Sites What to do in Medellín in October 2026: plans we recommend from SITES in Colombia

October is a great month to be in Medellín. Music, tourism, local markets, and cultural events come together throughout the month, offering different ways to experience the city.

If you are staying at SITES Medellín, there is no need to fill every hour of your schedule. We have selected a few plans worth considering, depending on your interests and how much time you have.

October highlights

October 1–3: Colombia Travel Expo, Plaza Mayor.

October 10–12: Altavoz International Festival.

Various dates: Mercados Campesinos, Medellín's local farmers' markets, at different locations across the city, including El Poblado.

October 1–3: Colombia Travel Expo

Colombia Travel Expo comes to Plaza Mayor from October 1 to 3. The event brings together destinations, companies, and tourism professionals.

If you are in town for the fair or have meetings during those days, SITES makes an ideal base for balancing work with time to explore the city. From El Poblado, you can reach Plaza Mayor by Metro, taxi, or ride-hailing service.

Once the day's agenda is over, you can have dinner at OLI MED-EAT-TERRÁNEO or head up to Da Pranzo, our rooftop, for a cocktail and a light bite.

October 10–12: Altavoz International Festival

Altavoz returns from October 10 to 12, offering a chance to discover a side of Medellín's music scene that does not always appear on the usual visitor itineraries.

The festival brings together a range of sounds and local bands alongside national and international guests. Admission is free.

If it coincides with your stay, ask our front desk team about the day's program and the best way to get there from SITES.

A morning at a Mercado Campesino

Between events, there are also simpler, more everyday ways to experience Medellín. The city's Mercados Campesinos bring together local producers in different neighborhoods and make for a relaxed morning out.

You can find fruit, food, and locally made products, talk to the people who produce them, and get a better sense of where some of the ingredients on Medellín's tables come from.

There are markets in several parts of the city, including El Poblado. Locations and schedules can change, so it is worth confirming before you go.

An afternoon at MAMM

The Medellín Museum of Modern Art (MAMM), in Ciudad del Río, is relatively close to SITES and works well for a cultural afternoon—or as a good change of plan if it rains.

Explore the exhibitions, walk around the neighborhood, and return to El Poblado without spending a large part of the day in transit. Check the current exhibitions before you go.

And you can also do none of the above

Medellín does not have to become a checklist. Walk around El Poblado, sit down for coffee, read for a while, or simply decide what you feel like doing once you are here.

If you are looking for music, something local, an exhibition, or a good table, our front desk team can recommend options based on the day.

Where to stay

SITES Medellín is in El Poblado, close to Metro Line A and well connected to different parts of the city. Our suites include kitchens and spaces designed to give you greater independence during your stay.

Check availability and book directly with us for October.

Good to know before you go

What can I do in Medellín in October 2026? Combine events such as Colombia Travel Expo and Altavoz with flexible plans such as visiting MAMM or a Mercado Campesino.
What can I do for free? Altavoz offers free admission, and Mercados Campesinos are free to visit.
What can I do near SITES Medellín? Ciudad del Río and MAMM, some Mercado Campesino locations, and different areas of El Poblado.
What can I do if it rains? MAMM, a relaxed meal, or an afternoon at SITES are all good alternatives.
Can SITES help with reservations and recommendations? Yes. Our team can help with routes, plans, and reservations whenever the venue allows.

Sources consulted
• Official Colombia Travel Expo website
• Official Altavoz International Festival website
• Information checked: September 2026. Check again before each event in case of changes.

Book directly with SITES Medellín and create your own October itinerary.