Getsemaní & Rosario Islands
★★★ Getsemaní — The Heart of Real Cartagena
Getsemaní is Colombia's hottest neighborhood — and we don't just mean the temperature. The former working-class district directly south of the old town has transformed in recent years from a hidden gem to a magnet for travelers, artists, and night owls. While the old town is increasingly dominated by luxury boutique hotels and tourist groups, Getsemaní retains its rough, authentic character.
The walls are covered with street art — political messages, psychedelic motifs, homages to Afro-Colombian culture. The best works can be found along Calle de la Sierpe and around Plaza de la Trinidad. In the evenings, the square comes to life: locals, travelers, musicians, and dancers gather for spontaneous salsa sessions under the open sky.
★★ Islas del Rosario
The Rosario Islands are located 45 minutes by speedboat southwest of Cartagena and are an archipelago of 27 coral islands with turquoise waters inviting for snorkeling and diving. Day trips from Cartagena cost 60,000–150,000 COP (15–35€) depending on the boat and program.
The typical tour includes: boat ride, 2–3 hours on an island (Isla Grande or Isla Barú), lunch (fish + coconut rice), and snorkeling. The islands can be crowded — for more tranquility, choose Isla Grande or a private tour.
Playa Blanca (Isla Barú): Technically not an island, but a peninsula, yet the most beautiful beach near Cartagena. White sand, clear water. Can be reached by boat (30 Min.) or car (1h overland). Very crowded on weekends.
💡 Tipp
Sunset cocktails on the city wall are a must-do ritual. Café del Mar (on the Baluarte de Santo Domingo) has the best view, but also the highest prices. Tip: Buy a cocktail from the street stand below the wall for a third of the price and sit next to it on the wall.
