Planning a trip to Medellin, Colombia? Whether you’re drawn by its eternal spring weather, world-class nightlife, digital nomad lifestyle, or breathtaking Andean views, getting there in 2025 is easier, and more affordable, than ever. With more airlines offering Medellin direct flights and improved access from major cities in the Americas and Europe, booking your flights to Medellín Colombia has become a seamless experience.
This in-depth guide explores everything you need to know about Medellin flights, from choosing the best international routes and airlines to finding cheap flights to Medellin. We also break down Medellin’s two key airports, provide expert tips for scoring flight deals, and offer practical advice for arriving in the city smoothly.
Planning your getaway and flights to Medellin, Colombia? Let Two Travel take care of everything! Our concierge team can book tours, and accommodation, create a custom itinerary, and much more. Contact us for a consultation today!
Understanding the Medellin International Airports
Medellin is served by two main airports:
1. José María Córdova International Airport (MDE)
Located in Rionegro, about 45 minutes from Medellin’s city center, this is the city’s primary international gateway. It handles nearly all international flights to Medellin Colombia, including most direct and long-haul routes.
This modern airport continues to expand, with new terminals and runways under development to accommodate Medellin’s rising international status.
2. Olaya Herrera Airport (EOH)
Situated in the city itself, this smaller airport focuses on domestic routes and regional connections. If you’re flying within Colombia, especially from Bogotá, Cartagena, or Cali, you may arrive here.
Now that you have an idea of which are the international airports in Medellin, let us tailor-make an itinerary for your adventure in this city.
Top International Routes and Airlines to Medellin in 2025
As Medellin gains global traction, airlines are expanding their international routes. In 2025, direct flights to Medellin are available from many major cities across the Americas and even a few European hubs. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular and cost-effective routes:
From North America to Medellin:
- Miami (MIA) to Medellin (MDE): One of the busiest and most affordable routes. Daily direct flights are available with American Airlines, Spirit, and Avianca. Roundtrip fares often fall below $250.
- New York City (JFK/EWR) to Medellin (MDE): Avianca and JetBlue now offer direct flights from JFK, while United services routes from Newark. Prices typically range between $350 to $500 USD depending on the season.
- Fort Lauderdale (FLL) to Medellin (MDE): Spirit Airlines provides some of the cheapest flights to Medellin, sometimes dipping below $200 roundtrip.
- Houston (IAH) to Medellin: United and Spirit operate routes here. Direct flights are available and fairly priced for travelers from the southern U.S.
- Los Angeles (LAX) to Medellin: While not always direct, you can connect through Miami, Panama City, or Bogotá. Copa Airlines, Avianca, and American Airlines are your best bets.
From Central and South America to Medellin
- Panama City (PTY): Copa Airlines provides an efficient connection to Medellin with multiple daily flights. This is one of the best connecting hubs for Latin American travelers.
- Medellin City (MEX) to Medellin (MDE): VivaAerobus and AeroMedellin offer affordable nonstop options, bridging two Latin American powerhouses.
- Lima (LIM), Quito (UIO), and Santiago (SCL): While not always direct, these cities provide reliable one-stop connections through Avianca or LATAM.
From Europe to Medellin
Direct flights from Europe are more limited but increasing:
- Madrid (MAD) to Medellín (MDE): Avianca and Iberia offer direct service several times a week. This is the main gateway from Europe, with prices often ranging from $700 to $1,000 USD round-trip.
- Other European Cities (e.g., Barcelona (BCN), Paris (CDG), and Frankfurt (FRA)): Though direct flights may not be available, you can book easy one-stop connections via Bogotá or Panama City.
Let us plan your unforgettable Medellin trip. We have access to all the best international routes and airlines to Medellin!
Cheapest Airlines that Fly to Medellin
With a growing number of international routes and budget carriers, flying to Medellin doesn’t have to break the bank. Whether you’re departing from North America or elsewhere in Latin America, several airlines consistently offer competitive fares to this vibrant Colombian city. Here are some of the cheapest and most reliable airlines to consider:
- Spirit Airlines: This U.S.-based ultra-low-cost carrier frequently offers some of the cheapest fares from major American cities like Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Orlando to Medellin’s José María Córdova International Airport (MDE). Travelers should be mindful of extra fees for baggage and seat selection, but the base fare is often among the lowest.
- Viva Aerobus and Wingo: While Viva Air Colombia ceased operations in 2023, other low-cost carriers such as Medellin’s Viva Aerobus and Colombia’s Wingo now fill the gap, providing inexpensive regional flights into Medellin. Wingo, in particular, operates several routes from Panama and Bogotá with budget-conscious travelers in mind.
- Copa Airlines: Based in Panama City, Copa connects travelers from North, Central, and South America with one-stop service to Medellin. While not a low-cost carrier per se, Copa often offers value deals, especially when flying through its Panama City hub.
- JetBlue Airways: Operating out of cities like Fort Lauderdale and New York, JetBlue offers competitive fares along with complimentary in-flight amenities. It’s a solid choice for travelers seeking a balance between price and comfort.
- Avianca: Colombia’s national airline, Avianca, frequently runs promotions for both international and domestic flights. Booking early often yields the best prices, and its extensive route network makes it ideal for connections throughout the country.
- LATAM Airlines: With hubs across South America and regular flights to Medellin, LATAM is another strong option for affordable fares, particularly from cities like Lima, São Paulo, and Miami.
Now that you have an idea of the cheap flights to Medellin, let us tailor-make a Medellin itinerary for your tour of the city.
Additional Tips for Finding the Best Flight Deals to Medellin
To find the lowest fares, travelers should use a combination of timing, online tools and smart booking tactics. Here’s how to score the best deals:
- Set price alerts using tools like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Hopper to get notified of fare drops or flash deals.
- Book two to three months in advance, especially if traveling during peak seasons (December to March or June to August). Last-minute bookings tend to be more expensive.
- Be flexible with your dates, flying mid-week, particularly on Tuesdays or Wednesdays, often results in lower fares than weekend and holiday travel.
- Search in incognito mode to prevent websites from tracking your searches and potentially inflating prices on repeat visits.
- Travel during shoulder seasons, April to May or September to November, to enjoy pleasant weather and reduced demand, resulting in cheaper flights and accommodations.
- Explore alternate routes: While Medellin is your final destination, flights to Bogotá (BOG) are often cheaper. From there, you can book a short domestic flight to Medellin, often under $50 USD with carriers like LATAM, Avianca, or Wingo.
- Check both Medellin airports: José María Córdova International Airport (MDE) handles most international traffic, but Olaya Herrera Airport (EOH), located closer to the city center, handles domestic flights and may offer convenient connections at lower prices.
Arriving in Medellin: What to Expect at the Airport
If you’re flying into or out of Medellin International Airport you might want to know some important information that will make your time there go as smoothly as possible. We recommend that you allow yourself at least an hour and a half before domestic flights and two and a half hours for international flights. This will allow you plenty of time to catch your flight.
Arrival and Immigration Process
For international travelers, the first step after landing at José María Córdova Airport is clearing immigration. Typically, the process is efficient, with wait times ranging between 20 to 30 minutes, although this can vary depending on the time of day and number of arrivals.
Most tourists entering Colombia will receive a 90-day visa exemption stamp upon arrival, valid for tourism purposes. It’s important to ensure your passport has at least six months of validity remaining.
Security and Customs
Security procedures at MDE are generally fast and straightforward. If you’re departing from Medellin, the security check usually takes no more than 10 minutes. Standard international security regulations apply, such as removing electronics and liquids from carry-on luggage.
Customs checks for arriving passengers are minimal but random inspections may occur, especially for items flagged during baggage screening.
Transportation to Medellin City Center
The airport is located in Rionegro, about 35 to 45 minutes by car from Medellin’s city center. Several transportation options are available. One of the most convenient is arranging a private transfer in advance, which can often be paid for online in USD and includes the option for an English-speaking driver. This eliminates the need to exchange cash at the airport immediately upon arrival.
Alternatively, taxis are readily available outside the terminal, offering fixed rates to most city neighborhoods. Budget travelers can also opt for a reliable airport bus service that terminates at San Diego Mall, from where you can catch a taxi or ride-share into other areas of the city.
Airport Facilities: Food, Shopping, and Wi-Fi
The airport is modest in size, but you’ll find basic amenities to pass the time. Before going through security, you’ll encounter kiosks selling coffee, snacks, and souvenirs.
If you have a long wait, it’s best to eat here, as post-security dining options are limited. Once inside the departures area, you’ll find a small duty-free zone and a few familiar options such as Burger King. While the food and retail variety is not extensive compared to major international airports, it is adequate for short layovers.
Fortunately, José María Córdova Airport offers free and unlimited Wi-Fi access. The signal tends to be stronger once you pass through security, allowing you to browse, stream, or plan your next steps in Medellin with ease.
Navigation and Check-In
Despite handling both international and domestic flights, the airport is relatively compact and well-signposted.
Domestic check-in desks are on the right-hand side as you enter, while international check-ins are on the left. This layout makes navigation simple, even for first-time visitors. Check-in counters are easy to locate, but it’s still wise to arrive at least 90 minutes before domestic flights and 2.5 hours before international departures to avoid last-minute stress.
ATMs and Currency Tips
You’ll find ATMs located near the arrivals area, just outside the baggage claim section. Some machines may charge additional fees, and your home bank might impose international transaction charges. To avoid unnecessary costs or delays, consider pre-arranging transport and waiting until you’re in the city to withdraw large amounts of cash.
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From Takeoff to Touchdown—Two Travel Has You Covered
Understanding the differences between José María Córdova International Airport and Olaya Herrera Airport, exploring budget airline options, and knowing when and how to book will set you up for a stress-free experience. Whether you’re flying in for adventure, business, or relaxation, getting the right flights to Medellin Colombia is the first step toward an unforgettable trip.
Need help curating your Medellin getaway? Let Two Travel handle it all—from flights and accommodations to tours and personalized itineraries.
Contact us today and let’s get you on your way to Medellin in 2025!
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