4 Best Ways to get from Medellín to Medellín Airport, Colombia

You can get from Medellín to Medellín Airport by bus, private transfer, rental car, or taxi.

The cheapest option to travel from Medellin to Medellín Airport is by public bus, which costs only about USD 3. The journey takes 1 hour.

The most popular option is also the bus, being the most affordable alternative.

The fastest way to travel to Medellín Airport from Medellin is by private transfer, uber or taxi, which takes 35 minutes!

As I’ve journeyed through Colombia’s urban landscapes and rural hideaways, I’ve discovered that every mode of transport has its own rhythm and story. Here, I’ll share these insights, helping you get from Medellín to Medellín Airport by sharing all the best transportation methods, so you can travel like a local!

Check our guide for the best options to travel from Medellín to Medellín Airport.

Transportation Options from Medellín to Medellín Airport

The following table outlines all transportation options from Medellín to Medellín Airport:

Method	Time	Price
Public Bus from Medellín to Medellín Airport	~1 hr	~$3
Medellín to Medellín Airport Private Transfer	~35 min	$70 to 189
Uber or Taxi from Medellín to Medellín Airport	35 min	~$20
Rental Car	35 min	–

How far is Medellín Airport from Medellín?

The distance from Medellín to Medellín Airport is 15 miles or 24.1 kilometers.

I takes about 35 minutes to get from Medellín to the Jose Maria Cordova International Airport in Medellín.

Getting to Medellín Airport from Medellín

1. Public Bus from Medellín to Medellín Airport

Journey Duration: ~1 hour

Taking the public bus is one of the most cost-effective ways to get from Medellín to José María Córdova International Airport. 

The buses that run this route are known as “Busetas.” These buses are a convenient way to get to your destination if you’re looking for the cheapest alternative.

They typically operate from around 4:30 AM to 10:00 PM, running every 15-30 minutes.

As for the fare, it usually costs approximately COP 10,000-12,000, which is around USD 3-4 for a one-way trip. 

The journey from the city to the airport takes about an hour, but it’s prudent to allot extra time during rush hours. One of the major pickup points in Medellín is the San Diego Mall; there are also other stops along the route.

A tip often shared by seasoned travelers is to have cash in smaller denominations for the bus fare since the drivers don’t usually carry a lot of change. 

Additionally, keep an eye on your belongings and have your luggage close, as the buses can get crowded. 

Opting for the public bus is easy on the wallet and allows you to witness the scenic beauty of the area en route to the airport.

2. Private Transfer from Medellín to Medellín Airport

Journey Duration: Custom Time

For those seeking convenience and a stress-free journey to José María Córdova International Airport, booking a private transfer is an excellent option! 

Private transfers can be arranged through various companies, and booking in advance is advisable, especially during peak seasons.

This service offers door-to-door transportation, picking you up from your accommodation and dropping you off at the airport terminal.

The vehicles used for private transfers are often modern and well-maintained and range from sedans to minibusses, depending on your group size.

Travelers often mention the comfort, cleanliness, and professional service the drivers provide.

As for pricing, the cost of a private transfer can vary, but you can expect to pay between USD 70-USD 189, depending on the number of passengers. Some companies may also offer shared private transfers, which are slightly more affordable.

A common tip frequent travelers share to Medellín is to check for online reviews and possibly contact the company in advance to confirm details like pick-up time and location.

Opting for a private transfer ensures a comfortable ride and takes the hassle out of navigating public transportation with luggage in tow!

Prices for a private transfer from Medellín to Medellín Airport:

• 1-3 passengers: USD 70
• 1-3 passengers: USD 84
• 4 passengers: USD 90
• 4 passengers: USD 109
• 4-7 passengers: USD 138
• 8-14 passengers: USD 189

3. Uber or Taxi from Medellín to Medellín Airport

Journey Duration: 35 minutes

Another convenient and direct alternative for getting to José María Córdova International Airport from Medellín are taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber. 

Taxis are readily available throughout the city, and Uber operates in Medellín as well. The journey to the airport usually takes around 35 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions.

Taxi fares from Medellín to the airport are typically metered, and the approximate cost ranges from around USD 20. 

It’s important to note that prices may vary slightly depending on the taxi company or service used. 

For Uber, fares are typically calculated based on distance and time, and you can get an estimate of the cost through the app before confirming the ride.

To ensure a smooth experience, it’s recommended to use official taxis or well-known ride-sharing services. Confirm that the taxi meter is running or negotiate the fare in advance. 

If using Uber, ensure that the driver displays the correct vehicle information and matches the details on the app.

It’s worth mentioning that during peak hours, traffic congestion can significantly impact travel time, so it’s advisable to plan accordingly and leave with ample time to reach the airport. 

Taking a taxi or using Uber offers convenience and a direct route, making it a popular choice for travelers seeking a hassle-free journey to the airport!

4. Driving with Rental Car from Medellín to Medellín Airport

Journey Duration: 35 minutes

While renting a car may seem like a convenient option to get around, it is generally not recommended for getting from Medellín to José María Córdova International Airport. 

The reason is that driving in Medellín can be challenging, especially for visitors unfamiliar with the city’s roads and traffic patterns and rental agency policies on returning the vehicles.

This is true unless you’ve already had the rental while in Medellin and can drop off your rental at the airport.

Prices for rental cars vary depending on the vehicle type, rental duration, and the rental company. It’s advisable to compare prices and book in advance to secure the best rates.

When driving to the airport, be mindful of the traffic conditions, especially during peak hours. Leave with plenty of time to reach the airport and consider using the navigation to assist with directions. Keep in mind that toll fees may apply along the way.

Upon reaching the airport, you must return the car to the designated car rental drop-off area.

Be sure to check the specific instructions and requirements provided by the rental company to avoid additional charges or complications.

While renting a car offers flexibility, weighing the challenges of driving in Colombia and the potential inconvenience of parking and returning the vehicle at the airport is essential.

Best day tours in Medellín, Colombia

Get Your Guide helps you find the best tours wherever you are heading to. It’s usually the first website I check when I plan a trip to a new place.

Here, you can find some of the best tours in Medellín, Colombia.

Frequently Asked Questions