The Best Free Things to Do in Barranquilla

Taking a leisurely stroll through the city's first planned urban development is like walking through a free, open air architectural museum. The wide, incredibly leafy boulevards are lined with massive, opulent mansions built in Neo Classical and Spanish Baroque styles. The dense canopy of old growth trees provides excellent shade, making it a highly comfortable walk even on hot afternoons. It is the perfect activity for architecture lovers and photographers on a budget.

Wandering through the densely packed streets of the historic centre costs absolutely nothing but provides a massive sensory reward. You can admire the beautiful, decaying grandeur of old Republican buildings that stand above the chaotic, colourful street markets. It is a brilliant way to witness the raw, daily commercial life of the local working class. The contrast between the ambitious historic architecture and the intense modern hustle is deeply fascinating.

Located at the very northern end of the city's most important historic promenade, this plaza is the anchor of the downtown restoration efforts. It is centred around an impressive equestrian statue of Simon Bolivar, gifted to the city in 1919. Sitting here allows you to observe the flow of daily civic life and admire the surrounding historic structures. It is a great, free starting point for any exploration of the central districts.

This charming little public square was built to honour one of the city's most beloved local composers. It features a lovely statue of the artist and floor plates beautifully engraved with the titles of her most famous songs. It is a quiet, shaded spot perfect for taking a brief rest while exploring the northern neighbourhoods. It provides a free, intimate connection to the deep musical heritage that defines the city.