Map of Santa Marta (Magdalena), Colombia

🏖️ What to do in Santa Marta (Magdalena)

Santa Marta (Magdalena) offers a wide array of activities that cater to every traveler's interests, from beach lovers to history buffs. Must-try activities in Santa Marta include exploring Tayrona National Park, enjoying water sports, and immersing yourself in the city's rich cultural heritage.

• Best Budget Activity in Santa Marta (Magdalena):

  Playa Blanca Day Trip: Spend a day relaxing on the white sandy beaches of Playa Blanca, perfect for budget travelers looking to unwind.

• Best Mid-Range Activity in Santa Marta (Magdalena):

  Ciudad Perdida Trek: Embark on a trek to the ancient Lost City of Teyuna for a challenging yet rewarding adventure through the lush Colombian jungle.

• Best Luxury Activity in Santa Marta (Magdalena):

  Private Yacht Excursion: Spoil yourself with a luxurious yacht excursion along the Caribbean coast, complete with snorkeling, gourmet meals, and breathtaking views.

🍽️ Where to eat in Santa Marta (Magdalena)

Santa Marta (Magdalena) boasts a culinary scene that beautifully reflects the city's diverse cultural influences. From fresh seafood to traditional Colombian dishes, must-try foods in Santa Marta include ceviche, arepas, and tropical fruits.

• Best Budget Restaurant in Santa Marta (Magdalena):

  Donde Chucho•$ - $$:

  Colombian street food

• Best Mid-Range Restaurant in Santa Marta (Magdalena):

  La Brisa Loca Restaurant & Bar•$$ - $$$:

  International fusion cuisine

• Best Luxury Restaurant in Santa Marta (Magdalena):

  Agave Azul•$$$ - $$$$:

  Fine dining with a focus on seafood

• Best Budget Bar in Santa Marta (Magdalena):

  Burukuka•$ - $$:

  Mojitos

• Best Mid-Range Bar in Santa Marta (Magdalena):

  El Garaje Gastrobar•$$ - $$$:

  Craft cocktails

• Best Luxury Bar in Santa Marta (Magdalena):

  Mirador Lounge Bar•$$$ - $$$$:

  Premium wines and spirits

🏰 What to see in Santa Marta (Magdalena)

Santa Marta (Magdalena) is a city rich in history and culture, offering visitors a glimpse into Colombia's past through its iconic landmarks. Must-visit landmarks in Santa Marta include ancient ruins, colonial architecture, and breathtaking natural wonders.

• Tayrona National Park

  Explore the captivating beauty of this national park, featuring pristine beaches, dense jungle, and archaeological sites of the indigenous Tayrona civilization.

• Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino

  Visit this historic hacienda where Simón Bolívar spent his final days, now transformed into a museum and cultural center showcasing Colombia's independence history.

• Cathedral Basilica of Santa Marta

  Admire the stunning architecture of this cathedral, the oldest in South America, and learn about its significance in Santa Marta's religious heritage.

• Ciudad Perdida (Lost Cit

  Embark on a trek to this ancient archaeological site, hidden deep in the Sierra Nevada mountains, to uncover the mysteries of the Tayrona civilization.

• Rodadero Sea Aquarium and Museum

  Delight in a visit to this interactive aquarium, home to a variety of marine species and educational exhibits highlighting Colombia's coastal ecosystems.

🛍️ Where to go shopping in Santa Marta (Magdalena)

Santa Marta (Magdalena) offers a diverse shopping scene, with options ranging from bustling street markets to upscale boutiques, perfect for finding unique souvenirs and local crafts.

• Best Budget Shopping Place in Santa Marta (Magdalena):

  Mercado Público de Santa Marta: Explore this vibrant public market offering a variety of fresh fruits, handmade jewelry, and colorful textiles at affordable prices.

• Best Mid-Range Shopping Place in Santa Marta (Magdalena):

  Centro Comercial Ocean Mall: Shop at this modern shopping mall for a mix of local and international brands, trendy fashion items, and accessories to suit different tastes.

• Best Luxury Shopping Place in Santa Marta (Magdalena):

  Marina Internacional de Santa Marta: Visit the marina area for upscale shopping opportunities, including high-end fashion boutiques, designer accessories, and luxury goods in a picturesque setting by the sea.

🚌 Getting Around Santa Marta (Magdalena)

• Public Transport

  In Santa Marta, the primary mode of public transportation is buses. These colorful buses cover various routes within the city and its surrounding areas. The fare is typically affordable, ranging from 1,500 to 2,500 COP (Colombian Pesos) per ride. Buses operate from early morning until late evening, providing convenient transportation for both locals and tourists.

• Main Transportation Hubs

  The main transportation hubs in Santa Marta include the Santa Marta Bus Terminal, which serves as a central point for buses traveling to and from the city. The Simon Bolivar International Airport is located approximately 17 kilometers from the city center and offers both domestic and international flights. Additionally, the Santa Marta port is a key hub for maritime transportation, with cruise ships and ferries connecting the city to other destinations.

• 🚗 Rental Services

  For those looking for more flexibility in their travels, rental services are available in Santa Marta. Some popular car rental companies in the area include Hertz, Avis, and Budget. Prices for car rentals can vary depending on the type of vehicle and rental duration, with daily rates starting from around 80,000 COP. 🚲 Bicycles are also a popular rental option for exploring the city and its surroundings. Local providers such as Eco Bici offer bike rentals starting from 15,000 COP per hour, providing an eco-friendly and fun way to get around Santa Marta.