Cartagena

Salsa, sun, and centuries-old walls by the sea.

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.

4.3
out of 5

Cartagena, a city on Colombia's Caribbean coast, is known for its colonial-era walled Old Town, the artistic GetsemanĂ­ 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 BolĂ­var, you can sit under the trees near the statue of SimĂłn BolĂ­var. Visit the Palace of the Inquisition, now a museum, to learn about the city's past.

Discovering GetsemanĂ­

Just outside the Old Town walls, you'll find GetsemanĂ­, 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 BarĂş 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 CevicherĂ­a, 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 ZenĂş indigenous community, who will share their culture and experiences as they show you around Cartagena.

Average temperatures during the day in Cartagena.
October
31°
Nov
31°
Dec
31°
Jan
31°
Feb
31°
Mar
31°
Apr
32°
May
32°
Jun
32°
Jul
32°
Aug
32°
Sep
32°

What people say about Cartagena

4.3
People
4
Food
4
Spaces
4
Value
4
Safety
3

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