If you’re planning to visit Colombia, don’t miss out on Barranquilla. This vibrant and colorful city has plenty to offer, from delicious food to lively music and dancing.
Interesting facts about Barranquilla:
- Barranquilla is known as the “Golden Gate to Colombia” because of its strategic location on the Magdalena River.
- The city is home to one of the largest carnivals in the world, the Barranquilla Carnival, which attracts millions of visitors each year.
- Barranquilla is known for its lively music and dance scene, especially for its salsa music and dancing.
- The city is the birthplace of several famous Colombians, including singer Shakira and Nobel Prize-winning author Gabriel Garcia Marquez.
- Barranquilla is home to a range of traditional Colombian dishes, including arepas, empanadas, and seafood dishes like ceviche.
- The city has a vibrant street art scene, with colorful murals and graffiti adorning many of its buildings.
- Barranquilla has a rich cultural heritage, with influences from the indigenous cultures of the region, as well as Spanish, African, and Caribbean cultures.
- The city is home to several important landmarks, including the Museum of the Caribbean, the Amira de la Rosa Theater, and the Barranquilla Carnival Museum.
- Barranquilla is an important commercial and industrial center in Colombia, with a thriving port and a range of manufacturing industries.
- The city is known for its warm and welcoming people, who are always eager to share their culture and traditions with visitors.
In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the 20 best things to do in Barranquilla, so you can make the most of your trip.
Visit the Museum of the Caribbean to learn about the region’s history, art, and culture
The Museum of the Caribbean is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in the history and culture of the Caribbean region. The museum features a range of exhibits that showcase the art, music, and traditions of the Caribbean, including exhibits on the indigenous cultures of the region, the history of slavery and colonialism, and the legacy of African and Caribbean music. Visitors can also enjoy live music and performances at the museum’s outdoor amphitheater.
Take a tour of the historic neighborhood of El Prado, known for its beautiful architecture
El Prado is a historic neighborhood in Barranquilla that is known for its stunning architecture. The neighborhood features a range of architectural styles, from Spanish Colonial to Art Deco, and is home to many of Barranquilla’s most impressive buildings, including the Teatro Amira de la Rosa and the Casa del Carnaval. Visitors can take a walking tour of the neighborhood to admire its beautiful buildings and learn about its history and significance.
Explore the Barranquilla Carnival Museum to learn about the city’s most famous celebration
The Barranquilla Carnival is one of the biggest and most famous carnivals in the world, and the Barranquilla Carnival Museum is the perfect place to learn about the history and traditions of this colorful celebration. The museum features a range of exhibits that showcase the costumes, music, and dances of the carnival, as well as the history of the event and its significance to the people of Barranquilla.
Try some delicious seafood at La Cueva, a popular restaurant in Barranquilla
La Cueva is a popular seafood restaurant in Barranquilla that is known for its delicious food and lively atmosphere. The restaurant serves a range of fresh seafood dishes, including ceviche, shrimp, and fish, and is a great place to sample some of the local cuisine.
Head to La Casa de Socorro for a taste of traditional Colombian cuisine
La Casa de Socorro is a charming restaurant in Barranquilla that serves up traditional Colombian cuisine in a cozy setting. The restaurant is known for its delicious soups and stews, as well as its hearty meat dishes and tasty desserts.
Check out El Gran Malecón, a food and drink market where you can sample local delicacies
El Gran Malecón is a lively food and drink market in Barranquilla where visitors can sample a range of local delicacies, including seafood, empanadas, and arepas. The market is a great place to grab a quick bite to eat or to sit and enjoy a drink while taking in the lively atmosphere.
Salsa dance the night away at La Troja, a popular nightclub in Barranquilla
La Troja is one of the most popular nightclubs in Barranquilla, and is the perfect place to go if you want to dance the night away to the sounds of salsa music. The club features live music and performances, as well as a lively dance floor where locals and tourists alike can let loose and have fun.
Visit Mango Biche, a bar and nightclub that plays a mix of music genres
Mango Biche is a bar and nightclub in Barranquilla that plays a mix of music genres, from salsa and reggaeton to hip hop and electronic music. The club is known for its lively atmosphere and is a great place to go if you want to experience Barranquilla’s vibrant nightlife scene.
Enjoy live music and drinks at El Patio Bar
El Patio Bar is a popular spot in Barranquilla where visitors can enjoy live music and drinks in a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere. The bar features a range of local and international bands and performers, and is a great place to sit back and enjoy some great music while sipping on a refreshing cocktail or beer.
Walk along the boardwalk of the Magdalena River and take in the views
The Magdalena River is one of the most important rivers in Colombia, and the boardwalk that runs alongside it in Barranquilla is a great place to take a stroll and take in the views. Visitors can enjoy views of the river and the city skyline, and can stop at one of the many cafes and restaurants along the way for a bite to eat or a drink.
Visit the Amira de la Rosa Theater, a cultural and entertainment center with beautiful gardens
The Amira de la Rosa Theater is a cultural and entertainment center in Barranquilla that features a range of performances, exhibitions, and events throughout the year. The center is also home to beautiful gardens and outdoor spaces, which are perfect for a relaxing stroll or picnic.
Go birdwatching at the Cienaga de Mallorquín Wildlife Refuge
The Cienaga de Mallorquín Wildlife Refuge is a natural paradise located just outside of Barranquilla. The refuge is home to a range of bird species, including herons, ibis, and flamingos, and is a great place to go birdwatching or to take a nature hike.
Browse the local artisan crafts at the Puerta de Oro Convention Center
The Puerta de Oro Convention Center is a great place to shop for local artisan crafts and souvenirs. The center features a range of vendors selling handmade jewelry, textiles, and other traditional crafts, and is a great place to pick up a unique and authentic souvenir of your trip to Barranquilla.
Shop for souvenirs at the Buenavista Shopping Mall
The Buenavista Shopping Mall is one of the largest malls in Barranquilla, and is a great place to shop for souvenirs, clothing, and other items. The mall features a range of international and local brands, as well as a food court and a cinema.
Visit the Portal del Prado Mall for a mix of high-end and affordable shopping
The Portal del Prado Mall is another popular shopping destination in Barranquilla, and is known for its mix of high-end and affordable shopping options. The mall features a range of international and local brands, as well as a food court and a cinema.
Spend a day at the Playa de Salgar beach, just a short drive from Barranquilla
Playa de Salgar is a beautiful beach located just a short drive from Barranquilla. The beach features crystal clear water and soft white sand, and is a great place to spend a day relaxing and soaking up the sun.
Visit the Olimpica Market, a popular spot to relax and have a meal
The Olimpica Market is a popular spot in Barranquilla where locals and tourists alike can relax and enjoy a meal. The market features a range of food vendors selling everything from fresh seafood to traditional Colombian dishes.
Take a dip in the thermal waters of the Volcano Totumo
The Volcano Totumo is a natural wonder located just outside of Barranquilla. Visitors can take a dip in the volcano’s warm and therapeutic mud, which is said to have a range of health benefits.
Experience the magic of the Barranquilla Carnival, one of the biggest carnivals in the world
The Barranquilla Carnival is a colorful and vibrant celebration that takes place every year in February or March. The carnival features parades, music, and dancing, and is one of the biggest and most important cultural events in Colombia. Visitors can experience the magic of the carnival by watching the parades, dressing up in colorful costumes, and joining in the dancing and festivities.
Attend the Batalla de Flores, a parade of colorful floats and costumes that marks the beginning of the carnival
The Batalla de Flores is one of the most important events of the Barranquilla Carnival, and marks the beginning of the festivities. The parade features colorful floats and costumes, as well as live music and performances, and is a great way to experience the excitement and energy of the carnival.
Conclusion
Barranquilla is a city that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. With its rich history, vibrant culture, delicious food, and lively nightlife, there’s never a dull moment in this Colombian gem. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s landmarks or soaking up the sun on a beautiful beach, Barranquilla has something for everyone.
FAQs
What is the best time to visit Barranquilla?
The best time to visit Barranquilla is during the Barranquilla Carnival, which takes place in February or March.
Is Barranquilla safe for tourists?
Barranquilla is generally safe for tourists, but it’s always best to take precautions like avoiding unlit areas at night and not carrying too much cash.
Can I use US dollars in Barranquilla?
While some businesses in Barranquilla may accept US dollars, it’s best to use Colombian pesos for your transactions.
What is the typical food of Barranquilla?
Barranquilla is known for its delicious seafood dishes, as well as traditional Colombian cuisine like arepas and empanadas.
What other activities can I do in Barranquilla besides those mentioned in the article?
Other popular activities in Barranquilla include visiting the Zoologico de Barranquilla, taking a boat tour of the Magdalena River, and exploring the Parque Cultural del Caribe.
