4 Best Sights in Medellín, Colombia

The botanical gardens span about 33 acres and have more than 600 plant species, including heliconias, zamias, and azaleas. With plenty of spaces to explore, most notably the orchidarium, whose striking wooden hexagonal structure rises above the trees forming the park's centerpiece, a visit here makes for a nice half-day break from city life. Stop by the excellent In Situ restaurant, which has views of the garden and offers picnic lunches that you can take into the garden.

The 1930s Gothic-inspired Castle Museum, with beautiful French-style gardens of sweeping lawns and exuberant flower beds, was once the home of a powerful Medellín family. On display are their furniture and international art collection. A fully catered picnic on the lawns can be arranged if you call ahead. A basket for two with wine will cost around 80,000 pesos.

As you enter this reproduction of an old-time Antioquian village, you'll see a traditional town square with a small church, town hall, barbershop, school, and village store. For your present-day needs, it also has a small, serviceable restaurant and several souvenir shops. The views over the city alone are worth the visit.