Cookies on the Business Insider India website

Business Insider India has updated its Privacy and Cookie policy. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the better experience on our website. If you continue without changing your settings, we\'ll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies on the Business Insider India website. However, you can change your cookie setting at any time by clicking on our Cookie Policy at any time. You can also see our Privacy Policy.

19 photos that show why Medellin, Colombia, was just named the best destination in South America

Sarah SchmalbruchJul 8, 2016, 23:50 IST

brendanvanson / iStock

Medellín, Colombia, was just named the best destination in South America as part of this year's World Travel Awards.

Not long ago, Medellín was considered a dangerous place - it was better known for drug lord Pablo Escobar than for attracting tourists.

But thanks to an impressive public transportation system, beautiful architecture, and rich culture and history, the city is now a hot spot for visitors.

Keep scrolling to see why Medellín was rated number one.