Things To Do
in Bello

Bello, Colombia is a vibrant city located in the Aburrá Valley, just north of Medellín. Known for its rich cultural heritage and scenic landscapes, it offers a unique blend of urban life and natural beauty. The city is well-connected by public transport, making it an accessible destination for travelers.

With a friendly atmosphere and a variety of attractions, Bello is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering the Heart of Bello
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Parque de Bello, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk and take in the local atmosphere.

afternoon
:

Explore the local markets, like Mercado de Bello, to taste fresh fruits and local delicacies.

evening
:

Dinner at El Rancho de La Abuela, known for its traditional Colombian dishes and warm ambiance.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Hike up to Cerro Quitasol for stunning views of the Aburrá Valley and a refreshing morning in nature.

afternoon
:

Visit the Museo de Bello to learn about the city's history and culture.

evening
:

Enjoy a night out at La 35, a popular street filled with bars and live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🚕Taxi ride$3
🛍️Local beer$1.50
🍌Dozen bananas$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and friendly locals.
  • Vibrant culinary scene with delicious local dishes.
  • Beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor activities.
  • Language barrier may exist for non-Spanish speakers.
  • Public transport can be crowded during peak hours.
  • Limited English signage in some areas.
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Gracias" - Thank you.
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Me gustaría una cerveza" - I would like a beer.
  • "Por favor" - Please.

Places to Visit in Bello

Visit one of these nice places.

Cerro Quitasol

Offers breathtaking panoramic views of Bello and the surrounding valley, perfect for sunset photography.

Parque de Bello

A picturesque park with vibrant flowers and local life, ideal for capturing daily scenes.

Centro Histórico

Features colorful colonial architecture and lively street scenes, great for cultural photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Bello

Bello offers a delightful culinary scene that reflects its rich culture and tradition, with a variety of local dishes that are a must-try.

Bello Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bandeja Paisa

A hearty platter featuring beans, rice, ground meat, chicharrón, plantain, and avocado.

Must-Try!

Arepas

Corn cakes that can be grilled or baked, served with various fillings.

Sancocho

A traditional soup made with meat, plantains, and yuca.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado de Bello

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and street food.

Street Vendors

Look out for vendors selling empanadas, arepas, and fresh fruit juices throughout the city.

Climate Guide

Weather

Bello experiences a tropical climate, with an average temperature around 24°C (75°F) year-round. Rain is common, particularly from April to November, creating a lush and green environment. The dry season, from December to March, is the most popular time for tourists due to the pleasant weather. Nights can be cooler, so a light jacket is advisable.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

Always greet with a friendly 'Hola' and a smile; handshakes are common.

Respect for Elders

Show respect to older individuals; it is customary to stand when they enter a room.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating; it’s polite to keep your hands on the table.

Safety Guide

Safety

Bello is generally safe for tourists, but it's essential to take standard precautions. Avoid displaying valuables in public and stay in well-lit areas at night. Using registered taxis or rideshare apps is recommended for safer transportation. Be cautious in crowded places to prevent pickpocketing.

Tipping in Bello

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Culture

A tip of around 10% is expected in restaurants, but check if service is included.

Payment Methods

Most places accept cash (COP) and credit cards; however, smaller vendors may only take cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Rainy Season (April - November)

Expect heavy rains; pack an umbrella and waterproof gear.

Dry Season (December - March)

Ideal for outdoor activities; enjoy clear skies and pleasant temperatures.

Festive Season (December)

Experience local festivities and decorations during Christmas; be prepared for crowds.

Cool Season (June - August)

Temperatures are cooler; layer up for evening outings.

Nightlife Guide

Bello at Night

Bello has a vibrant nightlife scene with a mix of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Popular areas include La 35, where many locals gather to enjoy drinks and dance. Expect a lively atmosphere, especially on weekends, with genres ranging from salsa to reggaeton. Street vendors offer late-night snacks for those looking to refuel after a night out.

Hiking in Bello

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sendero del Río La Mesenia

A scenic trail that follows the river, offering a peaceful environment and opportunities for birdwatching.

Cerro Quitasol Trail

A popular hiking destination with varying difficulty levels, providing stunning views of the Aburrá Valley.

Airports

How to reach Bello by plane.

José María Córdova International Airport (MDE)

Located about 30 minutes from Bello, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, making it the main gateway to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Bello is quite walkable, with many neighborhoods featuring pedestrian-friendly streets. The city center has a lively atmosphere, making it easy to explore shops, cafes, and parks on foot. However, some hilly areas may require more effort to navigate, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Urban Youth

A vibrant demographic known for their interest in music, fashion, and social media.

Working Class Families

The majority of the population, focusing on community, work, and local traditions.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is the most popular sport in Bello, with local teams and passionate fans.

Cycling

The city hosts various cycling events, and many locals enjoy riding both for leisure and sport.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Bello can be congested, especially during rush hours. Public transportation options include buses and the Medellín Metro, which connects to Bello and is a convenient way to navigate the area. Biking is also a popular mode of transport, with dedicated lanes in some parts of the city.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Bello.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's best to ask the staff for recommendations.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are limited; it's advisable to communicate your needs clearly.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Bello offers good healthcare services with several hospitals and clinics available. The quality of care is generally high, and many healthcare professionals speak some English. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, especially for emergencies.

Discover Colombia

Read more in our Colombia 2025 Travel Guide.

Colombia Travel Guide