Cartagena-7-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Rafael Nuñez Airport (CTG)
  • 9:00 AM: Check-in at Hotel Casa San Agustin or similar, a colonial-style boutique hotel in the historic center
  • 10:00 AM: Visit the nearby Plaza de la Aduana and stroll around the colorful streets of the old city, including Calle del Arzobispo and Calle de los Cartujanos
  • 12:00 PM: Lunch at Café San Agustin, a local favorite with delicious empanadas and sandwiches
  • 1:30 PM: Visit the iconic Clock Tower (Torre del Reloj) and take in the stunning views of the Caribbean Sea
  • 3:00 PM: Explore the nearby Museum of the Inquisition (Museo de la Inquisición), a 16th-century building that served as an inquisition prison
  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy a cocktail at Bar del Príncipe, a historic bar with a beautiful patio
  • 8:00 PM: Dinner at La Cevicheria, a renowned restaurant serving fresh seafood and ceviche

Day 2: Get Lost in the Streets

  • 9:00 AM: Start the day with breakfast at Café Havana, a cozy spot with Cuban coffee and pastries
  • 10:00 AM: Wander through the narrow streets of Cartagena, exploring hidden alleys, colonial buildings, and vibrant street art
  • 12:30 PM: Lunch at El Balcón, a charming restaurant with stunning views of the sea
  • 2:00 PM: Visit the famous Plaza Santo Domingo, a bustling square surrounded by historic buildings and shops
  • 4:00 PM: Explore the nearby Convent of San Pedro Claver (Convento de San Pedro Claver)
  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy a relaxing sunset at Puerto del Rosario, a scenic spot with beautiful views of the bay
  • 9:00 PM: Dinner at Bar La Casa Vieja, a historic bar and restaurant serving traditional Colombian cuisine

Day 3: Beach Day

  • 8:00 AM: Breakfast at Café del Mar, a beachfront café with stunning views of the ocean
  • 9:30 AM: Head to Bocagrande Beach (Playa de Bocagrande), one of Cartagena’s most popular beaches, for a day of swimming and relaxation
  • 12:30 PM: Lunch at El Muelle, a beachfront restaurant serving fresh seafood and local specialties
  • 3:00 PM: Visit the nearby Castle of San Felipe de Barajas (Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas), a 17th-century fortress with stunning views of the city
  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy a drink at Bar el Galeón, a historic bar with beautiful views of the sea

Day 4: Culture and History

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Palace of the Inquisition (Palacio de la Inquisición), a 16th-century building that served as an inquisition prison
  • 11:00 AM: Explore the nearby Museum of Modern Art (Museo de Arte Moderno), showcasing Colombian and international art
  • 12:30 PM: Lunch at Café del Príncipe, a historic café with beautiful patio views
  • 2:00 PM: Visit the iconic San Pedro Claver Church (Iglesia de San Pedro Claver)
  • 4:00 PM: Explore the nearby neighborhood of Getsemaní, known for its vibrant street art and local shops
  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy a performance at Teatro Adolfo Mejía, a historic theater hosting cultural events

Day 5: Day Trip to the Rosario Islands

  • 9:00 AM: Take a ferry from Cartagena’s Bocagrande Beach to the Rosario Islands (Islas del Rosario)
  • 11:00 AM: Explore the islands’ crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and stunning beaches
  • 1:00 PM: Lunch on the island or bring your own picnic lunch
  • 3:00 PM: Snorkel or swim in the ocean or simply relax on the beach
  • 6:00 PM: Return to Cartagena by ferry

Day 6: Local Markets and Food

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the bustling Mercado de San Juan (San Juan Market), a local market selling fresh produce, meats, and souvenirs
  • 11:00 AM: Explore the nearby neighborhood of El Poblado, known for its local shops, cafes, and restaurants
  • 12:30 PM: Lunch at La Macarena, a popular spot serving traditional Colombian cuisine
  • 2:00 PM: Visit the nearby Convent of the Discalced Carmelites (Convento de los Descalzos)
  • 4:00 PM: Enjoy a coffee or snack at Café La Casa, a cozy spot with beautiful views

Day 7: Departure

  • 8:00 AM: Breakfast at Café Havana
  • 9:30 AM: Check-out from hotel and head to Rafael Nuñez Airport (CTG)
  • 11:00 AM: Depart from Cartagena

Things to Know

  • Weather: Cartagena has a tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F-95°F) throughout the year
  • Safety: Take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings in crowded areas and tourist hotspots
  • Currency: Colombian peso is the local currency; US dollars are widely accepted
  • Language: Spanish is the official language, but many locals speak some English

Transportation

  • Airport Transfer: Taxi or private transfer from Rafael Nuñez Airport (CTG) to hotel
  • Walking and Taxis: Walking is a great way to explore Cartagena; taxis are also widely available
  • Tour Operators: Book tours and activities with reputable operators, such as Cartagena Tour or Travel Colombia

Tips

  • Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly when visiting churches or cultural sites
  • Bargain at Markets: Haggling is a normal part of shopping at local markets and from street vendors
  • Bring Sun Protection: Cartagena’s sun can be intense; bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses
  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day

Other Interests

  • Shopping: Explore the local shops selling handicrafts, jewelry, and souvenirs
  • Nightlife: Experience Cartagena’s vibrant nightlife at bars, clubs, or live music venues
  • Adventure Activities: Book excursions for snorkeling, diving, or kayaking in the surrounding waters