Things To Do
in Cartagena
Nestled on the Caribbean coast, this vibrant city is famed for its well-preserved colonial architecture, including the iconic fortress walls that encircle its Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Lively plazas, colorful houses, and the historic Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas offer visitors a glimpse into its rich history, while modern amenities and beautiful beaches provide contemporary comforts.
The mix of cultures, from its Afro-Caribbean heritage to indigenous influences, is evident in its energetic music scene, festivals, and delicious cuisine, making it a captivating destination for travelers.
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo te va?" - How's it going?
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing breakfast at a local café, then wander the colorful streets of the Walled City. Visit the iconic Clock Tower and soak in the vibrant colonial architecture.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a traditional restaurant, sampling local dishes. Afterwards, explore the nearby San Felipe de Barajas Castle for panoramic views of the city.
Head to the Plaza de Santo Domingo for dinner and people-watching. Conclude your evening with a salsa dance at a nearby venue.
Wake up early and grab breakfast before taking a water taxi to Playa Blanca. Enjoy the beautiful beach and crystal-clear waters.
Enjoy lunch at a beachside shack, feast on fresh ceviche, and sip coconut water. Spend the rest of the afternoon lounging in the sun or swimming in the sea.
Return to Cartagena and freshen up. Have dinner at a rooftop restaurant with ocean views and enjoy the sunset.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history
- Beautiful beaches and Caribbean climate
- Vibrant nightlife and entertainment options
- Delicious local cuisine
- Friendly locals and diverse communities
- Plenty of historical sites and landmarks to explore
- High levels of tourism can lead to crowded areas
- Some neighborhoods may have safety concerns
- Hot and humid weather may not be comfortable for everyone
- Infrastructure in some areas may be lacking
- Language barrier for non-Spanish speakers
- Potential for high prices in tourist areas
Best Activities in Cartagena
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy beautiful beaches, clear water, and coral reefs by taking a boat trip to the nearby Rosario Islands for snorkeling, swimming, and relaxation.
Take a walking tour of Cartagena's historic walled city to admire its colonial architecture, vibrant streets, and lively squares.
Enjoy stunning views of the city and the Caribbean Sea by strolling along Cartagena's ancient defensive walls, especially during sunset.
Explore the largest Spanish fort in the Americas, which offers amazing views of the city and a fascinating history dating back to the 17th century.
Experience the unique sensation of floating in the buoyant mud of a volcanic crater, which is said to have therapeutic properties.
Tours
Uncover the best of Cartagena with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Cartagena
Visit one of these nice places.
A popular spot on the historic wall with stunning sunset views over the Caribbean Sea.
Offers panoramic views of the city and the ocean from its elevated location.
Provides stunning views of the city and the surrounding landscape from its hilltop perch.
Food in Cartagena
Cartagena Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty soup made with chicken, three kinds of potatoes, corn, and guasca herb. Find it at La Cevicheria or La Mulata.
Must-Try!
A seafood stew with coconut milk, plantains, and a variety of locally caught seafood. Enjoy it at Restaurante Cande or La Perla.
A savory fried dough stuffed with an egg. A popular street food available at various stalls around the city.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Cartagena better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers a variety of fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies. Try the ceviche and empanadas from the street vendors.
A popular square known for its evening street food vendors offering everything from grilled meats to fresh fruit juices.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Cartagena, it is important to greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact. It is customary to use formal titles when addressing people, especially in business settings.
Respecting elders is a key cultural norm in Cartagena. It is customary to address older individuals with deference and show them kindness and consideration.
When visiting Cartagena, it is important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites and in more conservative neighborhoods. Women should avoid wearing revealing clothing out of respect for local customs.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Cartagena with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Cartagena
Ensure a smooth experience
In Cartagena, it is common to tip around 10% of the bill at restaurants, especially if a service charge is not included. Tipping for other services such as taxi rides, hotel staff, and tour guides may also be appreciated.
Major credit cards are widely accepted in Cartagena, especially in tourist areas. However, it's also advisable to carry some cash, particularly for small purchases and when visiting local markets or smaller establishments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Cartagena.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the best time to visit Cartagena, as it offers plenty of sunshine and minimal rain. Expect warm temperatures and a bustling atmosphere with many tourists.
During these periods, Cartagena experiences occasional rain showers and fewer tourists. It's still a good time to visit with lower accommodation rates and a more relaxed vibe.
The rainy season brings heavy rainfall and higher humidity. Some businesses may close during this time, but it can still be an interesting experience for travelers who don't mind the weather.
Cartagena at Night
Hiking in Cartagena
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located a few hours from Cartagena, this park offers stunning hiking trails with beautiful landscapes, tropical forests, and coastal views.
An easy hike within Cartagena that leads to the highest point in the city, offering panoramic views of the coastline and downtown.
Though primarily known for its beaches, there are trails through the lush vegetation on the islands that offer a unique hiking experience.
This national park includes several islands and is ideal for hiking through tropical landscapes and birdwatching.
A lesser-known hiking spot within the city that provides a great local experience and views of Cartagena.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Cartagena through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Cartagena by plane.
The main airport serving Cartagena, Colombia, featuring domestic and international flights.
Located in Bogotá, it is Colombia's largest airport and a major hub for international flights, approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes flight from Cartagena.
Situated near Medellín, this airport serves as a significant international gateway with connections to various destinations, roughly an hour flight from Cartagena.
Located in Santa Marta, this airport provides limited international services and is about a 2-hour drive from Cartagena.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Cartagena, largely composed of individuals of mixed European and Indigenous heritage.
A significant population with African ancestry, contributing to the cultural and social landscape of the city.
Including descendants of Spanish settlers and other European nationalities, this group is smaller compared to Mestizos and Afro-Colombians.
Representing the original inhabitants of the region, their population is relatively small but culturally important.
A diverse group including Venezuelans and other nationalities who have moved to Cartagena for various reasons. This group has been growing in recent years.
The Soul of Cartagena
Discover the essence of Cartagena through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Cartagena, with a strong local fan base and various teams playing in regional leagues.
Baseball holds significant popularity in Cartagena, with many youth participating in local leagues and events.
Cycling is a popular recreational activity in Cartagena, with many locals enjoying rides along the coastal areas and participating in competitive events.
Beach volleyball is particularly popular in Cartagena due to its beautiful coastal beaches, attracting both locals and tourists.
Boxing has a strong following in Cartagena, with several gyms and clubs promoting the sport and producing talented athletes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cartagena.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Cartagena offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as quinoa salads, plantain-based dishes, and tropical fruit smoothies.
While traditional Colombian cuisine heavily features wheat, many restaurants in Cartagena are accommodating to gluten-free dietary needs, offering dishes based on rice, corn, and yuca.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Cartagena with these cultural adventures.
