Cartagena

Cartagena’s allure lies in its colorful streets and Caribbean rhythm. The walled city recounts tales of pirates and colonization, while the rhythms of cumbia and vallenato invite impromptu dance sessions. Don’t just be a spectator – join a local dance class and let the city move you.

Chapters

Cartagena Guide
Where to Stay
Best Season
Local Tips

Local Tips

Highlights:

• Walled city history
• Caribbean beaches
• Castillo de San Felipe
• Vibrant nightlife
• Rosario Islands nearby

Lowlights:

• Street vendors can be pushy
• Humidity and heat
• Tourist-targeted prices


Currency: –
Festivities: –

Cartagena Guide

Guide for 1 Day

Morning

  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café del Mar, overlooking the Caribbean Sea.
  • Explore the historic walled city by visiting the iconic Torre del Reloj, also known as the Clock Tower, a symbol of Cartagena.
  • Step inside the beautifully restored 17th-century San Pedro Claver Church and Museum, dedicated to the patron saint of slaves.

Midday

  • Indulge in a traditional Colombian lunch at La Mulata, a popular restaurant serving delicious seafood and other local specialties.
  • Stroll through the colorful streets of the Getsemaní neighborhood, a vibrant and bohemian area filled with street art and hidden gems.

Afternoon

  • Experience the local culture by visiting the Mercado de Bazurto, a bustling market where you can find everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts and souvenirs.
  • Take a short boat ride to Islas del Rosario, a group of idyllic islands surrounded by crystal-clear waters, where you can relax on the beach or snorkel in the coral reefs.

Evening

  • Enjoy a romantic dinner at Restaurante Club de Pesca, a seafood restaurant located on the water with stunning views of the bay.
  • Sip on a refreshing cocktail at Alquimico, a trendy bar with a cozy atmosphere and creative drinks.
  • End your day by dancing to live music at Café Havana, a legendary salsa bar that attracts locals and tourists alike.

Guide for 2 Days

Day 1

Morning

  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café del Mar, overlooking the Caribbean Sea.
  • Visit the charming Plaza Santo Domingo, home to the iconic sculpture of Botero’s fat lady.
  • Explore the colorful streets of the Getsemani neighborhood, filled with street art and local shops.

Midday

  • Enjoy a traditional Colombian lunch at La Cocina de Socorro, known for its homemade empanadas and arepas.
  • Take a short walk to San Felipe Castle, a historic fortress with stunning views of the city.

Afternoon

  • Discover the unique architecture of Las Bóvedas, a former dungeon turned into artisan shops.
  • Get a glimpse of local life at Mercado de Bazurto, a vibrant market selling fresh produce, seafood, and souvenirs.

Evening

  • Indulge in a seafood feast at La Cevichería, a popular spot for ceviche and cocktails.
  • Sip on a refreshing mojito at Café Havana, a lively bar with live music and salsa dancing.
  • End your night with a romantic stroll along the Walled City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with colonial charm.

Day 2

Morning

  • Get a taste of Colombian coffee at Café San Alberto, a cozy café serving single-origin beans from the Sierra Nevada.
  • Visit the stunning Cartagena Cathedral, a grand church with impressive architecture and religious artifacts.
  • Take a relaxing walk in the serene Parque de Bolivar, a green oasis in the heart of the city.

Midday

  • Try the famous Caribbean dish of fried fish at La Mulata, a casual restaurant loved by locals.
  • Take a short boat ride to Islas del Rosario, a group of picturesque islands with crystal-clear waters and coral reefs.

Afternoon

  • Snorkel among the colorful marine life at Playa Blanca, one of the most beautiful beaches in the area.
  • Explore the mangroves and wildlife of La Boquilla, a peaceful fishing village surrounded by nature.

Evening

  • Indulge in a romantic dinner at Don Juan, a fine-dining restaurant with a fusion of Caribbean and Mediterranean flavors.
  • Sip on a refreshing cocktail at Alquimico, a trendy rooftop bar with a wide selection of drinks.
  • End your night with a salsa lesson at Café Havana, a legendary spot for dancing and music.

Guide for 3 Days

Day 1

Morning

  • Enjoy a local breakfast at La Mulata, a cozy restaurant with a charming atmosphere.
  • Take a stroll through the colorful streets of Getsemani, a historic neighborhood filled with street art and local markets.
  • Visit the San Felipe de Barajas Castle, a 17th-century fortress with stunning views of the city and the sea.

Midday

  • Indulge in some delicious seafood at La Cevicheria, a popular restaurant known for its ceviche.
  • Explore the hidden gems of San Diego, a picturesque neighborhood filled with narrow alleys and colonial architecture.

Afternoon

  • Discover the beauty of Plaza Santo Domingo, a lively square surrounded by cafes and street performers.
  • Take a relaxing walk along the Walled City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features stunning colonial architecture.

Evening

  • Experience the local nightlife at Cafe Havana, a lively bar that serves Cuban-inspired cocktails.
  • Try some authentic Colombian cuisine at El Boliche Cebicheria, a cozy restaurant that offers a wide range of seafood dishes.
  • Enjoy a romantic carriage ride around the city’s historic landmarks.

Day 2

Morning

  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Epoca Espresso Bar, a trendy cafe that serves artisanal coffee.
  • Visit the Palace of the Inquisition, a 18th-century building that now houses a museum dedicated to the history of the Spanish Inquisition in Colombia.
  • Explore the colorful streets of Cartagena’s Historic Center, a vibrant neighborhood that showcases the city’s rich history and culture.

Midday

  • Savor some traditional Colombian cuisine at La Cocina de Pepina, a cozy restaurant that offers authentic local dishes.
  • Take a boat tour to Rosario Islands, a group of small islands located a short distance from Cartagena’s coast.

Afternoon

  • Discover the beauty of Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, a historic fortress that played a key role in the city’s defense during the colonial era.
  • Visit Museo del Oro Zenu, a museum that showcases the work of the indigenous Zenú people, who were skilled in goldsmithing.

Evening

  • Enjoy a romantic dinner at Cande, a cozy restaurant that serves contemporary Colombian cuisine.
  • Sip on some delicious cocktails at Alquimico, a trendy bar that features a wide selection of spirits and a unique decor.
  • Relax and unwind at Plaza de la Trinidad, a lively square that offers a vibrant nightlife scene.

Day 3

Morning

  • Experience the local culture with a visit to Mercado Bazurto, a bustling market that offers a wide range of local produce and crafts.
  • Take a scenic walk along Bocagrande Beach, a popular spot for sunbathing and swimming.
  • Visit the Cartagena Cathedral, a stunning 16th-century church that features a mix of architectural styles.

Midday

  • Indulge in some delicious seafood at Pescadería Jaramillo, a local seafood market that offers fresh catch of the day.
  • Take a stroll through the colorful streets of El Cabrero, a picturesque neighborhood that features stunning colonial architecture.

Afternoon

  • Discover the beauty of Convento de la Popa, a 17th-century convent that offers panoramic views of the city.
  • Visit Las Bóvedas, a historic building that now houses a collection of local crafts and souvenirs.

Evening

  • Enjoy a delicious dinner at Don Juan, a cozy restaurant that serves a fusion of Colombian and Mediterranean cuisine.
  • Sip on some refreshing cocktails at El Baron, a trendy bar that features a unique decor and a wide selection of drinks.
  • Experience a traditional Colombian dance performance at Bazurto Social Club, a lively club that offers a vibrant nightlife scene.

Guide for 5 Days

Day 1

Morning

Midday

  • Head to La Mulata for a delicious seafood lunch.
  • Visit San Felipe Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and marvel at the impressive architecture.

Afternoon

Evening

Day 2

Morning

  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café San Alberto.
  • Visit the Convento de la Popa, a beautiful 17th-century convent with stunning views of the city.
  • Explore the colorful streets and vibrant culture of San Diego.

Midday

Afternoon

Evening

  • Enjoy a delicious dinner at La Cevichería, a popular seafood restaurant in Getsemaní.
  • Head to El Baron for some classy cocktails.
  • End the night with some live music at Bazurto Social Club, a popular club in the city known for its Afro-Caribbean music.

Day 3

Morning

Midday

Afternoon

Evening

Day 4

Morning

Midday

Afternoon

Evening

Day 5

Morning

Midday

  • Enjoy a delicious lunch at La Vitrola, a popular restaurant in the city.
  • Visit the Plaza Santo Domingo, a beautiful square with a charming atmosphere.

Afternoon

Evening

  • Savor a delicious dinner at Restaurante 1621, a fine-dining experience in a beautiful colonial building.
  • Indulge in some cocktails at El Baluarte.
  • End the night with some live music at Quiebra Canto, a popular salsa club in the city.

Guide for 1 Week

Day 1

Morning

  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café San Alberto, known for their locally sourced coffee beans and artisanal pastries.
  • Take a walk through the colorful streets of the Getsemani neighborhood, known for its street art and lively atmosphere.
  • Visit the Plaza de la Trinidad, a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists alike.

Midday

  • Head to La Cocina de Pepina for a traditional Colombian lunch, featuring fresh seafood and flavorful rice dishes.
  • Explore the San Felipe Castle, a historic fortress that offers stunning views of the city.

Afternoon

  • Take a stroll around San Diego, a charming neighborhood filled with boutique shops and quaint cafes.
  • Visit the Cartagena Cathedral, a beautiful church that dates back to the 16th century.

Evening

  • Enjoy a delicious dinner at El Santisimo, a restaurant that serves up modern takes on traditional Colombian cuisine.
  • Sip on a refreshing cocktail at Alquimico, a trendy bar with a speakeasy vibe.
  • End your evening by dancing the night away at Bazurto Social Club, a lively nightclub that plays a mix of Caribbean and Latin music.

Day 2

Morning

  • Start your morning with a hearty breakfast at La Mulata, a popular restaurant that serves up traditional Colombian dishes.
  • Take a tour of the Palacio de la Inquisicion, a museum that explores the history of the Spanish Inquisition in Cartagena.
  • Visit the Museo del Oro Zenú, a museum that showcases the art and culture of the indigenous Zenú people.

Midday

  • Head to La Cevicheria, a seafood restaurant that’s famous for its ceviche and other fresh seafood dishes.
  • Take a boat tour of the Rosario Islands, a group of small islands off the coast of Cartagena with crystal clear waters and white sand beaches.

Afternoon

  • Visit the Convento de la Popa, a historic convent that offers panoramic views of the city and the sea.
  • Explore the Centro Historico, a UNESCO World Heritage site that’s home to some of Cartagena’s most iconic landmarks.

Evening

  • Enjoy a romantic dinner at Restaurante Donjuán, a fine dining establishment that offers a fusion of European and Colombian cuisine.
  • Sip on a cocktail at Café del Mar, a rooftop bar that offers stunning views of the sunset over the ocean.
  • End your evening with a live music performance at Café Havana, a popular bar that plays live salsa music.

Day 3

Morning

  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Epoca Espresso Bar, a cozy coffee shop that offers a variety of pastries and breakfast sandwiches.
  • Visit the Casa Museo Rafael Núñez, a museum that was once the home of Rafael Núñez, a prominent Colombian politician and writer.
  • Take a walk around Bocagrande, a modern neighborhood that’s home to large hotels and high-end shopping.

Midday

Afternoon

  • Explore the Parque Centenario, a park that’s home to the Monumento a los Zapatos Viejos, a famous sculpture that pays homage to old shoes.
  • Visit the Teatro Heredia, a historic theater that hosts a variety of cultural events and performances.

Evening

  • Enjoy a delicious dinner at Restaurante La Vitrola, a restaurant that’s known for its classic dishes and live music.
  • Sip on a cocktail at El Baron, a stylish bar that offers a sophisticated atmosphere and a wide selection of drinks.
  • End your evening with a visit to Quiebra Canto, a popular nightclub that plays a mix of reggaeton and Latin music.

Day 4

Morning

  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Abaco Libros y Cafe, a charming bookstore and coffee shop that offers a variety of pastries and breakfast dishes.
  • Visit the Museo de Arte Moderno de Cartagena, a museum that showcases contemporary Colombian art.
  • Take a walk around San Francisco, a historic neighborhood that’s home to some of Cartagena’s oldest buildings.

Midday

  • Head to Restaurante Club de Pesca, a seafood restaurant that’s located on the water and offers stunning views of the bay.
  • Visit the Playa Blanca, a beautiful white sand beach that’s perfect for swimming and relaxing.

Afternoon

Evening

  • Enjoy a delicious dinner at El Burlador de Sevilla, a restaurant that serves up traditional Spanish cuisine.
  • Sip on a cocktail at La Jugada, a trendy bar that offers a wide variety of drinks and a lively atmosphere.
  • End your evening with a visit to Donde Fidel, a popular bar that plays live music and is known for its rum cocktails.

Day 5

Morning

  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast at La Casa de Socorro, a restaurant that’s known for its traditional Colombian breakfast dishes.
  • Visit the Centro de Convenciones Cartagena de Indias, a convention center that’s located in a historic building.
  • Take a walk around Las Bovedas, a set of 23 vaults that were once used as dungeons and now house souvenir shops and art galleries.

Midday

  • Head to La Paletteria, a popsicle shop that offers a variety of unique and delicious flavors.
  • Visit the Castillo San Luis, a historic fortress that offers stunning views of the ocean and the city.

Afternoon

  • Explore the Museo Naval del Caribe, a museum that explores the maritime history of the Caribbean.
  • Visit the Plaza de Bolivar, a historic square that’s home to a statue of Simón Bolívar, a prominent South American independence leader.

Evening

  • Enjoy a delicious dinner at Restaurante 1621, a fine dining establishment that offers a fusion of French and Colombian cuisine.
  • Sip on a cocktail at El Coro Lounge, a rooftop bar that offers stunning views of the city and the ocean.
  • End your evening with a visit to La Movida, a popular nightclub that plays a mix of electronic and Latin music.

Day 6

Morning

  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast at San Alberto Coffee Shop, a coffee shop that offers a variety of locally sourced coffee beans and pastries.
  • Visit the Museo de Arte Moderno de Cartagena, a museum that showcases contemporary Colombian art.
  • Take a walk around El Cabrero, a neighborhood that’s known for its beautiful mansions and quiet streets.

Midday

  • Head to Crepes & Waffles, a restaurant that serves up a variety of sweet and savory crepes.
  • Visit Cerro de la Popa, a hill that offers stunning views of the city and the bay.

Afternoon

Evening

  • Enjoy a delicious dinner at La Perla, a restaurant that’s known for its fresh seafood dishes and beautiful ocean views.
  • Sip on a cocktail at El Arsenal, a trendy bar that’s located in a historic building.
  • End your evening with a visit to Babar, a popular nightclub that plays a mix of electronic and Latin music.

Day 7

Morning

  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast at La Cocina de Pepina, a restaurant that serves up traditional Colombian breakfast dishes.
  • Visit the Museo del Oro Zenú, a museum that showcases the art and culture of the indigenous Zenú people.
  • Take a walk around Castillogrande, a modern neighborhood that’s known for its high-end shopping and luxury apartments.

Midday

  • Head to El Bistro, a restaurant that serves up delicious French cuisine.
  • Visit the Plaza Fernandez de Madrid, a historic square that’s home to a statue of the Spanish admiral who founded Cartagena.

Afternoon

Evening

  • Enjoy a delicious dinner at Restaurante Erase Un Cafe, a restaurant that serves up a fusion of Colombian and Mediterranean cuisine.
  • Sip on a cocktail at Café Havana, a popular bar that plays live salsa music.
  • End your evening with a visit to BABYLON Discoteca, a popular nightclub that plays a mix of reggaeton and Latin music.

Where to Stay

Coming soon for Cartagena!
Luxury: –
Good: –
Budget: –
Hostel: –

Best Season

Coming soon for Cartagena!