Cartagena

Colonial Caribbean beauty. Walled city and beaches.

CulturalBeachHistorical

About Cartagena

Cartagena is Colombia's Caribbean jewel - a walled colonial city with colorful balconies, cobblestone streets, and warm ocean breezes. Explore the Old Town, relax on nearby islands, and dance salsa under the stars.

What to See & Do

Walled Old Town

Colorful balconies

Castillo San Felipe

Rosario Islands

Salsa dancing

Caribbean beaches

Where to Stay

Casa San Agustín

boutique

Boutique luxury in colonial mansion

Sofitel Legend Santa Clara

luxury

Converted 17th-century convent

Hotel Casa Lola

boutique

Charming boutique hotel

Activities & Experiences

Old Town Walking Tour

Colonial architecture and history

Duration: 3 hours

Rosario Islands

Day trip to Caribbean islands

Duration: Full day

Cooking Class

Learn Colombian coastal cuisine

Duration: 4 hours

Salsa Lessons

Dance class in Old Town

Duration: 2 hours

Where to Eat

Carmen

Modern Colombian

Innovative fine dining

La Cevichería

Seafood

Famous for fresh ceviche

Café del Mar

Café

Sunset drinks on city walls

Sample Itineraries

Cartagena Colonial & Beach

4 days
History & Beach Lovers
4 days
1

Old Town

  • Check in
  • Walking tour
  • Plaza Santo Domingo
  • Sunset at Café del Mar
2

History

  • Castillo San Felipe
  • Palace of Inquisition
  • Las Bóvedas shopping
  • Salsa lesson
3

Islands

  • Full-day Rosario Islands
  • Snorkeling
  • Beach BBQ
  • Return for dinner
4

Cooking & Departure

  • Morning cooking class
  • Final Old Town stroll
  • Departure

Quick Facts

Region

South America

Best Time to Visit

Dec-Apr

When to Go

December-April is dry season with perfect weather.

Avoid: September-November is rainiest (but still warm).

Getting There

Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG) is 15 min from Old Town. Taxi or ride-share to hotels.

Local Tips

  • Walk Old Town at sunset for magic hour
  • Bring cash for street vendors
  • Try arepas and empanadas
  • Learn basic Spanish - less English than other destinations

Ready to Experience Cartagena?

Our concierge team will craft a bespoke itinerary tailored to your preferences, handling every detail from flights to hidden gems.