
Discover the joy of the Caribbean: complete guide to 5 must-see experiences in Barranquilla
Welcome to the Capital of Joy
Barranquilla is not only the cradle of the most important Carnival in Colombia, it is also a lively, diverse and welcoming city that invites you to discover its culture, its flavor and its history. If you are looking for things to do in Barranquilla for tourism, you've come to the right place. Beyond the festivities, there is much to explore in this corner of the Caribbean that breathes passion and rhythm. Translated with DeepL.com (free version)
In this guide you will find a selection of Barranquilla experiences that will make you fall in love with its landscapes, people and flavors. We present 5 experiences you can't miss if you decide to visit Barranquilla. And finally, we tell you how to make the most of your stay with ByHours Hotels, the best way to find flexible accommodation in the city.
1. La ventana al mundo: el ícono moderno de Barranquilla
One of the places to visit in Barranquilla that best reflects its current energy is the impressive Ventana al Mundo. This multicolored structure of more than 45 meters has become a reference of the modernization of the city and a perfect spot for your photos.
- Location: Via 40 with Circunvalar
- Schedules: Open 24 hours (best to visit during the day)
- Cost: Free admission
- Tip: Visit at dawn or dusk for perfect light and less crowds.
2. El Gran Malecón del Río: naturaleza y cultura al borde del Magdalena

One of the most vibrant and recent tourist sites in Barranquilla is the Gran Malecón del Río Magdalena, the riverfront, an extension of more than 5 km, is ideal for walking, cycling, tasting the local gastronomy or simply enjoying the scenery.
- Location: Avenida del Río (between Puente Pumarejo and Vía 40)
- Schedules: 6:00 a.m. a 10:00 p.m.
- Cost: Free admission
- Not to be missed: Caiman del Rio, Shakira Statue and Shark Fin, attractions found along the route.
3. Carnival Museum: tradition, color and joy in every corner.

If you want to get to know the soul of Barranquilla's Caribbean, the Carnival Museum is the ideal place. Through costumes, masks and immersive experiences, this space celebrates the history and essence of the city's most emblematic cultural event.
- Location: Carrera 54 #49B-39
- Schedules: Tuesday to Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Cost: From COP $10,000
- Suggestion: Don't miss the costume room and take advantage of the opportunity to take unique photos with the most representative figures of the Carnival.
4. Bocas de Ceniza y Puerto Mocho: aventura, mar y naturaleza en el extremo de Barranquilla
A perfect experience for the more adventurous is to visit Bocas de Ceniza, the point where the Magdalena River meets the Caribbean Sea. The trip starts in the Las Flores neighborhood and can be done in “brujitas”, hand-operated carts on rails, which make the journey an unforgettable adventure. Before reaching the final destination, make a stop at the beaches of Puerto Mocho, a new natural attraction where you can enjoy the sea, the breeze and the tranquility, far from the urban bustle.
- Location: Barrio Las Flores
- Schedules: From 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- Cost: Approximately COP $10,000 round trip
- Tip: Bring water, hat and camera. There is no shade or food stands, so be prepared to enjoy the experience with everything you need.
5. Ciénaga de Mallorquín: naturaleza viva al norte de la ciudad

The Ciénaga de Mallorquín is one of Barranquilla's most important ecosystems and a must-see for nature lovers. Recently renovated with elevated trails, viewpoints and bird watching areas, this coastal wetland offers a unique ecological experience, perfect for connecting with the biodiversity of the region.
- Location: Road to the village of La Playa
- Schedules: Every day from 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Cost: Entrada libre
- Tip: Ideal to visit in the early hours of the day. Bring binoculars if you are interested in bird watching and respect the marked areas to preserve the environment.
Duerme bien, vive más: la importancia del alojamiento
Exploring Barranquilla is a vibrant experience, but also exhausting if you don't have a comfortable space to rest or refresh yourself between activities. Whether you come for a few hours, a day or a weekend, having a hotel that fits your pace of travel makes all the difference.
Find your ideal hotel in Barranquilla with ByHours
ByHours Hotels allows you to stay by the hour in Barranquilla, according to your needs. With flexible check-in and check-out times, you can rest, freshen up or plan your next outing without worrying about paying for unnecessary full nights.
Benefits:
- Centrally located hotels and close to tourist sites Barranquilla
- Total flexibility of schedules (ideal if you arrive early)
- Accommodation for 24, 12, 6 or 3 hours according to your plan.
Find hotels in:
- The historic center
- Near the airport
- Around the Gran Malecon
Discover the best selection of hotels by plans in Barranquilla and book your ideal stay with ByHours Hotels!
From its modern monuments to its Caribbean traditions, every corner of Barranquilla has a story to tell. Now that you know what to do in Barranquilla, there is only one step left: pack your bags and let yourself be surprised by a city that dances, sings and reinvents itself every day..
Plan your trip, live new experiences and ensure your comfort with ByHours, Barranquilla is closer than you think!