Barquisimeto, Venezuela: travel guide
The Musical City of the Lara highlands, home to the Divina Pastora pilgrimage
The "Musical City" of Venezuela in the Lara highlands, known for its cuatro guitars, the soaring Divina Pastora pilgrimage, tamunangue folk music and the gateway to the Andes.
About Barquisimeto
Barquisimeto is a large city in the Lara highlands, often called the Musical City. It is the home of the cuatro, the four-string guitar at the centre of Venezuelan folk music, and of tamunangue, a traditional dance and song form.
The cathedral and the modern Flor de Venezuela monument are key city landmarks, while the Santuario de la Divina Pastora is the focus of a large annual pilgrimage. The city also works as a stepping stone towards the Andes and Falcon.
Barquisimeto suits visitors with an interest in music and religious festivals. The climate is warm and drier than much of the country, and the cooler months are more comfortable for exploring.
- Country
- Venezuela
- Currency
- VES
- Time zone
- America/Caracas
- Nearest airport
- BRM
Last updated
Top places to visit in Barquisimeto
Flor de Venezuela
Cultural · 4.4 rating · about 1 h · check the fee at the gate
A monumental steel "flower" pavilion that opens and closes, built for Expo and now a striking civic landmark and event space.
Catedral de Barquisimeto
church · 4.6 rating · about 0.5 h · check the fee at the gate
A striking modernist cathedral with a sweeping parabolic concrete roof, one of the boldest religious buildings in Venezuela.
Santuario de la Divina Pastora
church · 4.9 rating · about 0.8 h · check the fee at the gate
The shrine of the Divine Shepherdess, focus of one of the largest Marian processions in the world each January, drawing millions to Barquisimeto.
Where to stay in Barquisimeto
- Este de Barquisimeto about VES 45 per night
The modern eastern side near malls and the cathedral, with the city's main hotels.
Hotels
- Hotel Trinitarias Suites 4-star · USD 40 to USD 75 per night
Where to eat
- La Tinaja Larense Venezuelan · about USD 10 per person
Getting to Barquisimeto
Airport: Barquisimeto (BRM)
Getting around
- Bus
- Ride Hail
- Taxi
- Walking
More in Venezuela
Frequently asked questions about Barquisimeto
- What are the top-rated places to visit in Barquisimeto?
- The highest-rated places in our Barquisimeto guide are Santuario de la Divina Pastora, Catedral de Barquisimeto, Flor de Venezuela.
- Where should I stay in Barquisimeto?
- Our guide covers these areas to stay in Barquisimeto: Este de Barquisimeto.
- How do I get around Barquisimeto?
- Ways to get around Barquisimeto covered in our guide: City bus, Ride-hailing app, Taxi, Walking.
- Which airport is nearest to Barquisimeto?
- The nearest airport to Barquisimeto has the code BRM.