Cartagena Travel Guide
About:
Cartagena is a jewel of Colombia’s Caribbean coast, home to colorful colonial architecture, vibrant street art, and stunning sunsets. Cartagena has a rich history, beautiful beaches, and a delicious culinary scene. Below is our Cartagena Travel Guide!
Exciting News:
I’m heading to Cartagena in April 2025! 🌴✈️ This post will be my go-to for planning our adventure in beautiful Colombia. Stay tuned for updates and tips after the trip! 🌟
Our Flight:
-We booked our flights from Expedia! Our trip is from a Sunday to a Thursday in April. We picked these dates because April is during the dry season.
-Our Hotel: Mood Matuna Hotel Cartagena
Room: There are comfortable accommodations with spacious, air-conditioned rooms and free WiFi.
Food: We can dine at the on-site restaurant. An American breakfast is included every morning.
Amenities: The hotel features a fitness center, a 24-hour front desk, and a paid shuttle service.
Location: The hotel is located 3.7 miles from Rafael Núñez International Airport. It’s a short walk to Marbella Beach, Bocagrande Beach, and Cartagena’s Walls.
Our Itinerary:
-1: Thursday-
-Settle in and unpack at our Mood Matuna Hotel
-Go to Parque del Centenario and see the Sloths and Monkeys
-Stroll through the Old Town by night
-See a Salsa Dance Show!
-2: Friday-
-Explore the Getsemani neighborhood
-3: Saturday-
-Explore Cartagena- See the major highlights of the city on a tour!
Horseback Riding by Sunset Tour
-4: Sunday-
– ATV tour
-5: Monday-
Fly Home
Tips:
- Spanish is Key: Most locals speak Spanish, so brushing up on basic phrases will enhance your experience.
- Stay Charged: The power plugs are types A and B, just like in the U.S.
- Hydrate: The tropical climate can be hot and humid, so stay hydrated!
- Currency Matters: The local currency is Colombian Pesos (COP). Having cash on hand for small purchases is wise.
- Dry Season: Travel to Cartagena during the dry season. The dry season is from December to April. These months have clear skies, abundant sunshine, and minimal rainfall.
Tours to Book:
- Adventure: ATV Tour | Horseback Riding Tour | Mud Volcano Tour | UTV & Horseback Riding | Luminous Plankton | National Aviary Tour
- Sea: Snorkel Tour | Beach Club Tour | Jet Ski Rental
- City: Cartagena City Walking Tour | Bike Tour | Cartagena Professional Photoshoot
- Food: Street Food Tour
- Culture: Salsa Dance Lessons | Live Music and Salsa Dancing
- Night: Pub Crawl | Sunset Boat Tour
Reasons to Visit:
–Rich History: Explore the stunning colonial architecture and historic forts that showcase Cartagena’s vibrant past.
–Beautiful Beaches: Relax on picturesque beaches like Playa Blanca.
–Vibrant Culture: Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere, with colorful street art, local music, and lively festivals.
-Delicious Cuisine: Savor the flavors of Caribbean and Colombian cuisine, from fresh seafood to local delicacies like arepas and ceviche.
-Breathtaking Sunsets: Enjoy unforgettable sunsets over the Caribbean Sea from the city’s walls or along the scenic waterfront.
Where to Stay?
–Hotel Charleston Santa Teresa:
- Located in the heart of the historic walled city, this luxury hotel combines colonial charm with modern amenities. It features a stunning pool, an excellent spa, and several dining options. Guests can enjoy beautiful views of the city and the Caribbean Sea.
–Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena:
- This former convent-turned-hotel is a blend of history and luxury. Located near major attractions, the Sofitel offers upscale accommodations, an inviting pool area, and a renowned restaurant. The hotel’s architecture and beautiful courtyards provide a unique setting for guests.
–Bastión Luxury Hotel:
- Situated within the old city, Bastión Luxury Hotel offers a more intimate boutique experience while still providing top-notch service. The hotel features stylish rooms, an on-site restaurant, a spa, and a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the city. It’s well-reviewed for its personalized service and modern amenities.
Where to Eat?
–La Cevichería:
Famous for its fresh ceviche, this casual eatery is a must-visit for seafood lovers. La Cevichería offers a variety of ceviche preparations, incorporating local ingredients and flavors. The ambiance is relaxed, and it’s located in the historic walled city, making it a perfect stop after exploring the area.
–Café del Mar:
Overlooking the ocean, Café del Mar is not just known for its stunning views but also for its delicious tapas and cocktails. The menu features a mix of international and local dishes, and it’s a great spot for a leisurely dinner as the sun sets over the Caribbean Sea.
–Restaurante 1621:
For a more upscale dining experience, Restaurante 1621, located in the luxurious Sofitel Legend Santa Clara, offers a creative menu that showcases the best of Colombian cuisine with French influences. The elegant setting and attentive service make it perfect for a special occasion or a romantic evening.
Top Things to Do:
Explore the Walled City:
Cartagena’s historical center, known as the Walled City, is a UNESCO World Heritage site with beautiful architecture, markets, and vibrant culture.
Day Trip to Mud Volcano-
Consider going on a day trip to the Totumo Mud Volcano.
Visit Castillo San Felipe de Barajas:
This formidable fortress built in the 16th century is a must-visit. Climb to the top for panoramic views and learn about its history as a military stronghold.
Discover the Getsemani Neighborhood:
Known for its vibrant street art and bohemian atmosphere, Getsemani offers a mix of local culture, lively nightlife, and trendy cafes.
Relax at Playa Blanca:
Take a day trip to this beautiful beach known for its white sand and clear waters.
Visit the Palacio de la Inquisición:
This historical building hosts a museum where you can learn about the Spanish Inquisition in Cartagena. The architecture itself is stunning and worth exploring.
Take a Boat Tour to the Rosario Islands:
A short boat ride from Cartagena, this archipelago is perfect for snorkeling, diving, and relaxing in pristine nature.
Visit the Mercado de Bazurto:
For a taste of local life, this bustling market sells everything from fresh produce to street food.
Enjoy the Nightlife:
Cartagena boasts a vibrant nightlife scene, with bars, clubs, and live music venues, particularly in the Walled City and Getsemani areas.
Additional Things to Do:
- Explore the Walled City
- Visit the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas.
- Admire the Palacio de la Inquisición.
- Tour the Cathedral of Cartagena.
- Visit the Convent of Santa Cruz de la Popa.
- Explore the San Basilio de Palenque, a UNESCO heritage site.
- Visit the Gold Museum.
- Check out the Plaza Santo Domingo.
- Visit the Islas del Rosario for snorkeling.
- Relax at Playa Blanca.
- Enjoy the sunset at Cerro de La Popa.
- Explore Parque Nacional Natural Corales del Rosario.
- Go birdwatching at Los Flamencos Sanctuary or the National Aviary.
- Visit the Bocagrande beach.
- Take a boat trip to Barú Island.
- Explore the Mangroves in La Boquilla.
- Go to Tierra Bomba Island.
- Enjoy the views from Castillo San Felipe.
- Try Arepas de Huevo at a local vendor.
- Visit the Mercado de Bazurto for authentic street food.
- Try Ceviche at local eateries.
- Taste Patacones and Bandeja Paisa.
- Enjoy a fancy dinner at Café del Mar.
- Indulge in unique desserts like Tres Leches Cake.
- Sip on Limonada de Coco.
- Walk through Las Bóvedas for artisan shops.
- Attend a show at Teatro Adolfo Mejía.
- Visit the Plaza de los Coches.
- Take a bike tour of the city.
- Explore street art and try the local street food in Getsemaní.
- Join a salsa dancing class.
- Experience Cartagena at night with a guided Night Tour.
- Shop for local handicrafts at Plaza de Santo Domingo.
- Attend a traditional Colombian music concert.
- Take a kite-surfing lesson in La Boquilla.
- Take a catamaran tour around the islands.
- Go horseback riding on the beach.
- Explore the Ciénaga de la Virgen on a kayak.
- Enjoy a sunset cruise.
- Experience zip-lining in the nearby mountains.
- Join a guided hiking tour nearby.
- Visit the Acuario y Museo del Mar.
- Explore Parque del Centenario with the kids.
- Check out Parque de la Marina for a family picnic.
- Enjoy the games at Plaza de la Aduana.
- Stroll through Jardin Botanico de Cartagena.
- Shop at Plaza de la Trinidad for unique finds.
- Visit Centro Comercial Caribe Plaza for branded stores.
- Explore the artisan market at Las Bóvedas.
- Discover local art at the Galería de Arte in Getsemaní.
- Purchase local rum at Casa de la Cerveza.
- Buy Colombian coffee at local shops.
- Visit the Indigenous market for crafts.
- Get a massage at a local spa.
- Relax by the pool at a luxury hotel.
- Spend a day at Las Gaviotas Beach Club.
- Dance the night away at La Movida.
- Enjoy cocktails at El Barón.
- Visit Café Havana for salsa music and dancing.
- Experience a rooftop bar for views and drinks.
- Enjoy a guided photography tour of the city.
- Attend a Street Food Festival
We shared a Cartagena Travel Guide! Please let us know if you have been to Cartagena and add your tips in the comment section below!
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