Barranquilla

Colombia, South America

Barranquilla, Colombia, is a vibrant coastal city celebrated for its lively Carnival, one of the biggest festivals in South America. Known as the 'Golden Gate' of Colombia, it features a fusion of cultures, music, and art. Don't miss the iconic Caribbean music scene, the beautiful Playa de Bocas de Cenizas, and the striking sculptures of the Parque Cultural del Caribe. The local culinary scene, filled with seafood delights and street food, adds to its appeal. Barranquilla is alive with energy and offers a unique cultural experience.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

City

Vibe

Party

Airport

Ernesto Cortissoz

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

8 Best Things to Do in Barranquilla

1

Est. 4 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend the Barranquilla Carnival

Experience vibrant parades and cultural celebrations.

No booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Museo del Caribe

Explore Colombia's Caribbean culture and nature.

No booking required
3

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Stroll through El Prado neighborhood

Discover stunning architecture and local history.

No booking required
4

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Bocas de Ceniza

See where the Magdalena River meets the Caribbean.

No booking required
5

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Catedral Metropolitana María Reina

Admire the stunning architecture of this cathedral.

No booking required
6

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Savor local cuisine at La Cueva

Dine where famous writers and artists once gathered.

No booking required
7

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Enjoy the nightlife at the Zona Rosa

Experience Barranquilla's vibrant nightlife scene.

No booking required
8

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Parque Cultural del Caribe

Engage in cultural workshops and exhibitions.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Included in bill

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

9 (#13 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Colombian Peso

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Spanish

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Bandeja Paisa

Hearty platter with meats and beans. (National dish)

Ajiaco

Chicken and potato soup with herbs.

Arepas

VE

Corn cakes, often filled or topped.

Sancocho

Savory stew with meat and vegetables.

Empanadas

V

Fried or baked pastry with filling.

Phrases to learn

English

Spanish

Hello

Hola

(Oh-lah)

Yes/No

Si / No

(See / No)

Thank you

Gracias

(Grah-thee-ahs)

Excuse me

Perdón

(Per-dohn)

How much?

¿Cuánto?

(Kwan-toh)