Comuna 13 is the most-booked experience for visitors staying around Parque Lleras: murals, hip-hop, outdoor escalators and one of the city’s most powerful turnaround stories. It sits on the opposite side of the city from El Poblado, so here is exactly how to get there — on your own or with a guide.
Metro route from Parque Lleras
Walk or ride down Calle 10 to Poblado station (Line A). Take Line A north to San Antonio, follow the signs to Line B, and ride to the last stop, San Javier.
From San Javier, take a short taxi or bus 221i or 225i from the stop by the station exit — tell the driver you’re going to the escalators — or walk about 20 minutes. For a view on the way, ride Metrocable Line J from San Javier before or after.
What a tour adds
The escalators opened in 2011, replacing the climb of roughly 350 steps that residents faced every day. A local guide — many grew up in the neighbourhood — explains the murals, the history of violence and the community-led recovery that the art tells. Most tours also handle the transport from El Poblado.
Go on a weekday morning if you can; weekends are packed.
More on Comuna 13
Our sister site Medellín.com covers the comunas in depth, including a full guide to Comuna 13 tours and the city’s comunas.
Comuna 13 tours from El Poblado
Most bookedComuna 13 tour with cable car ride
Food includedGraffiti tour with street food (half day)
PrivateComuna 13 private tour
Stay near Parque Lleras
Area photoThe Charlee Hotel
Best for: Being central to every restaurant on this site
Consider: Weekend nights are loud by design
Area photoHotel Marquee Medellín
Best for: Couples and groups who want polish on the square
Consider: Location over quiet
Area photoThe Click Clack Hotel Medellín
Best for: Playful design, rooftop pool bar (La Deriva), a hotel with a sense of humour
Consider: The rooftop is a scene on weekends
Comuna 13 from Parque Lleras: common questions
How do I get to Comuna 13 from Parque Lleras?
Take the metro from Poblado station on Line A to San Antonio, change to Line B to San Javier, then a short taxi, bus 221i/225i or 20-minute walk to the escalators.
How long does it take?
Allow about an hour each way by public transport, depending on connections.
Is a taxi better?
It is simpler; it is about 10 km and roughly COP 20,000, but traffic can make it slower than the metro.
Do I need a tour?
No, but a local guide adds the history behind the murals and usually includes transport.
One email with the short version — where to stay near the park, what to book first, and the safety habits that matter. No spam, unsubscribe any time.