Cartagena is such a beautiful city! The beach, the vibrant streets, the history, and the warm weather make it a perfect destination! My family and I like to travel during the Holidays, and we spent Christmas in Cartagena one year. It was such an amazing experience and truly the vacation we needed to recharge. Whether youโre here for the history, the beach, or the nightlife, thereโs something here for you. So if youโre planning a trip (or just dreaming of one), here are 19 amazing things to do in Cartagena, Colombia.
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Quick Picks for Cartagena
Short on time and canโt decide what to do? Hereโs what I would prioritize. Thank me later.
- Take a walking tour of the Walled City and Getsemani
- Climb the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas
- Take a day-trip to the Rosario Islands
- Grab drinks at Alquimico
- Dine at Mar y Zielo
Where to Stay in Cartagena
There are plenty of options in Cartagena, from hotels and Airbnbs. Where you stay depends on your vibe and budget. Here are a few of the best areas to help you decide.
Centro Histรณrico (Walled City)
This is the postcard-perfect Cartagena youโve probably seen in photos. Youโll see beautiful colonial architecture, vibrant plazas, and cobblestone streets.
- Best for: first-time visitors and those who want to be steps from the main attractions.
- Vibe: Romantic, historic, lively.
- Top Picks:
- Casa Diluca Hotel: Boutique hotel close to the Clock Tower.
- Hotel Voila: Rooftop bar, two pools, and sleek design.
- Casa del Arzobispado: Peaceful, charming, and has a spa.
Getsemanรญ
Just outside the Walled City, this artsy district is Cartagenaโs coolest corner. Known for its murals, live music, and local energy.
- Best for: those looking for a more local experience.
- Vibe: Boho, colorful, local.
- Top Picks:
- Arsenal Hotel: Rooftop pool, breakfast included, modern. We stayed here and loved it!
- Casa Morales: Authentic and walkable to the historic center.
- Lunala Boutique: Cozy with a rooftop and great breakfast.
Bocagrande & Manga
If youโre after ocean views or a quieter neighborhood, check out Bocagrande for its resort-style hotels or Manga for a more residential stay.
- Best for: a more laid-back and relaxing experience.
- Vibe: Beachy, modern, relaxed.
- Top Picks:
- Hotel Almirante: High-rise hotel with a pool, beach access, and a casino.
- Hotel El Marques de Manga: Calm, residential, and includes breakfast.
- Hotel Barlovento: Mid-range comfort near Bocagrande Beach.
โจ Where we stayed: We chose Arsenal Hotel in Getsemanรญ and loved it! Especially the balcony views and rooftop pool. Itโs a little splurge, but breakfast is included and it was totally worth it.
Travel Tips for Visiting Cartagena
- Best Time to Visit: DecemberโApril (dry season)
- Always carry some cash with you: most places accept cards, but for street vendors or small purchases, cash might be needed.
- Wear breathable fabrics: Cartagena is HOT and humid, similar to Florida weather
- Grab a local SIM or use eSIMs like Airalo
- Donโt drink tap water: always go for bottled water, unless you want to feel sick.
Planning a longer trip? Check out my 4-day Cartagena itinerary for a day-by-day guide to help you make the most of your time here.
Most Booked Tours & Experiences
Historic Center and Getsemanรญ Shared Walking Tour: Learn about the history of enslavement, pirates, battles, conquest, independence, and more.
Totumo Mud Volcano Experience: Visit a volcano near Cartagena and bathe in the mud. It is definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Paratriking Flight from the Beach: Enjoy a fantastic experience with a professional pilot as you take in the beauty of the Caribbean coast.
Sunset Cruise with Open Bar: Enjoy a 90-minute trip on a yacht to see the sunset on the bay. Grab a drink from the open bar while enjoying good music, good company, and a lovely crew.
Gourmet Cooking Class with a View: Roll up your sleeves, put on an apron, and discover the chef inside of you. Learn how to prepare regional dishes from a local chef.
Where to Eat in Cartagena
- La Cevicherรญa: famous thanks to Anthony Bourdain.
- Alquรญmico: for innovative cocktails and dancing.
- Carmen: upscale and perfect for a special dinner.
- Di Silvio Trattoria: pizza in Getsemanรญ with a local twist.
- Epoca Espresso Bar: go for brunch or coffee in the Walled City.
- Mar y Zielo: upscale and an unforgettable dining experience.
- Inkanto: if youโd like to try authentic Peruvian food.
19 Amazing Things to Do in Cartagena
Cartagena is such a vibrant and unforgettable destination, I would go back in a heartbeat! Thereโs so much to do in Cartagena, from strolling through the colorful streets of the Walled City to island hopping in the Caribbean, dancing salsa in Getsemanรญ, or simply soaking up the sunset on the old city walls.
Related: The Best 4-Day Cartagena Itinerary + What You Need To Know
Explore the Walled City (Ciudad Amurallada)
Get lost inside the cobblestone streets, colonial balconies, and vibrant doorways. This historic district is the heartbeat of Cartagena. It is incredibly beautiful, and here is where youโll find most tourist attractions and amazing restaurants.
๐ Want to really get to know the area and learn Cartagenaโs history? I recommend booking a walking tour of Cartagenaโs Historic Center and Getsemanรญ to learn the stories behind the colorful walls and hidden corners.
Snap a Pic at the Clock Tower Gate (Torre del Reloj)
This iconic yellow clock tower is Cartagenaโs most recognizable landmark and the official entrance to the Walled City. Itโs the perfect spot to snap a photo, especially early in the morning before the crowds roll in. Itโs a great place to start your exploration of the cityโs historic center.
Climb the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas
Castillo San Felipe de Barajas is a massive fortress sitting on a hill overlooking Cartagena and offers some of the best panoramic views of the city. Built in the 1600s by the Spanish to fend off pirates and invaders, Castillo San Felipe is an impressive feat of military engineering.
Visit in the late afternoon for cooler weather and golden hour lighting, itโs one of the most photogenic spots in Cartagena. Donโt forget water and sunscreen, it is very hot and thereโs very little shade!
Explore the Colorful Streets of Getsemanรญ
This artsy neighborhood is filled with murals, umbrella-lined streets, and boho energy. Donโt miss a coffee stop or street arepa while youโre there.
Visit the Museo del Oro Zenรบ
This little gold museum might not look like much from the outside, but itโs 100% worth a visit โ and itโs free! It gives you a fascinating glimpse into the pre-Columbian Zenรบ culture and their incredible goldwork. The pieces are beautiful, and itโs a great way to cool off in the A/C while learning about a side of Colombia that often gets overlooked. Perfect for a quick cultural stop in the heart of the Walled City.
Island Hop to the Rosario Islands
Spend a day swimming, lounging at a beach club, or snorkeling.
When walking around the streets of Cartagena, you will come across people selling tours. We decided to buy one of those tours to the island of Orika-Isla Grande. It was approximately 30 minutes away from Cartagena by boat. To be honest, we didnโt have the best experience.
Sometimes paying more is worth it. I wish I had booked this tour to the Rosario Islands instead. It has amazing reviews and looks much nicer!
However, there are plenty of options for every schedule and budget.
Go to Manga or Boca Grande for Seafood
If youโre craving fresh seafood and want to eat like a local, head to Manga or Bocagrande. These areas are a bit outside the tourist bubble and filled with spots where the seafood is super fresh and the prices are way better than in the Walled City. Think grilled fish, coconut rice, fried plantains. Itโs perfect for a chill lunch or a sunset dinner by the water.
Take a Historical Walking Tour
Learn about Cartagenaโs past, including its role in the transatlantic slave trade. Itโs emotional and powerful โ and a must if you want to truly understand the city.
Taste Fresh Fruit from the Palenqueras
These women in bright dresses carrying fruit bowls on their heads are typical of Cartagena. You can purchase fruit from them also take a photo with them. Just make sure to tip them because that is how they make a living.
Grab Drinks at Alquรญmico
Alquรญmico is one of the best bars in Cartagena. It is in a stunning colonial mansion, and this award-winning cocktail bar has three floors, each with its own unique vibe. Head to the rooftop for the ultimate Cartagena night out, amazing views, good music, and a lively crowd. Itโs the perfect spot to start (or end) your night.
Not sure how to fit all these into your trip? Iโve got you โ hereโs my 4-day Cartagena itinerary with all the must-dos, mapped out by day.
Take a Boat Tour Around the Bay
If youโre not up for a full-day island trip, a shorter boat tour around Cartagenaโs bay is the perfect way to see Cartagena from a different perspective.
Enjoy city views from the water, catch the sunset, and dance to latin music with drinks on board. Itโs a great way to meet other travelers and soak in the energy of the city without committing to a full beach day.
๐ Book this popular 2-hour sunset party boat tour for a fun, laid-back cruise with music, drinks, and unforgettable views.
Try Ceviche at La Cevicheria
Cartagena takes its ceviche seriously, and once you try it here, youโll understand why. It is fresh, zesty, and packed with flavor, itโs the perfect dish to cool down in the Caribbean heat.
Head to La Cevicherรญa (made famous by Anthony Bourdain) for a more upscale vibe, or check out El Boliche Cebicherรญa for creative takes with local ingredients.
As a proud Peruvian, I have to say itโceviche is originally a Peruvian dish! But thanks to how close Peru and Colombia are, Cartagena has some incredible Peruvian restaurants where you can enjoy the real deal. We ate at Inkanto, and it was so good! Honestly the next best thing to having Peruvian food back home. Highly recommend if youโre craving authentic flavors during your trip!
Visit the Volcรกn del Totumo (Mud Volcano)
Ready for one of the weirdest (and most fun) experiences near Cartagena? Head to Volcรกn del Totumo, a natural mud volcano where you can float effortlessly in thick, mineral-rich mud. This is definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I wish I had done it!
Locals will help guide you in, offer massages, and then take you to rinse off. Itโs messy, but totally unforgettable.
๐ Book this Totumo Mud Volcano tour for easy transportation and a guided experience.
Dance Salsa at Cafรฉ Havana
If youโre in Cartagena, a night at Cafรฉ Havana is a must. This iconic salsa bar in Getsemanรญ is full of life โ think live Cuban bands, strong mojitos, and the kind of energy that just pulls you in.
Even if you donโt know how to salsa (hi, same), itโs still such a fun vibe. You can dance, people-watch, or just enjoy the music with a drink in hand. Itโs the perfect spot for a fun, unforgettable night out in the city.
Shop for Emeralds
Colombia is one of the worldโs top producers of emeralds, and Cartagena is a great place to shop for them if youโre looking for a special souvenir. Youโll find everything from dainty jewelry to bold statement pieces in boutiques around the Walled City. Just make sure to buy from a reputable shop and ask for a certificate of authenticity.
Eat at Mar y Zielo
Mar y Zielo was one of our favorite meals in Cartagena. Itโs a beautiful restaurant with a super cute aesthetic and an even better menu. The seafood was amazingโfresh, flavorful, and beautifully plated. Highly recommend dining here. Make a reservation as this is one of the best restaurants in Cartagena!
Take a Cooking Class
If you love connecting with a place through its food, you have to take a local cooking class in Cartagena. Lean how to make traditional Colombian dishes like coconut rice, fried plantains, and fresh seafood โ all with the guidance of a local chef. Itโs such a cool way to dive deeper into the culture and pick up a few recipes to recreate at home.
๐ Book this Cartagena cooking experience with a local chef for a hands-on foodie adventure you wonโt forget.
Check Out the Naval Museum
If youโre into history, the Naval Museum of the Caribbean is super underrated. It walks you through Cartagenaโs military history with models, artifacts, and even pirate lore (yes, really).
Stroll the Malecรณn
For a more local vibe, head to the Malecรณn โ the waterfront promenade just outside the main tourist zones. Itโs the perfect place to catch the breeze, watch the sunset, and see Cartagena from a different angle.
Ready to start planning? Use my 4-day Cartagena itinerary to structure the perfect trip and hit all the highlights without the stress.
Cartagena Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, with some common sense. The Walled City and Getsemanรญ are very tourist-friendly, but always stay aware of your surroundings, avoid flashing valuables, and use trusted taxis. Solo female travelers should be extra cautious at night, especially in less busy areas.
The best time to visit Cartagena is during the dry season, from December to April. Expect sunny skies, warm temps, and lots of travelers. May through November is considered the rainy season, but showers are usually brief, and the city is still lively.
3 to 4 days is a great amount of time to explore the Walled City, take a day trip to the islands, and enjoy Cartagenaโs food, nightlife, and culture.
Itโs best to stick to bottled or filtered water. The locals usually drink it, but travelers can be more sensitive and may end up with a stomach bug.
Cartagena can be as budget-friendly or as bougie as you want it to be. Youโll find everything from $5 street arepas to fancy rooftop dinners. Hotels and tours in the Walled City tend to be pricier, but staying in Getsemanรญ or eating like a local helps balance things out.
Whether youโre here for the beaches, the history, or the food (honestly, probably all three), there are so many incredible things to do in Cartagena. I hope this guide helps you plan the perfect trip and soak in every magical moment this city has to offer. And trust meโฆ once you visit, youโll already be dreaming about coming back.
