Discover Cartagena
Cartagena de Indias is the most beautiful colonial city in the Americas — and that's no exaggeration. Founded in 1533 as Spain's most important port in the New World, the city was the gateway through which the gold and silver of the New World were shipped to Europe. That's precisely why it was attacked countless times by pirates — and that's precisely why the Spanish built the most formidable fortifications in the Caribbean.
Today, the Ciudad Amurallada (walled city) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Colombia's most visited destination. Colonial palaces with flower-adorned wooden balconies, squares with old trees and fountains, baroque churches, and a city wall where you can stroll at sunset — Cartagena is pure Caribbean dolce vita.
Plan at least 3 days for Cartagena: one day for the old town, one for the beach (Rosario Islands), and one for Getsemaní, Castillo San Felipe, and nightlife. For Tayrona and Ciudad Perdida, you need additional time.
Orientation
Cartagena has several clearly distinct neighborhoods:
- Ciudad Amurallada (Old Town): The UNESCO-protected heart. Within the fortress walls. Colonial splendor, boutique hotels, restaurants, museums. Expensive but indispensable.
- Getsemaní: Directly south of the Old Town, a former working-class neighborhood, now the trendy nightlife district. Street art, hostels, salsa bars, local restaurants. More affordable and authentic than the Old Town.
- Bocagrande: The high-rise peninsula southwest of the Old Town. Beach hotels, casinos, fast-food chains. More like Miami than Cartagena — not recommended for colonial flair.
- Islas del Rosario: Archipelago off the coast (1h by boat). Turquoise waters, snorkeling, day trips.
- La Boquilla: Fishing village north of the city. Authentic Afro-Colombian character, canoe trips through mangroves.
💡 Tipp
Sleep in Getsemaní instead of the Old Town — the prices are half as high, the atmosphere more lively, and the salsa bars right at your doorstep. The Old Town is a 5-minute walk away.
