Cartagena, Colombia-3-day-itinerary

Day 1: Exploration and Relaxation

Morning

  • 7:00 am: Start your day with a delicious Colombian breakfast at Café San Felipe (Calle del Colegio #32-51). Try their famous coffee and pastries.
  • 8:30 am: Head to the iconic Clock Tower (Torre del Reloj), a stunning example of Spanish colonial architecture. Take some great photos in front of this beautiful landmark.

Afternoon

  • 10:00 am: Visit the Walled City (Ciudad Amurallada), a historic neighborhood filled with colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and quaint shops.
  • 12:30 pm: Stop for lunch at La Cevicheria (Calle del Colegio #32-51). Try their fresh seafood ceviche or other local dishes.

Evening

  • 2:00 pm: Take a break from the heat and relax on the beach at Bocagrande Beach. You can also take a leisurely walk along the Malecón, which offers stunning views of the Caribbean Sea.
  • 7:00 pm: Enjoy dinner at La Casa de las Tres Sirenas (Calle del Colegio #32-51). Savor their Colombian and international cuisine in an intimate setting.

Day 2: Culture and History

Morning

  • 9:00 am: Visit the Gold Museum (Museo del Oro), which showcases a vast collection of pre-Columbian gold artifacts. Be amazed by the craftsmanship and artistry of these ancient pieces.
  • 11:30 am: Head to the Palace of the Inquisition (Palacio de la Inquisición), a 16th-century building that served as the headquarters for the Spanish inquisition.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 pm: Stop for lunch at La Estación (Calle del Colegio #32-51). Try their local cuisine and sandwiches.
  • 2:30 pm: Visit the Rafael Núñez Museum of Modern Art (Museo de Arte Moderno de Cartagena), which features an impressive collection of Colombian modern art.

Evening

  • 7:00 pm: Enjoy dinner at Muelle de los Abuelos (Calle del Colegio #32-51). Savor their seafood and local dishes in a cozy setting.
  • 9:00 pm: Take a stroll around the historic neighborhood and enjoy the street performers, live music, and lively atmosphere.

Day 3: Adventure and Relaxation

Morning

  • 8:00 am: Start your day with a visit to the Cartagena Cathedral (Iglesia de la Trinidad), a stunning example of Spanish colonial architecture.
  • 10:00 am: Take a boat tour to the Rosario Islands, a beautiful archipelago known for its crystal-clear waters and white-sand beaches.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 pm: Stop for lunch on one of the islands. Enjoy fresh seafood and local cuisine.
  • 3:00 pm: Relax on the beach or take a leisurely swim in the Caribbean Sea.

Accommodations

  • Hotel Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena: A 5-star hotel located in the heart of the historic neighborhood, offering luxurious rooms and excellent service.
  • Hostal La Estación: A budget-friendly option with comfortable rooms and a cozy atmosphere.

Getting Around

  • Walking: The best way to explore the historic neighborhood is on foot. Take your time and enjoy the sights and sounds.
  • Taxis: Available throughout the city, but be aware that prices can surge during peak hours.
  • Ride-hailing apps: Uber and Cabify are available in Cartagena.

Tips

  • Respect local customs: Dress modestly when visiting churches or other cultural sites.
  • Bargain at markets: Haggling is a common practice at markets, so be prepared to negotiate prices.
  • Stay hydrated: The sun can be intense, so drink plenty of water throughout the day.

Other things to know

  • Currency: Colombian pesos (COP) and US dollars are widely accepted.
  • Language: Spanish is the official language, but many locals speak some English.
  • Safety: Cartagena is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.