Cartagena 4 Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Exploration
- Morning:
- Arrive at Rafael Nunez International Airport (CTG)
- Take a taxi or Uber to your hotel in the Old Town ( approx. $10-15 USD)
- Check-in at Hotel Casa San Agustin or similar
- Afternoon:
- Visit the famous Plaza San Diego and take a stroll through the colorful streets of the Old Town
- Stop by the iconic Clock Tower (Torre del Reloj) for photos
- Get lost in the narrow streets and discover local shops, cafes, and street food vendors
- Evening:
- Enjoy dinner at Restaurante La Cevicheria, a popular spot for fresh seafood and ceviche
- Take a sunset cruise around the Old Town’s bay (approx. $30-40 USD)
- Tips:
- Be prepared for crowds and noise in the Old Town
- Try some local street food like empanadas or arepas
- Don’t drink tap water, stick to bottled or filtered water
Day 2: History and Culture
- Morning:
- Visit the Gold Museum (Museo del Oro), showcasing Cartagena’s rich history and gold artifacts (approx. $15-20 USD)
- Explore the Convent of San Pedro Claver, a beautiful colonial-era convent
- Stop by the Palace of the Inquisition (Palacio de la Inquisicion), a museum featuring local art and history
- Afternoon:
- Take a guided tour to the ancient city of Cartagena (approx. $20-30 USD)
- Visit the stunning San Felipe Castle, offering breathtaking views of the Old Town
- Enjoy some free time to explore the nearby Plaza de las Flores
- Evening:
- Have dinner at Restaurante La Vitrola, a cozy spot for seafood and live music
- Take a walk along the Old Town’s walls and enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere
Day 3: Beach Day
- Morning:
- Head to Bocagrande Beach ( Playa Bocagrande), one of Cartagena’s most popular beaches
- Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, or try some water sports like paddleboarding or kayaking
- Relax at the beachside restaurant, La Wally, for lunch and snacks
- Afternoon:
- Visit the nearby Playa de los Cocalitos, a secluded beach with calm waters (approx. $10-15 USD)
- Enjoy snorkeling or swimming in this picturesque cove
- Evening:
- Have dinner at Restaurante El Puerto, a seafood restaurant with stunning views of the sea
- Take a stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the sunset
Day 4: Markets and Shopping
- Morning:
- Visit the bustling Mercado de San Juan, a local market offering fresh produce, souvenirs, and snacks
- Explore the nearby Plaza de la Aduana, a historic square with colonial-era architecture
- Stop by the iconic Iglesia de San Francisco, a beautiful church with stunning views of the Old Town
- Afternoon:
- Visit the upscale shopping center, Centro Comercial Puerta del Mar (approx. $10-15 USD)
- Browse through local boutiques and stores offering unique souvenirs and gifts
- Enjoy some free time to relax at your hotel or explore the nearby streets
- Evening:
- Have a farewell dinner at Restaurante La Casona, a cozy spot for traditional Colombian cuisine
Getting Around
- Taxi: approx. $10-15 USD per ride
- Uber: approx. $5-10 USD per ride
- Walking: Cartagena’s Old Town is very walkable, with narrow streets and historic architecture to explore
- Public Transportation: bus service available, but not always reliable
Tips and Essentials
- Be prepared for crowds and noise in the Old Town
- Try some local street food like empanadas or arepas
- Don’t drink tap water, stick to bottled or filtered water
- Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for outdoor exploration
- Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting churches or cultural sites
Accommodation
- Hotel Casa San Agustin: a luxurious boutique hotel in the heart of the Old Town (approx. $200-300 USD per night)
- Hotel Sofitel Legend Santa Clara: a historic hotel with stunning views of the city (approx. $250-350 USD per night)
Note: Prices are estimates and may vary depending on the time of year, availability, and other factors.
I hope this itinerary helps you plan your trip to Cartagena!