Things To Do
in Barranquilla
Barranquilla, Colombia, is a vibrant coastal city known for its lively Carnival, which is one of the largest in the world, second only to Rio de Janeiro's, attracting thousands of tourists with its extravagant parades, colorful costumes, and infectious music. Situated strategically at the mouth of the Magdalena River, it serves as a key Caribbean port city, making it an important hub for commerce and trade in Colombia.
The city boasts a rich cultural heritage that blends indigenous, African, and European influences, reflected in its diverse cuisine, music, and dance, making it a captivating destination for visitors.
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo te va?" - How's it going?
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the famous Zoo of Barranquilla, where you can see a variety of exotic animals. Enjoy a breakfast of arepas and fresh juice nearby.
Explore the vibrant Carnival Museum to learn about Barranquilla's rich cultural heritage and lively festivities. Grab a lunch at a local eatery serving traditional Colombian cuisine.
Stroll along the Magdalena River and enjoy the sunset views. End your day with a delicious dinner at a riverside restaurant.
Visit the impressive Catedral Metropolitana Maria Reina and take in its beautiful architecture. Afterward, stop by Parque Cultural del Caribe for insights into the region's history.
Spend your afternoon at the Museo del Caribe, where you can engage with interactive exhibits. Enjoy lunch at a nearby café that offers local dishes.
Experience live music at a local venue, soaking in the sounds of champeta and vallenato. Dine at a trendy restaurant that features a fusion of Colombian and international flavors.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage, including vibrant music and dance traditions.
- Warm tropical climate year-round.
- Growing economy with opportunities in various sectors.
- Access to beautiful beaches and natural parks.
- Friendly and welcoming local community.
- Issues with traffic congestion in urban areas.
- Higher crime rates compared to some other Colombian cities.
- Limited public transportation options.
- Periodic flooding during rainy seasons.
- Healthcare services may not be as advanced as in larger cities.
Best Activities in Barranquilla
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and water sports at popular beaches like Playa Salgar and Pradomar.
Take a walking tour of the historic center to see colorful architecture, plazas, and landmarks like the Cathedral of Barranquilla.
Experience the vibrant and cultural celebration of Carnaval, which includes parades, music, and traditional dances.
Take a boat trip along the beautiful Magdalena River for a scenic outdoor adventure.
Explore the local food scene by sampling traditional Colombian street food at various markets and stalls.
Tours
Uncover the best of Barranquilla with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Barranquilla
Visit one of these nice places.
Where the Magdalena River meets the Caribbean Sea, offering a unique and picturesque view.
A historic and cultural area with colorful buildings, providing great photo opportunities.
A riverside walkway with stunning views of the Magdalena River and the city skyline.
A viewpoint at the Museum of the Caribbean, offering panoramic views of the city.
A coastal town with beautiful beaches and a scenic pier, perfect for seaside photos.
Food in Barranquilla
Barranquilla Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Arepas filled with eggs and then deep-fried, creating a crispy outer layer and a soft, savory inside. Best enjoyed at street food stalls throughout the city, with particularly good vendors in the neighborhoods of El Prado and La Floresta.
Must-Try!
A hearty soup made with guandú peas, often prepared with various meats and vegetables, and seasoned with regional herbs. Head to La Cueva del León, a traditional restaurant in the City Center, for a delightful bowl of Sancocho de Guandú.
Fried yuca dough stuffed with a savory filling of ground meat, usually accompanied by ají or spicy sauce. For a delectable taste of Carimanolas, visit the street food vendors in the neighborhoods of El Pueblo and El Recreo.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Barranquilla better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The bustling Mercado del Río is a vibrant food market where locals and visitors can explore stalls offering an array of fresh produce, local delicacies, and traditional snacks. It's an excellent place to savor authentic Barranquilla flavors and purchase unique ingredients.
Venture to La Troja, a lively street food area, to experience a sensory feast of Colombian street food, including arepas, empanadas, and tropical fruit juices. This vibrant outdoor market is a must-visit for anyone eager to immerse themselves in Barranquilla's culinary culture.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Barranquilla, it's important to be mindful of personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when talking or interacting.
It is customary to greet people with formal titles such as 'Señor' (Mr.), 'Señora' (Mrs.), or 'Señorita' (Miss) when meeting someone for the first time or in a formal setting.
Barranquilla has a rich cultural heritage, and it's important to show respect for local customs, such as participating in traditional festivals and events like the Barranquilla Carnival.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Barranquilla with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Barranquilla
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is generally not expected in Barranquilla, Colombia, as a service charge is often included in the bill in restaurants and hotels. However, it is appreciated to leave a small tip for exceptional service, usually around 5-10% of the total bill.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Barranquilla, especially in tourist areas and major establishments. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors and local markets. ATMs are also readily available for cash withdrawals.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Barranquilla.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit with dry weather and the famous Barranquilla Carnival taking place in February
Expect rainy weather during these months
Barranquilla at Night
Hiking in Barranquilla
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A natural park with diverse ecosystems, offering trails for hiking and birdwatching along the Caribbean coast.
While a bit further away, it features stunning coastal trails, lush jungles, and beautiful beaches, ideal for adventurous hikes.
A local hiking spot with trails that offer panoramic views of Barranquilla and the surrounding areas.
A large urban park with walking trails, perfect for a leisurely hike and enjoying nature in the city.
A neighborhood park with hiking paths and areas for relaxation, ideal for short hikes and family outings.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Barranquilla through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Barranquilla by plane.
The main airport serving Barranquilla, Colombia, located approximately 12 km from the city center.
Located in Santa Marta, approximately 92 km from Barranquilla, this airport serves both domestic and international flights.
Situated in Cartagena, Colombia, this airport is about 124 km from Barranquilla and caters to international and domestic travelers.
Located in Cali, approximately 467 km from Barranquilla, this is one of the largest international airports in Colombia.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mestizos, or individuals of mixed European and Indigenous ancestry, make up the majority of the population in Barranquilla, reflecting Colombia's diverse heritage.
Afro-Colombians represent a significant demographic group in Barranquilla, contributing to the city's cultural richness and historical significance.
Indigenous groups, although a smaller percentage, maintain their cultural identity and traditions in Barranquilla and surrounding regions.
Individuals of European descent, primarily from Spanish ancestry, comprise a smaller portion of the demographic landscape in Barranquilla.
The Soul of Barranquilla
Discover the essence of Barranquilla through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in Barranquilla, with a strong local following and teams like Junior de Barranquilla contributing to its passionate fan base.
Baseball has a significant presence in Barranquilla, with many local players and teams participating in various leagues and competitions.
Cycling is a popular recreational and competitive sport in Barranquilla, with various events and a growing community of cyclists.
Basketball is enjoyed by many in Barranquilla, offering both recreational play and organized competitions through local clubs and schools.
Martial arts, including practices like taekwondo and judo, are popular among youth in Barranquilla, promoting discipline and physical fitness.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Barranquilla.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Colombian cuisine often includes meats and fish, many restaurants in Barranquilla offer vegetarian options such as plantain-based dishes, fresh salads, and vegetable-stuffed arepas. Additionally, several establishments are expanding their menus to accommodate vegan preferences, with offerings like lentil soups and grilled vegetable platters.
Individuals seeking gluten-free dining in Barranquilla can find numerous restaurants that serve naturally gluten-free dishes, such as ceviche, grilled meats, and rice-based plates. Moreover, several cafes and bakeries in the city provide gluten-free bread and desserts, catering to those with gluten sensitivities.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Barranquilla with these cultural adventures.