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Top things to do in Cartagena de Indias

Attractions, tours, and activities in Cartagena de Indias

Cartagena de Indias: the city's best neighborhoods

Find a great area to stay in Cartagena de Indias

About Cartagena de Indias

Including tips for the best time to visit Cartagena de Indias

Situated on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, the charming walled city of Cartagena de Indias is popular for its beaches, nightlife and beautiful Old Town architecture.

Cartagena’s historic Old Town is best explored without an itinerary. Its pretty cobblestone streets are encircled by 13 kilometres of ancient walls dating back to the 16th century. The area is filled with distinctive mansions known for their flower-filled balconies. Combine that with vast churches, monasteries and leafy plazas and it’s easy to see why Cartagena is a photographer’s paradise. Head down to the Clock Tower Monument to catch a local dance performance or explore the incredible fortress of Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas with a guided walking tour.

Cartagena’s tropical climate makes it a prime location for beachgoers, with the local sands of Bocagrande the easiest to reach. However, it’s worth venturing out a little further to reach the beautiful shores of Playa Blanca and the Rosario Islands. Charter boats for these beaches are readily available at one of the city’s several harbours and offer roundtrip tickets.

As the sun sets over Cartagena, the city begins to show a whole other side to itself as its bars and nightclubs come to life. To get a taste of Latin American culture, start off at a top-notch salsa club like Café Havana which offers live music and serves classic cocktails. Most venues get going around midnight and stay open until around 4 AM.

Tonight

From $24 per night

Next weekend

From $37 per night

Most popular time to visit October-December
Cheapest time to visit January-March
Local currency COP 10,000 = $2.41
Language Spanish
Average weekend price $91 per night
Average weekday price $93 per night
Average stay 2 nights

Cartagena de Indias reviews

What other travelers say about Cartagena de Indias

10

If you can't stand the heat, stay out of Cartagena.

September 8, 2024

If you can't stand the heat, stay out of Cartagena. It is a beautiful city with very friendly people. The food was terrific, and I have never had any issues with the gastronomy. There are many things to do and see. It is a unique experience. Do your research and plan your outings. If you like history and culture, you will love this city. It would be best if you understood Spanish or used a translation device.

Glen
Glen United States of America
10

I am glad I had the opportunity to visit Colombia because...

September 5, 2024

I am glad I had the opportunity to visit Colombia because people’s perception of Colombia is very negative. So having visited Colombia I can confidently say it’s one of the nicest places to visit and so much to see and do !!

Gordon
Gordon
10

An Amazing place to visit to immerse in culture , food and...

August 9, 2024

An Amazing place to visit to immerse in culture , food and history. The walled city is beautiful. Would highly recommend visiting the museums and taking advantage of the city tours offered by the different tourist businesses.

ASCHLY
ASCHLY United States of America
10

Awesome city, they have a beautiful mall called La...

August 8, 2024

Awesome city, they have a beautiful mall called La Serrezuela Mall. I recommend the City Tour with private service, we do with Experiencia Cartagena (recommended), take time to visit and walk inside the wall city.

Enrique
Enrique El Salvador
4.0

Would not come back.

July 30, 2024

Would not come back. Cartagena is not inexpensive. Many of the prices were more than in California. The vendors are extremely aggressive. It is not restful, peaceful or ever quiet. Very difficult to sightsee or relax and enjoy your vacation. There are lots of stray dogs. The beaches are not beautiful, ocean is not crystal clear, no mass transit.

John
John United States of America
8.0

Cartagena de Indias, a gem on Colombia's Caribbean coast...

July 20, 2024

Cartagena de Indias, a gem on Colombia's Caribbean coast, is a city that seamlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty. Renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture, the walled city is a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering visitors a charming journey back in time. Strolling through the cobblestone streets, you'll encounter vibrant plazas, majestic churches, and colorful houses adorned with bougainvillea. The city's rich history is complemented by its lively cultural scene. Cartagena hosts numerous festivals, including the renowned Hay Festival and the Cartagena International Music Festival, drawing artists and performers from around the world. The vibrant street life, with local vendors, musicians, and dancers, adds to the city's enchanting atmosphere. Cartagena is also a gateway to stunning natural attractions. The nearby Rosario Islands offer pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling and diving. Whether exploring the historic old town, enjoying the lively nightlife, or relaxing on the beautiful beaches, Cartagena de Indias provides a unique and unforgettable experience for every traveler.

Damon
Damon Canada

Popular places to stay in Cartagena de Indias

Stay in some of the best accommodations Cartagena de Indias has to offer