Alquímico in Cartagena, No. 3 best bar in the world in 2026: what to know before you go
The bar ranked No. 3 on The 50 Best Bars 2026 list and is named South America's Best Bar. Here is what to know about opening time, reservations and entry.
Alquímico Cartagena ranks No. 3 on The 50 Best Bars 2026 list, and the organization names it South America's Best Bar, according to its official listing. It sits at Calle del Colegio #34-24, in Cartagena's Centro Histórico (the old town), and opens every day from 7 p.m. It does not take reservations: you show up without booking (walk-in), and the bar keeps the right of admission.
What the ranking says
The bar climbed eight places from last year. In 2025 it placed No. 11 on the same list, according to the Colombian outlet La República.
Forbes Colombia reported that on August 27, 2026 the bar won the Michter's Art of Hospitality Award 2026, a prize that looks at hospitality rather than just the drinks menu.
Hours, reservations and entry
According to its website, the bar opens daily from 7 p.m. No closing time is published, so it is worth confirming with the bar before you go.
Because there are no reservations, you cannot secure a table ahead of time; getting in depends on turning up and on whether there is room. Right of admission means the venue decides who it lets in.
The bar occupies a three-story house. Its website publishes the menu with prices and sets a casual-formal dress code: no beachwear, sleeveless tops or sportswear.
Businesses mentioned
We list them as a reference for readers; they have not paid to appear here.
Frequently asked questions
What time does Alquímico open in Cartagena?
According to its website, it opens every day from 7 p.m. No closing time is published, so it is worth confirming with the bar before you go.
Can you make a reservation at Alquímico?
No. Its website says it is walk-in only, meaning no advance booking, and it keeps the right of admission.
Where did Alquímico rank in 2026?
No. 3 on The 50 Best Bars 2026 and South America's Best Bar, according to the list's official listing. In 2025 it was No. 11, according to La República.
Where is Alquímico located?
At Calle del Colegio #34-24, in Cartagena's Centro Histórico, in a three-story house.
Sources
Published on October 14, 2026