There are so many unique and wonderful things to do in Barranquilla – the vibrant Caribbean coastal city that is also Colombia’s most underrated city!
Located on the northern coast of Colombia, Barranquilla is full of culture and history and is a very cosmopolitan and important city in the region.
And despite it being home to several nice beaches and plenty of things to do – as well as being the city where Shakira was born and raised, many tourists to Colombia don’t even visit Barranquilla!
Therefore it makes a great place to visit if you want to explore a really Colombian city without mass tourism!
Except that is – if you visit at Carnival time in February as this is when Barranquilla hosts its world-famous Carnival.
Read on for the best things to do in Barranquilla!
Where Is Barranquilla?
Barranquilla is situated 120km north east of Cartagena – next to the Magdalena River and the Caribbean Sea on Colombia’s north coast.
It is Colombia’s third most important city and lies between Santa Marta and Cartagena – two very popular tourist destinations in Colombia.
If you’ll be catching a bus from Cartagena to Santa Marta or vice versa, the bus is pretty much guaranteed to change in Barranquilla, so take advantage of this and spend a day or two exploring this unique city.
BEST THINGS TO DO IN BARRANQUILLA
Barranquilla Carnival
Barranquilla is home to the Barranquilla Carnival – famous all around the world! If possible, time your trip to Barranquilla to coincide with Barranquilla’s Carnival!
It is the second largest carnival celebration in the world after the one in Rio de Janeiro and is one of the best experiences in South America!
During the lively four-day Barranquilla Carnival you’ll see grand costumes, impressive parades and traditional displays of Colombian music and dance.
The whole of Barranquilla turns into a big party and there are Colombian men and women everywhere celebrating – the vibe is so good and it sure is an incredible experience!
Museo Del Carnaval
If your trip doesn’t coincide with the Barranquilla Carnival don’t fear. Visit the Museo del Carnaval – a museum full of extravagant costumes and decorations from the carnival!
Other Museums In Barranquilla:
- Caribbean Museum
- Tequila Museum – dedicated to the history of tequila production in the area!
- Museum of Romance a
- Modern Art Museum of Barranquilla (MAMBA)
- Ernesto Gutiérrez Museum – dedicated to the history of Barranquilla and the surrounding region
If you would like a 6 hour tour of Barranquilla that takes you to all the important places then check out this tour:
The Malecon
The malecon is also a must visit in Barranquilla. The malecon is the waterfront promenade in Barranquilla – and it’s also where Shakira and Carlos Vives filmed the music video ‘La Bicicleta’.
Walk along the banks of the Magdalena River along the malecon and take in the views.
Metropolitan Cathedral
The historic Metropolitan Cathedral of María Reina (Queen Mary) is located in Barranquilla’s centre.
It is absolutely stunning – taking nearly 27 years to complete, and is definitely worth a visit to admire its beautiful Colonial architecture.
Plaza San Nicolas and the elegant Hotel el Prado.
Soledad Neighbourhood
Take a tour around this neighbourhood – famous for its Colonial style architecture and the colourful street art.
What Food To Have In Barranquilla
The food in Barranquilla is a little different to other parts of Colombia, with a slight Caribbean twist which makes the food taste really great!
For some delicious authentic Colombian Caribbean food head to the family-run Donde Mama restaurant, situated in a beautiful old colonial house in the historic Prado neighborhood.
Day Trips From Barranquilla & Where To Travel After:
- Take a day trip to the nearby island of Isla de Salamanca National Natural Park, which is a 1 hour (50km) drive away. Isla de Salamanca is home to some absolutely stunning beaches.
- 70km from Barranquilla – halfway between Barranquilla and Cartagena lies the Pink Sea of Colombia (Salinas de Galerazamba)! This is a really unique and fascinating place to see – the water is so pink!
- Santa Marta – just over a 2 hour drive (100km) from Barranquilla is Santa Marta. From Santa Marta you can head to the stunning Tayrona National Park or the lush mountain town of Minca!
Other Places To Visit In Colombia:
In addition to Cartagena, Santa Marta and the Caribbean Coast, definitely make sure to visit Medellin, in particular Comuna 13. Comuna 13 is a Colombian neighbourhood once considered the most dangerous place in the world, has transformed itself and now a popular tourist destination.
And of course, don’t leave Colombia without visiting the capital Bogota!
Overall, Barranquilla is a great city to spend a couple of days. And with constant warm temperatures year round, it is the perfect place to unwind!