Cartagena

Cartagena Travel Guide

Welcome to Cartagena, the vibrant city on Colombia’s Caribbean coast! With its rich history, stunning architecture, and lively atmosphere, Cartagena is a must-visit destination for any traveler. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the best places to visit, things to do, where to eat, where to stay, and more.

Places to Visit

Historical Center

The Historic Center of Cartagena is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most impressive colonial cities in South America. Here are some must-see attractions:

  • Plaza de San Pedro Claver: A beautiful square surrounded by stunning colonial buildings.
  • Cathedral of Cartagena: A grand cathedral with impressive architecture and beautiful stained-glass windows.
  • Convent of San Diego: A 17th-century convent turned museum, showcasing the city’s rich history.

Beaches

Cartagena has some of the most beautiful beaches in Colombia. Here are our top picks:

  • Bocagrande Beach: One of the most popular beaches in Cartagena, with clear waters and powdery sand.
  • Castillo Beach: A secluded beach perfect for relaxing and snorkeling.
  • Playa Blanca: A stunning white-sand beach near the city’s industrial port.

Neighborhoods

Explore these vibrant neighborhoods to experience the authentic Cartagena:

  • Getsemani: The oldest neighborhood in Cartagena, known for its street performers, shops, and restaurants.
  • San Diego: A charming neighborhood with historic architecture and lively nightlife.
  • La Matuna: A bustling area with great food options, markets, and cultural attractions.

Activities

Water Sports

Cartagena’s beaches offer plenty of opportunities for water sports:

  • Snorkeling: Explore the underwater world off Bocagrande Beach or Castillo Beach.
  • Scuba diving: Discover the rich marine life of Cartagena’s coast with a guided dive tour.
  • Surfing: Catch some waves at Playa Blanca or other nearby beaches.

Culture

Immerse yourself in Cartagena’s vibrant culture:

  • Salsa lessons: Learn the rhythms and moves of Colombian salsa dancing.
  • Museums: Visit the Naval Museum, the Gold Museum, or the Modern Art Museum to learn about Cartagena’s history and art.
  • Festivals: Experience the city’s lively festivals, such as the Festival de Música en el Barrio (Music Festival) or the Carnaval.

Food

Savor the flavors of Cartagena:

  • Restaurants: Try local specialties like ceviche, arroz con pollo, and pescado frito at restaurants like La Casona, El Gato, or Casa Pomar.
  • Street food: Enjoy fresh coconut water, arepas, or empanadas from street vendors.
  • Food tours: Join a guided tour to explore Cartagena’s culinary scene.

Where to Stay

Luxury

Treat yourself to luxury accommodations:

  • Hotel Caribe: A 5-star hotel located on Bocagrande Beach, offering stunning ocean views and top-notch service.
  • Casa Pomar: A boutique hotel with a colonial-style design and cozy atmosphere.

Mid-range

Choose from these comfortable options:

  • Hotel Almedina: A family-run hotel in the heart of Cartagena’s Historic Center, offering affordable rates and warm hospitality.
  • Hotel Torre del Mar: A modern hotel with stylish rooms and excellent service.

Budget

Stay within your budget at these affordable options:

  • Hostal Casa El Patio: A cozy hostel in Getsemani neighborhood, offering shared or private rooms.
  • Alojamiento Familiar: A family-run boarding house in the heart of Cartagena’s Historic Center.

Things to Know

Safety

Cartagena is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions:

  • Pickpocketing: Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
  • Scams: Be cautious of scams targeting tourists, such as overpriced tours or fake services.

Weather

Cartagena’s tropical climate means warm temperatures and high humidity year-round. Be prepared for:

  • Rainy season: May to October is the wettest period, with occasional rain showers.
  • Sunshine: Expect plenty of sunshine during the dry season (November to April).

Transportation**

Get around Cartagena easily:

  • Taxis: Available at designated taxi stands or by hailing on the street.
  • Ride-hailing apps: Use services like Uber or Cabify for quick transportation.
  • Public buses: Take advantage of affordable bus routes, such as the B-1 route from the city center to the airport.

Tips and More

Language

Most locals speak Spanish, but English is also widely spoken. Learn some basic phrases in Spanish to enhance your experience:

  • Greetings: Say “hola” (hello), “gracias” (thank you), or “¿cómo estás?” (how are you?).
  • Pronunciation: Pay attention to the melodic rhythm and pronunciation of Colombian Spanish.

Photography

Capture Cartagena’s vibrant atmosphere with your camera:

  • Permits: Some areas, like the Historic Center, require permits for photography.
  • Respect locals: Be mindful of people’s privacy and avoid taking photos without permission.

Additional Resources

For more information on Cartagena and its surroundings, check out these resources:

  • Colombia Tourism Board: The official tourism website for Colombia, offering travel tips and insider knowledge.
  • Cartagena City Guide: A comprehensive guide to the city’s history, culture, and attractions.
  • Reddit: Join r/Colombia or r/Cartagena for traveler advice and recommendations.

Enjoy your time in Cartagena!