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Barranquilla

Barranquilla travel guide

Capital district of Atlántico Department, Colombia

Best time to visitJanuary to March
Nearest airportBAQ · 7 mi from centre
Time zoneUTC−5
Population1,326,588

About Barranquilla

Barranquilla is the capital district of the Atlántico department in Colombia. It is located near the Caribbean Sea and is the largest city and third port in the Caribbean coast region; as of 2018, it had a population of 1,206,319, making it Colombia's fourth-most populous city after Bogotá, Medellín, and Cali.

Places to visit in Barranquilla

  1. Ventana al Mundo

    Landmark

    A colorful modern monument resembling a giant window, symbolizing the city's openness. Visit in the evening when it is lit up, and walk to the nearby river promenade.

  2. Gran Malecón del Río

    Park

    A long riverside promenade along the Magdalena with restaurants and play areas. It is best visited late afternoon when it is cooler and the sunset lights up the river.

  3. Museo del Caribe

    Museum

    A museum exploring the culture, music and nature of Colombia's Caribbean region. Allow two hours for the interactive exhibits, and check for occasional live performances.

  4. Catedral Metropolitana María Reina

    Religious

    A modern cathedral known for its stained glass and the sculpture of Christ above the altar. It is calm inside, so visit outside mass times to look around.

  5. Estadio Metropolitano Roberto Meléndez

    Estadio Metropolitano Roberto Meléndez

    Entertainment · 4 mi from centre

    The main stadium of the Colombian national football team and home to Atlético Junior. Attend a match for a lively atmosphere, but buy tickets from official sellers.

  6. Puerto Colombia

    Puerto Colombia

    Beach · 6 mi from centre

    A seaside town near Barranquilla known for its historic pier and beaches. Head there for fresh seafood and sunset views, but keep an eye on the waves.

Top experiences in Barranquilla

Tours, tickets and experiences you can book with Destina Holidays, from 12 available.

See all things to do in Barranquilla

Where to stay in Barranquilla

Popular hotels in Barranquilla, out of 84 properties you can book.

See all hotels in Barranquilla

Best time to visit Barranquilla

Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Barranquilla is January to March, when average daytime highs are around 88–89°F and rain falls on about 3 days a month.

MonthTemperature (°F)Rain days
Jan 78° – 88° 3
Feb 78° – 88° 2
Mar 78° – 89° 3
Apr 78° – 89° 11
May 78° – 89° 22
Jun 77° – 87° 24
Jul 78° – 89° 18
Aug 78° – 88° 21
Sep 77° – 88° 25
Oct 77° – 87° 26
Nov 76° – 86° 24
Dec 78° – 87° 9

Average daily low and high temperatures and days with at least 1 mm of rain, from recent weather records. Highlighted months are the most comfortable for sightseeing.

Barranquilla weather forecast

  • Wed 11 Nov 94° 82° 10%
  • Thu 12 Nov 93° 78° 88%
  • Fri 13 Nov 91° 76° 92%
  • Sat 14 Nov 88° 75° 74%
  • Sun 15 Nov 86° 79° 71%
  • Mon 16 Nov 86° 77° 83%

Know before you go

Currency
Colombian peso (COP)1 US dollar ≈ $3,277
Language
Spanish
Calling code
+57
Driving
On the right
Time zone
America/BogotaUTC−5
Capital
Bogotá

Upcoming public holidays in Colombia

  • Independence of CartagenaIndependencia de Cartagena
  • Immaculate ConceptionLa Inmaculada Concepción
  • Christmas DayNavidad
  • New Year's DayAño Nuevo
  • EpiphanyDía de los Reyes Magos
  • Saint Joseph's DayDía de San José

Banks, offices and some attractions may close on public holidays, and flights and hotels often fill up early around them.

Getting to Barranquilla

These are the airports closest to central Barranquilla. Compare fares into each one, as a slightly longer transfer can sometimes mean a much cheaper flight.

  • BAQ Ernesto Cortissoz International Airport7 mi (11 km) from the city centre
Search flights to Barranquilla

Getting around Barranquilla

Moving around in Barranquilla depends largely on the traveler's budget, language barriers and spirit of adventure.

Barranquilla travel FAQ

When is the best time to visit Barranquilla?

Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Barranquilla is January to March, when average daytime highs are around 88–89°F and rain falls on about 3 days a month.

What is the weather like in Barranquilla?

March is usually the warmest month in Barranquilla, with average highs of 89°F (32°C). November is the coolest, with average lows of 76°F (25°C). The wettest month is typically September, with about 222 mm of rain.

Which airport is closest to Barranquilla?

Ernesto Cortissoz International Airport (BAQ) is the closest airport, about 7 miles (11 km) from the centre of Barranquilla.

What currency is used in Barranquilla?

Barranquilla uses the Colombian peso (COP). At the latest exchange rate, 1 US dollar ≈ $3,277.

What time zone is Barranquilla in?

Barranquilla uses the America/Bogota time zone (currently UTC−5). Remember to check for daylight saving changes when planning connecting flights.

How do I get around Barranquilla?

Moving around in Barranquilla depends largely on the traveler's budget, language barriers and spirit of adventure.

What are the best places to visit in Barranquilla?

Top sights in Barranquilla include Ventana al Mundo, Gran Malecón del Río, Museo del Caribe and Catedral Metropolitana María Reina. A colorful modern monument resembling a giant window, symbolizing the city's openness. Visit in the evening when it is lit up, and walk to the nearby river promenade.

What are the top things to do in Barranquilla?

Popular experiences you can book in Barranquilla include Barranquilla City Tour, Dance Classes - Caribbean Music and Beach in Solinilla and Punta Roca. Destina Holidays offers 12 tours and activities here.

Where should I stay in Barranquilla?

Popular areas for hotels in Barranquilla include Barranquilla. Well-reviewed options include NH Collection Barranquilla Smartsuites Royal and Estelar en Alto Prado.

How many hotels can I book in Barranquilla?

Destina Holidays currently lists 84 properties in and around Barranquilla, from budget stays to luxury hotels. Search your dates to see live prices and availability.