Cartagena
A jewel of the Caribbean, Cartagena enchants visitors with its pastel-colored colonial buildings, cobblestone streets, and sun-drenched plazas. The walled Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a maze of charming cafes, vibrant street musicians, and historic fortresses. Beyond the city, the Rosario Islands offer crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches. With its tropical climate, rich history, and lively atmosphere, Cartagena is a destination that seamlessly blends culture, relaxation, and adventure.
Airport
Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG) – Cartagena’s main airport, located just 6 km from the historic Old Town, serves as the primary gateway to Colombia’s Caribbean coast.
Train Station
Cartagena Railway Station – While Cartagena does not have a major passenger train station, travelers can access Colombia’s rail network from nearby Barranquilla or Bogotá.
Weather
The best time to visit Cartagena is from December to April, during the dry season, when sunny skies and warm temperatures make it perfect for exploring the colonial old town and nearby beaches. The rainy season (May to November) sees short but intense showers, often in the afternoon.
Known For
Known for its beautifully preserved colonial old town, Caribbean coastline, and vibrant nightlife.
Neighbourhoods
Cartagena’s neighborhoods offer a blend of history and Caribbean charm. Ciudad Amurallada (Walled City) is the historic core, with colonial buildings, lively plazas, and boutique hotels. Getsemaní is a bohemian district known for street art, vibrant nightlife, and local culture. Bocagrande features modern hotels and beaches along the coastline. Manga offers a quieter, residential feel with old mansions and waterfront views. La Boquilla is a fishing village with pristine beaches and local seafood.
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Ciudad Amurallada (Walled City) – The historic center, full of colonial architecture, beautiful plazas, and boutique hotels. Ideal for those wanting to explore the city’s history and vibrant atmosphere.
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Getsemaní – A bohemian neighborhood known for street art, live music, and trendy bars. Great for those looking for a lively, cultural scene with a youthful edge.
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Bocagrande – A modern district with beach resorts, luxury hotels, and shopping malls. Perfect for visitors seeking a beachside experience with a cosmopolitan touch.
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La Boquilla – A quieter area with a laid-back vibe, known for its fishing villages and seafood restaurants. Ideal for travelers looking for a more authentic, local experience.
Hotel Guide
Cartagena caters to all types of travelers with its range of accommodations. Budget travelers can stay in charming hostels and guesthouses in the Walled City or Getsemaní, where they can experience the local culture and vibrant atmosphere. Mid-range hotels are plentiful, offering stylish rooms and convenient locations near the city’s beaches or historical sites. For luxury, Cartagena offers high-end properties like the Sofitel Legend Santa Clara and the Charleston Santa Teresa, where guests can indulge in luxury services, fine dining, and colonial charm.
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El Viajero Cartagena Hostel – ★★★
A fun and budget-friendly hostel located near the historic Walled City, offering dorms and private rooms with a lively atmosphere and great social events.
Casa de la Trinidad – ★★★
An affordable guesthouse located in the Old Town, offering simple rooms with a charming courtyard and easy access to Cartagena’s main attractions.
Hostal Casa del Caribe – ★★★
A budget-friendly option offering cozy rooms and a laid-back atmosphere, located close to the beach and Cartagena’s colonial center.
Budget Hotel Options
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Hotel Boutique Casa del Coliseo – ★★★★
A beautiful boutique hotel located in the heart of the Old Town, offering elegant rooms, a rooftop pool, and close proximity to Cartagena’s historic sites.
Hotel Charleston Santa Teresa – ★★★★
A luxurious hotel housed in a colonial-era building, offering spacious rooms, a rooftop bar, and a spa, located near the Plaza de San Diego and Cartagena’s historic center.
Movich Cartagena de Indias – ★★★★
A sophisticated hotel offering modern amenities, an outdoor pool, and a great location near the beach and the Walled City of Cartagena.
Mid-Range Hotel Options
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Tcherassi Hotel & Spa – ★★★★★
A stylish and intimate boutique hotel in Cartagena’s historic center, offering luxurious rooms, an outdoor pool, and a spa, all within a beautifully restored colonial house.
Hotel Santa Clara – ★★★★★
A stunning former convent turned hotel, located in Cartagena’s Old Town. With opulent rooms, a grand pool, and exceptional service, this hotel offers a blend of history and modern luxury.
Casa San Agustin – ★★★★★
A boutique luxury hotel set in a colonial-era building, offering beautifully designed rooms, an intimate pool, and personalized service. It’s perfect for those who want to stay within Cartagena’s historical heart.
High-End Hotel Options
Sights and Activities
Cartagena offers a magical combination of colonial charm, coastal beauty, and a lively cultural scene. Budget activities include wandering through the colorful streets of the Walled City, relaxing on the beaches of Bocagrande, or visiting the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas. Mid-range activities might include a boat tour to the Rosario Islands, exploring the vibrant Getsemaní neighborhood, or touring the Palace of the Inquisition. For a luxurious experience, consider a private sunset cruise around the bay, dining in rooftop restaurants with stunning views, or staying in the opulent Tcherassi Hotel & Spa, which combines modern design with colonial architecture.
Walled City
Walk through the cobblestone streets of Cartagena’s historic Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and admire its colorful buildings.
Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas
Visit this fortress for free on certain days and explore its tunnels and panoramic views of the city.
Bocagrande Beaches
Relax on the free-access public beaches of Bocagrande, with beautiful views of the Caribbean Sea.
Plaza Santo Domingo
Enjoy a vibrant square surrounded by historic buildings, cafes, and street performers, perfect for people-watching.
Budget Friendly Activities
Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas
Explore this sprawling fortress, learning about its history and defense systems while enjoying stunning views of the city.
Boca Grande
Visit this upscale neighborhood with its beaches, restaurants, and shopping, offering a more modern experience compared to the historic center.
Museo de Oro
Discover the pre-Columbian gold collection at this fascinating museum, which is housed in a beautiful colonial building.
Getsemaní District
Wander through this vibrant neighborhood, known for its street art, lively atmosphere, and affordable dining options.
Mid-Range Activities
Private Yacht Tour to Rosario Islands
Charter a private yacht to explore the stunning Rosario Islands. Spend the day swimming, snorkeling, or lounging on pristine beaches, with gourmet meals and drinks served on board.
Exclusive Walking Tour of the Old City
Discover Cartagena’s UNESCO-listed Old Town with a private guide who will lead you through its colorful streets, colonial architecture, and historical landmarks, including the impressive Castillo San Felipe de Barajas.
Dinner at Café del Mar
Indulge in a gourmet dinner with a view at Café del Mar, a high-end restaurant perched atop the city walls, offering panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea and the city’s skyline.
Private Cooking Class in a Colonial Mansion
Learn how to prepare traditional Caribbean dishes with a private chef in a beautifully restored colonial mansion, followed by a meal of your own creations.
Hi-End Activities
Please Note - All prices listed above are approximate and must be checked prior to quoting clients
Resources
Visa Requirements
No visa required for up to 90 days
*Note - VISA regulations change regularly. Always check official websites for the most up to date information.
Official Tourism Website
For more information explore this cities official tourism website
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Language
Spanish
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Currency
Colombian Peso (COP
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Population
1 million (city proper), 1.3 million (metro area)
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Time Difference from Melb (AEDT)
- -16 hours
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