Vibe ✨
It's lively and can be chaotic, but that's part of the charm. Go with the flow and enjoy the energy.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Comuna 13 is celebrated for its incredible transformation, vibrant street art, and the unique experience of its outdoor escalators. Visitors are inspired by the community's resilience and the lively atmosphere, though some find the crowds and noise overwhelming. It's a must-visit for its cultural significance and stunning urban art.
"Very busy, very crowded, but very eclectic and lively with lots to see and do, so balance ♎️ Go all the way up the escalators (climb the stairs may be faster depending on volume of people) for a city wide view and vantage point of all of the statues such as Pachamama and stay only a awhile if you feel drained by so much noise - ducked in a few less busy cafes where I could chill for a bit amidst the hustle and bustle. Despite the “chaos” everyone seems to be very relaxed so you just move with the flow and it’s all good but seriously if you are not a slow walker you may find yourself beelining through out of impatience at some point - or simply wanting to just sit and take in the views for a bit"
Sarah H
"What an amazing transformation of the neighborhood by the resilient people of Comuna 13 !!! Fun, engaging, entertaining, and amazing!!!"
Laura Quisenberry (Laura)
"I'm glad I came here.
I wish there were a few more public bulletins explaining what has transpired here (or it's possible I missed them).
Lots of tours through the area in several languages.
Lots of art to see.
Tons of shops and trinkets/souvenirs.
And of course, excellent views of Medellin."
Carl H
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is to take the Metro to the San Javier station. From there, it's a short walk or a quick taxi/bus ride to the entrance of the Comuna 13 escalators. Many visitors find the Metro to be efficient and affordable.
Yes, taxis are readily available throughout Medellín. You can hail one on the street or use ride-sharing apps. Inform your driver you want to go to the 'Escaleras de la Comuna 13' or 'San Javier' area.
Several local bus routes serve the San Javier area, which is near Comuna 13. However, navigating these can be tricky for tourists. The Metro is generally recommended for ease of access.
Comuna 13 has undergone significant transformation and is now a popular tourist destination. While it's generally safe, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas, as you would in any major city.
The iconic outdoor escalators are the primary mode of transport within Comuna 13, making it easy to ascend the hillside. Walking is also essential to explore the vibrant streets and admire the art.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Comuna 13 and its outdoor escalators is free. You can explore the area at your own pace without purchasing admission tickets.
Yes, numerous guided tours are offered by local residents and companies. Prices vary, but many offer free walking tours (tip-based) or paid tours that include more in-depth historical context and art explanations.
The outdoor escalators in Comuna 13 operate daily, typically from early morning until late evening. It's best to check local listings for the most up-to-date hours, but they are generally accessible throughout the day.
Yes, you can visit on weekends, but be prepared for significantly larger crowds. Weekdays are often recommended for a more relaxed experience.
The street art is part of the public space in Comuna 13 and is free to view. You can wander through the neighborhood and admire the murals without any admission charge.
📸 📸 Photography
The vibrant street art, the colorful escalators, and the panoramic city views from the top are all prime photo opportunities. Look for unique murals and capture the lively atmosphere.
It's generally polite to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals, especially if they are not actively engaged in a performance or selling something. Be respectful of people's privacy.
Late morning or early afternoon often provides good natural light for capturing the colorful art. However, the energy of the place is also captivating at other times.
Using drones in densely populated urban areas like Comuna 13 can be restricted due to safety and privacy concerns. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both wide street scenes and details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the expansive murals and cityscapes.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find a variety of local Colombian street food, snacks, and small eateries. Try arepas, empanadas, and fresh fruit juices. There are also cafes offering coffee and light meals.
While Comuna 13 is more known for its street food and snacks, you can find some small restaurants offering traditional Colombian dishes. For a wider selection of restaurants, consider exploring other neighborhoods like Laureles or El Poblado.
Several small cafes are scattered throughout Comuna 13, offering Colombian coffee. Look for places with outdoor seating to enjoy the atmosphere while you sip.
You can often find vegetarian options like cheese arepas or fruit-based snacks. Vegan options might be more limited, but fresh fruit juices are usually a safe bet.
Eating street food and snacks in Comuna 13 is generally very affordable. Restaurant prices will be higher but still reasonable compared to many international cities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Wear comfortable shoes for everyone, as there's a lot of walking. Bring plenty of water and snacks, as exploring can be tiring. Consider a guided tour that is family-friendly, as guides can often tailor their stories to keep younger audiences engaged. Be mindful of crowds, especially on weekends, and keep a close eye on children.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Saving money: Opt for free walking tours (tip your guide generously!) instead of paid ones. Enjoy delicious and affordable street food like empanadas and arepas. Utilize Medellín's efficient and inexpensive Metro system to get to and from Comuna 13, rather than relying solely on taxis.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Transformation of Comuna 13
The outdoor escalators, a groundbreaking urban development project, have significantly improved the quality of life for residents by making it easier to navigate the steep hillsides. This project, along with the focus on art and culture, has turned Comuna 13 into a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors eager to witness this incredible urban renewal firsthand.
Visitors often express awe at the resilience of the community and the positive energy that now permeates the neighborhood. It's a powerful reminder of how art, infrastructure, and community spirit can drive profound social change.
Navigating the Escalators and Art
Take your time to wander through the narrow alleyways and staircases branching off the main escalator path. This is where you'll discover hidden artistic gems and experience the authentic charm of the community. Many local artists have studios or display their work here, offering a glimpse into their creative process.
Don't rush your visit. Allow yourself to get lost in the colorful labyrinth, interact with local vendors, and soak in the lively atmosphere. The journey up is as much about the art and the views as it is about experiencing the transformed urban landscape of Comuna 13.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit