12 Hidden Gems for 2026: Underrated Spots to Visit Before They Go Viral

By

Lau Racciatti

December 2, 2025

5. Medellín, Colombia

Photo Credit: Getty Images @Yarnit

Medellín has reinvented itself into a vibrant city praised for pleasant weather, creative neighborhoods, and a growing dining scene. The city’s transformation is visible in public transport improvements and neighborhood arts projects, which make it easy to explore local culture on foot or by cable car. Standout experiences include guided street-art walks in communities like Comuna 13, coffee tours that connect you with nearby plantations, and scenic cable-car rides that reveal how the city nestles into the mountains. Travelers from North America can reach Medellín via direct or one-stop flights into José María Córdova and explore safe, guided options for neighborhoods that reward curiosity. While Medellín still feels off many mainstream itineraries, thriving local cafes and small boutique hotels offer authentic stays. Always consult official tourism information and vetted local guides for neighborhood visits and day trips.

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