Things To Do
in Barranquilla
Barranquilla is a vibrant coastal city in Colombia, renowned for its lively culture and as one of the country's major economic hubs. It is famous for its Carnival, which showcases colorful parades, music, and dance, attracting visitors from around the world. The city is situated at the confluence of the Magdalena River and the Caribbean Sea, offering a unique blend of urban life and natural beauty.
Barranquilla's architecture reflects its rich history, with colonial buildings standing alongside modern structures.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Museo del Caribe to learn about the region's history and culture.
Enjoy lunch at La Cueva, a restaurant famous for its history with Gabriel García Márquez, followed by a stroll along the riverfront at the Malecón.
Experience local music and dance at a traditional Colombian salsa club, such as La Troja.
Visit the Parque Isla de Salamanca, a natural reserve known for its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes.
Have a seafood lunch at El Celler, then head to the Barranquilla Zoo to see a variety of species native to Colombia.
End your day with a sunset walk at the Puente Pumarejo followed by dinner at Restaurante El Cuca.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a local restaurant | $5-10 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-2 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (within city) | $2-5 |
| 🍺Domestic beer | $1-3 |
| 🛒Groceries (weekly) | $30-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural experiences, especially during Carnival.
- Warm tropical climate year-round.
- Delicious local cuisine and fresh seafood.
- Humidity can be uncomfortable during the rainy season.
- Certain areas may not be safe for tourists at night.
- Public transportation can be limited outside main routes.
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Barranquilla
Visit one of these nice places.
This iconic bridge offers stunning views of the Magdalena River, especially at sunset.
A vibrant cultural park that showcases the local art scene and provides beautiful backgrounds for photos.
The riverfront promenade is perfect for capturing the lively atmosphere of the city and its scenic views.
Food in Barranquilla
Barranquilla Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fried cornmeal cakes stuffed with egg, a popular street food item.
Must-Try!
A hearty soup made with chicken, fish, or beef, along with plantains and yuca.
Coconut rice that pairs perfectly with seafood dishes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find local fruits, vegetables, and street food stalls offering traditional snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm handshake is common, and close friends may hug or kiss on the cheek as a greeting.
While some events may start late, it's polite to arrive on time, especially for business meetings.
Show appreciation for local customs and traditions, especially during cultural events like Carnival.
Safety
Tipping in Barranquilla
Ensure a smooth experience
It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants if service is not included in the bill.
Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry cash for small purchases and street food.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect warm weather, perfect for outdoor activities and festivals like Carnival.
Prepare for frequent rain and humidity; it’s a good time to enjoy indoor attractions like museums.
This is the peak time to visit Barranquilla, with vibrant parades and cultural events filling the streets.
While Barranquilla is less affected than coastal areas, it's wise to monitor weather updates during this time.
Barranquilla at Night
Hiking in Barranquilla
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination offering panoramic views of Barranquilla and the surrounding landscape, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Located a short drive away, this national park features trails that lead through diverse ecosystems, from forests to coastal areas.
Airports
How to reach Barranquilla by plane.
Located approximately 30 minutes from the city center, this airport provides domestic and international flights, making it a convenient entry point for visitors.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
They represent a significant portion of Barranquilla's population, contributing richly to the city's cultural heritage, especially in music and dance.
Indigenous groups, particularly the Wayuu, are part of the cultural fabric of Barranquilla, influencing local arts, crafts, and traditions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in Barranquilla, with local teams attracting enthusiastic crowds during matches.
Baseball is also widely followed, with local leagues and teams, reflecting the Caribbean influence on sports in the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Barranquilla.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Barranquilla is known for its meat dishes, many restaurants offer vegetarian options, especially in larger establishments.
Some local dishes like arepas and sancocho are naturally gluten-free; however, it's best to inform your server of any dietary restrictions.