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Cartagena

Cartagena is Colombia's crown jewel — a UNESCO-listed walled city where cobblestone streets, colonial mansions, and Caribbean warmth create a backdrop unlike anywhere else. Whether you're wandering the flower-draped balconies of the Old City or unwinding on the Rosario Islands, Cartagena makes every encounter feel effortlessly memorable.

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Photo: Sgonzalezb / CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Cartagena

Cartagena de Indias sits on Colombia's Caribbean coast and is one of the best-preserved colonial cities in Latin America. The Ciudad Amurallada (Walled City) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its fortified walls built over centuries to protect a port that was once the gateway for Spanish trade with the New World. Inside, pastel-coloured townhouses, bougainvillea-draped balconies, and lively plazas create an atmosphere that feels both historic and wonderfully alive.

Beyond the walls, the Getsemaní neighbourhood has become one of South America's most exciting urban destinations — its street art, open-air bars, and creative energy drawing travellers who want to experience the city's contemporary pulse alongside its colonial grandeur. The nearby Bocagrande peninsula and the offshore Islas del Rosario provide white-sand escapes for those who want to mix city exploration with Caribbean beach days.

Cartagena's social scene rewards slow travel. Sunset cocktails on the city walls at Las Murallas, salsa music drifting from courtyards, and long dinners at rooftop restaurants in the Old City all lend themselves to genuine connection. It's a city that invites conversation — with locals and with fellow travellers who've been drawn here by its unmistakable magnetism.

Places to visit

Ciudad Amurallada (Walled City)

The UNESCO-listed historic core of Cartagena, a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, plazas, and colonial architecture enclosed by massive 16th-century fortifications.

Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas

The largest Spanish colonial fortress in the Americas, sitting on the San Lázaro hill with commanding views over the city and bay.

Getsemaní

A vibrant neighbourhood just outside the walls, celebrated for its murals, street art, neighbourhood squares, and some of Cartagena's best bars and restaurants.

Islas del Rosario

A national park archipelago of coral islands about 45 km offshore, offering some of the clearest turquoise water and finest snorkelling on the Colombian Caribbean coast.

Playa Blanca

One of the most beautiful beaches near Cartagena, a stretch of white sand on Barú island accessible by boat — ideal for a full day trip.

Plaza de Bolívar

The historic heart of the Walled City, flanked by the Palace of the Inquisition and the Cathedral Basilica, and animated by locals and travellers throughout the day.

Where to go out

Café Havana

An iconic salsa and Cuban music venue in Getsemaní that packs out nightly — a legendary spot for dancing and meeting people from around the world.

Alquímico

A three-floor colonial mansion bar in the Walled City, consistently rated among Latin America's best bars, known for creative cocktails and a rooftop with sweeping views.

Movich Cartagena de Indias Rooftop

A stylish hotel rooftop bar in Bocagrande with panoramic bay views, popular for sundowners and evening socialising.

Bazurto Social Club

A legendary open-air venue for cumbia, champeta, and Caribbean rhythms — a more local, festive experience that gives a true feel of Cartagena's music culture.

Tu Candela

One of the Walled City's longest-running nightlife spots, playing a mix of salsa, reggaeton, and Caribbean beats in a colonial courtyard setting.

Playa de Bocagrande Beach Clubs

The beach clubs along Bocagrande's waterfront offer daytime lounging with music and cocktails — a lively alternative to the more secluded island beaches.

Things to do

Take a sunset boat cruise on Cartagena Bay

Departing from the historic port, evening bay cruises offer views of the illuminated city walls and Castillo de San Felipe — a romantic and memorable experience.

Explore the Walled City on foot at your own pace

Getting lost in the Old City's narrow streets, discovering hidden courtyards, colourful plazas, and centuries-old churches is one of Cartagena's greatest pleasures.

Day trip to Islas del Rosario

Catch a morning speedboat from the Muelle de la Bodeguita to the coral islands for snorkelling, swimming in calm turquoise water, and a fresh seafood lunch.

Visit Volcán de Lodo El Totumo

A small volcanic mud cone about an hour from Cartagena where you can bathe in warm therapeutic mud — an unusual and fun excursion popular with travellers.

Attend a salsa class in Getsemaní

Several dance schools and informal studios in Getsemaní offer group salsa and cumbia lessons — a great way to meet other travellers and engage with local culture.

Great first-date spots

Good to know

Currency
Colombian Peso (COP)
Language
Spanish
Best season
Dec–Apr (dry season) is peak. May–Nov brings rain but fewer crowds and lower prices.
Getting around
Taxis and ride-hailing apps (InDriver, Cabify) within the city. Boats to islands depart from the historic port.

Frequently asked questions

Is Cartagena safe for solo travellers?

The Walled City and Getsemaní are generally safe for tourists, especially during the day and in well-trafficked areas at night. As with any city, stay aware of your surroundings and use licensed taxis or apps after dark.

What is the best time of year to visit Cartagena?

December to April is the dry season and most popular. The city is busy but at its most photogenic. May to November sees rain, particularly in October, but the city remains worth visiting.

How do I get to the Islas del Rosario?

Speedboats depart from the Muelle de la Bodeguita near the Walled City each morning. The crossing takes about 45 minutes. Tours including snorkelling and lunch are widely available.

Do I need to speak Spanish to enjoy Cartagena?

English is spoken in most tourist-facing businesses in the Walled City and Bocagrande. Learning a few basic Spanish phrases will enrich interactions with locals significantly.

What neighbourhoods are best for meeting other travellers?

The Walled City and Getsemaní are the main hubs — hostels, boutique hotels, and social bars are concentrated there. Getsemaní in particular has a strong backpacker and independent traveller community.

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