Medellín – October 15, 2026 -- Medellín welcomed 1.2 million foreign tourists in 2025, and the tourism sector generated an economic impact of five trillion pesos ($1.552 billion), according to the city's Department of Tourism and Entertainment.
The department says international arrivals to Colombia's second-largest tourism hub, behind only Bogotá, are growing at nearly 10% annually.
U.S. travelers make up 33% of foreign visitors to Medellín
Mexico, Ecuador, Spain, Peru and Panama follow the United States among the main source countries. Foreign tourists stay four to six nights and spend an average of about 210,000 pesos (around $66) per night, mainly on gastronomy, culture, shopping and wellness.
The true visitor count is believed to be higher than arrivals at José María Córdova International Airport. Many tourists enter Colombia through Bogotá or Cartagena de Indias and then travel inland to Medellín.
City promotes Manrique and Perpetuo Socorro to diversify beyond Comuna 13
Medellín is seeking to broaden its offer beyond the Comuna 13 graffiti tour. It is promoting Manrique, which combines culture, gastronomy, urban art and music, and Perpetuo Socorro, which has been transformed into a creative district.
The city also markets nature, wellness, gastronomy, sports and health initiatives. Eco-tourism receives special emphasis because nearly 70% of the city consists of natural areas, according to the department.
Concerts by Shakira, Guns N' Roses and Juanes drew visitors in 2025
Entertainment is another growth driver. Concerts, festivals and major events attract domestic and international visitors, with Shakira, Maluma, J Balvin, Guns N' Roses, Juanes and Juan Luis Guerra performing in the city in 2025.
Tourism Secretary Ana María López said the city is increasingly drawing visitors interested in wellness and nature.