42 Finest Issues to Do in Cartagena Columbia

In search of a colourful vacation spot with journey, tradition and scrumptious meals? Then Cartagena (Cartagena de Indias), Colombia ought to undoubtedly be in your bucket checklist. This vibrant metropolis, also called the ‘Walled Metropolis’ or the ‘Heroic Metropolis’, is steeped in historical past, custom, and gorgeous structure. Its colourful buildings, cobbled streets, and bustling plazas make it a photographer’s paradise, whereas its energetic nightlife and scrumptious delicacies will fulfill any traveler.

However with so many issues to do in Cartagena, the place do you begin? Don’t fear, I’ve received you lined. From exploring historical fortresses to sipping on contemporary coconuts, listed below are our high picks for the very best issues to do in Cartagena.

The Best Activities and Top Things To Do in Cartagena, Colombia

Table of Contents

The Finest Actions and Prime Issues To Do in Cartagena, Colombia


1. Get a Image With the Colourful Las Palenqueras (Fruit Sellers)

In case you’re strolling across the streets of Cartagena, you’ll doubtless come throughout the colourful Las Palenqueras, fruit sellers who put on brightly coloured clothes and carry baskets of tropical fruits on their heads. These ladies are descendants of the Palenqueros, a gaggle of Afro-Colombians who escaped slavery within the seventeenth century and based their very own neighborhood exterior of Cartagena, at San Basilio de Palenque.

Right this moment, the Las Palenqueras are an iconic image of town, they usually’re joyful to pose for photographs and chat with guests. And since that is how they make their residing, any suggestions you can provide them is enormously appreciated (sometimes round 5000-10000 pesos or $1-$2).

Annette with Las Palenqueras

2. Drink Craft Cocktails at Alquimico Bar

Do you know that Cartagena is dwelling to one of many high 50 greatest bars on this planet? You heard that proper!

Enter Alquimico, a preferred cocktail bar positioned within the metropolis’s historic middle. Housed in a superbly restored colonial constructing, the bar has a complicated and eclectic ambiance with a mixture of indoor and rooftop seating areas. There’s really 3 ranges and every includes a completely different specialised menu (we drank on ground 2).

Although every ground has their very own featured menu, you’ll be able to nonetheless get any drink anyplace which options a variety of cocktails, together with artistic twists on traditional recipes and authentic concoctions (the “Inquisition” is a must-try!). 

Alquimico can be recognized for its high-quality, locally-sourced substances and modern presentation, making it a must-visit vacation spot for any cocktail fanatic visiting Cartagena


3. Take Pics Underneath the Umbrellas (Callejón Angosto and Calle de la Magdalena!)

Two of essentially the most Instagram-worthy spots in Cartagena are the slender streets of Callejón Angosto and Calle de la Magdalena at Barrio Getsemani, that are adorned with colourful umbrellas that create a whimsical cover overhead. These picture ops are to not be missed, particularly throughout golden hour when the daylight illuminates the umbrellas in a magical approach.

Annette Take Pics Under the Umbrellas

4. Escape to a Seashore Membership on the Islas del Rosario

Some of the widespread issues to do in Cartagena is to flee for the day to a seaside membership, and the Islas del Rosario (Rosario Islands) is the place to do it! This group of 27+ islands are recognized for his or her crystal-clear waters, white sandy seashores, colourful coral reefs, and delightful seaside golf equipment.

Islas del Rosario

From public to extra personal ones, the seaside golf equipment on Islas del Rosario supply quite a lot of facilities, together with loungers, umbrellas, and scrumptious cocktails. A few of the greatest seaside golf equipment you’ll be able to take a look at embrace Bora Bora, Pao Pao, and Gente de Mar Resort. 

These day golf equipment supply breathtaking views, enjoyable water actions (like kayaking), groovy beats, scrumptious meals, and a relaxed ambiance that may make you’re feeling such as you’ve escaped to paradise.

Remember that many of those golf equipment require taking a ship to them and the waters will be fairly uneven (totally on the return).

Isla Baru

5. Ogle the Picturesque Catedral Santa Catalina de Alejandria

Catedral Santa Catalina de Alejandria, also called the Cartagena Cathedral, is a surprising church positioned within the coronary heart of town’s historic middle. The cathedral was constructed within the sixteenth century and is taken into account to be one of many oldest and most vital spiritual websites within the nation.

This iconic landmark will draw you in with its distinctive mixture of pink, white, and yellow colours. And on the within, its easy design is adorned with stone-carved stations of the cross on the nave and statues of 4 saints close to the principle door.

Catedral Santa Catalina de Alejandria

6. Take within the Avenue Artwork in Barrio Getsemani

Barrio Getsemani is considered one of Cartagena’s most vibrant and bohemian neighborhoods, and it’s dwelling to a number of the metropolis’s most spectacular road artwork. As you wander via its colourful streets, you’ll come throughout murals and graffiti that replicate town’s historical past, tradition, and social points.

You could find a lot of the murals at Calle Sierpe, however don’t let that cease you from discovering what the opposite streets of Getsemani have in retailer!

Street Art Barrio Getsemani

7. Spot Some Sloths and Monkeys at Parque del Centenario

Positioned between the Getsemani neighborhood and the historic middle (by the clock tower), Parque del Centenario is a good looking inexperienced area that provides a welcome respite from the bustling metropolis. It was constructed within the early Twentieth century to commemorate the a hundredth anniversary of Colombia’s independence. The park has plenty of timber, sitting areas, and winding paths with completely different statues of historic figures dotted alongside the way in which.

Nevertheless, what makes it much more well worth the go to are its furry residents: sloths and tamarin monkeys. Preserve your eyes peeled on the timber, and there’s an excellent probability you’ll spot monkeys swinging about from department to department and/or the sloths napping up excessive. Be affected person, it took me two visits and plenty of loops across the park to identify them!


8. Get the View From Convento De La Popa

What higher method to see Cartagena in all its glory than on the Convento de la Popa? Sitting on the high of town’s highest hill, the Convento de la Popa is thought for its gorgeous panoramic views of town and the Caribbean Sea.

Convento De La Popa

The convent’s structure options a mixture of Spanish and indigenous types, and its inside is adorned with spiritual artwork and artifacts (the place you can even find out about its historical past and cultural significance.) General, undoubtedly probably the greatest viewpoints in Cartagena.

P.S. The highway resulting in Convento de la Popa is steep, slender, and winding, and goes via one of many metropolis’s much less secure neighborhoods, so we advocate hiring a taxi cab to take you to and from the convent. The journey takes round 15-20 minutes, and when you arrive, you’ll must pay a small entrance price to get inside for the views.

View From Convento De La Popa

9. Tour the Museo del Oro Zenu

The Museo del Oro Zenu is a small however fascinating museum close to Parque de Bolivar, devoted to showcasing the wealthy cultural heritage of the Zenu (Sinu) indigenous folks.

It options a powerful assortment of over 600+ gold artifacts, pottery, and different items, a few of which date again over a thousand years. The museum’s shows are additionally informative and interesting, offering a glimpse into the traditions, beliefs, and customs of the Zenu folks.

Whereas typically in comparison with the a lot greater Museo del Oro in Bogota, the Museo del Oro Zenu is a must-visit vacation spot for anybody interested by studying extra about Colombia’s indigenous cultures and historical past.


10. Store in an Previous Bullring (La Serrezuela)

In case you’re in search of a novel purchasing expertise in Cartagena, Colombia, La Serrezuela is the proper place to take pleasure in some retail remedy. As soon as a historic bullring, this 4-story constructing has been reworked into a classy purchasing vacation spot, that includes all kinds of upscale retailers and boutiques. You’ll discover every little thing from high-end style and jewellery to dwelling items and gourmand meals.

Old Bullring La Serrezuela

However La Serrezuela isn’t only a purchasing vacation spot – it’s additionally a culinary haven. On the highest ground, you’ll be able to get pleasure from quite a lot of cool eating choices whereas taking in gorgeous views of town. 

Even when you don’t wish to store or eat, go to see the stays of the bullring. It’s spectacular!


11. Go to the Sanctuary of Saint Peter Claver

The Sanctuary of Saint Peter Claver at Plaza de San Pedro Claver in Cartagena, Colombia, is a historic church and museum devoted to the life and legacy of San Pedro Claver, a Jesuit priest who spent his life ministering to enslaved Africans dropped at town in the course of the colonial period. His stays lie in a glass case slightly below the altar.

The church, which was constructed within the seventeenth century, options gorgeous colonial structure and homes a group of non secular artwork and artifacts. Guests can take a guided tour of the museum to study concerning the lifetime of Saint Peter Claver and the function of the church within the historical past of Cartagena.

 Sanctuary of Saint Peter Claver

12. Drink Cocktails at a Rooftop Bar

If watching sunsets whereas ingesting your favourite cocktail is one thing you reside for, you then higher not miss out on the expertise at one of many rooftop bars within the Walled Metropolis!

A few of the greatest rooftop bars in Cartagena you must attempt embrace Alquimico (distinctive cocktail mixes), Cafe del Mar (bar on high of the wall, close to the ocean) Movich Hotel Rooftop (additionally has a rooftop pool for inhouse friends,) and 51 Sky Bar (the best bar in Cartagena.)

Whichever rooftop bar you go to, the gorgeous views of the colourful colonial structure, the Caribbean Sea, and the tropical sunsets will certainly make for an unforgettable expertise.


13. Cease by Museo Naval Del Caribe

If you wish to delve into Cartagena’s wealthy naval historical past, head over to the Museo Naval Del Caribe on the historic Previous City. This museum homes a captivating assortment of maritime artifacts, together with mannequin ships, nautical devices, and work.

Guests can study concerning the metropolis’s function within the Spanish colonial interval, in addition to its significance in the course of the Twentieth-century republican period. And though almost every little thing is in Spanish, you’ll be able to rent a tour information that can assist you study extra about Cartagena’s fascinating naval historical past.


14. Hold Out at Plaza Santo Domingo

Positioned in entrance of a historic church of the identical title, on the coronary heart of the walled metropolis, this charming plaza is a good spot to calm down, folks watch, and revel in a drink or two.

There are many outside cafes and eating places to select from, and the plaza is surrounded by stunning colonial structure. You may also see the well-known Botero statue proper right here.

Plaza Santo Domingo

15. Calm down at Playa de Bocagrande

Cartagena’s bustling beachfront neighborhood, Bocagrande, is a well-liked spot for locals and vacationers alike. The seaside is thought for its clear, turquoise waters, tender white sand, and loads of area to sunbathe and calm down.

Playa De Bocagrande

You’ll be able to hire a lounge chair or umbrella from one of many many distributors, or take a dip within the Caribbean Sea. It normally will get crowded, so attempt to go right here early within the morning.

P.S. There are a whole lot of distributors right here, a few of which will be persistent about promoting their wares (which may get fairly annoying, particularly when you’re making an attempt to calm down.) In case you do purchase, keep in mind to at all times discount.

Playa De Bocagrande

16. Get pleasure from Some Salsa Golf equipment – Cafe Havana, Donde Fidel

In case you’re a music lover, you’ll be able to’t miss the chance to expertise Cartagena’s vibrant salsa scene. Two must-visit salsa golf equipment are Cafe Havana (a traditional watering gap with a energetic ambiance; nice mojitos!) and Donde Fidel (a smaller, extra intimate venue with a terrific vibe), the place you’ll be able to dance the evening away to stay music from native bands. Even when you’re not a terrific dancer, the energetic ambiance and passionate vitality of those golf equipment make for an unforgettable night.


17. Stroll Via Plaza de Bolívar

On the coronary heart of Cartagena’s historic outdated city lies Plaza de Bolívar, an enthralling public sq. surrounded by colonial-era buildings. A few of the metropolis’s most vital buildings will also be discovered close by, together with the Palace of the Inquisition and Cartagena Cathedral.

Shaded by stunning tall timber, it’s the proper place for a stroll, particularly within the morning. You may also calm down on one of many many benches, people-watch as locals, road performers, and distributors go about their day, or marvel on the spectacular statue of Simón Bolívar, considered one of South America’s most vital historic figures.

Plaza de Bolívar

18. Take a Selfie on the Letras de Cartagena (Cartagena Signal)

Positioned close to the doorway to the walled metropolis, this colourful, larger-than-life signal is a well-liked spot for vacationers to take photographs. The letters spell out “Cartagena” and are adorned with vivid colours and patterns which can be typical of town’s conventional artwork and structure.


19. See Templo de Santo Domingo

This stunning, historic church in entrance of Plaza Santo Domingo is the oldest in Cartagena (in-built 1552!), with a surprising facade that includes intricate carvings and sculptures.

Inside, you’ll be able to admire the ornate altarpieces and paintings (such because the wooden carving of Christ on the right-end aisle) and take a second to understand the peaceable ambiance.


20. Go to Plaza de San Diego

Plaza de San Diego is an enthralling sq. positioned within the coronary heart of Cartagena’s walled metropolis. Surrounded by colonial-style buildings painted in pastel colours, this plaza is a well-liked spot for locals and vacationers alike. It’s a terrific place to sit down and people-watch, in addition to to get pleasure from a espresso or a chilly drink from one of many cafes that line the sq..

The plaza can be dwelling to a neighborhood faculty, the Institución Universitaria Bellas Artes y Ciencias de Bolívar. Its red-washed partitions and white linings make for a beautiful backdrop for photographs. 


21. Stroll Via Mercado de Bazurto

For a real style of Cartagena’s genuine flavors and bustling ambiance, head to Mercado de Bazurto. This sprawling market is a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells, with distributors promoting every little thing from unique fruits and seafood to handmade crafts and medicinal herbs. It’s not for the faint of coronary heart, however it’s a rewarding journey for adventurous vacationers.

A go to right here was a part of the wonderful cooking class at Lunatico, however listed below are another high rated excursions:

Fish at Bazurto Market

22. Take a Cooking Class

Foodies will love the chance to discover ways to make genuine Colombian dishes at Lunatico, a preferred cooking college in Cartagena. Led by Chef Maria and her crew, these hands-on courses educate you how you can put together conventional recipes like arepas, empanadas, and ceviche utilizing contemporary substances and time-honored strategies. You’ll go away with full bellies, a newfound appreciation for Colombian delicacies and a few tasty new expertise to impress your mates again dwelling. I discovered how you can make the BEST ceviche.

If Lunatico will not be a match for you, you’ll be able to take a look at these different courses:


23. Los Zapatos Viejos

Los Zapatos Viejos, or the Previous Footwear Monument, is a novel and attention-grabbing landmark positioned close to Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas. This sculpture includes a pair of outsized, worn-out bronze sneakers/boots made by Hector Lombana Piñeres in honor of nineteenth century Cartagenero poet Luis Carlos Lopez. You’ll be able to see an inscription of the poet’s sonnet, ‘Mi Ciudad Nativa,’ on the entrance of the sculpture.

As this can be a widespread Instagrammable spot within the metropolis, it might probably get fairly crowded, so it’s greatest to get right here early within the morning.

Los Zapatos Viejos

24. See the Torre del Reloj (Clock Tower)

The Torre del Reloj is considered one of Cartagena’s most recognizable landmarks and an emblem of town’s wealthy historical past. Serving because the gateway to the historic walled metropolis, this clock tower dates again to the 18th century and served as the principle entrance to town. Right this moment, it’s a preferred assembly spot and a terrific place to soak up the encompassing structure and road performers. It’s additionally the place most Uber drivers will drop you off if you’re visiting town middle.

Torre del Reloj

25. Take a Avenue Meals Tour

Cartagena is legendary for its scrumptious road meals, and a road meals tour is an effective way to pattern town’s culinary delights. Led by native guides, these excursions take you to hidden gems and widespread spots, the place you’ll style every little thing from fried plantains to grilled meats and seafood, and study concerning the cultural and culinary influences which have formed Colombian delicacies. 

Most excursions, if not all, will embrace no less than one style of the most well-liked native road delicacies, arepa which is made from floor corn dough filled with a filling.

Right here’s a couple of high price ones:

street food tour

26. Stroll on the Metropolis’s Partitions

Cartagena’s historic partitions are a testomony to town’s colonial previous, and they’re additionally an effective way to get a panoramic view of town. Constructed within the sixteenth century to guard town from pirates and invaders, the partitions now function a preferred attraction for vacationers and locals alike as a result of you’ll be able to stroll on them! As you stroll alongside the 8 mile ramparts, you’ll get pleasure from gorgeous views of the ocean, the skyline, and the colourful streets beneath.

Walk on the City's Walls

27. Get pleasure from Columbian Espresso

Colombia is thought for producing a number of the world’s greatest espresso, and there are many cafes and retailers in Cartagena like Cafe del Mural and Cafe San Alberto the place you’ll be able to pattern the products. Whether or not you favor a easy cup of joe or a extra elaborate latte or cappuccino, you’re positive to seek out one thing to fit your tastes.


28. Discover the Walled Metropolis of Cartagena

A go to to Cartagena could be incomplete with out exploring the historic walled metropolis. The colourful colonial buildings, slender streets, and charming plazas are a feast for the eyes and senses. Wander via the maze-like alleys, admiring the intricate balconies and doorways, and duck into cozy cafes and boutiques. 

As you discover, you’ll really feel transported again in time to the times of pirates and conquistadors. Don’t miss the grand Cathedral and the majestic Palace of the Inquisition!


29. Rub the Breast of La Gorda Gertrudis (it’s Good Luck!)

Positioned in Plaza Santo Domingo, La Gorda Gertrudis is a bronze statue created by Fernando Botero, Colombia’s most well-known artist. Rubbing her ample bosom is claimed to deliver good luck, prosperity, and a return go to to Cartagena. Be part of the locals and provides it a attempt (I did!)!

Annette holding La Gorda Gertrudis

30. Tour the Caribe Jewellery Museum & Manufacturing unit (Museo de la Esmeralda)

The Caribe Jewelry Museum & Factory, also called the Museo de la Esmeralda, is a captivating attraction in Cartagena that showcases the historical past and fantastic thing about emeralds. Right here, you’ll be able to study concerning the strategy of mining and chopping these treasured stones, and see a number of the most beautiful items of emerald jewellery ever created.

The museum additionally has a manufacturing facility the place you’ll be able to watch expert artisans at work, creating stunning items utilizing conventional strategies. And did I point out you could additionally purchase emerald jewellery and different gadgets at their present store?


31. See Iglesia de la Trinidad

This stunning historic church is positioned within the coronary heart of Getsemani, its yellow facade a hanging distinction towards the colourful colonial buildings round it.

At evening, the plaza in entrance of the church involves life, full of stay music, scrumptious road meals, road performers, and locals simply chilling and hanging out.


32. Store at Las Bóvedas  (The Vaults)

Positioned within the historic walled metropolis, Las Bóvedas is a former jail that’s now a group of 23 arched chambers full of handicrafts, jewellery, clothes, and souvenirs.

The market’s winding corridors and colourful stalls are a feast for the eyes, and the distributors are pleasant and welcoming. You should definitely haggle and discount to get the very best offers, and don’t miss the prospect to purchase some native espresso or handmade textiles as a reminder of your go to to this vibrant metropolis.

Las Bóvedas

33. Sip on a Contemporary Coconut

While you’re strolling across the streets of Cartagena beneath the recent Caribbean solar, nothing is extra refreshing than sipping on a contemporary coconut. You’ll discover distributors promoting complete coconuts with a straw inserted within the high (or poured in skinny plastic luggage,) they usually’ll even lower them open so that you can scoop out the coconut meat.

It’s a easy pleasure that’s each scrumptious and hydrating, and it’s an effective way to chill down and take a break from the warmth. Plus, you’ll get to expertise a little bit of native tradition, as coconuts are a staple ingredient in lots of Colombian dishes and drinks. 


34. Go to the Museum of Cartagena de Indias – The Palace of the Inquisition

The Museum of Cartagena de Indias – The Palace of the Inquisition is a captivating place to study concerning the historical past of Cartagena and Colombia. The constructing itself is a good looking instance of colonial structure, with ornate balconies, arches, and courtyards. Inside, you’ll discover reveals on the Inquisition, which was established in Cartagena within the seventeenth century to implement Catholic orthodoxy and suppress heresy.

The museum’s shows embrace devices of torture, trial transcripts, and different artifacts that present a sobering take a look at this darkish interval in Colombian historical past. There are additionally reveals on the tradition, artwork, and traditions of Cartagena and the encompassing area. In case you’re interested by historical past and tradition, the Museum of Cartagena de Indias is a must-visit vacation spot on this vibrant metropolis.

Not every little thing is in English, so when you’re not good together with your Spanish you’ll be able to rent an area information.


35. Observe the Footsteps of Gabriel Garcia Marquez

Cartagena is the proper vacation spot for individuals who are followers of Gabriel Garcia Marquez, the long-lasting Colombian creator. Garcia Marquez (or Gabo) was a daily customer to town, and he wrote about it extensively in his novels, together with “Love within the Time of Cholera” and “Of Love and Different Demons.”

The Follow in the Foosteps of Gabriel Garcia Marquez tour is an effective way to discover town and find out about its historical past and tradition. Alongside the way in which, you’ll go to a number of the locations he frequented, reminiscent of Cafe Havana, the place he would take heed to music or speak with associates, or the Lodge Santa Clara, the place he received the inspiration for “Of Love and Different Demons.”


36. Discover Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas

In case you’re in search of a historic and spectacular web site to discover in Cartagena, look no additional than the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas. This fortress is a masterpiece of navy engineering, constructed by the Spanish within the sixteenth century to defend town towards assaults by pirates and different enemies.

Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas

The fortress is positioned on a hill overlooking town, and its partitions, tunnels, and battlements supply gorgeous views of the ocean and the encompassing panorama. You’ll be able to take a guided tour of the fortress to find out about its historical past and see its varied options, or you’ll be able to go at your individual tempo through an audio tour.


37. Go to Plaza de La Trinidad (Getsemani)

Plaza de La Trinidad is the guts of the Getsemani neighborhood in Cartagena. This small sq. in entrance of the Iglesia de la Trinidad is at all times bustling with exercise, with locals and vacationers alike having fun with road performances, stay music, and outside cafes.

The plaza is surrounded by colourful colonial homes and is a good place to people-watch and absorb the ambiance of this energetic space. You may also see some attention-grabbing road artwork and graffiti in and across the plaza, in addition to flick through stalls promoting handmade crafts and souvenirs. You should definitely come again within the night to expertise the nightlife of Getsemani, because the plaza is a well-liked spot for dancing, ingesting, and socializing after darkish.


38. Take a Chiva Social gathering Bus Tour

In search of a novel and enjoyable method to expertise Cartagena’s nightlife? Then put in your dancing sneakers and hop aboard a Chiva party bus! These brightly painted buses are a fixture of Colombian tradition, they usually supply a festive and energetic ambiance for an evening out in town.

You’ll journey via the streets of Cartagena whereas dancing to stay music, sipping cocktails, and having fun with the corporate of different vacationers and locals. Alongside the way in which, you’ll make stops at a number of the metropolis’s hottest bars and golf equipment, the place you’ll be able to proceed the get together together with your new associates.

Chiva Bus Tour

39. See the Pink Sea (Salinas de Galerazamba)

Positioned simply exterior of Cartagena, the Pink Sea at Salinas de Galerazamba is a novel vacation spot recognized for its pink-colored waters. This pure surprise will get its distinctive coloration from the presence of a sort of microalgae that thrives within the salty surroundings.

The very best time to go to is in the course of the dry season, from December to February or August to September, when the solar is shining and there’s little to no rain to disrupt the water’s floor. In case you take the Mud Volcano and Pink Sea tour it’ll take you to each and contains lunch.

The ocean will not be at all times pink, so it’s form of a crapshoot on what it’ll appear like if you arrive, however it’s undoubtedly price it when the colour is vibrant!


40. Get Soiled at Volcan de Lodo El Totumo (Mud Volcano)

For a really distinctive and unforgettable expertise, head to Volcan de Lodo El Totumo, a mud volcano positioned simply exterior of Cartagena. This pure surprise is the smallest energetic volcano in Colombia, standing at solely 14.93 meters (49 toes). Guests can climb to the highest and immerse themselves within the heat, silky mud that bubbles up from the middle.

Volcan de Lodo El Totumo

It’s mentioned that the mud has therapeutic properties, and plenty of locals and vacationers imagine it might probably heal pores and skin illnesses and even assist with joint ache. The expertise of floating within the mud is surreal and enjoyable, and locals will aid you scrub off and rinse clear afterwards. It’s vital to notice that the mud volcano can get crowded, however most guests agree that it’s effectively well worth the journey.

Right here’s the top-rate excursions:

Volcan de Lodo El Totumo Mud Bath

41. Get Acquainted With the Metropolis on the Hop On Hop Off Bus

In case you’re new to Cartagena or wish to see town’s highlights in a handy approach, think about taking the hop-on-hop-off bus tour. This open-top bus takes you on a complete tour of town, with a number of stops at a few of Cartagena’s most iconic landmarks and sights.

You’ll be able to select to remain on the bus for the total loop, which takes about two hours, or hop off (and on) at any of the 14 stops and discover by yourself. The tour additionally gives an informative audio information in a number of languages, so you’ll be able to study concerning the metropolis’s historical past and tradition as you journey. So sit again, calm down, and benefit from the sights and sounds of this vibrant metropolis from the consolation of a hop-on-hop-off bus.


42. See an Epic Sundown 

Watching the sundown is a magical expertise in Cartagena, and there are two locations particularly the place you’ll be able to catch an epic view. The primary is the Movich Rooftop, which gives panoramic views of town’s historic middle and the Caribbean Sea. With a refreshing cocktail in hand, you’ll be able to watch the sky flip pink and orange because the solar dips beneath the horizon and finish your day on a excessive be aware.

One other nice possibility is Cafe Del Mar, a preferred spot that’s perched on town’s historical partitions. From right here, you’ll be able to watch the solar set over the ocean, and take heed to stay music as town lights up for the evening. Whether or not you’re in search of a romantic second or simply wish to take within the metropolis’s magnificence, watching the sundown is a must-do when in Cartagena.


Cartagena de Indias is the proper mixture of historical past, tradition, and colourful environment that may make you wish to come again for extra. With so many unimaginable issues to do in Cartagena, from exploring historic locations to digging into the native delicacies, there’s by no means a boring second on this wonderful metropolis. So seize your digicam, put in your adventurer hat, and prepare to fall in love with this vibrant metropolis. In spite of everything, there’s a motive why they name it the ‘Jewel of the Caribbean’!

Finest Ideas for Visiting Cartagena Colombia

The right way to Get to Cartagena Colombia:  Rafael Núñez Worldwide Airport (CTG / SKCG) is a serious hub and most airways will fly into it. You’ll be able to simply examine for the very best fare offers at Skyscanner, which additionally has the choice to decide on ‘least expensive month’ because the departure to seek out the bottom priced dates to fly to your vacation spot. From the airport to town middle, you should use the take a taxi, public bus or hire a automobile.

Getting Round:  Driving in a brand new vacation spot is usually a little bit of a problem, however when you select to hire a automobile, RentalCars.com has nice offers. If you’re not renting a automobile, there are many different choices. Taxis and Uber can be found everywhere in the metropolis, plus a lot of the main sights will be accessed with the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus. For a extra price range pleasant possibility, you’ll be able to take the general public bus.

Finest Time to Go to Cartagena Colombia: December via April are the perfect months to discover Cartagena, Colombia. It’s the dry season, which suggests it’s sunny, heat, and cozy exterior. Whatever the climate, Cartagena is a year-round resort that gives a variety of sights and actions. No matter time of yr, you might make the most of the adjoining seashores and islands, the energetic nightlife, the great delicacies, and the colonial structure. In case you go to in the course of the wet season, simply be prepared for some rain and produce an umbrella or a raincoat.

The place to Keep in Cartagena Colombia: It’s greatest to remain close to town middle, public transportation or the world that you’ll be spending essentially the most time in. Lunalá Hotel Boutique is a good alternative within the Getsemani district. For one thing on the inexpensive aspect, attempt Markasa Hotel Boutique positioned in La Boquilla, Cartagena de Indias. For a resort with slightly extra extravagance, e book a room on the Hotel Casa San Agustin. Or search some nice offers on resorts of your alternative at Booking.com. In case you’re in search of extra of a house ambiance (or are touring with a gaggle of individuals), head over to VRBO that has homes, residences and even only a room for hire in each value vary. 

Finest Excursions in Cartagena Colombia: You could find a number of the high excursions at Get Your Guide or Viator, and listed below are a number of the high ones. excursions:

This publish might include affiliate hyperlinks. In case you make a purchase order via my hyperlinks, I earn a fee that helps to maintain this weblog working—at no additional value to you. For extra info learn my full disclosure.

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