Things To Do
in Retiro
Retiro is a small hillside town in Antioquia known for its green landscapes and relaxed pace. It sits within easy reach of Medellín, offering a gateway to rural coffee farms and scenic valleys. The town blends colonial charm with friendly locals and a countryside atmosphere.
Visitors come for outdoor adventures, local cuisine, and a glimpse of traditional Antioquian life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Parque Principal, where you can enjoy the serenity of the lush green surroundings. As the sun rises, take a leisurely stroll through the cobbled streets, absorbing the rich history of the town. Don’t forget to stop by a local bakery for a warm arepa or pandebono to fuel your adventures.
In the afternoon, make your way to the Museo del Oro, which showcases a stunning collection of pre-Columbian gold artifacts. After immersing yourself in history, head to a nearby café for a delicious lunch featuring local Colombian specialties. Spend some time shopping for handmade crafts at the local artisan market, where you can find unique souvenirs.
As night falls, enjoy dinner at a traditional Colombian restaurant, savoring dishes like bandeja paisa or sancocho. After dinner, take a leisurely walk back to the Parque Principal, where the vibrant chatter of locals creates a lively atmosphere. End your evening with a sweet treat from a local ice cream shop, indulging in flavors that reflect the region's tropical bounty.
Begin your day early with a guided tour of a nearby coffee farm, where you can learn about the coffee production process from bean to cup. Enjoy a tasting session of freshly brewed Colombian coffee while surrounded by beautiful coffee plants and breathtaking views. Engage with local farmers who will share their stories and knowledge about the region's coffee heritage.
After the farm tour, savor a traditional lunch prepared with local ingredients, often served in a rustic setting that enhances the experience. Spend the afternoon exploring the picturesque landscapes of the coffee region, perhaps by taking a short hike through the lush hills. Capture stunning photographs of the vibrant scenery and the charming farmhouses dotting the landscape.
Return to Retiro in the evening and unwind at a cozy café, sipping on the coffee you've just learned about while reflecting on the day's experiences. Join locals at the Parque Principal for an evening of music and dance, where you can immerse yourself in the cultural vibrancy of the town. As the stars twinkle above, enjoy the lively atmosphere and perhaps even join in the dancing.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| ☕Coffee or snack | $1-3 |
| 🥘Mid-range three-course meal | $12-22 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $3-7 |
| 🏨Budget hotel night | $15-30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming small-town atmosphere
- Gateway to outdoor adventures
- Affordable prices
- Friendly locals
- Limited nightlife
- Fewer large-scale attractions
- Travel time to larger cities for some services
- Variable wifi in rural areas
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
Places to Visit in Retiro
Visit one of these nice places.
Colonial architecture framed by the town church and shaded benches; great for morning or golden-hour photography.
Vibrant riverbank scenes with vendors, colorful stalls, and reflections on the water.
A vantage point above the town offering sweeping valley and hills views, ideal at sunset.
Terraced plots and rustic fincas provide portraits against coffee plants and mountain backdrops.
A short forest walk leads to a small waterfall and natural pools—great for nature shots.
Food in Retiro
Retiro Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty platter with beans, rice, ground or fried meat, pork belly, fried egg, plantain, avocado, and dish-specific accompaniments.
Must-Try!
Sweet corn arepa often enjoyed with cheese or butter; popular as a snack or side dish.
Grilled trout from nearby streams, typically served with yuca, lemon, and fresh herbs.
A comforting soup with meat (often chicken or pork), plantains, yuca, and corn, reflecting regional comfort food.
Crispy pork served with boiled yuca and a tangy salsa; a common rustic favorite.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively local market with fresh produce, fruits, arepas, empanadas, and regional snacks.
Sidewalk vendors offer arepas, empanadas, buñuelos, and tamales in the town center.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes' with a handshake or cheek kiss is common among friends; a courteous tone is valued.
Dress modestly in rural areas and churches; be respectful in religious sites and avoid loud behavior in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Retiro
Ensure a smooth experience
A 5-10% tip in casual places; around 10% in nicer restaurants; small tips for guides and taxi drivers when service is good.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; mobile payments are increasingly common; ATMs are available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Clear skies, sunny days, and drier roads; ideal for outdoor activities and long walks. Nights can be cool on higher ground.
Afternoon showers and higher humidity; trails can be muddy but landscapes are lush and vibrant. Pack rain gear and quick-dry clothing.
Retiro at Night
Hiking in Retiro
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short forest hike to a picturesque waterfall near the town.
H hillside trail with panoramic valley views.
Airports
How to reach Retiro by plane.
Located in Rionegro; major international and domestic flights; about 40-60 minutes from Retiro by car depending on traffic.
In Medellín; smaller airport for domestic flights; about 60-90 minutes by car.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents are family units living in town and surrounding farms.
Working-age adults involved in agriculture and dairy in the countryside.
Older residents and seasonal visitors who enjoy the cooler hillside areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Most popular team sport; local matches and informal games in parks.
Popular among locals for road riding and scenic routes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Retiro.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Retiro, navigate vegetariano options by choosing beans, rice, arepas, salads, soups, and seasonal vegetables; communicate preferences to staff and look for vegetarian dishes on menus.