Amazing 4-Day Weekend In Barranquilla, Colombia: An Insider’s Guide

Are you curious about Colombia’s Caribbean coast? From iconic landmarks to local hangouts, this amazing, four-day weekend in Barranquilla is designed for adventure-seekers who want to explore the city like a true insider but don’t want to spend an entire week doing it!

This guide to Barranquilla is not focused on all the trendy spots, but that’s the point: you will have the feeling of being an insider! Since this guide recommends departing from Cartagena, you can return to La Heroica and do more tourist-focused things there.

Are you ready to spend four days dancing, eating, shopping, and indulging in a city that knows how to celebrate life? Then, ¡vamanos! Let’s go to Barranquilla!

Affiliate Notice: Some of the links on my website are affiliate links, which means that if you take action on a link, such as book an accommodation or car rental, buy gear or products, or invest in travel insurance through the link posted, I will earn a small commission at no cost to you. I only link to the items I trust and recommend and work with the companies I believe in. Thank you.

Why Visit Barranquilla?

Despite its historic charm, proximity to beaches and the Magdalena River, and being the home of one of Latin America’s first airlines, many visitors often bypass Barranquilla, seeing it as a halfway mark between popular tourist destinations Cartagena and Santa Marta.

Conversely, savvy travelers know that, for an authentic experience filled with real culture, incredible food, and welcoming locals, Barranquilla is the perfect place!

As someone who lived as a Costeña for four years, including two in Barranquilla, I can confidently say this thriving metropolis full of awesome surprises is definitely worth a visit.

Before Arriving: Car Services in Barranquilla

Taxis

Taxis are plentiful and you can have your hotel or restaurant call one for you to ensure a good passage. If you feel bold enough to hail a taxi on the street, negotiate the price before you get inside, and take a photo of the placa (license plate) – displayed on the doors – to share with a contact, just in case. Typically, taxis are safe, but it’s always best to err on the side of caution.

InDrive

With the user ability to negotiate a price, secure a ride that’s safe, trackable, and sharable, and the option to pay cash for a passage, it’s no wonder the smartphone app InDrive is favored by Colombians throughout the country.

Often called “InDriver,” the app is similar to Uber but you negotiate your price before the ride. It’s easy to use by downloading the app, setting up an account, and building your ratings, which gives you peerence for pick-ups.

Uber

With its global dominance and trusted namesake, Uber is another favored ride share service available in many cities in Colombia. Take note, however, that in some places, Uber is illegal. Barranquilla so far has offered the service with few glitches or issues.

One noticeable fact about the rideshare services available is that the car quality and driver safety do not seem heavily enforced.

I’ve ridden in sparking clean taxis with drivers balancing two cellphones on their knees, holding multiple conversations – definitely no bueno.

I’ve also ridden in dingy InDrive cars that smelled of gasoline where the driver was overtly cautious in traffic and incredibly polite.

Whichever rideshare service you choose, remember to keep your wits about you, be smart, trust your gut, and if it doesn’t feel safe, don’t get in. Safety should always be your top priority.

Hopefully, you’ll have all positive transportation experiences during your time in Barranquilla!

Day 1 Thursday: Arrival and Local Vibes

Berlitur from Cartagena to Barranquilla

Your adventure begins Thursday morning in Cartagena, where you’ll take a comfortable two-hour van ride with Berlitur from the Marbella station to Barranquilla’s Terminal 93, in the north of the city.

For decades, Berlinas del Fonce, also called Berlitur and Berlinas, has provided fast, reliable, safe transportation to cities along the coast. Tickets are reasonably priced and not required in advance.

When you arrive at the station, show your valid passport or Colombian cedula extranjera – foreign ID – and purchase a ticket.

You’ll be given a receipt with your puesto – seat number – and asked to wait for the next van. Vans typically leave the station every 15 to 20 minutes.

After you board, security personnel will videotape everyone on the bus, the driver will announce the destination, and you’ll be on your way!

Some vans provide free WIFI – look for the code near the ceiling at the front of the driver’s area – or sit back and relax.

The ride is typically timely and scenic, showcasing glimpses of the Caribbean coastline and quirky coastal towns along the road.

The van may stop in a small town to pick up other passengers and allow vendors with snacks to board momentarily. If you’ve never had rosquitos – delicious, ring-shaped, baked cheese snacks – grab some to enjoy along the way!

📍Insider Guide Pro Tip: Travel light! While the vans have a cargo area in the back and underneath for bags, you’ll want to pack only what is needed, as you’ll be sharing the space with the other 10-18 passengers.

• Address: Calle 93 #47-23 – 47-53, Barranquilla, Atlántico
• Insider’s Overview: The easiest and most economical way to travel between cities on the Colombian coast, Berlinas is often frequented by families, students, and professionals on daily commutes.
• Website: Berlinas del Fonce

Check-in at Hotel El Prado

After arriving at Terminal 93, it’s easy to catch a rideshare to Hotel el Prado, the city’s most exclusive and historic hotel. Centrally located in the El Prado neighborhood, the emblematic hotel dating back to the 1920s is surrounded by a large iron and cement fence and voluminous palm trees.

Check in at reception and enjoy a stroll to your room along gorgeous, black-and-white tiled floors beneath high arched ceilings decorated with divine flora and fauna.

🏨 Hotel el Prado awaits you! Book Now for the best selection!

Find your cozy habitacíon, make use of the convenient in-room safe, and find a moment to appreciate the splendor of this fine Colombian establishment.

• Address: Carrera 54 #70-10, Barranquilla, Atlántico
• Insider’s Overview: This historic hotel is a cherished symbol of Barranquilla’s elegance, featuring colonial-style architecture and a lush poolside oasis.
• Website: https://www.hotelelpradobarranquilla.com

Lunch at Cucayo Cocina

Once you’ve checked into the hotel, catch a taxi or Uber to the original Cucayo Cocina, a unique, colorful eatery between two lovely areas: Altos de Prado and Riomar.

While Cucayo has several locations throughout the city, including Caiman del Rio – the gastronomic multi-plaza near the Magdalena River – and Parque Alegra – the expansive shopping mall off Avenida 30 – the original location is the best.

Named after a Colombian delicacy made from browned rice scraped from the bottom of a cauldron, Cucayo is a favorite among locals and tourists and a must-visit for anyone wanting a full Barranquillero dining experience.

From the friendly, smiling waitstaff to the lively, eclectic interior, Cucayo will leave your heart happy and your stomach full.

• Location: Cucayo Cocina
• Address: Carrera 53 #85-13, Barranquilla, Atlántico, Colombia
• Insider’s Overview: Cucayo is famous for its bright, carnival-themed decor, delicious traditional food, and exceptional service. Try the mote de queso – a regional cheese soup – or the casuela de mariscos – a savory seafood stew.
• Website: https://cucayococina.com/

Editor’s Note: I LOVE CUCAYO. Cucayo the restaurant thrills the hungry, party-goer inside of me. Cucayo the dish evokes blissful memories of living in Colombia and eating lunch with my beautiful high-school students. I love Cucayo so much that I bought the license plate. ¿Verdad? Yep!

Shopping and Coffee at CC Viva

Hopefully, your visit to Barranquilla will happen on lovely, sunny days with cool breezes from the nearby Rio Magdalena. If not, don’t stress. There’s always a happy solution when you’re on the coast!

If it’s pouring rain or stifling hot outside, head to the closest Centro Commercial – shopping mall – and relax with a coffee.

Barranquilla has many, multi-level malls with excellent shopping, entertainment, restaurants, and cafés.

One favorite is C.C. ¡Viva! where you can visit Café Juan Valdez, relax with some delicious Colombian coffee, and do some people-watching. A newer mall in the area, established in 2019, C.C. ¡Viva! buzzes with the chatter of families, friends, and couples all enjoying their time with a little retail therapy.

• Location: Centro Commercial ¡Viva!
• Address: Cra. 51B #87-50, Barranquilla, Atlántico, Colombia
• Why Locals Love It: One of the city’s most modern shopping centers with high-end boutiques, a cinema, and cozy coffee shops perfect for an afternoon break.
• Website: https://www.vivabarranquilla.com

Once you’re done at C.C. Viva!, catch a taxi or an Uber back to Hotel el Prado and relax during happy hour at the poolside bar, where you’ll find delicious beer, wine, and cocktails offered by friendly bartenders under spectacular, mood-calming lights.

Expat Night at Red Door Cafe

If your first evening in Barranquilla happens to be a Thursday, you’re in luck! From Hotel el Prado, it is safe to walk, or just catch a car and head over to the Red Door pub in the Prado neighborhood for the Expat Meet and Greet.

Starting at 7:30 PM an eclectic mix of locals, ex-pats, native Colombians, and travelers meet to play trivia, sing karaoke, and exchange stories while making new friends. This is an excellent way to meet new people and dig into your first night in Barranquilla!

Remember, don’t stay out too late if the Expats encourage you to go to the after-party. You’ll want to have plenty of energy to explore on day two.

• Address: Calle 93 # 49C – 35, Barranquilla, Atlántico, Colombia
• Why Locals Love It: A popular gathering spot for expats and travelers, offering craft cocktails, live music, and a friendly atmosphere.
• Website: https://www.instagram.com/reddoorbarranquilla/

Day 2 Friday: Culture and History

Wake up early and enjoy the amazing buffet breakfast at Hotel el Prado, featuring exotic tropical fruits, made-to-order pancakes, arepa de huevo, fresh juices, and aromatic coffee served by a delightful staff. 

Take some photos of the beautiful historic hotel before calling a car service and heading to Discos Aldair, a legendary record store in the Centro, where the weekend makes this a super-busy part of town.

Discos Aldair: La Tienda Musical de Moda

Located a Calle 38 # 43-123 Plaza Centro la 43, Discos Aldair is an independent record store where you’ll find popular and rare vinyl records featuring Cumbia, Salsa, Bachata, and more. Chat with the friendly and knowledgeable proprietor, Julio Padilla, and learn about all things musical and rhythmic in Barranquilla. 

Julio has been with the shop for years and knows what’s what with Colombian music. In addition to selling vinyl records, the store has a variety of colorful, printed shirts and musical instruments to choose from.

Try a set of clave, two hard sticks that, when brought together make a brilliant, clapping sound – or a colorful cencerro – cowbell – fabricated from sturdy metal and struck with a solid stick.

San Nicholas Park and Church

After Discos Aldair, walk through the busy Centro and head over to Parroquia de San Nicolas de Tolentino, where you’ll view a large, colorful, Neo-gothic church dating back to the 1700’s.

In addition to functioning for more than 200 years as a spiritual pillar to the community, Saint Nicholas Church was featured in Gabriel García Márquez’s writing, Memoria de mis putas tristes (Memories of My Melancholy Whores). 

Once you’ve snapped some memorable photos in the park, take a break with some tasty deditos de queso – cheese breadsticks – and a delicious, refreshing juice before catching a car to your next destination: Galeria Artesanal & Comercial 72. 

Galeria Artesanal & Comercial 72

Located near the TransMetro estacíon Joe Arroyo, Galeria 72 offers the city’s best selection of souvenirs and artisanal goods at reasonable prices. Vendors call out the proverbial Costeño greeting, “a la orden” – at your service – to coerce you into visiting their kiosks, offering everything from keychains to carnival costumes. 

Check out the huge selection of beautiful, handmade mochilas, colorful hats, slick soccer jerseys, and hand-tooled leather goods. Negotiate a good price, but know when to compromise and never try to be cheap: fine craftsmanship is valued in Colombia. 

Estatua Joe and Frutera Los Compadres

After collecting your recuerdos – souvenirs – step outside and enjoy a photo op with the estatua de Joe Arroyo, a sizable homage to Barranquilla’s esteemed musician. 

Originally from Cartagena, Joe Arroyo was a musical legend who loved Barranquilla, penning the epic anthem, “En Barranquilla me Quedo,”- in Barranquilla, I Stay –  among other incredible hits with his band, La Verdad. 

Juice break! It’s been a few hours since you’ve had some refreshments, so follow your insider mind and grab some fresh juice and a snack. One favored location, close to the Joe Arroyo statue, is Frutera Dos Compadres, an open-air eatery where you’ll find small bites like empanadas, carimañolas, and arepitas. 

Be sure to ask about the daily rice dish, which often has egg, meat, and mixed vegetables, and sip on one of their many delicious fresh fruit juices, made to order with milk or water. 

🌟 Insider Guide Pro Tip: Cash is King. Bring cash! You don’t need many pesos to make your day enjoyable, but many places in Barranquilla still prefer paper money to plastic cards, which often require the use of a handheld cajero. Make small purchases and negotiations easier by offering sellers efectivo – cash – instead of a card.

Dinner and Dancing

After an entire day in the city, you may not be up for a night on the town. One alternative is to stay in, but go out, meaning see what’s happening at Hotel el Prado, since you’re staying there, anyway.

The hotel is well-known by locals and visitors alike for its swanky, fun weekend events including live music, guest chefs, and outdoor dining under the stars. Get there early, as dinner tables fill up fast. Once seated, enjoy delectable dishes like mouthwatering burgers, fresh island ceviche, and delectable desserts.

If you’re fortunate enough to catch a live band, get up and dance! Barranquilleros love any reason to celebrate, and there’s no better way to feel joy than jumping into a conga line on the outdoor hotel dance floor. Just remember to sneak back to your room early enough to get some zzz’s – you’ll need them for day three!

Day 3 Saturday: Landmarks and Sights

After waking up and enjoying another tasty, made-to-order breakfast from the Hotel el Prado’s incredible buffet, it’s time to shift into true tourist mode. To get the most out of your time in Barranquilla, one suggested route flows from the top of the city directly into its heart.

☀️Insider Guide Pro Tip: Depart Early! It’s best to see the landmarks and sites as early as possible and when places first open. Go early, while it’s still mild outside, and before the tropical, afternoon sun begins to beam down. (You can thank me later!)

Saturday Preview

Start your day at the vibrant Ventana al Mundo, take in the scenic beauty and other sites along the Río Magdalena, and journey through the city’s most memorable spots while you avoid retracing your steps.

As you head toward notable Barrio Abajo, explore the local art, culture, and music, and finish with a delicious meal at Pescaye Restaurante, enjoying some local craft beer. End at Catedral Metropolitana to view the cathedral during its nighttime glory.

This thoughtfully designed route will guide you through Barranquilla’s northern district, revealing the essence of its colorful soul, and making it a daytime adventure packed with fun. Ready? ¡Vamonos! Let’s Go!

Ventana al Mundo

Erected in 2018 as a monument for the 23rd Central American and Caribbean Games, hosted in Barranquilla, the multicolored Ventana al Mundo towers high over the city with landscaped surrounding areas, symbolizing the city’s openness to the world.

• Address: Circunvalar Avenue and Via 40, Barranquilla, Colombia
• Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
• Cost: Free entry.
• How to get there: A short ride from most central hotels, Venta al Mundo is accessible by taxi, UBER, or private transportation.
• More information: RegionCaribe.org

Aleta de Juniors

A massive, unique mirrored sculpture resembling a shark fin for the mascot of the local fútbol team, repeat national champions, Juniors de Barranquilla. Don’t miss the amazing park around the sculpture with footprints of famous players and notable team statistics.

• Address: Along the Rio Magdalena, Barranquilla, Colombia
• Hours: Open all day, best-viewed mid-day or at twilight, when lit up.
• Cost: Free entry.
• How to get there: The statue is a bit remote, so it’s recommended to go by UBER, taxi, or private transportation.
• More information: Semana magazine

⚽️ Insider Guide Fun Fact: the city of Barranquilla has a myriad of nicknames for their beloved team, including Los Tiburones (The Sharks), El Equipo Tiburón (The Shark Team), Los Rojiblancos (The Red-and-Whites), Los Quilleros (The Quilleros, as in Barranquilleros), Los Reyes de la Costa (The Kings of the Coast), Los Curramberos (The Curramberos), and – my personal favorite – Tu Papá (Your Dad)

The Shakira Statue near the Rio Magdalena

Unveiled near the Rio Magdalena as a tribute to Barranquilla’s most iconic musical ambassador, the striking statue of singer-songwriter and international superstar Shakira captures her dynamic energy and cultural impact.

• Address: Río Magdalena, Barranquilla, Colombia
• eWhat: A tall, impressive statue of the famous pop star, Shakira, celebrating her roots in Barranquilla and her global influence in music.
• Hours: Open to the public 24 hours a day.
• Cost: Free entry.
• How to get there: Walk along the Malecón del Río or take a UBER or taxi.
• More information: Artnet News: The Colossal Statue of Shakira

Caiman del Rio and Malecón del Río

A delightful riverfront promenade along the Magdalena River, Caiman del Rio and the Malecón del Río invite visitors to stroll, dine, and soak in the lively atmosphere, offering a stunning fusion of Barranquilla’s natural beauty, artistic expression, and coastal influences.

• Address: Malecón del Río, Barranquilla, Colombia
• What: A beautiful riverside area where you can enjoy a stroll or bike ride, taking in art sculptures, gardens, and the famous giant caiman statue, plus enjoy delicious food and drink in the climate-controlled Zona Gastronómica
• Hours: Open daily, best during the day or early evening.
• Cost: Free entry.
• How to get there: Easily accessible by UBER, taxi, private car, or public bus.
• More information: Gran Malecón

Museo del Carnaval

Showcasing the dazzling history of one of the world’s most colorful celebrations, the Museo del Carnaval bursts with decadent costumes amid immersive exhibits, making it a must-visit tribute to Barranquilla’s rich heritage.

• Address: Carrera 56 #74-201, Barranquilla, Colombia
• What: A colorful museum dedicated to Barranquilla’s famous Carnival, featuring costumes, music, and history that tell the story of one of Colombia’s largest festivals.
• Hours: Monday-Saturday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Closed Sundays.
• Cost: General admission COP 10,000, subject to change for special events. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online.
• How to get there: Located in the Barrio Abajor neighborhood of Barranquilla and easily reached by UBER, taxi, private car, or public bus.
• More information: Museo del Carnaval

Walking through Barrio Abajo

One of many neighborhoods showcasing Barranquilla’s artistic soul, Barrio Abajo radiates creativity with its mural-covered streets, traditional music, and annual food festivals, embodying the spirit of the city all year round.

• Address: Barrio Abajo, Barranquilla, Colombia
• What: A historic neighborhood full of music, culture, and street art. This is the birthplace of the Carnival and offers an authentic glimpse into the local lifestyle.
• Hours: Best visited during the daytime.
• Cost: Free entry.
• How to get there: Easily accessible by UBER, taxi, private car, or public bus.
• More information: The Epicenter of Barranquilla’s Carnival

Pescaye Restaurante

Tucked inside a corridor near a storefront, Pescaye Restaurante offers a tasty journey through Barranquilla’s coastal flavors, where fresh seafood and local ingredients come together in a lively, stylish setting.

• Address: Calle 85 #47-44, Barranquilla, Colombia
• What: A delicious seafood restaurant offering fresh local dishes, including Barranquilla’s signature fish and seafood recipes, in a cozy setting.
• Hours: Monday-Sunday, 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
• Cost: Average meal costs COP 30,000 to 50,000
• How to get there: A short ride via UBER, taxi, private car, or public bus
• More information: Pescaye Restaurante

Artesana Craft Beer near Pescaye

Just steps from Pescaye, Artesana Craft Beer offers expertly-brewed artisanal beers, inviting locals and visitors alike to savor intriguing, bold flavors.

• Address: Calle 85 #47-44, Barranquilla, Colombia (right near Pescaye)
• What: A local craft brewery offering a unique selection of beers brewed in Barranquilla, perfect for a relaxing stop after sightseeing.
• Hours: Monday-Saturday, 3:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
• Cost: Beers from COP 8,000, subject to change.
• How to get there: Located next to Pescaye Restaurante or take a taxi ride.
• More information: Artesana Craft Beer

CC Portal del Prado

A longstanding shopping and entertainment hub near the center of the city, CC Portal del Prado blends modern retail with local flair, offering high-end fashion and cute cafés in a climate-controlled space.

• Address: Carrera 53 #79-120, Barranquilla, Colombia
• What: A popular shopping mall for families and locals, offering everything from local goods to international brands, along with various entertainment options such as cinemas and cafes.
• Hours: Monday-Sunday, 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM.
• Cost: Free entry.
• How to get there: Easily accessible by taxi or bus.
• More information: CC Portal del Prado

Catedral Metropolitana Maria Reina and Plaza de La Paz

A fixture in the city with its gothic architecture, the Catedral Metropolitana Maria Reina stands as a tribute to faith and history, while the expansive Plaza de La Paz serves as a lively gathering place, uniting locals and visitors for many of Barranquilla’s live concerts, festivals, and events.

• Address: Carrera 53 #79-120, Barranquilla, Colombia
• What: A gorgeous, modernist Catholic church that took 27 years to build and features breathtaking stained glass windows. The large, adjacent plaza is considered the zero point of the city and hosts concerts, markets, and other events.
• Hours: Monday-Sunday, 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM, check the website for details
• Cost: Free entry.
• How to get there: Easily accessible by UBER, taxi, private car or bus.
• More information: Alcaldía de Barranquilla

Saturday night: ¡Viva EL Salsero!

For your final night in Barranquilla, put on your best dancing outfit and head out to the energetic rhythms of La Troja, a legendary salsa bar known for its “Sabrosura” – tastiness! Established in 1966, La Troja began as a humble food kiosk and has since boomed into a cultural institution, recognized as a Cultural and Musical Heritage site of Barranquilla.

Renowned for its extensive collection of over 10,000 vinyl records, La Troja pulsates with the sounds of salsa, merengue, Cubano, and other Caribbean beats, drawing a diverse crowd of locals and visitors. It’s the perfect way to wrap up your amazing four-day weekend in Barranquilla.

• Address: Carrera 44 #74, Barranquilla, Colombia
• What: This quintessential salsa bar and cultural landmark in Barranquilla celebrated for its lively atmosphere and dedication to Caribbean musical traditions.​
• Hours: Weekends, 1:00 PM – 3:00 AM, check the website for details
• Cost: Free entry; advisable to go early as tables fill up fast on weekends
• How to get there: Easily accessible by UBER, taxi, private car or bus
• More information: La Troja

Day 4 Sunday: Pack, Return, and Reflect

Sunday morning in Barranquilla calls for one last leisurely breakfast of fresh Colombian coffee, tropical fruit, juice, arepas, and eggs. While the spread at Hotel El Prado may seem familiar by now, it never disappoints; since it’s included in your stay, enjoy it!

After checking out of the hotel, take an UBER or taxi to BerlinasTur on Calle 93 to grab a return ticket to the Marbella Station in Cartagena.

As the van rolls out of the city, take a moment to reflect on the incredible four-day weekend you just experienced, filled with music, history, and the energy of Colombia’s fourth-largest city.

Ready? Set? Coast!

While Cartagena has a Unisco Heritage Site tourist-friendly vibe, Barranquilla is all about everyday life and where Costeño culture thrives in the streets. Both coastal cities have their attributes, and experiencing them one after another paints a brilliant picture of Colombia’s Caribbean region. Consider adding Barranquilla to your travel itinerary and get ready for a true insider experience!

Before you go, check out some of my favorite companies to use for travel planning.