Cartagena-2-day-itinerary

Day 1: Exploration of Cartagena’s Historic Center

Morning

  • 9:00 am: Start the day at Plaza San Diego, the heart of Cartagena’s historic center.
  • 10:00 am: Visit Casa de la Cera, a beautiful colonial-style house that houses the Museum of Wax.
  • 12:00 pm: Head to Plaza Bolivar for lunch and to people-watch.

Afternoon

  • 1:30 pm: Visit Inquisition Palace, a former palace where the Inquisition court once held its meetings.
  • 3:30 pm: Take a stroll through Calle del Milagro, a picturesque street lined with shops and cafes.

Evening

  • 7:00 pm: Enjoy dinner at La Cevicheria, a popular restaurant serving fresh seafood and traditional Colombian cuisine.
  • 9:00 pm: End the day with a romantic stroll along La Muralla de la Ciudad, the ancient city wall.

Day 2: Beaches and Islands

Morning

  • 9:00 am: Head to Bocagrande, one of Cartagena’s most popular beaches.
  • 11:00 am: Take a boat tour to Islas del Rosario, a beautiful archipelago located just off the coast of Cartagena.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 pm: Enjoy lunch at El Pegaso, a beachside restaurant serving fresh seafood and traditional Colombian cuisine.
  • 3:00 pm: Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach or exploring the nearby shops and cafes.

Hotel Recommendations

Things to Know

  • Safety: As with any city, take normal precautions to ensure your safety. Avoid walking alone in dimly lit areas at night.
  • Currency: The Colombian peso is the local currency. US dollars are widely accepted, but you may receive change in pesos.
  • Weather: Cartagena has a tropical climate. Be sure to bring sunscreen and stay hydrated.

Transportation

  • Walking: Walking is a great way to explore Cartagena’s historic center.
  • Taxis: Taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance.
  • Uber: Uber operates in Cartagena, but may not always be available due to traffic congestion.

Tips

  • Respect local customs: Be mindful of your surroundings and respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try local cuisine: Colombian cuisine is delicious and varied. Try traditional dishes like ajiaco, empanadas, and arepas.
  • Learn some Spanish: While many locals speak English, learning a few basic phrases in Spanish can go a long way.

Other Activities

  • Visit the Gold Museum: Located near Plaza Bolivar, this museum features an impressive collection of gold artifacts and jewelry.
  • Take a city tour: Cartagena offers a variety of guided tours that explore the city’s history, architecture, and culture.
  • Enjoy live music: Cartagena is known for its lively music scene. Enjoy live performances at one of the many bars or clubs in the city.

Additional Resources