A UNESCO World Heritage Site on Colombia's Caribbean coast. Explore colorful streets, historic fortifications, and vibrant beaches. Experience local culture through salsa and nightlife.
Cartagena, a city on Colombia's Caribbean coast, is known for its colonial-era walled Old Town, the artistic Getsemaní neighborhood, and nearby tropical islands. You can walk along streets lined with colorful buildings, relax on white-sand beaches, and taste fresh seafood and local fruits. The city's warm climate makes it a popular destination year-round.
Exploring the Old Town
The walled Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is at the center of Cartagena. Enter through the Clock Tower and you'll find yourself on cobblestone streets surrounded by Spanish colonial buildings. Many houses are painted in bright colors and have balconies filled with flowers. In Plaza Bolívar, you can sit under the trees near the statue of Simón Bolívar. Visit the Palace of the Inquisition, now a museum, to learn about the city's past.
Discovering Getsemaní
Just outside the Old Town walls, you'll find Getsemaní, a neighborhood known for its street art. Many buildings have murals that tell stories about the area's history and culture. In the evening, go to Plaza de la Trinidad where you can try street food and listen to live music alongside locals and tourists. For salsa dancing, visit Cafe Havana, a club that welcomes both beginners and experienced dancers.
Beaches and Islands
While Cartagena has city beaches, many visitors prefer to take a boat to nearby islands. The Rosario Islands, a national park with 27 small islands, are surrounded by coral reefs. On Barú Island, you'll find Playa Blanca, a long stretch of white sand with clear water good for swimming and snorkeling. You can also stay overnight at Casa en el Agua, an eco-hostel built on stilts in the sea.
Local Food
Cartagena's food is influenced by its coastal location and cultural mix. At La Cevichería, you can try ceviche, a dish of raw fish cured in citrus juices. For breakfast, look for arepas de huevo, which are corn cakes stuffed with egg and ground beef, then deep-fried. As you walk around the city, you'll see Palenqueras, fruit vendors dressed in colorful outfits who carry bowls of fresh tropical fruits on their heads.
Historical Sites and Fortifications
Castillo San Felipe de Barajas is a large fortress on a hill overlooking the city and harbor. You can take a guided tour to learn about how it was designed for defense and explore its underground tunnels. For a different perspective on local history, join a tour led by members of the Zenú indigenous community, who will share their culture and experiences as they show you around Cartagena.
