Barranquilla, known as the Golden Gate of Colombia, is once again shining on the international tourism map. Booking.com, one of the world’s leading travel platforms, has included the city in its “Travel Predictions 2026” list, highlighting it as one of the 10 must-visit destinations on the planet for the upcoming year. The announcement positions the “Golden Gate of Colombia” as the only Colombian city and one of the few Latin American destinations featured in this prestigious selection.
In the global list released by Booking.com, Barranquilla shares the spotlight with major international cities such as Philadelphia (United States), Bilbao (Spain), and Münster (Germany). The selection of these destinations reflects the growing trend among travelers seeking places that offer a balanced mix of culture, history, sustainability, and memorable local experiences.
Barranquilla: a must-visit destination in 2026, according to Booking
According to Booking.com, Barranquilla has established itself as a modern, vibrant, and authentic destination. The platform highlighted the city’s impressive urban and tourism transformation over the past decade, driven by investments in infrastructure, sustainability, innovation, and culture.
The report emphasizes that “Barranquilla is a city where tradition and modernity meet,” alluding to its ability to provide authentic experiences deeply connected to its local identity. From its iconic Carnival, declared an Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, to its growing hotel and gastronomic scene, this Caribbean city has become a benchmark for cultural tourism in Latin America.
Mayor Alejandro Char celebrated the recognition, noting that this achievement “reflects the collective effort of Barranquilleros to show the world a city full of life, creativity, and joy.” He added that “more and more travelers are choosing Barranquilla for its warmth, cultural richness, and the natural beauty it offers along the Magdalena River and the Caribbean Sea.”
Places to visit in Barranquilla, Colombia
For travelers eager to discover why this city ranks among the most recommended in the world, Barranquilla offers a wide variety of iconic spots, including:
El Gran Malecon del Rio, one of the country’s most important urban projects, perfect for enjoying the Caribbean breeze and local cuisine. The site also features the monuments of Sofia Vergara and Shakira, as well as the Luna del Rio Ferris Wheel.
@turismosinfronteras506 Colombia Malecón Barranquilla 🇨🇴 créditos @TRAVEL WITH VIP #colombia #malecon #barranquilla #planeatuviaje #latinos #2025 #vacaciones #vacation #tsf506 #turismosinfronteras506 #turismosinfronteras #viaje #turismo #travel #traveltiktok #trip #visitacolombia #conocecolombia #exploracolombia #recorrecolombia #viajeros #mochileros #turism #vivacolombia #vive #viaja #disfruta #fyp #follow #viral_video #paratiiii #videoviral #contenido ♬ Hips Don't Lie (feat. Wyclef Jean) – Shakira
The Carnival Museum, which celebrates the history, music, and joy of one of the world’s most famous festivals.
@carnavalbaq Cada una de nuestras #ReinasBAQ deja un legado único: desde sus encuentros con los carnavaleros hasta sus atuendos. 👗✨ En la ‘Sala de Reinas’ del #MuseoDelCarnaval podrás apreciar 44 vestidos de coronación de nuestras soberanas. ¿Cuál es tu favorito?😍 #CarnavalDeBarranquilla #MuseoDelCarnaval #barranquilla #QuienLoViveEsQuienLoGoza ♬ sonido original – Carnaval De Barranquilla
Ventana al Mundo (Window to the World) and the Shark Fin Monument, modern icons symbolizing the city’s transformation.
@world_walkerz La Monumento Ventana al Mundo Barranquilla in Colombia 🏙️🇨🇴 #barranquilla#ventanaalmundo#colombia#atlantico#barranquillacolombia#barranquillaatlantico#fyp#vir#travel#worldwalkerz ♬ Luminary – Joel Sunny
Puerto Colombia, located just minutes away, where visitors can enjoy beaches, seafood cuisine, and unforgettable sunsets.
@elmardesofi El lugar perfecto 😍🩵 #elmardesofi #puertocolombia #atlantico #restaurante #atardecer #sunset #playa #relax #mirador ♬ original sound – jbisakol – undftdapparelph
With this new recognition, Barranquilla continues to establish itself as a cultural and touristic gem of the Caribbean, a city where rhythm, color, and hospitality make every visit an unforgettable experience.