I’ve wished to go to Cartegena since watching Romancing the Stone within the Eighties. This lovely metropolis has captivated the hearts of vacationers, filmmakers, artists, and authors. As I explored the highest issues to do in Cartagena, it was simple to grasp why town has been a magnetic backdrop for quite a few films and books.
On my journey there, I fell in love with the meals, the colourful colours, and the historical past. Cartagena is the right spot to get your fill of historical past, tradition, and amazing Latin food. However there’s a lot extra to town than its wealthy previous.
Finest Issues to do in Cartagena
There’s a lot to see and do in Cartagena that it’s exhausting to suit every thing into your itinerary. Whether or not you’re a historical past buff or searching for journey, listed below are a number of of our favourite issues to do.
This put up was initially written by Planet Blue Adventures, it has been up to date with extra excursions and actions in Grenada for 2024.
1. Discover the Walled Metropolis (Ciudad Amurallada)
Cartagena’s walled metropolis is a UNESCO World Heritage Website stuffed with colonial structure, vibrant streets, and historic landmarks and colonial buildings.
The previous metropolis has a number of the finest locations to go to in Cartagena. You should definitely cease on the Torre del Reloj, Cartagena’s regal clock tower that stands on the entrance to the previous walled metropolis. You can too book a private tour of town for a extra intimate expertise beginning at $156.
2. Take a Strolling Tour
Probably the greatest methods to get acquainted with any metropolis is to e-book a strolling tour. Free strolling excursions was once provided, but it surely appears to not be in operation anymore. Nonetheless, you may e-book this strolling tour of the historic metropolis to find out about its wealthy historical past as you’re taking within the previous city’s structure and see Cartagena’s elite, who nonetheless personal lots of the grand colonial properties within the previous metropolis.
Whenever you stroll by means of the cobblestone streets, you get a glimpse into what town was like centuries in the past. The Cartagena Full Day City Tour takes you thru the highlights of town, together with Las Bóvedas, the streets of Getsemaní, the tunnel system of Castillo de San Felipe, and extra for simply $49 per individual.
3. Store at Las Bóvedas
A sequence of vaults became outlets promoting native crafts and souvenirs. This bustling market is full of vacationers. If you happen to courageous the crowds, you’ll get an opportunity to buy distinctive trinkets, souvenirs, and exquisite mochila luggage made by the ladies of the Wayuu indigenous tribes.
Las Bovedas is a sight in itself. One of many final buildings constructed inside the walled metropolis, it has forty-seven arches and twenty-three domes. It additionally has a checkered previous serving as a munitions retailer after which a dungeon earlier than its present standing as a bustling market. Get Your Guide presents metropolis excursions and excursions round Cartegena with simple cancellation as much as 24 hours upfront.
4. Road Artwork of Getsemani Neighborhood
The Getsemani neighborhood is one other cease it’s best to add to your itinerary. It’s one of the vital essential neighborhoods in Cartagena, plus a cultural and political hub. It’s full of superb road artwork.
Vivid colours and exquisite murals adorn lots of the partitions there and maintain you captivated as you wander round. Recognized for its colourful streets, graffiti artwork, and energetic ambiance, this neighborhood is a cultural hotspot.
5. Go to Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas
Visiting Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas is not only a visit to the historic fortress of this fortified metropolis on the Caribbean Coast. It’s an immersive journey into the guts of Cartagena’s colonial historical past. This imposing construction, proudly standing atop the San Lázaro hill, is an emblem of the strategic significance of Cartagena within the colonial period.
Acknowledged as one of the vital vital fortifications constructed by the Spanish within the Americas, Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas is an architectural marvel and has unimaginable panoramic metropolis views. The Castillo is well one of many prime sights and probably the greatest issues to do in Cartagena.
The fortress, initially constructed within the Seventeenth century, performed a vital function in defending town in opposition to pirates and invaders throughout colonial occasions.
Guests can take guided excursions to be taught in regards to the fortress’s historical past, strategic significance, and building particulars.
Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas is positioned simply outdoors the walled metropolis and is well accessible by a brief taxi journey or a average stroll from town middle. Its distinguished place on San Lázaro Hill makes it a visual landmark. The highest of the fortress presents breathtaking views of Cartagena and the Caribbean Sea, very best for pictures lovers.
6. Chill out at Playa Blanca
Positioned on Barú Island, this beautiful white-sand seashore is a slice of paradise, recognized for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and picturesque setting.
The seashore is right for swimming as a result of its calm, clear waters, and sunbathing on the mushy, white sands is a calming approach to benefit from the tropical solar. You’ll be able to go snorkeling, and there are a number of beachside eating places and shacks to take pleasure in recent seafood and conventional Colombian coastal dishes.. Enjoyable at Playa Blanca in Cartagena presents an ideal mix of pure magnificence and serene ambiance.
Playa Blanca is a well-liked day journey from Cartagena, and you’ll go to it as a part of a tour or by yourself. The most well-liked approach to attain Playa Blanca is by boat. You’ll be able to catch a ship from the Muelle de los Pegasos close to the Cartagena Conference Heart. These boats normally depart within the morning and return within the afternoon.
You can too attain Playa Blanca by highway. It’s a few 1.5-hour drive from Cartagena. You’ll be able to rent a taxi or be a part of a bunch tour that features transportation. These idyllic islands provide crystal-clear waters and are excellent for snorkeling and diving.
7. Take a Rosario Islands Day Journey
Simply 100 kilometers (62 miles) offshore, however seemingly a world away, is the Rosario Islands. The Rosario Islands are a bunch of over 28 islands and are a part of Colombia’s Nationwide Pure Park system.
There you may benefit from the native seafood and every thing that you just love in regards to the Caribbean – the clear blue skies, white sand seashores, and dwelling on “island time.” The islands boast a number of the most lovely seashores in Colombia.
The clear Caribbean waters and coral reefs make this a major spot for snorkeling and scuba diving. : Many excursions provide the possibility to discover numerous islands within the archipelago, every with its distinctive allure and options.
To achieve the Rosario Islands, contemplate Sundown Crusing Cartagena, which presents day excursions. This highly rated tour presents crusing journeys to the Rosario Islands beginning at $86.
Taking a day journey to the Rosario Islands is a spotlight for a lot of guests to Cartagena, providing a chic escape into an archipelago famend for its beautiful pure magnificence and vibrant marine life.
8. Expertise the Nightlife in Cartagena
The Previous Metropolis comes alive at evening with a wealthy, vibrant nightlife.
Make sure that to go to the energetic bars, golf equipment, and cafes, particularly within the areas of Getsemaní, the Previous City, and Plaza de la Trinidad. Plaza de la Trinidad has loads of meals stalls promoting road meals at cheap costs and road distributors promoting unique fruits and souvenirs. The sq. is alive with road performers, dancing, and music.
Within the night, Plaza de San Diego additionally transforms right into a vibrant nightlife spot.
9. Go to the Palace of the Inquisition
The Palace of the Inquisition is a museum that gives insights into the Spanish Inquisition’s historical past in Colombia. This iconic landmark, positioned in Plaza de Bolívar within the coronary heart of Cartagena’s walled metropolis shouldn’t be solely a window into Colombia’s colonial previous but in addition a testomony to the resilience and transformation of its individuals.
Visiting the Palace of the Inquisition in Cartagena is a profound and enlightening expertise, delving into a major facet of town’s wealthy historic tapestry.
The Palace of the Inquisition is located within the bustling Plaza de Bolívar, simply accessible from any a part of the Previous Metropolis. Its central location makes it a handy cease for guests exploring the historic district.
The constructing itself is an architectural marvel, with its baroque structure, lovely façade and well-preserved inside courtyards reflecting the Spanish colonial type. It was as soon as the seat of the Holy Workplace of the Inquisition in Cartagena, established to guage and condemn heresy and different non secular offenses. One of many extra chilling displays consists of the devices of torture used throughout the Inquisition, offering a stark glimpse into this darkish interval of historical past.
The museum additionally showcases a wide range of historic artifacts, colonial artwork, and paperwork that paint a vivid image of life in Cartagena throughout the colonial period.
10. Discover La Popa Monastery
Exploring La Popa Monastery is a mesmerizing journey to considered one of Cartagena’s most iconic landmarks, perched atop the best hill within the metropolis it offers beautiful views of town and homes non secular artwork and artifacts. La Popa Monastery, formally often called the Convento de la Candelaria, presents not solely a non secular retreat but in addition a number of the most breathtaking views of Cartagena.
La Popa Monastery is positioned on La Popa Hill, the best level in Cartagena. It’s simply accessible by taxi or a guided tour, which is really helpful as a result of steepness and seclusion of the highway resulting in the monastery. The journey to the highest presents glimpses of town from completely different views.
Initially constructed within the Seventeenth century, the monastery is steeped in historical past and has served numerous functions all through the centuries, together with a fortress and a non secular middle. Inside, guests can see a wealthy assortment of spiritual artwork and artifacts, together with the well-known statue of the Virgin of the Candelaria, the patroness of Cartagena.
Maybe essentially the most beautiful characteristic of La Popa Monastery is the panoramic view it presents of Cartagena, the Caribbean Sea, and the encompassing areas, making it a incredible spot for pictures.
11. Go Dancing
Find out about native dances like salsa and champeta. The individuals of Cartagena love to bop and one of the simplest ways to immerse within the tradition is to exit and dance with the locals.
If you happen to aren’t assured about your dance expertise, don’t fear! Brush up in your salsa expertise at Crazy Salsa. Their skilled dancers will allow you to grasp your strikes very quickly and introduce you to this common Latin American dance. Cafe Havana is one other place that has salsa experiences the place you may watch individuals dance or take part.
There are excursions that cater to dancing your means across the previous city and its native bars. This is a great tour that features consuming at native road meals spots, a mixology class, and an evening of dancing.
12. Go to the Gold Museum (Museo del Oro Zenú)
Visiting the Gold Museum (Museo del Oro Zenú) in Cartagena presents a deep dive into Colombia’s pre-Columbian heritage. It shows a group of gold and pottery from the Zenú tradition. This museum is positioned within the coronary heart of Cartagena’s historic downtown and showcases the cultural historical past and craftsmanship of the Zenú indigenous individuals.
The Gold Museum is conveniently positioned within the Plaza de Bolivar, within the historic middle of Cartagena. This central location makes it simply accessible on foot from many different vacationer sights, accommodations, and eating places within the Previous Metropolis. Plus, the Gold Museum presents free entry, making it an accessible attraction for all guests.
The Gold Museum presents a novel alternative to grasp the traditional civilizations that after thrived on this area.
13. Chill out within the Plaza de San Diego
Enjoyable within the Plaza de San Diego is a quintessential Cartagena expertise providing a vibrant slice of native life. This picturesque sq. is nestled within the coronary heart of Cartagena’s historic district. It’s a excellent spot to unwind and people-watch.
The plaza is surrounded by a wide range of cafés and eating places, providing an opportunity to style native Colombian delicacies in addition to worldwide dishes. The sq. typically comes alive with road performers, musicians, and artists, including a energetic cultural vibe to the ambiance.
Plaza de San Diego is positioned inside the walled metropolis, making it simply accessible on foot from lots of the metropolis’s prime sights. Its central location within the San Diego neighborhood locations it shut to numerous accommodations, eating places, and outlets.
14. Set Sail on a Sundown Cruise
Benefit from the coastal fantastic thing about Cartagena from the water. Probably the greatest issues to do in any tropical vacation spot is to go crusing. This romantic sundown cruise leaves from the Muelle de la Bodeguita pier in entrance of the walled metropolis. Book it here.
You’ll set sail by means of the Bay of Cartagena de Indias as you take heed to music and take within the skyline of spectacular Cartagena. You’ll see the Manga and Bocagrande neighborhood, Castillo Grande, and Manzanillo Island, and then you definitely’ll proceed alongside to the El Laguito neighborhood and Tierrabomba Island.
15. Stroll Alongside the Metropolis Partitions at Sundown
If you happen to aren’t up for hitting the water, take a stroll alongside town partitions for a view of the historic centre from above. These partitions provide a romantic and picturesque view of town. Make your approach to Cafe del Mar for sundown cocktails.
The partitions had been constructed to guard from pirates as Cartagena de Indias was a strategic location and port for export to Spain.
16. Espresso tasting at San Alberto
Do a espresso tasting at Cafe San Alberto, led by third era espresso grower Gustavo Villota. Within the class, you’ll find out about espresso vegetation and the way to course of espresso. You’ll expertise a sensory train as you take pleasure in freshly brewed espresso.
This is without doubt one of the most awarded and well-known specialty coffees grown in Buenavista, Columbia. Whenever you style this, it simply may be the most effective espresso you’ve ever tasted. After your class, go to the cafe under the classroom to buy high quality beans to deliver house.
Libertario Espresso Roasters is one other cafe the place you may take pleasure in scrumptious Colombian espresso. You actually can’t go mistaken with any cafe. Colombia has nice espresso.
17. Rum and Chocolate Tasting at Sofitel Legend
Tempt your senses with a rum and chocolate tasting on the Sofitel Legend. There you’ll expertise a number of the best aged rum within the Caribbean completely paired with an array of scrumptious Colombian chocolate, all curated by the somellier.
Whereas there, soak up views of this historic resort, which was previously a convent.
18. Go to the Nationwide Aviary
If you happen to love birds, then go to the National Aviary of Colombia Tour. It homes 135 species of untamed birds and lets guests be taught in regards to the completely different species by means of 21 interactive stations. Anticipate to see flamingos, parrots, emus, Harpy Eagles, and lots of extra.
The place to Keep in Cartagena
Historic residences and restored convents now home a number of the luxurious boutique accommodations in Cartagena.
Sleeping in quarters in-built Spanish colonial occasions, you’ll find that many of the rooms are centered round open-air courtyards however have been up to date to deal with trendy facilities. Listed below are a number of of our favourite locations to remain.
Casa San Augustin – The Casa San Augustin is a boutique resort that exudes luxurious from its colonial-era white-washed buildings to its prime location within the coronary heart of Cartagena.
It’s Seventeenth-century grandeur at its best. The 20 rooms and 11 beautiful suites are positioned in three homes to provide it the texture of house.
The architectural particulars are second to none, from the wooden beam ceilings to the spiral staircases in a number of the two-story suites. Suites are furnished with all of the creature comforts, robes, and Ortigia Italian facilities.
The resort additionally features a enjoyable spa and a 300-year-old aqueduct within the middle of the resort with a picturesque L-shaped pool. Positive eating is offered within the Alma restaurant, which additionally serves because the breakfast room within the morning.
Casa Cochera del Gobernador – Staying on the Casa Cochera del Gobernador for 2 nights and we may have simply stayed extra.
Positioned within the historic Cartagena de Indias by the Santa Catalina Cathedral and is housed in one of many metropolis’s oldest buildings, courting again to the sixteenth Century.
The rooms are superbly appointed with luxurious bedding and a light-weight and ethereal really feel, supplying you with the right backdrop for a night of relaxation. A scrumptious breakfast is served by pleasant workers on the second flooring, and the recent, native fruit on the buffet is mouthwatering.
Take pleasure in Native Delicacies
Strive conventional dishes like arepas, ceviche, and recent seafood.
The town’s culinary scene is prospering in Cartagena. Domestically sourced meals are considerable right here.
From the bounty of the ocean to the recent, regionally grown fruits and veggies, lots of the native eating places use this wealthy useful resource to create conventional dishes with an island aptitude. Right here, you’ll find conventional dishes like ceviche, or Arroz con coco or Pargo Frito.
Whether or not you’re eating at a five-star restaurant or grabbing a fast chunk from a road vendor, you received’t be upset. In Cartagena, there isn’t any scarcity of fantastic eating places and cafes to expertise.
Concina de Pepina – Relying in your tastes, you may strive the ceviche or Mote de Queso at Cocina de Pepina, for conventional Colombian fare and one of the vital well-known eating places on the north coast.
Simply be sure you get there early, as they don’t take reservations.
Carmen Restaurant – One in every of my favourite lunch spots is Carmen Restaurant.
I liked the picture-perfect trendy décor and the plush tree-filled patio. Meals is artwork at this family-run restaurant, serving up native flavors with a contemporary twist. Strive the artfully introduced salads and ceviche dishes, and mains with recent fish.
Marea by Rausch – One other waterfront possibility is the Upscale Marea by Rausch Restaurant. There, you may take pleasure in scrumptious watermelon salads, Ceviche, and recent seafood dishes.
Carne lovers can take pleasure in well-prepared beef filets served with wine jus. Anticipate to take pleasure in Michelin-star service and meals with out the hefty price ticket dropped at you by the well-known Rausch brothers.
- E book forward for a desk on the sought-after waterfront terrace, the place you not solely get a tremendous river view you may benefit from the cupolas of San Pedro Church.
About Cartagena
Cartagena de Indias is the jewel in Columbia’s crown. This seaside metropolis is wealthy with maritime historical past and bustling with journey, allure, and a previous full of pirates.
Based in 1533 by Spanish commander Pedro de Heredia, town grew affluent rapidly, and with the newfound riches got here the specter of assaults from marauding sea pirates.
After a number of assaults, Cartagena started to guard itself by developing walled compounds and castles. Many of those exist at present and await being explored.
- Cartagena is positioned in Colombia, South America. The primary language is Spanish.
- The forex is the Colombian Peso: 1 USD = 3019 Colombian Pesos. See Foreign money Converter for up-to-date charges.
- Copa Airlines presents every day flights to Cartagena by means of Panama Metropolis (airline hub).
- Flying with Copa Airways permits you a ‘24-hour layover in Panama’ at no additional value.
- It’s a terrific alternative to go to Casa Viejo and the Panama Canal.
When to go to Cartagena
The climate stays fixed in Cartagena. It’s scorching year-round. The one issues that change are humidity and precipitation.
December to March is the most effective time to go to Cartagena: The climate is heat throughout the day and breezy at evening, and the humidity is low. However it’s the excessive season so there are extra vacationers. If you happen to like nightlife, the bars can be hopping presently of 12 months.
There’s one other secondary excessive season the week earlier than Easter. It’s crowded throughout this time, and costs are costlier. June by means of September is the moist season and the most well liked months. Temperatures vary all year long from 24 – 32 levels Celcius. (75-91 Fahrenheit)
And now that you realize extra about all of the issues to do in Cartegena, I’ll go away you with a narrative.
One of the well-known writers from Colombia was Gabriel Garcia Marquez.
Whereas working as a journalist for El Common, the native newspaper, he discovered in regards to the discovery of a corpse of a younger lady with copper hair as they had been renovating the Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Hotel, a former convent and hospital. The crypt the place she was discovered can nonetheless be accessed by means of a glass gate at Santa Clara’s El Coro Bar.
This expertise impressed his bestseller, Of Love and Other Demons.
Picture courtesy: Joe Ross from Lansing, Michigan through Wikimedia Commons
