Medellin Neighborhood Guides: Belén

TLDR? Belén is one of the oldest communes in Medellín where you can have an ecological, cultural, and food experience in the same place.

Medellín is made up of unique neighborhoods, each with its own authenticity.  

Comunas 16, or Belén, contains one of the most popular neighborhoods and economic residences in the city, with good restaurants, bars, places and to visit. 

In this guide, I’ll teach you a bit about Belén and what you can expect from this district of Medellín. Read ahead to learn more! 

What Are the Neighborhoods That Makeup Belén?

Bethlehem, as it is known in English, is the last of Medellín’s sixteen Comunas. Located in the south of Laureles, it’s like living in a little city of its own. 

Located in the south of Laureles, the working-class comunas of Belén are made up of twenty-two neighborhoods, including La Gloria, El Rincón, San Fernando, and Las Violetas, one of the largest neighborhoods in the comunas. 

Belén’s mix of typical Paisa city life and tourist locales gives the area a unique and personal touch. 

How to Get To Belén 

If you’re using public transport, Estación Industriales is the neighborhood’s most popular metro station. It’s close to several Belén neighborhoods, providing visitors with easy access to the comunas. You can go from the station to El Poblado with no problems. 

Remember that you always have the option to take a taxi or use a ride-shape app if you’re trying to avoid using public transportation. 

If you’ve rented a car in Medellín, check the route you want to take into the comunas, or use the GPS in your car or phone. If you’re having trouble getting to your desired location, ask a local to help you out – they’re usually very friendly! 

What to Expect From Belén

One of the great things about each district of Medellín is their respective community leaders, who work to promote tourism encouraging not only tourists but locals alike to visit different districts. 

There are some great tourist spots in Belén you absolutely can’t miss! 

Main Park

Of course, Belén has a striking main park.

Named after the comunas, the main park boasts a gorgeous church that stands out for its architectural beauty. 

You can also take a tour of the park to feed the pigeons and drink delicious Colombian coffee.

Address: Cra. 77 #30a-2, Medellín, Belén, Medellín, Antioquia

El Cerro Nutibara

The Cerro de Nutibara ecological park is a cultural and natural center in the middle of the city. Full of green areas and fresh air, the park is a popular spot for sports and hiking. 

You’ll see people riding bikes, having picnics, walking their pets, or traversing along the trails. There are even workout spots with public exercise machines. 

As a protected ecosystem, the park is home to a variety of flora and fauna. The macaw, one of Colombia’s national birds, can be seen soaring through the trees. 

To get to the park by Metro, get off at the Estación Industriales. After about a ten-minute walk, you’ll arrive at this gorgeous location. 

The park is not only rich in biodiversity but rich in culture as well. I recommend checking out the Pueblito Paisa and the Parque de las Esculturas. 

1. Pueblito Paisa

The famous Pueblito Paisa is located on the top of Nutibara hill.

The architecture of this little area mimics that of a typical 20th-century Antioquian town, making Pueblito Paisa feel like a little slice of history amidst the modern city. 

The charming main square and fountain, beautiful church, and colorful Antioquian houses make this spot a must-visit if you’re in Antioquia. 

Here you can eat, snap some photos, or take home a souvenir. I also recommend visiting the city museum, as well as the Carlos Vieco open-air theater.

2. Parque de Las Esculturas

The Parque de las Esculturas is a sculpture garden dedicated to outdoor art. 

Installed in the green areas of the park, the sculptures are designed by national and international artists. 

Take a short tour to check out these amazing works of art, as well as other pieces honoring the national culture. 

Address: Cerro de Nutibara, Medellín, Antioquia

Food and Fun in Belén

You may have worked up an appetite after touring Pueblito Paisa, seeing the sculptures, and wandering around the neighborhoods of Belén. Grab a bite to eat at one of the area’s delicious restaurants, then head back out on the town for some nightlife! 

Food in Belén

The Los Molinos is the perfect place for tourists looking for a wide variety of dining options. 

Located just a few blocks from Parque Belén, the mall has a ton of different restaurants, ranging from typical Colombian food to seafood to fast food. There are even some renowned restaurants if you’re looking for something fancier. 

The mall is also a great place to spend the afternoon with family or friends! 

Address: Cl. 30A #82A-26, Medellín, Antioquia. 

Nightlife in Belén 

You may not know it yet, but Medellín’s nightlife scene is one of the best in all of Colombia. 

In Belén, you’ll find bars and nightclubs in close proximity to one another, perfect for a bar crawl of your own design. 

If you’re in the mood to dance, go to the Mulenze Salsa Bar, and enjoy a small, romantic salsa concert. 

Another great place to spend a fun night is Masna Lounge. Enjoy a round of drinks with friends and music from their live DJ. 

Come Visit Belén

Hopefully, after reading this article you understand why Belén is known for feeling like a small city within the big city of Medellín. Visit Belén and discover all its wonders for yourself! 

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