The 10 Things To Do And See In Barranquilla

Museo del Caribe

The best museum in Barranquilla by far, come to El Museo del Caribe for a fascinating insight into the history and culture of Colombia’s Caribbean coast, quite unlike that of any other part of the country. Providing a fun and interactive experience, this museum is split into different levels and rooms, each displaying different elements of the culture. A special area dedicated to writer Gabriel Garcia Marquez contains an exposition of his best work and is a great place to sit down and read one of his short stories or novels.

Opening times: Mon-Thurs 8am-5pm, Fri-Sun 8am-6pm

Address: Cl. 36 #46 – 66, Barranquilla, Atlántico, Colombia, +57 5 3720581

La Troja

La Troja is the ultimate Barranquillero experience. Described perfectly as ‘an attack on the senses’, the place is loud, bright and crowded, and it provides an incredible amount of fun. Playing purely salsa, if you’re looking for an authentic barranquillero night out, this is the place to come. The crowd is mixed, meaning you’re just as likely to find a group of young ex-pats here as a solitary salsa-dancing senior. It’s an ‘anything goes’ type of place, which sums up the relaxed and friendly vibe of the city perfectly.

Opening hours: Thurs 3pm-3am, Fri-Sat 1:00pm-4am

Address: Carrera 44 # 72 – 263, Barranquilla, Atlántico, Colombia

Castillo de Salgar

Located outside of the city, next to the sea in Salgar, the Castillo de Salgar is a beautifully restored old castle. It serves as a private events function space but it’s also home to a fantastic restaurant, serving up a mix of cuisines. Escape the city and head to the castle to soak up its beauty at sunset, when its yellow walls reflect the setting sun. A perfect spot to come and avoid the urban crowds, eat a slap-up meal and enjoy some breathtaking views.

Address: Salgar, Atlántico, Colombia

Hotel Pradomar

While many people think of Barranquilla as a busy city, they often ignore the fact that it’s actually right next to the sea. At the Hotel Pradomar you can soak up some of Barranquilla’s constant sunshine while relaxing on a sun lounger, dipping your toes in the sea and sipping on a perfectly mixed coconut cocktail. At night there are fantastic parties held at the hotel’s club, Kilimangaro.

Address: Calle 2, Puerto Colombia, Atlántico, Colombia, +57 5 3096011

Paseo Bolivar

To get a real feel for Barranquilla there’s no better way than heading down to the Paseo Bolivar in the center of the city. Chaotic, busy and filled with people, this what Barranquilla is all about. Be careful with your belongings and don’t hang around after dark, but don’t be afraid to check out the market and various affordable goods on offer. The Paseo Bolivar is also a great place to try a tasty arepa con queso or drink coconut water straight out the shell – you can’t get more Barranquillero than this.

Address: Cra. 44 #34, Barranquilla, Atlántico, Colombia

Find second-hand bargains at Oscar de la 30

Very much an undiscovered gem in the city, past the busy Paseo Bolivar in the centre of Barranquilla lies carrera 30, home to the fantastic second-hand shop Oscar de la 30. The place sits in a whole street of shops offering up second-hand clothing at absolutely bargainous prices. Hunt for long enough and you’ll find brands such as MaxMara, Calvin Klein and DKNY among the towering mountains of clothes. It may take a day’s work, but it’s worth the effort if you’re a fashion fan.

Opening hours: Mon-Sun 6:30am-6:30pm

Address: Boyacá #38-34, Barranquilla, Atlántico, Colombia

Sample local food at NarcoBollo

If you can only visit one place to try typical costeño cuisine, NarcoBollo is the place to go. Home of the finest fritos in the city, come to NarcoBollo to taste the best arepas, empanadas and deditos around. Lunches with meat, rice, beans and plantain are also served, as well as a selection of brilliant soups – some claim that they serve the finest ajiaco soup in the city.

Opening hours: daily 7:00am – 9pm

Address: Carrera 43 #8-4, Atlántico, Colombia