A river cruise down the Magdalena River is a fantastic way to spend a vacation. However, did you know you can see so many attractions as you stop in small towns and villages along the river? A Colombian river cruise is an excellent way to see the popular sights, as well as a few of the hidden gems in the region. Today, I am sharing the best attractions in Colombia to see during a river cruise with you. These attractions should pique your interest and get you started thinking about your next trip away from home.

Best Attractions in Colombia to See During a River Cruise

See Works of Art at the Barranquilla Modern Art Museum

The Barranquilla Modern Art Museum opened in December of 1996. Since that time, travelers like yourself have visited to see the permanent and temporary exhibits. Those exhibits are full of Colombian Caribbean works of art.

Climb the Tower at the Santa Barbara Church

This beautiful church in Mompox should definitely be on your list of things to see while on a river cruise in Colombia. The current Santa Barbara Church is the second one that was constructed on this site.

The first was built in 1613. It was made from mud and straw. The current one was constructed in 1733 and is considered an architectural gem.

This is a baroque church complete with a bell tower. Keep your camera handy so you can capture the moldings filled with flowers, lions, and palms. Don’t forget to get a shot of the balcony that was built off the tower.

I recommend taking the time to climb to the top of the tower. At the top, you can see the bells and mechanical features up close. And the views of the plaza below and the surrounding area are phenomenal too.

Visit the Our Lady of la Candelaria Cathedral

This beautiful cathedral in Magangue is one of the highlights of the town. It is a colonial church. As stunning as the outside is, you must really enter the church to find its true beauty. Attend a service there if possible, so you can meet the locals and spend more time inside.

See the Iglesia de la Inmaculada Conception

This historic church is one of the attractions in Colombia you can see during a bicycle taxi tour in Calamar. I recommend spending a little extra time at this church, so you can see all the intricate details.

Explore the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas

Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas is a castle that can be found high up on the hill of San Lázaro. It was constructed in 1657. The castle is still standing despite being attacked by both the French and English.

This castle is now on the list of World Heritage Sites. It is also one of the seven wonders of Colombia.

During your visit, you may think the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas is close to being in ruins. However, work is being completed to ensure this castle is preserved for centuries.

Shop for Souvenirs at Las Bovedas Covered Market

The Las Bovedas covered market is an excellent place to shop for souvenirs while on a river cruise in Colombia. This attraction in Colombia is a favorite of many travelers. You will find the market in the city of Cartagena.

The outside of the building has forty-seven arches and twenty-three domes. The bright yellow façade makes it impossible to miss.

The name, Las Bovedas, translates to The Vaults. All the souvenir shops are in old jail cells. Each shop offers authentic Colombian souvenirs. You will find mochila, miniature Botero statues, clothing, and hammocks.

These are the best attractions in Colombia to see during a river cruise. Although, there are many others you will stumble upon every time you disembark the ship and explore the towns you are visiting. I can help you with a plan to ensure you don’t miss anything during your river cruise in Colombia.

So, are you ready to book a river cruise and see some of these best attractions in Colombia?

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