Map of Cartagena, Colombia

🏖️ What to do in Cartagena

Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of Cartagena by exploring its charming streets and engaging in exciting activities. From historical tours to relaxing beach excursions, Cartagena offers a plethora of experiences that cater to every traveler's interests.

• Best Budget Activity in Cartagena:

  Walking Tour of the Walled City: Embark on a budget-friendly guided walking tour to discover the hidden gems and historical landmarks of Cartagena's enchanting Walled City.

• Best Mid-Range Activity in Cartagena:

  Sunset Sailboat Cruise: Experience the stunning Caribbean sunset aboard a sailboat cruise, where you can relax, enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline, and savor refreshing drinks.

• Best Luxury Activity in Cartagena:

  Private Cooking Class: Indulge in a luxurious culinary experience with a private cooking class where you can learn to prepare traditional Colombian dishes under the guidance of a professional chef.

🍴 Where to Eat in Cartagena

Discover the eclectic culinary scene of Cartagena, where the vibrant flavors of Colombian cuisine come to life. Don't miss out on trying local specialties like arepas, ceviche, and empanadas during your culinary journey in this enchanting city.

• Best Budget Restaurant in Cartagena:

  La Mulata•$ - $$:

  Cuisine specialty: Traditional Colombian dishes with a modern twist

• Best Mid-Range Restaurant in Cartagena:

  Cande•$$ - $$$:

  Cuisine specialty: Fusion cuisine blending local ingredients with international flavors

• Best Budget Bar in Cartagena:

  Demente•$ - $$:

  Craft beers and signature cocktails

• Best Mid-Range Bar in Cartagena:

  Alquímico•$$ - $$$:

  Mixology creations and artisanal spirits

🏰 What to see in Cartagena

Embark on a visual journey through Cartagena's iconic landmarks that encapsulate the city's rich history and vibrant culture. From ancient fortresses to colorful colonial buildings, Cartagena showcases a tapestry of architectural wonders that will leave you in awe.

• Castillo San Felipe de Barajas

  Explore the imposing fortress that once defended Cartagena from pirate invasions and marvel at its strategic architecture and breathtaking views of the city.

• Plaza de Bolívar

  Immerse yourself in the heart of Cartagena's historic district at this bustling square, surrounded by architectural gems like the Cathedral and the Palace of the Inquisition.

• Getsemaní Neighborhood

  Wander through the vibrant streets of Getsemaní, adorned with colorful street art, lively cafes, and a bohemian atmosphere that captures the essence of Cartagena's local culture.

• Palacio de la Inquisición

  Step back in time at the Palace of the Inquisition, an intriguing museum that showcases Cartagena's dark history of the Spanish Inquisition through exhibits and artifacts.

• Rosario Islands

  Escape to the pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters of the Rosario Islands on a day trip from Cartagena, where you can indulge in paradise and relax in a tropical oasis just off the coast.

🛍️ Where to go shopping in Cartagena

Indulge in a shopping extravaganza in Cartagena, where vibrant markets, chic boutiques, and artisanal shops await to satisfy your retail cravings with unique finds and local treasures.

• Best Budget Shopping Place in Cartagena:

  Las Bóvedas Market: Explore the historic Las Bóvedas market for a budget-friendly shopping experience where you can purchase handmade crafts, colorful textiles, and souvenirs crafted by local artisans.

• Best Mid-Range Shopping Place in Cartagena:

  San Diego Shopping District: Stroll along the charming streets of the San Diego district, lined with boutique stores offering a mix of contemporary fashion, accessories, and Colombian designer pieces at affordable prices.

• Best Luxury Shopping Place in Cartagena:

  Plaza Bocagrande Shopping Center: Pamper yourself with a luxury shopping spree at Plaza Bocagrande, home to high-end designer boutiques, upscale jewelry stores, and exclusive fashion brands for a glamorous retail experience.

🚌 Getting Around Cartagena

• Public Transport

  In Cartagena, the primary mode of public transportation is buses. The city has an extensive bus network that covers most areas and is an affordable option for getting around. The price for a bus ride is typically around 2,000 COP (Colombian Pesos), and buses operate from early morning until late at night, with varying schedules depending on the route. Additionally, there is no metro or train system in Cartagena.

• Main Transportation Hubs

  - Bus Terminals: The main bus terminal in Cartagena is the Terminal de Transporte de Cartagena, located in the Crespo neighborhood. From here, you can find buses going to different parts of the city and the surrounding areas. - Airport: Rafael Núñez International Airport is the main airport serving Cartagena, located just a short distance from the city center. It offers both domestic and international flights, making it a convenient transportation hub.

• Rental Services

  🚗 Car Rental: Visitors to Cartagena can choose from various car rental companies, such as Avis, Budget, and Hertz. Prices for a car rental start at around 70,000 COP per day, depending on the type of vehicle and rental duration. 🚲 Bicycle Rental: For a more eco-friendly way to explore the city, bicycle rentals are available in Cartagena. Companies like Movil Rent a Bike offer bike rentals starting from 30,000 COP for a full day, allowing you to navigate the city at your own pace.