Planning a trip to Cartagena? Check out this travel guide for where to eat, drink, stay, and play.
Winter is here, so that means one thing. It’s time for some warm-weather getaways!
One of the tropical destinations that is always at the top of my list is Cartagena, Colombia.
Have you been?
Whether you’re planning your first trip there or your third or fourth (Hey, I’ve been there twice already, so don’t judge!), I can’t wait to share my Cartagena travel guide with you.
Pssst…Are you looking for other warm-weather travel guides that also involve culture? I’ve got you covered with my Downtown Miami, Culture Guide and my Todos Santos, Mexico Travel Guide.
CARTAGENA TRAVEL GUIDE
Cobblestone streets. Colorful colonial architecture. Fragrant coffee. Street art and nightclubs. Fresh seafood. Island beaches and sunset boat rides. Trust me, this Colombian city, nestled on the Caribbean coast, has something for everyone.
A Brief History of Cartagena:
Founded by Spanish settlers, Cartagena has always enjoyed an abundance of prosperity. Hence the fortress and protective walls that were built around the city in the 16th century. At the time, Cartagena was the biggest port city in the Americas. The city’s riches only increased once it became a hub of slave trading in the 17th century.
When Colombia battled for its independence in the 1800s, Cartagena was the first city to declare independence from Spain, unsuccessfully in 1811 and successfully in 1821. Since then, Cartagena has maintained its status as a city of wealth and prestige. It is still Colombia’s largest port city exporting oil, coffee, sugar, tobacco, and textiles among other things.
But the way that history has left its mark on Cartagena is with the blend of cultures that still exist today. The city is a vibrant community of Spanish, Caribbean, and African influence. All of this can be found in the food, music, art, and culture of the city.
The Climate in Cartagena:
Cartagena is blessed with a tropical climate year-round. That said, depending on what time of year you go, it can be very hot and humid. The dry season is December through April. Expect afternoon showers during the wet months of May through November. Also, while Cartagena doesn’t traditionally get hit by hurricanes, your trip could be impacted if you travel during hurricane season. I recommend getting travel insurance if you’re traveling during August – October when hurricane season is at its peak.
How to Get to Cartagena:
Cartagena is easy to get to. Many cities in the United States, including New York, offer direct flights or connect through airports in the south. The primary airlines that fly there are Jet Blue, American and Avianca. It’s an easy trip even if you only have a long weekend to spare. Keep in mind that the high season is December through February, and ticket prices will reflect that.
Where to stay in Cartagena:
Cartagena is a city of contrasts. On the one hand, you have the beautiful walled old city, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the other, you have the ultra-modern skyscrapers and architecture of Bocagrande. Somehow, this clash of styles works.
I prefer to stay in the old city, where you have the colonial charm right outside your door. But there are also upscale hotels with great views in Bocagrande. Getsemani, a hip neighborhood adjacent to the old city, is now a very popular place to stay as well. While this travel guide isn’t a comprehensive list of everywhere to stay in Cartagena, it includes some of the most popular options.
- Casa San Agustin: Located in the old city, this is one of the top hotels in Cartagena. The property exudes old-world charm, and you truly feel like you’re staying in a palace. If you’re up for splurging, this place is 100% worth it.
- Casa Pestagua: The sister property to Casa San Agustin, this hotel was originally a 17th-century Mansion in the walled city. Situated in a quieter part of town, Casa Pestagua has a larger pool and courtyard than San Agustin and a small fitness center. Rooms are airy and bright, in soothing white and beige color palettes. People staying at either property have access to the amenities at the other one.
- Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena: This is one of the larger hotels in the old city of Cartagena, with a commanding inner courtyard. The two primary buildings that make up the hotel were once a former convent and hospital. This hotel has a large pool plus all of the amenities you would expect with a Sofitel property. It’s the best hotel option in the city for families,
- Bastion Luxury Hotel: In the heart of the walled city, this refurbished 16th-century building has every modern amenity you need, from a popular rooftop pool and terrace, an onsite restaurant, a gym, and high-speed wifi.
- Hotel Quadrifolio: Another boutique hotel in the center of the walled city, this property offers luxury bath amenities, a mini-bar, i-pod docking stations, free wi-fi, spa services, a hot-tub on the roof, and a private speedboat that can be rented for daily excursions.
- Casa Lola: Just outside the walled city and down the block from Cafe Havana, Casa Lola is a welcome addition to the hip Getsemani neighborhood. The boutique hotel’s funky decor, combined with its luxury amenities, makes it a great choice for accommodations.
Things to Do in Cartagena:
There are so many things to do in Cartagena that I feel like I could write an entire travel guide just about that! But assuming you have a long weekend to visit, the list below is more than enough to give you a great taste of all that this city has to offer.
- A walking tour: Do a half-day walking tour to acclimate to the city. A comprehensive tour should include a stop at La Popa (the church located on top of the tallest hill in the city with a great vantage point of Cartagena), the San Felipe de Barajas Castle, and a tour of the incredible street art in the hip neighborhood, Getsemani.
- Coffee tasting at Café Mural: If you’re a coffee-lover, visit Café Mural, located in Getsemani. The owner of the shop is extremely passionate about coffee. A tasting typically includes three coffees with amazing ingredients, including cloves, cinnamon, rum, and passionfruit.
- A day trip to the Rosario Islands: Since Cartagena is a port city, there aren’t many beach options except in Bocagrande. For a more laid-back experience, sign up for a daylong trip to one of the island beaches, like Playa Blanca on Baru Island, a 45-minute boat ride away. A trip typically includes access to the island’s resorts and amenities, including paddleboarding, snorkeling, and bike riding. Or you can just sit on the beach!
- Indulge your inner photographer in the old city: Cartagena’s walled old city is the perfect place to snap photos. There’s no shortage of inspiration between the colonial architecture, the colorfully dressed people, and the plazas dotted with palm trees.
- Mercado de Bazurto: Head here for a tour and a cooking class with local and authentic food. At the market, expect to see everything from exotic fresh fruit to a popular dish of cooked turtle (a delicacy here). Just be mindful of your belongings in the crowded market.
- A Sunset drink at Cafe del Mar: Located atop the city walls, Café del Mar is a great spot for a sundowner. It’s a sprawling space, and they usually have live music at sunset. It’s a fun vibe, and if it’s not cloudy, you’ll get a spectacular view of the sun going down.
Pro travel tip: Skip the mud baths at El Totumo volcano. Most travelers say the mud pit is tiny, unsanitary, and downright gross!
Hey! If you love street art and graffiti, check out my post about discovering and photographing street art worldwide.
Where to Eat and Drink in Cartagena:
No travel guide about Cartagena would be complete without talking about the food! The culinary scene in this city is outstanding. If you don’t believe me, watch the episode of Parts Unknown that Anthony Bourdain filmed there. The city also has a buzzing nightlife with plenty of outdoor cafes and nightclubs. It’s quite feasible you might spend your entire weekend eating and drinking here, and I wouldn’t blame you!
- La Cevicheria: This Peruvian-Colombian-inspired café is a great lunch spot. The tiny restaurant fills up fast and does not take reservations. If you want to ensure you get a table, I recommend getting there BEFORE the restaurant opens to wait in line. Order the ceviche; another stand-out dish I recommend is the Octopus with peanut sauce.
- Alma: Nestled within the historic Casa San Agustín hotel, Alma is a charming dining destination combining coastal Colombian cuisine with international flavors.
- Alquimico: Voted one of the fifty best bars in the world in 2024, Alquimico
- 1621: If you’re looking for a formal and fancy place for dinner that feels like you’re eating in a palace, then head to 1621 at the Sofitel Santa Clara Hotel. The hotel itself is stunning and the food and service at the restaurant are also top-notch. However, luxury comes at a price. Be prepared to pay NYC prices for the meal.
- Juan del Mar: This spot is excellent for lunch or dinner. Grab a table in the outdoor courtyard and feast on amazing seafood and curry dishes.
- Café Havana: If you spend one night out on the town, make sure you hit up Café Havana. True to its name, as soon as you walk through the door, it’s as if you’ve been transported to Cuba. The mojitos were cold and sweet, and the live music had us dancing until the wee hours of the morning.
- Nia Bakery, Coffee & Cocktails: Don’t sleep on the pastries and coffee here or the cocktails! There’s something for everyone in this highly Instagrammable spot.
Love to eat as much as I do? Then, you’ll want to read my food guides for Providence, Chiang Mai, and Santa Fe.
Where to Shop in Cartagena:
Wherever I travel, I always make time to shop. Below is a curated guide for all Cartagena shops that I highly recommend visiting.
- Touché: Want to fit in with a locally designed swimsuit? Then head to Touche in Bocagrande, where their suits cost a fraction of what they sell for online.
- Elia Jewelry: This is one of the best jewelry stores in the old city, known for its craftsmanship and quality. The jeweler, Elia, has built a devoted following of international clients who visit every time they are in town. In addition to the vast array of pieces for sale, she also does custom work.
- St. Dom Cartagena: For chic and fashionable handbags, dresses, swimsuits, and more. This shop has an amazing collection of clothing and accessories.
- Pirawe Market: Sustainable and fashionable clothing and housewares that evoke the colors and patterns of Colombia.
Are You Ready to Visit Cartagena with this Travel Guide?
So, are you itching to pack your bags and visit this charming colonial city on the sea?
If you’re planning a trip to Cartagena, I hope this travel guide helps you.
And if you’ve already been to this city, and you’ve been to places that aren’t in this Cartagena travel guide, please share in the comments below! I always love adding new recommendations to my list.
Happy travels!
