Messi in Medellín: What Travelers Need to Know About This Historic Match

Medellín is about to host one of the biggest football events in its history. Lionel Messi is coming to the city with Inter Miami CF to face Atlético Nacional in an international friendly that has already captured global attention.

If you’re planning to travel to Medellín for the match — or you’re already in Colombia and want to make the most of this moment — this guide covers everything you need to know.

Why Is Messi’s Visit to Medellín Such a Big Deal?

This match is special for several reasons:

-It’s one of the very few times Messi plays a club match in Colombia
-Medellín becomes a global soccer destination for the weekend
-Thousands of international visitors are arriving specifically for this event
-The match brings together MLS and South American football culture in one stadium
For travelers, it’s not just about football — it’s about being part of a historic moment in the city.

Match Details – Date, Stadium & Teams

Match: Inter Miami vs Atlético Nacional
Location: Estadio Atanasio Girardot, Medellín
Type: International friendly
Expected attendance: Full stadium + high international presence
The Atanasio Girardot is centrally located and easily accessible, but event-day logistics require planning (more on that below).

Tickets – What Visitors Should Know

Due to massive demand, tickets for this match are highly competitive.

Important tips for travelers:

-Buy tickets only through official or verified channels
-Expect dynamic pricing due to demand
-Avoid last-minute street resellers
-If you’re visiting Medellín primarily for the match, secure tickets before booking flights
Many visitors underestimate how fast major football events sell out in Colombia — this is not a game to improvise.

Where to Stay in Medellín for the Match

Hotel occupancy rises sharply during major events like this. The best areas for visitors include:

El Poblado: Hotels, nightlife, restaurants, safest for first-time visitors
Laureles: Close to the stadium, residential, great food scene
Envigado: Quieter option with easy access to the city
If you want comfort, security, and flexibility, staying near El Poblado is usually the safest bet — even if the stadium is not within walking distance.

Transportation on Match Day (Very Important)

This is where many visitors run into trouble.

What to know:

-Uber and taxis are extremely limited after the match
-Streets around the stadium close early
-Public transport gets overcrowded fast
-Walking long distances late at night is not ideal for visitors

Best option:
Pre-arranged private transportation with a local operator who understands event logistics. At TourPoint we offer this services.

This single decision can save you hours of stress.

What to Do in Medellín Before or After the Match

Most visitors stay at least 2–4 days. Don’t waste the rest of your trip.

Popular experiences for international travelers include:

Comuna 13 private graffiti & history tour
Medellín city highlights (Plaza Botero, cable cars, viewpoints)
Day trip to Guatapé and El Peñol
Coffee farm experiences near the city
Curated nightlife with local guidance
Messi may be the reason you come — but Medellín is why people fall in love with the city.

Safety & Practical Tips for Visitors

Medellín is welcoming, but big events require common sense:

-Avoid carrying valuables to the stadium
-Use secure transport at night
-Keep digital copies of tickets and ID
-Follow local advice — especially around crowds
Visitors who plan ahead enjoy the city confidently and without issues.

Planning Your Trip to Medellín Without Stress

High-profile events change how the city moves. Hotels, transport, and tours fill up fast, and last-minute planning usually costs more.

At TourPoint, we help travelers:

Plan logistics around major events
Arrange private transport and local guides
Combine football, culture, and leisure seamlessly
Experience Medellín safely and comfortably
If you’re coming to Medellín for Messi — or you’re already here and want help organizing your trip — having local support makes all the difference.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Messi guaranteed to play?
As with any friendly, lineups depend on coaching decisions, but Messi is the main reason for the event.

Is Medellín safe for visitors?
Yes, especially when staying in well-located areas and using planned transportation.

How many days should I stay?
Ideally 3–5 days to enjoy the city beyond the match.