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Home » Medellin: The Best Things to Do for First-Time Visitors
Street art in Medellin colombia of 2 small boys with birds on their shoulders with an overall blue tint

Medellin: The Best Things to Do for First-Time Visitors

Last Updated: August 23, 2024

Table of Contents

Toggle
  7 Minutes Read
  • Amazing Things to Do in Medellin
    • Go on a Comuna 13 Tour
    • Visit Museo Casa de la Memoria
    • Discover Parque Arvi
    • Explore Plaza Botero
    • Admire the Festival of Flowers
    • Participate in the Sunday Ciclovia
    • Go Dancing
  • Best Day Tours from Medellin
    • Visit a Coffee Farm
    • Take an Epic Trip to Guatape
  • Explore Medellin’s Diverse Restaurant Scene
  • Best Time to Visit Medellin, Colombia
  • Posts from Colombia:
    • The 10 Cheapest Places to Travel the World in 2025
    • Medellin | Amazing Iguana Petting at the Botanical Garden
    • Easy and Delicious Colombian Obleas Recipe
    • Medellín | Amazing Things to Do on a Retirement Trip
    • Medellin | Great Legs Funny Short Video
    • Guatape | Making New Friends in Colombia

Located in the valley among the Andes mountains, Medellin is a buzzing city surrounded by lush forests and waterfalls, and beautiful hikes just a stone’s throw away. The city maintains a pleasant temperature of 72 F all year round, which is why it is nicknamed the City of Eternal Spring. We’ve been to Medellin many times and keep on coming back time and time again. And you may be wondering, is Medellin worth the visit? Ask anyone who has ever been to Colombia, and the number one thing they’ll tell you is to make sure you visit Medellin! But why?

Enjoying our time in Medellin

Well, aside from the fact paisas, the nickname for locals of the province, will strike you with kindness, Medellin will delight you with numerous incredible activities, compelling stories, adventurous experiences, and breathtaking scenery. Medellin has worked hard to change the narrative with innovative projects that bring people closer together while elevating the city’s commitment to sustainability. Paisas are incredibly proud of their city; let’s find out why! Here are the best things to do in Medellin that will make you rave about this city to everyone you know. 

Incredible Medellin Metro!

Amazing Things to Do in Medellin

Go on a Comuna 13 Tour

Walking tour of Comuna 13

Comuna 13 is the best place to start your discovery of Medellin. For many years it was the most dangerous neighborhood in the city, but it has been completely transformed. Not only is it filled with vibrant graffiti, but the youth here are also now choosing to venture into arts like dance performances thanks to the influence. Located on the outskirts of the city, it has been made more accessible with escalators, which allow its residents more work opportunities, schools, and healthcare facilities in the city. The impact that started with graffiti is so incredible that it has become a major draw to tourists. You can visit the neighborhood on an organized tour or by yourself.


Visit Museo Casa de la Memoria

If you are curious to learn more about Colombia’s turbulent history, pay a visit to Museo Casa de la Memoria. The museum portrays stories of people’s lives and the struggles they faced during the armed conflict and helps understand what Colombians had to overcome and the scale of transformation that took place.


Discover Parque Arvi

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Parque Arvi is located 30 minutes above Medellin in what seems like a little town of its own. It’s very easy to get to by catching a cable car from the subway station directly to the park’s entrance. The park is full of hiking trails, which are recommended to be explored with a guide, not just for safety reasons but also to learn about the plant varieties and the bird and animal population living in the forest. The lookout points offer spectacular views of Medellin’s red brick high-rises against the backdrop of green mountains. After a satisfying hike past waterfalls and creeks, stop by Mercado Arvi to refuel with fresh fruit and pastries. Make sure to wear waterproof shoes or shoes you are okay with getting muddy.


Explore Plaza Botero

Standing with our friend in Plaza Botero

This square is home to 23 voluptuous sculptures created by the most popular Colombian artist Fernando Botero. He is an inspiration to many, and it’s common to see paintings of full-bodied figures in souvenir and art shops. One of the statues in Plaza Botero has fallen victim to bombings but is kept there as a reminder of the horrific events of the past. Fernando Botero has donated another identical sculpture, and now the two birds are known as the ‘birds of peace.’

Plaza Botero sculpture

Admire the Festival of Flowers

Cortesía del Bureau de Medellín y Medellin.travel

If your trip coincides with Feria de las Flores held in the first days of August, you are in great luck! Medellin is one of the biggest exporters of flowers in Colombia, and during this cultural event, the city puts on an epic parade of flowers. It celebrates the long-standing flower farming and trades and includes an impressive pageant of silletas, which are heavy wooden easels decorated with flowers.

Cortesía del Bureau de Medellín y Medellin.travel

Participate in the Sunday Ciclovia

YouTube player

Medellin is full of innovative initiatives that aim to benefit communities and the environment. One such initiative is the Sunday Ciclovia, when Avenida Poblado, Medellin’s main street, is closed off to vehicles from the morning until 12:30 to encourage people to exercise and reduce traffic. John loves joining the locals for a run, but we also love to walk along with the locals. You can also rent a bike. Check out our video and find out why this is one of our favorite activities in Medellin.


Go Dancing

Ask any local what they like doing in their free time, and you will get the same answer all around: dancing and music! The combination of the two in the form of salsa is at the core of Colombian culture. This makes taking a salsa dance class one of the best things to do while in Medellin. Fun fact: salsa and Colombian culture is highly influenced by the African population in Colombia, which is one of the largest black populations outside of Africa! So, if you’ve taken salsa classes before, why not try an African dance class instead?


Best Day Tours from Medellin

Visit a Coffee Farm

Coffee farm near Medellin

Colombian coffee is world-renowned, so why not grab your daily dose of tinto (what Colombians call black coffee). You can also visit a coffee farm and participate in the making of your favorite elixir? Get outfitted with a traditional coffee-picking uniform, and once you are in character, you get sent off to the farm to pick the coffee berries. Once you’ve met your quota, you get walked through the entire process of coffee making. At the end, get treated to a beautiful local lunch, and of course, drink plenty of coffee.


Take an Epic Trip to Guatape

Guatape church

Just a two-hour drive from Medellin is located in the quaint and colorful town of Guatape. It is by far the most popular day trip from Medellin. There is so much to discover in the village, where walls are decorated with artwork that tells stories. The main reason to take a day trip to Guatape is for the monumental monolith rock outside of town. It towers above deep blue lake and is called Piedra del Peñol. You can climb the 740 steps to the top for incredible 360-degree views. You can also enjoy a beverage, which is the ultimate epitome of having a drink with a view. Check out our video here and if you are looking for a tour guide, be sure to contact our favorite, Jaime, of Kachay Colombia Tours.

YouTube player

Explore Medellin’s Diverse Restaurant Scene

Aerial view of Medellin, Colombia

Let’s be honest, Medellin is no longer Colombia’s best-kept secret. On the contrary, it has very much been discovered by tourists and digital nomads. But there is an upside to this: incredible foodie heaven. You can literally embark on a global culinary adventure all while staying in Medellin once you’ve had enough Colombian food. Indian, Middle Eastern, Japanese, Mexican, experimental, French fusion, plant-based…you name it, Medellin’s got it!

Traditional Colombian dinner

As for Colombian favorites, make sure to try the Bandeja Paisa, the national dish. This is a real feast on a tray consisting of different meats, rice, egg, arepas, and avocado. Head to Mondongo’s if you are staying in Poblado and Laurels orLa Gloria de Gloria if you are based in Envigado.

Alambique is one of our favorite restaurants in Medellin. Once you go through an unassuming entrance and anticlimactic set of stairs, a jungle fairytale welcomes you for a unique and romantic dinner of modern Colombian food.

And for those special occasions, we recommend visiting Jura Kub, a super unique restaurant offering experimental cuisine with ingredients from the Colombian Amazon with a visual presentation that will absolutely blow you away.

John having fun in Medellin

With so much going for it, Medellin is one of the up-and-coming destinations in the world. But the second piece of advice any traveler will give you about Medellin is to get to know the locals. Striking up a conversation with a paisa will result in a connection as pungent and soul-warming as aguardiente, a local anise-flavored liqueur. We can’t wait to return to Medellin and hope to see you there!

Best Time to Visit Medellin, Colombia

We have linked a great website to this button showing the weather for this location by the month. Click below to be taken to Weather-and-Climate.com.

Click here!

Posts from Colombia:

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The 10 Cheapest Places to Travel the World in 2025

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Medellin | Amazing Iguana Petting at the Botanical Garden

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Easy and Delicious Colombian Obleas Recipe

john sticking his tongue out with mural in background in medellin colombia

Medellín | Amazing Things to Do on a Retirement Trip

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Medellin | Great Legs Funny Short Video

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Guatape | Making New Friends in Colombia

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. alice

    February 29, 2024 at 2:57 PM

    I’m learning Spanish and many places you listed are on my list (I’ve been to most of European and Asian countries, not S.A. yet). However, my American friends tell me not to visit Columbia for safety reasons. What are your thoughts?

    Reply
    • rtravelers

      March 1, 2024 at 4:24 PM

      Our recommendation is to make a trip to Medellin and judge for yourself. Stay in the El Poblado area and explore from there. There are places in every city you shouldn’t go, especially at night, but we’ve had good experiences in Medellin in this neighborhood. If you need a great tour guide to show you the area, let us know. His name is Jaime and he is wonderful.
      Cartagena is more touristy and much hotter than Medellin, but staying inside the old city is cool.
      John and Bev
      PS. There are some cities we have heard like Cali, that may be of higher risk, we just aren’t personally familiar.

      Reply
  2. Paul Guzman

    November 18, 2023 at 1:54 PM

    Love this article and it’s really helpful! Planning a wheelchair friendly trip to Medellin in the near future, hopefully this summer. Thank you!

    Reply
    • rtravelers

      November 19, 2023 at 9:02 PM

      Thanks and have fun in Medellin. We love that city too!
      Safe travels,
      John and Bev

      Reply

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A picture of John & Bev celebrating 100 countries with balloons and champaign.

We’re John & Bev a married, American couple who decided to sell our home and give away our stuff so we could explore the world. Having traveled to over 100 countries, we create travel guides to help show you the way. We hope our tips, maps, details, stories, and recommendations help you travel with confidence and plan a grand adventure of your own. Reach out if you have a question, we’re happy to share our thoughts. Happy Journeys!

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📍 104 Countries - Cruising the Panama Canal 🗺 Traveling the world full-time 🎥 Community of 138K+ on YouTube ⬇️ Watch and read latest content ⬇️
  • We rolled into Gyeongju on a zippy high-speed train and realized that this place is like walking through a history book that forgot it was supposed to be boring. They call it Korea’s “museum without walls,” and we couldn’t agree more. Our favorite stop? The stunning Woljeonggyo Bridge — painted dragons above, river below, and us smack in the middle of this fabulous city wondering how we could rearrange our schedule for a longer stay. Our hearts were hitching a ride back to the 7th century, but unfortunately, the next train was scheduled to take us to the next amazing Korean city. We’ll be back, no doubt! We love it so!
#korea #gyeongju #retirementtravelers
  • One thing we learned in Seoul today is that by wearing our Retirement Travelers shirts and vlogging our adventures, we were no longer ordinary tourists. We were viral-worthy legends in the eyes of middle-school boys. At Gyeongbokgung Palace, we were admiring the royal rooftops when this fun group of kids spotted us and swarmed. Phones clicked, peace signs flew, and we soaked up our five minutes of fame. And to think—our kids back home just call us “cute old people” but clearly, in South Korea, we are one step away from debuting as the next K-pop duo. 🤣 #seoulkorea #seoul🇰🇷 #kpop #korea NEVER STOP ACTING LIKE A KID!!!
  • Hands down, our favorite thing at the Osaka World Expo 2025 was the Grand Ring—a jaw-dropping, 2-kilometer wooden skywalk that loops above the pavilions like a giant hula hoop. Not only does it hold the Guinness World Record for the largest wooden architectural structure, but it also came with one magical feature most of the pavilions lacked: no reservations required!!! We strolled around the wooden marvel like VIPs with zero lines and awesome views. #osaka #worldexpo #japan
  • We took one last wander through Kyoto’s bamboo forest today—along with what felt like the entire population of Earth. Still, the towering stalks and swaying hush made it feel like nature was trying its best to whisper over the crowd. As we get ready to leave Kyoto behind, we’re carrying some unforgettable moments with us and we look forward to adding some more along the way. #kyoto #japanlife  #bambooforest
  • We’ve officially arrived in Kyoto, and guess who’s already winning at this whole cultural immersion thing. Our 7-year-old granddaughter. Jet lag? She laughed in its face. Chopsticks? She’s in training. Bowing politely? Basically, a local diplomat. And the outfit? A pink kimono and a matching fan that we bought her—she’s got more style than the rest of us combined. Meanwhile, we’re over here trying to decode the Japanese metro system like it’s an escape room… after a month of being spoiled by China’s luxury rail life. She’s thriving, we’re surviving—and honestly, we wouldn’t have it any other way! It is also good reminder to us to still see the world through the curiosity and innocence of a child. Evie, Thanks for joining us in Japan!!! #kyotojapan #kyoto #japan
  • In the heart of Shanghai’s futuristic skyline, we found ourselves living a dream—our lodging nestled high within the iconic Jin Mao Tower(Bldg on left). Each morning, we woke to a commanding view of the World Financial Center slicing through the sky, and just steps away stood the architectural marvel that is the Shanghai Tower—the third tallest building in the world. Our adventure reached thrilling new heights as we ascended to its summit, where the city sprawled beneath us like a living tapestry. It was more than just a stay; it was a front-row seat to one of the most awe-inspiring skylines on Earth. #shanghai #chinatrip #jinmaotower #shanghaitower #china
  • A visit to Beijing isn’t complete without a long walk on the Great Wall (Badaling section), which is now only a 30-minute train ride from Beijing North Railway Station. It is simply spectacular and a must visit. #greatwall #greatwallofchina #china
  • Bev stood in awe before the Army of Terracotta Warriors near Xi'an. Hidden for 2200 years, these ancient relics were only unearthed by a Chinese farmer in 1974. China's First Emperor Qin Shi Huang sought to defy mortality. He poured vast resources into constructing an underground empire, complete with palaces, armies, chariots, and stables. Spanning 21 square miles, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the largest burial ground on earth. #xian #xianchina #terracottawarriors #china #retirementtravel
  • The reason we stopped in Chengdu was pretty black and white………and very, very cute. 🐼
The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is an incredible facility that houses over 200 Giant Pandas and Red Pandas. This photo is the most famous resident here. She is a cutie and a social media star in China, named HuaHua. 
#pandas #huahua #chengdu #chinatravel
  • We are in Chongqing. This municipality in southwestern China is considered one of the largest cities in the world with over 30 million people. It is massive! It is nicknamed “The Mountain City” because of the many urban hills with unique transportation systems that adapt to the terrain. This is a vibrant place with lots of high-end shopping, a monorail that passes through a building, towering skyscrapers, and so many wonderful “Hot Pot” restaurants. #china #chongqing #lizibastation
  • Just zipping around China by train,
We think it’s much better than a plane.
A rail network so vast,
And speeds that are fast,
There is nary a thing to complain.

Several of you have asked how we are getting around in China? Well, the Chinese high-speed train system has quite simply BLOWN US AWAY!!! It is modern, affordable, fast, clean, efficient, convenient and has great service. There is a rapidly expanding network of 25,000 miles of high-speed rail lines, with numerous daily routes going about anywhere you would want to go. We have tried the 1st and 2nd class tickets, both of which are perfectly fine, but admit we love the over-the-top luxury of business class for affordable prices. We will be detailing more info about Chinese train travel in future videos, so stay tuned. John and Bev
#china #trains #traintravel
  • Tianmen Mountain was our third incredible attraction near Zhangjiajie, China. The mountain can be accessed from the city by two different exhilarating aerial trams or a dangerous highway featuring 99 hairpin turns. Tianmen literally means “Heaven’s Gate” and the 999 stairs leading up to the opening are known as the Stairway to Heaven. Climbing this stairway was another bucket list experience for us, so we took our time on the steep steps and just savored every moment. After passing through the gate, a long series of escalators take you up through the inside of the mountain to the top, where they have a glass-bottomed walkway hugging a cliffside and many great views of the area.
#china #tianmen #tianmenmountain
View on Instagram
We rolled into Gyeongju on a zippy high-speed train and realized that this place is like walking through a history book that forgot it was supposed to be boring. They call it Korea’s “museum without walls,” and we couldn’t agree more. Our favorite stop? The stunning Woljeonggyo Bridge — painted dragons above, river below, and us smack in the middle of this fabulous city wondering how we could rearrange our schedule for a longer stay. Our hearts were hitching a ride back to the 7th century, but unfortunately, the next train was scheduled to take us to the next amazing Korean city. We’ll be back, no doubt! We love it so!
#korea #gyeongju #retirementtravelers
@retirementtravelers
@retirementtravelers
•
Follow
We rolled into Gyeongju on a zippy high-speed train and realized that this place is like walking through a history book that forgot it was supposed to be boring. They call it Korea’s “museum without walls,” and we couldn’t agree more. Our favorite stop? The stunning Woljeonggyo Bridge — painted dragons above, river below, and us smack in the middle of this fabulous city wondering how we could rearrange our schedule for a longer stay. Our hearts were hitching a ride back to the 7th century, but unfortunately, the next train was scheduled to take us to the next amazing Korean city. We’ll be back, no doubt! We love it so! #korea #gyeongju #retirementtravelers
3 weeks ago
View on Instagram |
1/12
One thing we learned in Seoul today is that by wearing our Retirement Travelers shirts and vlogging our adventures, we were no longer ordinary tourists. We were viral-worthy legends in the eyes of middle-school boys. At Gyeongbokgung Palace, we were admiring the royal rooftops when this fun group of kids spotted us and swarmed. Phones clicked, peace signs flew, and we soaked up our five minutes of fame. And to think—our kids back home just call us “cute old people” but clearly, in South Korea, we are one step away from debuting as the next K-pop duo. 🤣 #seoulkorea #seoul🇰🇷 #kpop #korea NEVER STOP ACTING LIKE A KID!!!
@retirementtravelers
@retirementtravelers
•
Follow
One thing we learned in Seoul today is that by wearing our Retirement Travelers shirts and vlogging our adventures, we were no longer ordinary tourists. We were viral-worthy legends in the eyes of middle-school boys. At Gyeongbokgung Palace, we were admiring the royal rooftops when this fun group of kids spotted us and swarmed. Phones clicked, peace signs flew, and we soaked up our five minutes of fame. And to think—our kids back home just call us “cute old people” but clearly, in South Korea, we are one step away from debuting as the next K-pop duo. 🤣 #seoulkorea #seoul🇰🇷 #kpop #korea NEVER STOP ACTING LIKE A KID!!!
1 month ago
View on Instagram |
2/12
Hands down, our favorite thing at the Osaka World Expo 2025 was the Grand Ring—a jaw-dropping, 2-kilometer wooden skywalk that loops above the pavilions like a giant hula hoop. Not only does it hold the Guinness World Record for the largest wooden architectural structure, but it also came with one magical feature most of the pavilions lacked: no reservations required!!! We strolled around the wooden marvel like VIPs with zero lines and awesome views. #osaka #worldexpo #japan
@retirementtravelers
@retirementtravelers
•
Follow
Hands down, our favorite thing at the Osaka World Expo 2025 was the Grand Ring—a jaw-dropping, 2-kilometer wooden skywalk that loops above the pavilions like a giant hula hoop. Not only does it hold the Guinness World Record for the largest wooden architectural structure, but it also came with one magical feature most of the pavilions lacked: no reservations required!!! We strolled around the wooden marvel like VIPs with zero lines and awesome views. #osaka #worldexpo #japan
1 month ago
View on Instagram |
3/12
We took one last wander through Kyoto’s bamboo forest today—along with what felt like the entire population of Earth. Still, the towering stalks and swaying hush made it feel like nature was trying its best to whisper over the crowd. As we get ready to leave Kyoto behind, we’re carrying some unforgettable moments with us and we look forward to adding some more along the way. #kyoto #japanlife  #bambooforest
@retirementtravelers
@retirementtravelers
•
Follow
We took one last wander through Kyoto’s bamboo forest today—along with what felt like the entire population of Earth. Still, the towering stalks and swaying hush made it feel like nature was trying its best to whisper over the crowd. As we get ready to leave Kyoto behind, we’re carrying some unforgettable moments with us and we look forward to adding some more along the way. #kyoto #japanlife #bambooforest
1 month ago
View on Instagram |
4/12
We’ve officially arrived in Kyoto, and guess who’s already winning at this whole cultural immersion thing. Our 7-year-old granddaughter. Jet lag? She laughed in its face. Chopsticks? She’s in training. Bowing politely? Basically, a local diplomat. And the outfit? A pink kimono and a matching fan that we bought her—she’s got more style than the rest of us combined. Meanwhile, we’re over here trying to decode the Japanese metro system like it’s an escape room… after a month of being spoiled by China’s luxury rail life. She’s thriving, we’re surviving—and honestly, we wouldn’t have it any other way! It is also good reminder to us to still see the world through the curiosity and innocence of a child. Evie, Thanks for joining us in Japan!!! #kyotojapan #kyoto #japan
@retirementtravelers
@retirementtravelers
•
Follow
We’ve officially arrived in Kyoto, and guess who’s already winning at this whole cultural immersion thing. Our 7-year-old granddaughter. Jet lag? She laughed in its face. Chopsticks? She’s in training. Bowing politely? Basically, a local diplomat. And the outfit? A pink kimono and a matching fan that we bought her—she’s got more style than the rest of us combined. Meanwhile, we’re over here trying to decode the Japanese metro system like it’s an escape room… after a month of being spoiled by China’s luxury rail life. She’s thriving, we’re surviving—and honestly, we wouldn’t have it any other way! It is also good reminder to us to still see the world through the curiosity and innocence of a child. Evie, Thanks for joining us in Japan!!! #kyotojapan #kyoto #japan
1 month ago
View on Instagram |
5/12
In the heart of Shanghai’s futuristic skyline, we found ourselves living a dream—our lodging nestled high within the iconic Jin Mao Tower(Bldg on left). Each morning, we woke to a commanding view of the World Financial Center slicing through the sky, and just steps away stood the architectural marvel that is the Shanghai Tower—the third tallest building in the world. Our adventure reached thrilling new heights as we ascended to its summit, where the city sprawled beneath us like a living tapestry. It was more than just a stay; it was a front-row seat to one of the most awe-inspiring skylines on Earth. #shanghai #chinatrip #jinmaotower #shanghaitower #china
@retirementtravelers
@retirementtravelers
•
Follow
In the heart of Shanghai’s futuristic skyline, we found ourselves living a dream—our lodging nestled high within the iconic Jin Mao Tower(Bldg on left). Each morning, we woke to a commanding view of the World Financial Center slicing through the sky, and just steps away stood the architectural marvel that is the Shanghai Tower—the third tallest building in the world. Our adventure reached thrilling new heights as we ascended to its summit, where the city sprawled beneath us like a living tapestry. It was more than just a stay; it was a front-row seat to one of the most awe-inspiring skylines on Earth. #shanghai #chinatrip #jinmaotower #shanghaitower #china
2 months ago
View on Instagram |
6/12
A visit to Beijing isn’t complete without a long walk on the Great Wall (Badaling section), which is now only a 30-minute train ride from Beijing North Railway Station. It is simply spectacular and a must visit. #greatwall #greatwallofchina #china
@retirementtravelers
@retirementtravelers
•
Follow
A visit to Beijing isn’t complete without a long walk on the Great Wall (Badaling section), which is now only a 30-minute train ride from Beijing North Railway Station. It is simply spectacular and a must visit. #greatwall #greatwallofchina #china
2 months ago
View on Instagram |
7/12
Bev stood in awe before the Army of Terracotta Warriors near Xi'an. Hidden for 2200 years, these ancient relics were only unearthed by a Chinese farmer in 1974. China's First Emperor Qin Shi Huang sought to defy mortality. He poured vast resources into constructing an underground empire, complete with palaces, armies, chariots, and stables. Spanning 21 square miles, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the largest burial ground on earth. #xian #xianchina #terracottawarriors #china #retirementtravel
@retirementtravelers
@retirementtravelers
•
Follow
Bev stood in awe before the Army of Terracotta Warriors near Xi'an. Hidden for 2200 years, these ancient relics were only unearthed by a Chinese farmer in 1974. China's First Emperor Qin Shi Huang sought to defy mortality. He poured vast resources into constructing an underground empire, complete with palaces, armies, chariots, and stables. Spanning 21 square miles, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the largest burial ground on earth. #xian #xianchina #terracottawarriors #china #retirementtravel
2 months ago
View on Instagram |
8/12
The reason we stopped in Chengdu was pretty black and white………and very, very cute. 🐼
The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is an incredible facility that houses over 200 Giant Pandas and Red Pandas. This photo is the most famous resident here. She is a cutie and a social media star in China, named HuaHua. 
#pandas #huahua #chengdu #chinatravel
@retirementtravelers
@retirementtravelers
•
Follow
The reason we stopped in Chengdu was pretty black and white………and very, very cute. 🐼 The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is an incredible facility that houses over 200 Giant Pandas and Red Pandas. This photo is the most famous resident here. She is a cutie and a social media star in China, named HuaHua. #pandas #huahua #chengdu #chinatravel
2 months ago
View on Instagram |
9/12
@retirementtravelers
@retirementtravelers
•
Follow
We are in Chongqing. This municipality in southwestern China is considered one of the largest cities in the world with over 30 million people. It is massive! It is nicknamed “The Mountain City” because of the many urban hills with unique transportation systems that adapt to the terrain. This is a vibrant place with lots of high-end shopping, a monorail that passes through a building, towering skyscrapers, and so many wonderful “Hot Pot” restaurants. #china #chongqing #lizibastation
2 months ago
View on Instagram |
10/12
Just zipping around China by train,
We think it’s much better than a plane.
A rail network so vast,
And speeds that are fast,
There is nary a thing to complain.

Several of you have asked how we are getting around in China? Well, the Chinese high-speed train system has quite simply BLOWN US AWAY!!! It is modern, affordable, fast, clean, efficient, convenient and has great service. There is a rapidly expanding network of 25,000 miles of high-speed rail lines, with numerous daily routes going about anywhere you would want to go. We have tried the 1st and 2nd class tickets, both of which are perfectly fine, but admit we love the over-the-top luxury of business class for affordable prices. We will be detailing more info about Chinese train travel in future videos, so stay tuned. John and Bev
#china #trains #traintravel
@retirementtravelers
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Just zipping around China by train, We think it’s much better than a plane. A rail network so vast, And speeds that are fast, There is nary a thing to complain. Several of you have asked how we are getting around in China? Well, the Chinese high-speed train system has quite simply BLOWN US AWAY!!! It is modern, affordable, fast, clean, efficient, convenient and has great service. There is a rapidly expanding network of 25,000 miles of high-speed rail lines, with numerous daily routes going about anywhere you would want to go. We have tried the 1st and 2nd class tickets, both of which are perfectly fine, but admit we love the over-the-top luxury of business class for affordable prices. We will be detailing more info about Chinese train travel in future videos, so stay tuned. John and Bev #china #trains #traintravel
2 months ago
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11/12
Tianmen Mountain was our third incredible attraction near Zhangjiajie, China. The mountain can be accessed from the city by two different exhilarating aerial trams or a dangerous highway featuring 99 hairpin turns. Tianmen literally means “Heaven’s Gate” and the 999 stairs leading up to the opening are known as the Stairway to Heaven. Climbing this stairway was another bucket list experience for us, so we took our time on the steep steps and just savored every moment. After passing through the gate, a long series of escalators take you up through the inside of the mountain to the top, where they have a glass-bottomed walkway hugging a cliffside and many great views of the area.
#china #tianmen #tianmenmountain
@retirementtravelers
@retirementtravelers
•
Follow
Tianmen Mountain was our third incredible attraction near Zhangjiajie, China. The mountain can be accessed from the city by two different exhilarating aerial trams or a dangerous highway featuring 99 hairpin turns. Tianmen literally means “Heaven’s Gate” and the 999 stairs leading up to the opening are known as the Stairway to Heaven. Climbing this stairway was another bucket list experience for us, so we took our time on the steep steps and just savored every moment. After passing through the gate, a long series of escalators take you up through the inside of the mountain to the top, where they have a glass-bottomed walkway hugging a cliffside and many great views of the area. #china #tianmen #tianmenmountain
2 months ago
View on Instagram |
12/12

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