Barranquilla, often referred to as the “Golden Gate of Colombia,” is a vibrant and dynamic city located on the Caribbean coast. Famed for its lively Carnival celebration – the second-largest in South America – this coastal town mixes traditional culture and modern urban appeal. If you seek the best areas to stay in Barranquilla, read on.
Accommodation Options in Barranquilla
Barranquilla was established in 1813. Its access to the Magdalena River enabled it to become an important commercial and industrial center in the early 20th century. Barranquilla’s growing tourism industry means the city offers various accommodations, from luxury and boutique hotels to budget-friendly properties.
Some notable attractions in Barranquilla include historic sites like Iglesia San Nicolás de Tolentino, as well as the Metropolitan Stadium Roberto Meléndez, the bustling commercial center of Paseo Bolívar, the serene Bocas de Ceniza (where Magdalena River meets the Caribbean Sea), and the fascinating Museum of the Caribbean.
Barranquilla is also famous for its lively entertainment scene and nightlife. The city holds a multicultural identity through its diverse cuisine and vibrant festivals such as the famous Carnival. Beautiful street murals scattered throughout Barranquilla further enhance its artistic atmosphere.
Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’re a seasoned backpacker, keep reading to learn more about the best areas to stay in Barranquilla, Colombia.
What’s the Best Area to Stay in Barranquilla?
The best area to stay in Barranquilla is Alto Prado. This neighborhood is known for its safety, clean streets, and beautiful parks. You can find luxury hotels, dozens of dining options, and a well-connected transportation system here. Additionally, the nightlife in Alto Prado is vibrant and lively.
Find available accommodation in Alto Prado.
Best Hotels in Alto Prado
- Best 5-star hotel: Estelar Alto Prado
- Best 4-star hotel: NH Collection Royal Smartsuites
- Best 3-star hotel: Ayenda Casa Prado 59
- Best serviced apartments: Estelar Apartamentos Barranquilla
Where to Stay in Barranquilla for Sightseeing, Business & Nightlife
As previously stated, Alto Prado is an excellent area to stay in while visiting Barranquilla. However, Barranquilla has numerous neighborhoods to explore. Here are some of the most exciting areas:
- El Prado is a beautiful neighborhood in Barranquilla known for its magnificent architecture and historical significance. El Prado exudes elegance and charm and is filled with antique mansions from the early 20th century. Our favorite hotels here are Hotel El Prado and Hotel Majestic.
- Alto Prado is an upscale neighborhood in Barranquilla known for its luxury residences and vibrant nightlife. This area is home to high-end restaurants, cafes, and boutiques. Top properties here include bh Barranquilla and NH Collection Royal Smartsuites.
- Riomar is a modern neighborhood in the northern part of Barranquilla. Known for its shopping malls and commercial areas, Riomar offers a great experience for visitors. Our favorite hotel here is the Hotel Dann Carlton Barranquilla y Centro de Convenciones.
- The Centro Histórico is the heart of Barranquilla’s history and culture. This area is home to many important landmarks, such as the historic city hall and Iglesia de San Nicolás, as well as vibrant plazas filled with street vendors selling local handicrafts. Our favorite hotel here is the 3-star Hotel Genova Centro.
Best Areas to Stay in Barranquilla: District by District
1. Alto Prado
The most exclusive and Safest area to stay in Barranquilla
Alto Prado is known for its upscale residential neighborhoods and excellent shopping options. The area boasts a variety of high-end boutiques, restaurants, and bars.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Barranquilla, Colombia:
- Vibrant nightlife
- Top restaurants
- Upscale shopping malls
- Safe neighborhood
- Modern architecture
- Proximity to attractions
- Excellent public transportation
Alto Prado is a prestigious neighborhood in Barranquilla, Colombia. The district is situated in the city’s northern section, characterized by its opulent houses and strategic location. Visitors to Alto Prado can stay close to numerous cafes, restaurants, and shopping centers that cater to an upscale clientele.
The neighborhood emerged in the 1940s when Barranquilla experienced rapid growth due to its booming industrial sector. High-class residents began settling along its wide, tree-lined streets.
Alto Prado is home to several attractions, such as the Blue Gardens Shopping Center, an upscale retail destination with fine boutiques and dining options. Art enthusiasts should not miss the Museum of Modern Art – Barranquilla (MAMB), which contains a collection of contemporary art from renowned national and international artists.
For those interested in Barranquilla’s vibrant nightlife scene, Alto Prado offers several chic bars and clubs. The neighborhood’s dining offerings feature high-quality international cuisine as well as Colombian restaurants showcasing Barranquilla’s coastal flavors.
One of Alto Prado’s advantages is its convenient transportation network. It has easy access to major roads like Carrera 51B and Calle 76, which connect visitors to other parts of the city. Taxis are readily available, while Transmetro buses run along Carrera 46.
Accommodations in Alto Prado include boutique and luxury hotels, including internationally recognized chains.
Best Hotels in Alto Prado
Estelar Alto Prado
Estelar Alto Prado is a contemporary 5-star hotel in Barranquilla´s exclusive country club district. It offers stylish rooms with free Wi-Fi and an outdoor pool with panoramic city views.
Four Points by Sheraton Barranquilla
Four Points by Sheraton Barranquilla features an American breakfast, free WiFi access, and free private parking.
Ayenda Casa Prado 59
Ayenda Casa Prado 59 enjoys a location in Barranquilla. Among the facilities at this property are a 24-hour front desk, a concierge service, and free Wifi throughout the property.
Estelar Apartamentos Barranquilla
Estelar Apartamentos Barranquilla features accommodations with kitchen facilities, free Wi-Fi, and plasma TVs. An outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a terrace bar are featured.
2. El Prado
A Lovely Historical Area to Stay in Barranquilla
El Prado is a historic neighborhood in Barranquilla featuring stunning mansions and charming tree-lined streets.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Barranquilla:
- Vibrant nightlife
- Diverse cuisine
- Rich cultural heritage
- Central location
- Numerous shopping options
- Beautiful architecture
El Prado is a distinguished neighborhood in Barranquilla. Known for its historical and architectural significance, El Prado is one of the best areas to stay during a visit to the city. The area’s residential character and majestic mansions provide a serene atmosphere.
Established in the early 20th century, the neighborhood was designed by the renowned architect Karl C. Parrish and soon became a landmark for high-class residents looking for a more luxurious area away from the bustle of downtown. This influential past can be witnessed through its unique Republican-style architecture.
Notable attractions within El Prado include its flagship hotel, El Prado Hotel, a historical monument with impressive architectural style and lush gardens. The district’s main draws are the hotel, the area’s romantic tree-lined avenues, and its magnificent mansions.
The neighborhood’s culinary scene is filled with high-quality restaurants offering traditional Colombian flavors as well as international cuisine.
In terms of transportation, El Prado benefits from being well-connected within Barranquilla. Public bus routes traverse through major streets like Carrera 54 and Calle 70.
Best Hotels in El Prado
Hotel El Prado
Built in the 1930s in Barranquilla’s El Prado neighborhood and only one block from the Modern Art Museum, El Prado features neo-classical rooms with modern amenities. Free parking is also offered.
Hotel Majestic
This 19th-century building is located in the historic Viejo Prado district in Barranquilla. The hotel features an outdoor swimming pool with a sun terrace and free Wi-Fi.
Hotel Casa Colonial
Casa Colonial is a quaint red and white guest house decorated with ornamental grids and palm trees in the El Prado District. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi and complimentary parking.
Hotel Prado 53
Featuring free WiFi, Hotel Prado 53 offers accommodations in Barranquilla. Every room at this hotel is air conditioned and is equipped with a flat-screen TV with cable channels.
3. Riomar
Safest Area for Tourists in Barranquilla
Riomar is a modern and upscale neighborhood situated along the coastline in Barranquilla.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Barranquilla:
- Vibrant nightlife
- World-class restaurants
- Proximity to the beach
- Safe neighborhood
- Beautiful parks
- Wide range of accommodations
Riomar is a prominent northern district in Barranquilla, well-known for its upscale residential neighborhoods, shopping centers, and dining options.
The district features modern architectural styles combined with tree-lined streets, providing a pleasant setting for locals and visitors alike. Among the most striking attractions in Riomar is the Metropolitan Park, also known as Parque de la Electrificadora. Moreover, Riomar is well-known for its gastronomic scene. The area boasts numerous fine-dining restaurants featuring both Colombian and international cuisines.
For shopping enthusiasts, Riomar offers various malls and shopping centers, such as Buenavista Mall and VIVA Shopping Center, where visitors can find a broad selection of shops, movie theaters, and entertainment venues. The district also enjoys an active nightlife scene with trendy bars and clubs.
When it comes to transportation, Riomar is well-connected to other parts of Barranquilla through major avenues such as Calle 72, Calle 84, and Carrera 51b. Bus routes run along these streets, while taxis are also available.
Best Hotels in Riomar
Hotel El Prado
Boasting a swimming pool, Spa facilities, and a tropical terrace, Hotel Dann Carlton Barranquilla y Centro de Convenciones offers luxurious rooms right in front of Buenavista Mall. There is a revolving restaurant overlooking the city.
Hotel Sites Barranquilla
Hotel Sites Barranquilla features an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, a restaurant, and a bar in Barranquilla. This 4-star hotel offers a concierge service and a tour desk.
ibis Barranquilla
Located in Barranquilla, in the north part of the city, ibis Barranquilla features a terrace, rooms, free WiFi throughout the property, and a shared lounge.
ibis budget Barranquilla
The ibis Budget Barranquilla is located in the northern part of the city. It offers a terrace, free Wi-Fi, and a shared lounge. The establishment is in the commercial, medical, and financial districts.
Mosaic Studios Buenavista
Offering air-conditioned rooms in the Riomar district of Barranquilla, Mosaic Studios Buenavista is a 7-minute walk from Buenavista Shopping Mall.
4. Centro Histórico
Best Location for Backpackers
Home to Barranquilla’s historical attractions, Centro Histórico is an excellent choice for those looking for budget accommodation.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Barranquilla:
- Rich history and culture
- Beautiful architecture
- Central location
Centro Histórico is the historic core of Barranquilla and a good choice for travelers interested in history, culture, and local cuisine.
The district is home to numerous architectural landmarks. One notable example is the Iglesia de San Nicolás de Tolentino, a Roman Catholic church dating back to 1895. Nearby, visitors can explore the Customs Building (Edificio de la Aduana), an exquisite sample of Republican-style architecture designed by English architect Leslie Arbouin in the early 20th century.
Another must-see attraction is Plaza de San Nicolas, a lively square with activity. Surrounded by traditional streets and historic buildings, the square hosts various events throughout the year, including music performances and artistic displays.
Centro Histórico also offers a taste of authentic Barranquillera culture through its delicious street food.
As for transportation options in Centro Histórico, visitors will find a well-organized public transportation system with Transmetro buses running through key parts of the city.
Best Hotels in Barranquilla’s Old Town
Hotel Manzur
In a prime location in the Centro Historico district of Barranquilla, Hotel Manzur is located a 4-minute walk from the Museum of the Atlantic.
Hotel Genova Centro
A swimming pool decorated with blue tiles and sun loungers can be enjoyed at the Genova Hotel in Barranquilla. All rooms feature free Wi-Fi, and Portal del Prado Shopping Mall is a 10-minute walk.
Casa Caribe Colonial
Casa Caribe Colonial features rooms in Barranquilla near Peace Square and Plaza de la Aduana. With inner courtyard views, this accommodation offers a patio.
