Medellin Metro

The Medellín Metro is the primary public transit system in Medellín, Colombia, serving the surrounding Aburrá Valley. Opened in 1995, it remains the only metro system in Colombia.

As of 2025, the Medellín Metro consists of two main metro lines (Line A and Line B), a tram line, and several Metrocable cable car lines that link hillside neighborhoods to the city.

The network connects Medellín from north to south and east to west, providing fast and reliable transport across the region. It is part of SITVA (Sistema Integrado de Transporte del Valle de Aburrá), which also includes Metroplús bus rapid transit and feeder bus routes.

The metro is recognized for its cleanliness, safety, and efficiency, symbolizing Medellín’s transformation.

This guide details the Medellín Metro Map 2025, covering lines, stations, schedules, tickets, and connectivity options, making your travels in Medellín straightforward and convenient.

Medellin Metro Map

The Medellin metro map clearly illustrates Metro Lines A and B, Metrocable lines, the tram line, and Metroplús bus routes. The map covers municipalities such as Bello, Medellín, Envigado, Itagüí, and Sabaneta.

You can click on the image below to enlarge it or download the Medellin subway map in PDF format.

Medellin Metro Lines and Stations

Medellin Metro

The metro consists of two main train lines, Line A (north-south) and Line B (center-west), meeting at San Antonio station downtown. Combined, they cover 27 stations.

Line A – Blue Line (North to South)

Line A runs from Niquía (Bello) to La Estrella, spanning 25.8 km with 21 stations. Trains run every 3–5 minutes during peak times, taking approximately 45 minutes from end to end.

Station Description
Niquía Northern terminus with park-and-ride facilities
Caribe Adjacent to North Bus Terminal and Botanical Garden
Universidad Serves University of Antioquia and Parque Explora
Parque Berrío Central Medellín, near Plaza Botero
San Antonio Main transfer hub with Line B
Poblado Popular tourist area with nightlife
La Estrella Southern terminus in suburban growth area

Line B – Orange Line (Center to West)

Line B covers 5.5 km from San Antonio to San Javier with 6 stations. The full journey takes approximately 12 minutes, with trains every 5 minutes during peak hours.

Key stations include Cisneros (near EPM Library), Estadio (sports complex), and San Javier (transfer to Metrocable J and Comuna 13 access).

Stations List and Photos

Below is a complete list of Medellín Metro stations on Line A (north to south) and Line B (east to west), with brief descriptions. All stations are elevated or at-grade, have accessible entrances, basic amenities, and clear platform signage.

Line A Stations (North–South)

Niquia station

Niquía Northern terminus in Bello near MetroMall, features park-and-ride facilities.
Bello Central Bello, close to the main plaza; serves densely populated neighborhoods.
Madera On the Medellín-Bello border, named after the area’s timber history.
Acevedo Major transfer point to Metrocable Lines K and P; elevated with city views.
Tricentenario Residential area station near Tricentenario park.
Caribe Next to North Bus Terminal, Parque Norte amusement park, and Botanical Garden.
Universidad Access to University of Antioquia and Parque Explora science museum.
Hospital Near Hospital San Vicente de Paúl and Museum of Memory.
Prado Close to historic Prado mansions and Metropolitan Cathedral.
Parque Berrío Downtown, adjacent to Plaza Botero and Museum of Antioquia.
San Antonio Main transfer to Line B; busy downtown shopping area.
Alpujarra Government district, near Plaza de Las Luces and Old Railway Station.
Exposiciones Near Plaza Mayor Convention Center and Modern Art Museum.
Industriales Industrial zone, close to Ciudad del Río and MAMM museum.
Poblado Nearest station to nightlife at Parque Lleras in El Poblado.
Aguacatala Close to EAFIT University and southern route to the airport.
Ayurá Park-and-ride available, near Viva Envigado Mall.
Envigado Serves historic Envigado center, restaurants, and cafes.
Itagüí Central station for Itagüí city; near government buildings and central plaza.
Sabaneta Rapidly developing area, 10-minute walk to Parque Sabaneta.
La Estrella Southern terminus; gateway for buses from Caldas and beyond.

Line B Stations (East–West)

San Antonio station

  • San Antonio: Eastern terminus and connection to Line A; downtown shopping area.
  • Cisneros: Near EPM Library, fountains, and parking structure.
  • Suramericana: Adjacent to SURA headquarters, Los Conquistadores neighborhood, and Unicentro Mall.
  • Estadio: Next to Atanasio Girardot Stadium and sports facilities.
  • Floresta: Located in La Floresta, close to park and media studios.
  • Santa Lucía: Residential area station serving local communities and businesses.
  • San Javier: Western terminus, transfer to Metrocable J; gateway to Comuna 13.

Medellin Metro Cable Car Lines (Metrocable)

The Medellin metro cable system connects steep hillside neighborhoods directly with metro lines, improving accessibility and mobility.

Medellin Metro Cable Car

Medellín operates six Metrocable lines (K, J, L, H, M, P), each identified by a color and letter. Cabins hold up to 10 passengers and run frequently.

  • Line K (Green): Acevedo to Santo Domingo Savio (9-minute ride).
  • Line J (Yellow): San Javier to La Aurora (12-minute ride).
  • Line L (Brown, Arví cable): Santo Domingo Savio to Parque Arví, with separate fare and schedule (15–17 minutes).
  • Line H (Magenta): Connects Oriente tram station to Villa Sierra (5-minute ride).
  • Line M (Purple): From Miraflores tram station to Trece de Noviembre (5 minutes).
  • Line P (Red): Acevedo to El Progreso, northwest neighborhoods.

The Metrocable system, introduced in 2004, significantly enhances urban connectivity and community development.

Medellin Tramway Lines

T-A Line (Green Tramway Line)

The T-A tram line (Ayacucho Tram) extends 4.3 km along Ayacucho Avenue, linking the city center at San Antonio with eastern neighborhoods. Using rubber-tired vehicles, it smoothly handles steep slopes.

Medellin Tramway Lines

Main stations include San Antonio (central metro hub), Buenos Aires (historic district), Miraflores (Metrocable M connection), and Oriente (Metrocable H connection).

The complete route takes about 20 minutes, with trams arriving every 6–8 minutes during peak hours. Tram travel integrates fully with metro fares, requiring no extra ticket.

The tram route revitalized the Ayacucho corridor, enhancing urban life with easy access to cafés, murals, and shops.

Tip: Combine tram and Metrocable lines for a scenic experience.

Medellin Metro Schedule and Timetable

Operating Hours (Opening and Closing Times)

The Medellín Metro operates with convenient operating hours:

Days Operating Hours
Monday to Saturday 4:30 AM – 11:00 PM (last departures around 10:30–10:45 PM)
Sundays and Holidays 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM (last departures around 9:30 PM)

Metrocable lines typically follow the metro schedule but start slightly later on Sundays:

  • Line K: ~8:30 AM Sundays
  • Lines J, H, M: ~9:00 AM Sundays
  • Line L (Arví): Tue–Sat 9:00 AM–6:00 PM, Sun/Holidays 8:30 AM–6:00 PM (closed Mondays)

Timings Today

If today is a weekday, the metro operates from 4:30 AM to 11:00 PM. Rush hours (6:30–8:30 AM, 5:00–7:00 PM) have more frequent trains. Sunday services start from 5:00 AM (metro) and 8:30–9:00 AM (cable cars), finishing at 10:00 PM. Special events sometimes extend these timings.

Train Frequency

Typical frequencies are:

Time Period Line A Line B Tram
Peak Hours ~3 min 4–5 min 6 min
Midday 5–6 min 6–8 min 6–8 min
Evenings & Sundays 7–10 min 7–10 min 7–10 min

Metrocable cabins arrive continuously every few seconds.

Last Train Schedule and Running Times

Last train departures:

  • Line A: ~10:45 PM weekdays, ~10:02 PM Sundays (La Estrella northbound)
  • Line B: San Javier ~10:30 PM weekdays, San Antonio ~10:40 PM weekdays
  • Tram (Line T-A): ~10:40–10:45 PM weekdays, earlier Sundays

Running times per route:

  • Line A: ~42 minutes
  • Line B: ~10–11 minutes
  • Tram: ~20 minutes
  • Metrocable: 4–17 minutes (varies by line)

Be on platforms at least 15–20 minutes before closing times to avoid missing last trains. Transfer stations ensure coordinated connections.

Medellin Metro Ticket Prices and Fares

Medellin Metro Tickets

How Much Does Medellin Metro Cost? (COP and USD)

In 2025, Medellín metro fares are affordable. Fares with the Cívica card:

  • COP $3,430 (~USD $0.82) with personalized card
  • COP $3,900 (~USD $0.93) without card or single-use ticket

Metrocable Line L (Arví) has an additional fare: COP $13,700 (~USD $3.25) per direction.

Fare Calculator

Simple fare breakdown:

  • One-way metro/tram/cable: COP 3,430 (card), COP 3,900 (no card)
  • Integrated bus transfer: COP 3,890–5,920 (Cívica required)
  • Line L: +13,700 COP each way

Card and Passes

  • Personalized Cívica Card: Best fare, ID required, approx. COP 10,900 fee
  • Eventual Cívica Card: Reloadable, anonymous, COP 3,900 per ride
  • Single Ride Ticket: COP 3,900 per ride

Special discounts available for seniors, students, and persons with disabilities.

Day Pass

No unlimited day passes currently available. Each ride is paid individually. Getting a Cívica card is recommended for savings.

Connections to Medellin Airport

The Medellin metro system connects indirectly to both airports:

  • José María Córdova Airport (MDE): Metro Line A to Exposiciones or Parque Berrío, then airport shuttle (~COP $20,000, 40–60 min)
  • Olaya Herrera Airport (EOH): Near Industriales station, short taxi ride (~COP $10,000)

Allow ample travel time and consider traffic conditions.

José María Córdova Airport

Olaya Herrera Airport

Medellin Public Transport Integration

Medellín’s public transport is fully integrated under the SITVA system. The Cívica card provides seamless access to metro, Metroplús buses, feeder buses, trams, cable cars, and bike-sharing.

Medellin Metro Bus (Metroplús + Feeder Routes)

The term “Metro bus” typically refers to the Metroplús Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system and feeder buses linking metro stations to neighborhoods.

Metroplús Lines

  • Line 1: From Universidad de Medellín (west) to Parque Aranjuez (northeast), with 20 stations. Transfers available at Industriales (Line A) and San Antonio (tram).
  • Line 2: Similar to Line 1 but passes through downtown via San Diego; approximately 21 stations.
  • Line O: Electric bus circular route connecting Caribe station (North Terminal) and La Palma (Envigado).

Using the Cívica card allows integrated fares and discounted transfers. Cash fares do not provide discounts.

Feeder Buses

Feeder routes like Route 313i link residential areas with stations such as La Estrella, Niquía, and Itagüí. These routes usually use small yellow buses. Fares can be paid using the Cívica card or cash, but cash fares do not offer transfer discounts.

Other Local Transport Options

City Buses

Regular city buses run on fixed routes across Medellín and are usually not integrated with the Cívica card. However, some corridors are transitioning to digital fare systems. In 2025, the standard bus fare is approximately COP 2,700, paid in cash.

Collective Taxis and Chivas

In rural or suburban areas, colectivos (shared taxis) and chivas (colorful buses) operate as public transport options.

Bike Integration (EnCicla)

EnCicla is a free public bike-sharing system with stations at Universidad, Estadio, Suramericana, among others. It requires registration and linking to a Cívica card.

Intercity Terminals

  • North Terminal (Terminal Norte): Connected to Caribe station via pedestrian bridge.
  • South Terminal (Terminal Sur): Short walk or taxi ride from Poblado station.

Taxi and Ride-hailing Apps

  • Yellow taxis are widely available; minimum fare is around COP 5,600.
  • Apps such as EasyTaxi, Cabify, and Uber operate, though Uber’s legality is semi-official.

Metroplus Bus Medellin

Practical Tips

  • Metro, tram, and Metrocable are ideal for rapid main-route travel.
  • Metroplús buses serve east-west routes and areas away from direct metro coverage.
  • Use feeder buses or EnCicla for shorter, last-mile connections.
  • A Cívica card provides discounted fares and smooth integration between different transport modes.

Metro Parking

Official parking options with discounts near stations:

  • Ayurá Station: COP 4,500/day with metro use
  • Cisneros Station: COP 34,200/day with metro use

Validate parking tickets at stations with your Cívica card for discounts.

Bicycle Parking

Available at 8 stations including Niquía, Bello, Universidad, Poblado, Aguacatala, Floresta, Estadio, Santa Lucía.

Safety and Useful Information

The Medellín Metro system is safe, clean, and monitored by security. Stay alert for pickpockets during rush hours. Secure your belongings and follow basic safety protocols. Metro staff and security officers are present at major stations.

Guide: How to Use Medellin Metro Safely and Efficiently

  • Get a Cívica Card for best fares
  • Avoid rush hour if possible
  • Secure belongings carefully
  • Respect escalator and platform etiquette
  • Follow safety rules, especially downtown at night

Expansion Projects

Medellín continues to expand its transit network to reduce congestion and improve accessibility. Several projects are underway or planned to further integrate communities into the metro system.

Upcoming Lines and Stations

Metro de la 80 (Line E)

A significant project, Metro de la 80 (Line E), is a 13.3 km tram/light rail line running along Avenida 80 on the city’s western side. The line includes 17 stations connecting Caribe station in the north to Aguacatala in the south.

Phase 1 Caribe to Floresta
Interchanges Lines A and B at Caribe, Floresta, Aguacatala
Estimated completion Late 2020s

Infill Stations on Line A

Two new stations are being considered to fill gaps between widely spaced stations:

  • Between Industriales and Poblado (near Ciudad del Río)
  • Between Envigado and Itagüí (Guayabal area)

Recent Expansion: Metrocable Line P

In 2021, Metrocable Line P (Picacho) began operating, connecting northwestern neighborhoods to Line A at Acevedo with three cable car stations.

New Trains and Capacity Upgrades

In 2019, 22 new trains were introduced to boost capacity, with further expansion planned. Upgrades to communication-based train control (CBTC) signaling are underway to increase train frequency.

Projected Improvements for 2025 and Beyond

Airport Tram Connection (Concept)

A tram-train line to José María Córdova Airport from Acevedo or the tram terminus is under study, potentially operational by the 2030s.

New Metrocable Lines

A new Metrocable line is planned for Itagüí, south of La Estrella, to improve service for hillside communities.

Line A Extensions (Proposals)

Extensions for Line A are proposed northward to Barbosa and southward to Caldas, though these remain in early planning stages.

Regional Train (Ferrocarril de Antioquia)

A proposal exists to reintroduce a regional train linking towns in the Aburrá Valley to complement the metro and enhance regional mobility.

Infrastructure Upgrades

  • Platform extensions and new elevators at high-traffic stations
  • Improved signage, lighting, and accessibility features

Green Initiatives

  • Solar panels and water-saving systems at stations
  • Introduction of electric buses on Metroplús Line O
  • Recycling programs and eco-education within the transit system

Metrocable Enhancements

Additional cable car cabins on Lines K and J will increase frequency and reduce wait times.

EnCicla and Smart Payments

The EnCicla bike-share system will expand to more metro stations, and mobile payment integration with the Cívica system is being developed.

What to See from the Medellin Metro

Riding the Medellín Metro offers scenic views and convenient access to the city’s main attractions. Below are highlights by line.

What to See from the Medellin Metro

Line A (North–South)

Acevedo–Caribe: Downtown and mountain views (west side going south)
Industriales–Exposiciones: Crossing Medellín River near Parques del Río
Near Universidad: Botanical Garden domes and Parque Explora museum buildings
Poblado–Aguacatala: El Poblado skyline and southern neighborhoods

Line B (Center–West)

Heading west toward San Javier, enjoy panoramic city views near Estadio and Floresta stations, especially at sunset. San Javier station itself offers a viewing terrace overlooking the valley.

Metrocable Line K (to Santo Domingo)

This cable car provides impressive aerial views over Medellín. The Santo Domingo station features a scenic terrace close to the famous Spain Library (Biblioteca España).

Metrocable Line J (to La Aurora)

Offers remarkable views of Comuna 13 and western Medellín. The La Aurora station provides rural landscapes combined with city panoramas.

Metrocable Line L (to Arví)

A nature-focused ride above forests and valleys leading to Parque Arví, where visitors can enjoy hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic viewpoints.

Tram Line T-A and Metrocable H/M

Along the Ayacucho corridor, travelers can appreciate vibrant urban murals, especially near Buenos Aires station. Lines H and M offer expansive views over the eastern districts and valley.

Station Vicinity Attractions

Acevedo: Gateway to Metrocable K and P
Caribe: Botanical Garden, Parque Explora, Planetarium
Universidad: University of Antioquia and Botanical Garden
Parque Berrío: Plaza Botero, Museum of Antioquia
San Antonio: Junín Street, historic San Antonio Plaza
Alpujarra: Plaza de Las Luces, Old Railway Station
Industriales: Ciudad del Río, MAMM museum, cafes
Estadio: Atanasio Girardot Stadium complex
Poblado: Parque Lleras nightlife, restaurants
Sabaneta: Local charm around Parque Sabaneta
La Estrella: Valley views and La Estrella park access

Scenic Ride Recommendations

Morning southbound trips on Line A (around 8–9 AM) offer excellent sunlit views from the west side. Evening rides on Metrocable Line K provide stunning sunset and city lights vistas.

Free Metro Tour

The Metro offers a free cultural tour in Spanish, including a visit to the Metro Museum. Ask about availability and schedule at the Tourist Point in San Antonio station. Don’t forget your camera for capturing great views.

Like this post? Please share to your friends:
Leave a Reply

;-) :| :x :twisted: :smile: :shock: :sad: :roll: :razz: :oops: :o :mrgreen: :lol: :idea: :grin: :evil: :cry: :cool: :arrow: :???: :?: :!: