Cartagena is a Caribbean port city in Colombia, known for its walled historic centre, colourful streets and coastal setting. You come for colonial-era architecture, plazas, warm evenings and access to nearby islands. Its history is closely tied to maritime trade and the Caribbean.
The old town is best enjoyed on foot, especially early or late in the day when the heat feels less intense. Beyond the walls, Getsemaní offers street art and lively public spaces, while the modern waterfront shows another side of the city.
How many days: 4
Spend your first day exploring the walled city and its squares. Use the second for Getsemaní, the fortress and a slower evening around the historic streets. The third can be reserved for an island excursion.
Keep the fourth day flexible for museums, the waterfront and a relaxed meal. Cartagena's heat makes an ambitious walking schedule tiring, so plan breaks indoors or in the shade during the middle of the day.
What to do in Cartagena
- Walk through the walled city
- Explore narrow streets, balconies, churches and plazas within Cartagena's historic fortifications. Start early for more comfortable walking.
- Explore Getsemaní
- Discover colourful murals, local businesses and lively squares just outside the main historic walls. Visit respectfully, as it remains a residential neighbourhood.
- Visit Castillo San Felipe de Barajas
- Explore the large hilltop fortress built to defend the city. Bring water and sun protection, as exposed sections can be very hot.
- Walk along the city walls
- Follow accessible sections of the fortifications for views across rooftops and the Caribbean. Late afternoon is a pleasant time to visit.
- Visit the Palace of the Inquisition
- Explore the historic building and museum displays concerning Cartagena's colonial past. Check the official site for current exhibition access.
- Discover Plaza de Bolívar
- Spend time in this shaded historic square near important civic buildings. It offers a quieter pause during a walk through the centre.
- Visit the Sanctuary of Saint Peter Claver
- Explore the church and associated historic spaces connected to the city's colonial history and the lives of enslaved Africans.
- Browse Las Bóvedas
- Walk past the former military storage spaces built into the fortifications, now associated with craft and souvenir stalls. Compare quality before buying.
- Explore the waterfront at Bocagrande
- See Cartagena's modern skyline and urban beaches. It is a useful contrast to the historic centre, although swimming conditions vary.
- Enjoy an evening in the plazas
- Return to the old town after sunset, when the streets feel cooler and public spaces become busier. Choose a square and enjoy the atmosphere.
What to eat and drink
- Try coastal Colombian seafood
- Look for grilled fish, coconut rice and plantain, familiar combinations along Colombia's Caribbean coast. Choose somewhere with good food handling.
- Eat an arepa de huevo
- Try this fried cornmeal snack filled with egg, a speciality associated with the Caribbean region. It is best eaten freshly prepared.
- Explore tropical fruit stalls
- Sample local fruit or freshly prepared juices. Choose vendors using clean equipment and safe drinking water.
- Try Caribbean-style rice dishes
- Look for coconut rice served with fish or other savoury dishes. The slightly sweet flavour is characteristic of regional cooking.
- Enjoy a casual Getsemaní dinner
- Explore small eating places serving Colombian and Caribbean dishes. The neighbourhood is particularly lively in the evening.
- Cool down with a local sweet
- Try coconut-based sweets, fruit desserts or an icy treat after a hot afternoon. Markets and traditional sweet sellers offer plenty of choice.
Getting around
The walled city and Getsemani are best explored on foot. For Bocagrande, the airport and longer journeys, use registered taxis and confirm the fare before setting off. Island trips leave from the tourist quay; use established operators and check return arrangements.
Good to know
- Heat and humidity can be intense. Walk early, take shaded breaks and drink plenty of safe water.
- Agree prices before accepting informal services, including beach seating, photographs and transport.
- Keep valuables secure in crowded tourist areas and use reputable transport after dark.
- Sea conditions can disrupt island trips. Leave some flexibility and use established operators with appropriate safety equipment.
- The old town is walkable, but uneven paving and strong sun can make longer walks tiring.
- Restaurant service charges may be suggested or included. Check the bill and local practice before tipping.