Cartagena de Indias
Colombia · Bolívar · 0 m
Description
Cartagena de Indias, or Cartagena for short, is the historic gem of Colombia’s Caribbean coast and is considered one of the most beautiful colonial cities in South America. Surrounded by imposing fortress walls, the Old Town enchants visitors with its pastel-colored mansions, flower-adorned balconies, winding alleys, and lively squares, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Cartagena is known for its impressive fortifications, the colorful Getsemaní neighborhood, its Caribbean culture, as well as its vibrant culinary scene and bustling nightlife. Off the coast, the Rosario Islands and Isla Barú invite visitors to enjoy unforgettable excursions with their white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities. The city combines colonial heritage with tropical flair and is considered the premier destination on Colombia’s Caribbean coast.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 3 to 8 days (optimal 5 days)
Travel season
Best time to visit: December – March
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Walled City & Colonial Old Town (UNESCO)
- Castillo San Felipe de Barajas
- Rosario Islands (Corales del Rosario)(Day trip)
- Barú & Playa Blanca(Day trip)
- Cartagena City Walls & Bastions
- Getsemaní & Street Art
- Torre del Reloj & Plaza de los Coches
- Plaza de Bolívar & Palace of the Inquisition
- Sunset from the City Walls
- Cartagena Cathedral
- San Pedro Claver Church & Convent
- Plaza Santo Domingo
- Plaza de la Aduana
- Las Bóvedas
- Snorkeling & Diving in the Rosario Islands(Day trip)
- Plaza de la Trinidad
- Convento de la Popa & Panoramic Views
- Bocagrande & Caribbean Seafront
- Totumo Mud Volcano(Day trip)
- Cartagena Caribbean Street Food
- Mercado de Bazurto
- Museo del Oro Zenú
- Caribbean Naval Museum
- Teatro Adolfo Mejía
- La Boquilla & Mangrove Canoe Tour
- Bocachica Fortifications(Day trip)
- Laguna Encantada Bioluminescence (new moon)(Day trip)
Getting there
- Airports:
- CTG
- Seaport:
- Reachable by ship or ferry