El Castillo Museum and Gardens
A European-style castle and lush gardens offering a magical, relaxing escape in Medellín. Perfect for picnics and history lovers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
El Castillo Museum and Gardens
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A European-style castle and lush gardens offering a magical, relaxing escape in Medellín. Perfect for picnics and history lovers.
"It feels fresh and relaxing, with a magical ambience that makes you want to exist in there. "
📸 No Photos Inside Castle
Remember, photography is strictly prohibited inside the castle.
🎟️ Ticket Options
Choose between garden-only or combo tickets. Castle tours are mandatory for interior access.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Castle's Grand Architecture
Main building
Explore a stunning European-style castle, a unique architectural gem in Medellín.
Lush Botanical Gardens
Surrounding grounds
Wander through beautifully maintained gardens, perfect for picnics and photos.
Art and History Exhibits
Inside the castle
Discover fascinating art collections and learn about the history of the estate.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Garden vs. Castle Access
Timing Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Looking for interesting architecture in Medellín
📸 No Photos Inside Castle
Remember, photography is strictly prohibited inside the castle.
🎟️ Ticket Options
Choose between garden-only or combo tickets. Castle tours are mandatory for interior access.
🧺 Picnic Perfection
Pre-order a picnic online for an enjoyable afternoon in the gardens.
🚶♀️ Guided Tour Length
Castle tours can be longer than expected; factor this into your schedule.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 No Photos Inside Castle
Remember, photography is strictly prohibited inside the castle.
🎟️ Ticket Options
Choose between garden-only or combo tickets. Castle tours are mandatory for interior access.
🧺 Picnic Perfection
Pre-order a picnic online for an enjoyable afternoon in the gardens.
🚶♀️ Guided Tour Length
Castle tours can be longer than expected; factor this into your schedule.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
El Castillo Museum and Gardens is widely praised for its magical ambiance, beautiful architecture, and relaxing gardens, making it a top choice for picnics and peaceful afternoons. However, some visitors find the castle tours lengthy and are disappointed by the no-photography rule inside the main building.
"I really enjoyed visiting this place, It feels fresh and relaxing, with a magical ambience that makes you want to exist in there. It’s perfect for working, walking around, having a picnic, meditating, or simply enjoying a good afternoon. You can come alone or with your family, and it still feels really welcoming. The gardens and architecture add a unique charm that makes the visit special. Definitely worth it—I loved it."
Milton Caicedo
"Beautiful ambiance. Beautiful Garden to take photos. However, i’m giving 4 stars because it’s advertised as 20,000 colombian pesos but keep in mind that’s just for the garden. To visit both garden and castle, it’s an additional 7,000 colombian pesos per person. In the castle you can not take photos. No photos are allowed and it must be a guided group tour. The tour is supposed to be about 50mins but ours was going on for an hour and a half. We were on a time crunch so we just ended up leaving in the middle of the tour. The tour was educational and nice if you’re into learning the history of things but if you just wanna roam around at your own pace and take photos, i would not recommend & would just purchase the garden ticket. If i had known you couldn’t take pictures in the castle i most likely wouldn’t have purchased the combo ticket but they don’t tell you until the tour starts. There seemed to be a couple people in our group also taken aback with not being able to take photos. Overall, beautiful castle and beautiful garden. Nice visit if you have free time"
Angelica V.
"Was a beautiful and relaxing experience. We order a picnic online with them and it was very enjoyable. We also took a tour of the castle and it was very interesting. Definitely Recommend. 5/5 would picnic again!"
Krystina Needham
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach El Castillo Museum and Gardens by taxi or ride-sharing services, which are readily available in Medellín. Public transport options might involve a combination of metro and bus, but taxis offer the most direct and convenient route. The journey typically takes around 20-30 minutes depending on traffic.
Yes, there is parking available for visitors at El Castillo Museum and Gardens, making it convenient if you're arriving by car.
For a truly relaxing visit, consider a taxi or Uber. This avoids any potential stress with public transport connections and allows you to arrive refreshed, ready to enjoy the gardens and castle.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary. Garden-only access is around 20,000 COP, while a combo ticket for both the garden and castle tour is approximately 27,000 COP per person. It's advisable to check their official website for the most current pricing.
Yes, you can often purchase tickets online, especially for combo tickets or picnic packages, which can save you time upon arrival.
Absolutely. You can purchase a ticket solely for the gardens, or a combo ticket that includes a guided tour of the castle.
El Castillo Museum and Gardens is typically open from Tuesday to Sunday, with hours usually starting around 9:00 AM and closing in the late afternoon. It's best to confirm exact hours for your visit.
You can explore the gardens at your own pace. However, access to the castle interior requires joining a guided group tour.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is not allowed inside the castle. However, the gardens offer numerous beautiful spots for taking pictures.
The gardens are a photographer's dream, with vibrant flowers, scenic pathways, and charming nooks. The castle's exterior also provides a stunning backdrop for photos.
While not explicitly stated in reviews, it's generally advisable to assume drone usage is restricted in museum and garden settings to respect other visitors and preserve the tranquility.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, picnicking is a popular activity here! You can bring your own food or pre-order a picnic package online for a delightful experience in the gardens.
While there isn't a full-service restaurant, they offer pre-ordered picnic baskets and sometimes have light refreshments available. The focus is more on enjoying the grounds.
Many visitors rave about the pre-ordered picnic experience. It's a convenient and enjoyable way to dine amidst the beautiful gardens.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The guided tour takes you through the historic rooms of the castle, explaining its history and the art within. Tours can sometimes run longer than anticipated, so be prepared for an extended visit if you're on a tight schedule.
Absolutely. The gardens provide a serene escape from the city, perfect for quiet contemplation, reading, or simply enjoying nature.
You could spend 2-3 hours enjoying the gardens and taking the castle tour. If you opt for a picnic and leisurely stroll, you might extend your visit to half a day.
With its romantic ambiance, beautiful gardens, and charming castle, it's often considered a wonderful spot for a date or a special occasion.
Some visitors find the gardens to be a refreshing and inspiring place to work remotely, offering a peaceful alternative to a typical cafe.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the castle tour might be less engaging for very young children due to its length and no-photography rule, the gardens provide ample entertainment. It's a great opportunity to introduce kids to beautiful architecture and nature in a safe and welcoming environment.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Be prepared for the disappointment of the no-photography rule inside the castle. While the interior is rich with history and art, you won't be able to capture it. Focus your photographic efforts on the exterior architecture and the abundant beauty of the surrounding gardens to make the most of your visit.
🧘♀️ Solo Travelers & Relaxation Seekers
Visitors often describe the ambiance as magical and relaxing, making it a great spot to recharge. You can wander the grounds at your own pace, find a quiet bench, or even bring a book to enjoy under a tree. The castle itself adds a touch of historical intrigue to your solo exploration.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Marvel of El Castillo
Visitors often remark on the castle's ability to transport them to another world, providing a magical ambiance. While the exterior is a feast for the eyes, the interior houses a collection of art and historical artifacts that further enrich the visitor's understanding of the estate's past. The blend of architectural beauty and curated exhibits makes El Castillo a significant cultural landmark.
It's important to note that the castle's interior is accessible only via guided tours, and photography is not permitted inside. This policy, while sometimes a point of contention for photography enthusiasts, ensures the preservation of the delicate artworks and maintains the intended atmosphere of the historical rooms.
Exploring the Enchanting Gardens
Many visitors highlight the gardens as an ideal spot for photography, with vibrant blooms and scenic vistas providing countless opportunities for memorable shots. The atmosphere is often described as fresh and relaxing, making it a welcome respite from the urban bustle of Medellín. Whether you're seeking a quiet place to meditate, read a book, or simply enjoy nature's beauty, the gardens deliver a truly magical experience.
For an enhanced experience, consider pre-ordering a picnic basket. This allows you to fully immerse yourself in the garden's charm, enjoying a meal amidst the natural splendor. The combination of the castle's grandeur and the gardens' serenity makes El Castillo a holistic destination for art, history, and nature lovers alike.
Navigating Tours and Photography Policies
However, a significant point of feedback from visitors is the strict prohibition of photography inside the castle. This can be a disappointment for those who wish to capture the ornate rooms and historical artifacts. Reviews suggest that the tours can also be quite lengthy, sometimes exceeding the estimated duration, which is important to consider if you have a time-sensitive itinerary.
Conversely, the gardens are open for exploration and photography. This distinction means visitors can enjoy capturing the beauty of the grounds freely, while the castle experience focuses on an immersive, guided historical journey. Balancing these different aspects of the visit is crucial for managing expectations and ensuring a satisfying experience.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit