Written by Marcus Kayode, Marika Maslanka, Santiago Rodriguez
03/08/2025
César Gaviria, Pexels
Medellín's primary air gateway is José María Córdova International Airport (MDE), located in Rionegro, which is outside the city. For ground travel, the city has two main bus terminals: Terminal Norte, serving destinations to the north and east, and Terminal Sur, serving the south.
From José María Córdova International Airport (MDE) to Medellín:
Private Taxis/Transfers:: Official white airport taxis are available 24/7 at the airport exit. A taxi ride to Medellín typically costs around 80,000 COP (€17.30 or $24 USD). Private transfers can range from 120,000 to 160,000 COP ($30-40 USD) as of February 2025, including tolls. The journey usually takes 30-40 minutes, utilizing the Orient Tunnel for a faster route.
Shared Taxis (Colectivos):: These white taxis are shared by three or four passengers. The cost is approximately 32,000 COP per person to Medellín and 27,000 COP per person for a return trip as of 2025. Shared taxis typically drop off passengers at San Diego Mall, requiring further transport into the city.
Airport Buses:: Buses are a budget-friendly option, costing around 17,000-20,000 COP per person. They depart every 15 minutes and take approximately one hour. Buses from the airport often stop at San Diego Mall or near the Nutibara Hotel in El Centro, where travelers may need to take a metro or another taxi to their final destination.
Ride-hailing Apps:: Services like Uber, Beat, or Didi are available, though their regulatory status can vary.
Inter-city Bus Travel:
To/From Bogotá:: Bus journeys between Bogotá and Medellín typically take about 10-11 hours. Fares generally range from 65,000 COP to 140,000 COP (approximately $20-24 USD). Multiple companies, including Expreso Bolivariano and Rápido Ochoa, operate on this route. Buses from Bogotá arrive at Medellín's Terminal del Norte.
Medellín Bus Terminals:: Terminal Norte serves destinations to the north and east of Medellín, such as Bogotá, Barranquilla, and Cartagena. Terminal Sur serves destinations to the south, including Armenia and Cali. Both terminals offer various services, including food options and ticket purchasing.
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