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Get InspiredSouth AmericaColombiaBolivarCartagena

Cartagena

Bolívar, Colombia
City·Historic, Lively, Coastal
Cartagena
Photo by ETNICO artesanías para tí from Google Places
Cartagena
Photo by Jhon gonzalez from Google Places
Cartagena
Photo by carlos euripides rico chavarro from Google Places
Cartagena
Photo by Ingles Para todos CCS - Venezuela from Google Places
Cartagena
Photo by Roman Hampl from Google Places
Cartagena
Photo by ETNICO artesanías para tí from Google Places
Cartagena
Photo by Jhon gonzalez from Google Places
Cartagena
Photo by carlos euripides rico chavarro from Google Places
Cartagena
Photo by Ingles Para todos CCS - Venezuela from Google Places
Cartagena
Photo by Roman Hampl from Google Places

Cartagena, a city on Colombia's Caribbean coast, is renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture and rich history. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its walled city and fortress are a testament to its past as a key Spanish port. Visitors can explore the vibrant cultural scene, enjoy stunning coastal views, and immerse themselves in the city's lively atmosphere. Known for its role in the Spanish Empire, Cartagena offers a unique blend of history and modernity, making it a captivating destination for travelers.

Cartagena, a city on Colombia's Caribbean coast, is renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture and rich history. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its walled city and fortress are a testament to its past as a key Spanish port. Visitors can explore the vibrant cultural scene, enjoy stunning coastal views, and immerse themselves in the city's lively atmosphere. Known for its role in the Spanish Empire, Cartagena offers a unique blend of history and modernity, making it a captivating destination for travelers.

You might want to ask

Highlights

  • UNESCO World Heritage Site with colonial architecture.

  • Major port city with maritime history.

  • Vibrant cultural scene with festivals and events.

  • Rich history as a former Spanish colony.

  • Stunning coastal views and beaches.

Before you go: Cartagena essentials

  • Close access to beautiful Caribbean beaches.

  • Rich cultural heritage with historical sites and museums.

  • Popular tourist destination with a bustling nightlife.

Getting Around

Cartagena is best explored on foot, especially the historic walled city.

Local Cuisine

Try local specialties like arepas and fresh seafood along the coast.

Best For

History buffs and cultural explorers.

Currency

COP $

Average Cost

$50-$100 p/day

Languages Spoken

Spanish, English

Safety

Be cautious in crowded areas and keep an eye on your belongings.

Weather

The city is hot and humid year-round, so dress lightly and stay hydrated.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs, especially when visiting religious sites.

Best time to visit Cartagena

December to April

Spring

Spring is a great time to visit Cartagena with pleasant weather and fewer tourists.

Summer

Expect hot and humid conditions; ideal for beach activities.

Fall

A quieter time to explore the city with cooler temperatures.

Best Season

Winter

Enjoy the festive atmosphere and cultural events during the holiday season.

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Location

Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia
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Where to stay in Cartagena

Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Vista Mare Beach House

4.2(141)
Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar
Relaxing, Quiet, Scenic
Place
Place
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Place
Place

Hotel Stay Villa Marta

4.1(126)
Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar
Comfortable, Reliable, Traveler Friendly
Place
Place
Place
Place
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HOSPEDAJE EL CARRETERO

4.2(250)
Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar
Welcoming, Comfortable
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Hotel Caribbean Cartagena

4.4(388)
Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar
Comfortable, Convenient, Traveler Friendly
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Place
Place
Place
Place

Hotel Playa Club

4.2(2,2 K)
Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar
Casual, Laid Back, Convenient
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Huespedia Stay

4.8(152)
Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar
Luxurious, Relaxing, Secure
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Place
Place
Place
Place

Hotel Casa Isla de Manga

4.1(434)
Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar
Comfortable, Convenient, Local
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Place
Place
Place
Place

Casa del Puerto Hostel & Suites

4.3(252)
Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar
Casual, Relaxed, Social

Food & drink in Cartagena

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Place
Place
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Place

Buffalo Grill Cartagena

4.9(2,5 K)
Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar
Casual, Family Friendly, Welcoming
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Place
Place
Place
Place

Colibri Café

4.9(740)
Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar
Casual, Friendly, Welcoming
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Place
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LA BRIOCHE Bocagrande

4.8(4,3 K)
Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar
Warm, Inviting, Friendly
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Place
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Restaurante Casa Histórica 1927

4.8(1 K)
Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar
Warm, Inviting, Relaxed
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Place
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Meeza Café , Brunch & Bar Salón

4.9(548)
Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar
Cozy, Relaxed, Intimate
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Place
Place
Place
Place

Casa del Tunel Restaurante Bar

4.7(1,1 K)
Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar
Relaxed, Cozy, Unpretentious
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Place
Place
Place
Place

Cafe San Antonio by Casa Jaguar

4.8(331)
Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar
Rustic, Cozy, Welcoming
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Place
Place
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Place

Restaurante La Casa de Socorro

4.3(5 K)
Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar
Warm, Welcoming, Vibrant

Things to do in Cartagena

Cartagena Island Hopping: 5-Stop Rosario Islands Tour with Lunch
From $70

Cartagena Island Hopping: 5-Stop Rosario Islands Tour with Lunch

4.8(5,9 K)
Duration: 7h
Cartagena
Cartagena City Tour with Admission to Castillo San Felipe
From $33

Cartagena City Tour with Admission to Castillo San Felipe

2.6(10)
Duration: 3h 30min
Cartagena
Bora Bora Cartagena Beach Club Full Day Experience
From $116

Bora Bora Cartagena Beach Club Full Day Experience

4.1(652)
Duration: 8h 30min
Cartagena
Cartagena Shore Excursion : Walled City (Port to Port Service)
From $60

Cartagena Shore Excursion : Walled City (Port to Port Service)

5.0(2)
Duration: 4h
Cartagena
Cartagena Bike Tour
From $90

Cartagena Bike Tour

4.7(37)
Duration: 2h
Cartagena
Private Dance Lessons in Cartagena
From $24

Private Dance Lessons in Cartagena

4.8(12)
Duration: 1h
Cartagena
Cartagena Airport to Cartagena (or vice versa) One Way Private T
From $21

Cartagena Airport to Cartagena (or vice versa) One Way Private T

4.9(33)
Duration: 1h
Cartagena
Private Tour Walled City Walking Tour
From $30

Private Tour Walled City Walking Tour

5.0(7)
Duration: 3h
Cartagena
Explore on Viator

Attractions in Cartagena

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Tierra Bomba Island

4.3(429)
Cartagena, Bolivar
Relaxed, Scenic, Historic
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Place
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Place

Beach Costa Azul - playa restaurante

4.1(417)
Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar
Relaxing, Scenic, Family Friendly
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Place
Place
Place
Place

Playas El Laguito

4.3(484)
Cartagena, Bolívar
Vibrant, Family Friendly, Scenic
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Place
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Place

BUZOS DE BARU PADI 5 STAR DIVE RESORT

4.9(586)
Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar
Adventurous, Professional, Scenic
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Place
Place
Place
Place

Playa Hollywood

4.3(1,4 K)
Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar
Lively, Tourist Friendly
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Beaches Cartagena Plaza

4.2(226)
Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar
Lively, Urban, Beachside
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Playa De Bocagrande

4.3(8,6 K)
Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar
Lively, Urban, Tourist Friendly
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Place
Place
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Place

Costa del Sol beaches

4.4(294)
Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar
Relaxed, Scenic, Tourist Friendly

Natural & historic sites near Cartagena

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Rosario and San Bernardo Corals National Natural Park

Sucre Department
Protected Area · Natural, Serene, Expansive