Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Barranquilla, Colombia

Barranquilla is renowned for its attractive populace, Caribbean culture, and vibrant Carnaval festivities. Moreover, even if you are not visiting during the celebrations, the city’s nightlife is famous for its traditional salsa dancing and lively late-night events.

Tourists can enjoy the beaches throughout the year for surfing or relaxation at numerous bars and beach clubs. As Colombia’s fourth-largest city, it serves as a dynamic port along the Caribbean Sea and Magdalena River. While some parts of the city are industrial, numerous charming neighborhoods, ample shopping options, and expansive plazas and parks enhance its appeal. Local costeño cuisine, featuring fried fish, coconut rice, and arepas, is a must-try, along with a visit to the city’s historic castle and churches to appreciate its Spanish heritage.

Let us examine the best things to do in Barranquilla:

1. El Museo del Caribe

Explore the indigenous cultures, natural environment, and history of Colombia’s Caribbean region at this premier museum in the city.

El Museo del Caribe provides visitors with extensive insights through engaging displays and experiences across various rooms and floors.

The museum features numerous artifacts, videos, and photographs that elucidate the biodiversity of the Caribbean along with its people, encompassing culture, history, music, and literature.

Guided tours are available, and there is a dedicated library area showcasing the works of the renowned magical realism author Gabriel Garcia Marquez.

2. Carnaval de Barranquilla

Barranquilla’s colorful Carnaval celebrations are second only to those in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

This four-day festival is perhaps the city’s most notable event, with preparations commencing months in advance, so careful planning is recommended for those wishing to attend. Rooted in Spanish Catholic traditions, blended with African and indigenous influences, the festival is a vibrant affair characterized by loud music, street dancing, and a multitude of revelers.

Carnaval kicks off 40 days before Easter, featuring abundant local cuisine, elaborate costumes, and various troupes of dancers, performers, and musical ensembles.

As a visitor, embracing the festive atmosphere is encouraged, and expect continuous excitement.

3. Zoológico Barranquilla

This small zoo is home to approximately 500 animals representing 140 different species from various continents.

A delightful activity suitable for families, visitors can learn about endangered species while walking through enclosures featuring snakes, monkeys, zebras, and even elephants and tigers.

Insights into conservation efforts focusing on local wildlife such as manatees, spectacled bears, and otters are also provided.

Guests can interact closely with some animals under careful supervision. Additionally, a small café is available for refreshments, including local delicacies like empanadas.

4. Experience Barranquilla’s Nightlife

In addition to its striking residents, Barranquilla boasts a vibrant nightlife filled with opportunities for dancing.

Therefore, even if you are not present for Carnaval, you should seize the chance to enjoy the numerous venues renowned for their lively ambiance.

Established for over 50 years, La Troja is a local institution that offers an authentic salsa dancing experience, with crowds often extending onto the sidewalks.

Frogg Leggs, the trendy Agua Helada, and Coco Beach are also notable venues.

Aguila and Club Colombia are the popular and affordable beer choices, while rum serves as another favored option, reflecting the Caribbean lifestyle.

5. Bocas de Cenizas

If you are seeking a walking adventure away from tourist paths, consider taking the train to the point where the Magdalena River converges with the Caribbean Sea.

Ensure to apply sunscreen and wear comfortable shoes; also, bring a camera, water, and some pesos for purchasing snacks along your journey.

Your adventure will commence in the Los Flores neighborhood, where you can board an open-air “train” to the coastline, allowing you to disembark and trek along the rugged terrain to the very edge of the land.

Your efforts will be rewarded with stunning vistas and a genuine glimpse into some lesser-known neighborhoods of the city.

6. Castillo de Salgar

Located a 20-minute drive from the city, Castillo de Salgar is a beautifully restored Spanish fort constructed in 1848. Currently functioning as an event venue, it also features an excellent restaurant.

Perched on a cliff with sweeping ocean views, it provides a delightful escape from the city, perfect for drinks or dining during sunset.

The setting is remarkably romantic, with refreshing breezes and occasional musical performances.

Even if a meal is not on your agenda, it is worth a visit for historical appreciation and remarkable scenery.

7. Go to the Beaches

As you are in the Caribbean, where temperatures are warm year-round, visiting the beach is a must during your stay. Although Barranquilla may not have the picturesque beaches of nearby Santa Marta or Cartagena, there are still options available.

Travel by bus or taxi to Puerto Colombia and the Playas de Salgar, located approximately 15 minutes from the city, where balnearios (bathing resorts) like Villa Alcatraz await.

These establishments offer umbrellas, chairs, tables, and food and beverage services.

The upscale Pradomar presents large cushions, cabanas, and refined dining options, along with a nightclub hosting weekend beach parties reminiscent of Ibiza.

If you are keen on surfing, you can also enroll in surf lessons offered at the beaches.

8. Museo Romantico

The history of Barranquilla is showcased at the Museo Romantico, making it a worthwhile visit for those interested in the city’s heritage.

Situated in an 18th-century mansion along a picturesque street, the museum hosts numerous artifacts and possessions from notable Barranquilleros and other Colombians.

You can find letters penned by Simón Bolivar, Colombia’s heroic liberator, alongside a typewriter that belonged to author Gabriel García Márquez.

Additionally, the museum displays traditional dresses and costumes from past Carnavals, as well as various furniture pieces, musical instruments, photographs, and artworks linked to Barranquilla’s historical narrative.

9. Catedral Metropolitana María Reina and Iglesia de la Inmaculada Concepción

Do not be deterred by the contemporary architectural style of the city’s largest cathedral.

Constructed in 1982, while its exterior may appear fortress-like, the interior reveals beautiful and expansive designs.

The stained glass windows are remarkable, and the altar sculpture is noteworthy.

In contrast, the Iglesia de la Inmaculada Concepción presents a more traditional whitewashed church located in the El Prado neighborhood.

Its stained glass and intricately carved wooden altar are sufficient reasons to step inside, while the outside square offers a lovely atmosphere. Interestingly, the air conditioning during mass is often praised.

10. Visit the City’s Many Parks

Barranquilla is adorned with numerous green spaces that invite relaxation, exercise, and participation in free live music and cultural events.

The Parque Cultural del Caribe, which surrounds El Museo del Caribe, frequently draws locals who come to enjoy its lively performances in the evenings.

This park also features a butterfly garden and a wooden terrace that serves as an open-air theater.

The Parque Suri Salcedo is equipped with new playground facilities for children, while the Parque Electrificadora attracts many who meet there to cycle in the evenings.

Finally, Parque Muvdi is popular for diverse recreational activities, boasting a skate park, tennis courts, a swimming pool, a lake, and dining options throughout.

11. Try Costeño Food

Colombia’s coastal Caribbean cuisine is both fresh and satisfying, so take the opportunity to sample it from street vendors, local markets, family-run establishments, or even upscale dining venues.

Popular dishes include cheese-stuffed arepas, empanadas, fried whole fish, coconut rice, meats, sancocho, and ajiaco.

The public market offers affordable choices, while restaurants along the Magdalena River and in the Los Flores neighborhood provide reasonably priced seafood.

During lunchtime, set meals including meat or fish, rice, fried plantains, and a side of salad represent great value.

Narcobollo and Dónde está Javier? might be fast food establishments, but they also present solid options for experiencing local cuisine.

12. Plaza de la Paz

Take some time to explore Barranquilla’s main square, Plaza de la Paz.

While it might initially appear as a vast concrete area adorned with a few palm trees and benches, it transforms into a lively space during events—a frequent occurrence—where you can find bands, dancers, street performers, and many young people gathering.

Flanked by the cathedral on one side (which is beautifully illuminated at night) and the police station on the other, as well as a large shopping mall nearby, it provides a safe meeting place for both locals and tourists to socialize, rollerblade, skateboard, or enjoy a meal outdoors.

13. Paseo Bolivar

A slightly more rugged area yet offering authenticity, Paseo Bolivar is the ideal location to savor local foods from street vendors and partake in some shopping.

Relish an arepa and fresh coconut water, while browsing the array of affordable goods available throughout.

This historical commercial center of the city is bustling, lively, and somewhat chaotic.

Be vigilant with your belongings as you wander starting from the Simon Bolivar statue and exploring the churches and plazas, particularly the vibrant Plaza de San Nicolás. Enjoy the lively streets and expansive public market, which has seen some revitalization in recent years, providing a genuine taste of Barranquilla.

14. Combarranquilla

Combarranquilla and Comfamiliar are community facilities celebrated for their swimming pools and family-friendly activities, offering spaces for movie screenings, libraries, football fields, gyms, spas, ping pong tables, and even a planetarium.

Within these centers, affordable dining options are available, places to unwind, as well as opportunities for adult education classes designed for enjoyment.

The facilities frequently host themed festivals, performances, and events, such as Mexican nights or Peruvian culinary days.

If you’re simply looking to cool off, there are multiple pools, water slides, and loungers for sunbathing during your visit.

15. Go Shopping

If you do not encounter the budget-friendly trinkets or souvenirs you seek at Paseo Bolivar, consider heading to Avenida 46 and Calle 72 for inexpensive artisan handicrafts available from kiosks along the streets.

For a more modern shopping experience, explore one of the city’s significant malls such as Buenavista, Viva Barranquilla, or Portal del Prado.

For a touch of something more upscale but authentically Colombian, visit Artesanías de Colombia.

Lastly, for those who enjoy hunting for bargains, Oscar de la 30 offers great brand finds and hidden treasures alongside local shoppers.