You can find paintings, sculptures, and other pieces in galleries throughout the city. These alcoves are interspersed with cramped bars and galleries. Explore the Historic Old City The colourful Old City is filled with fascinating history and visiting it is one of the key things to see and do in Cartagena. The building is dedicated to a Spanish priest, Pedro Claver, who gave his life to serve God and people in need. Here are three places where you wont be disappointed: Be ready to pay from 25 40,000 COP for those cocktails. If you want to have a chance to get a table, I advise you to arrive around 4:30 pm. If youre looking for something more secluded and private, then Playa Blanca or Castillo Grande might be better options. Now its time to have a look at the surroundings of Cartagena. Being a public beach, it is always busy during the holidays and weekends and the hawkers may disturb your peace. It was once anadditional fortress for the city and is now home to a museum and the chapel of theVirgen de la Candelaria, which is Cartagena's patron saint. Experience a healing mud bath at the Mud Volcano (from USD 40.0), 9 Best Things To Do In Medellin, Colombia At Night: Blast The Music! 14. The best time to visit Cartagena is during the winter when the weather is a bit cooler. Those looking to experience the real Cartagena should think about visiting Mercado de Bazurto. Check it out in this section. per adult (price varies by group size) Totumo Volcano and Mar Rosa Tour in Cartagena with Lunch. Staff in restaurants, hotels and some shops in Cartagena speak English to at least a reasonable level because of the large number of international . It initially contained a weapon room and a chapel, until in the late 19th century, when it was rebuilt to house a pendulum clock. Explore Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas (San Felipe Castle) 3. For History boffs, this is by far one of the best things to do in Cartagena. The best way to experience the citys vibrant nightlife is on a nightlife tour. Although some of its sections are broken, you can stroll on certain parts of the building and admire the locations historical and architectural wonders, such as the vibrant city plazas. It is without a doubt one of the most photogenic cities in South America. Every night, a hundred travelers and locals gather to listen to music, drink a beer, or chat. This popular tourist attraction offers beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and mangroves. If you dont wanna read the full list of the best things to do in Cartagena de Indias, read at least this section. It offers fresh produce, seafood, and practically everything else. You will also find vendors selling street food and drinks. Stay safe and enjoy your time in Cartagena! Originally known as the Boca del Puente, Puerta del Reloj is the main city gate and the original entrance of the colonial city. Clock Tower Monument, also called La Torre del Reloj, is one of the most important sections of the Walls of Cartagena, considered the main entrance of the old city. Add a Comment. One of the city's most famous historic attractions is the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, a castle and fortress built by the Spanish in the 16th and 17th centuries. A republican-style tower with a four-sided clock was then added later. You can enter with or without a guide. 1. One excellent option is the Conrad, conveniently located about halfway between the airport and the walled city. All Rights Reserved. If youre looking for a unique souvenir to take home with you, be sure to check out the local art scene. The two areas where English is most widely spoken are inside the walled city of Cartagena and in the Caribbean islands of San Andres and Providencia. Some of these are theft, pick-pocketing, and sexual assault. Because C It's called the Ciudad Amurallada -- Walled City -- and it's where the majority of hotels and restaurants are located, in addition to being extremely walkable. Tour the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas. However, its important to note that visitors should take care because the old town has its own set of safety issues. Stroll Around the Old City Photo Courtesy: Diane Oliveira Cartagena's Old City is arguably its most famous attraction. Explore the city in an entirely unique way by preparing a list of what you are going to do while in the city. There are also more traditionally ice cream-y flavors like vanilla and chocolate if you feel like sticking to a more North American classic. Its construction, completed in the late 18th century, took almost two centuries. This small but lovingly curated two-story museum focuses on work by Colombian and Latin American artists and has information in Spanish and English. Whether youre interested in history, culture, food, or nightlife, Cartagena wont disappoint. The locals take this event very much to heart. As a result, this is going to be one of the most popular suggestions for things to do in Cartagena. Gabriel Marquez is a famous Colombian novelist who won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1982, rewarding a singular writing style, a mixture of realism, and a skillful touch of surreality. Oh La La also offers cooking classes in Spanish and English. Besides coffee (if you want to learn more, they'll set up an informal tasting), there are plenty of fresh fruit juices, herbal teas and cakes. 14. Cartagena, Colombia - Best Things to Do, Safety and Cost of Living Budget . Create Your Custom Cartagena Colombia Tour Today. I put it all together in our guide to Cartagena de Indias. The landmark connects old Cartagena with Getsemani through the drawbridge and it is one of the countrys most revered attractions. Dont forget to read our Rosario Islands Travel Guide. Join us on a 12-month journey to see them all. With a slew of newer hotels and restaurants, the lesser-known neighborhood of Getsemani is becoming a popular spot for locals and visitors alike to soak up the culture of Cartegena. 4. It is situated next to the Clock Tower and boasts a local vibe that refuses to succumb to new trends You will find drinks like Cerveza and aguardiente, no fancy cocktails. Address: Cl. You can do everything on foot. Although most visitors just boat over for a day trip, lodging is available on a few of the islands. Get our travel tips Delivered to your inbox. For the historic adventurer diving into Cartagenas past, visiting this palace can lead to some dark discoveries. The Convento de la Popais a beautiful spot with flowered patios to catch the sunset over the gorgeous city skyline. Depending on when you arrive, there may be a fantastic event planned. There are a few different boat tours you can take in Cartagena. This peninsula of 4-5 long streets is bordered by crowded beaches and the citys bay. For travelers who want to explore the rest of the. I'm Isabel, a full-time traveller and digital nomad. It is also a great beach destination gilded with white sand, palm trees and coral reefs. Of the many things to do, make sure to walk and see Cartagena's quaint plazas that reside within its old city walls. Its a great place for snorkelling or just getting away from it all for a while. This will help you cover the basic things a person visiting Cartagena should do. You can contact Diving Planet to organize a day trip from Cartagena or decide to sleep in San Pedro de Majagua thats where Diving Planet keeps its diving gear. And one of my favorite things from the trip! - Updated 2022, 10 Amazing Bachelor Party Ideas In Cartagena, Colombia - Updated 2022, Top 10 Airbnb Vacation Rentals In Dungog, Australia - Updated 2022, Top 10 Airbnb Vacation Rentals In Dulwich, Australia - Updated 2022, Top 10 Airbnb Vacation Rentals In Drouin, Australia - Updated 2022, Top 10 Airbnb Vacation Rentals In Dundas, Australia, Top 10 Airbnb Vacation Rentals In Dunwich, Australia - Updated 2022. Consequently, there are lots of historic tourist attractions in Cartagena on show. The most famous are: El Dictador, La Hechicera and Rum Parce. Aside from the restaurants, the main draws to this location are the 16th-century Church of Santo Domingo the oldest and the most beautiful church in the city and a Botero Statue. The wall was erected to protect the historic area from pirates and other attackers. 23. The classic tleche de tigre with lime juice, fish stock and cilantro is also solid. 2. The beaches on Isla del Rosario are also worth a visit; theyre some of the most picturesque in all of Colombia. Cartagena de Indias, Provincia de Cartagena, Explore a Darker Past at Palacio de la Inquisicon. WALK THE WALL. There are several. The interior is adorned with exquisite stained-glass windows which are relics from the wars that took place in the 16th century when Spain occupied this part of South America. Centenario Park, located between Getsemani and the old city center, was built to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the independence of Cartagena. It will be fantastic with tasty coconut rice. A visit to the main plaza of the old town should be high on your list of things to do in Cartagena. Table of Contents 1. Cartagena, perched on Colombia's Caribbean coast, is quickly becoming a must-visit, especially for Americans and Canadians enjoying new, convenient flight routes. You can check out. Today, the 785-seat-capacity hall hosts myriads of national and international performances from renowned artists and groups. And most of them are air-conditioned! Its one of the best Cartagena tours you could book during your stay (if you like group tours). Discover the citys wealth of exquisite architecture by touring the elegant mansions of the Manga neighbourhood, monuments such as San Felipe Castle, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed walled city, the Monastery of La Popa and the modern districts of Cartagena. Its one of the best things to do in Cartagena if you cant stay overnight on the Rosario Islands. Visiting La Boquilla is an excellent option to avoid the crowd and do something different in Cartagena. It is a magical place that features the most beautiful sunsets, great music, exotic nights and a cosmopolitan atmosphere for spending memorable hours with friends. City Sightseeing Cartagena Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour 338 Bus Tours from $15.00 per adult Sunset tour Sibarita Express 90 minutes with Open Bar 180 Recommended Shore Excursions from $29.99 per adult Walking Tour Cartagena Old City including Gold Museum and Plaza de Bolivar 13 Private and Luxury from $40.00 per adult (price varies by group size) Totumo Mud Volcano I must admit that their colorful dresses are beautiful. Theres no shortage of places to party in Cartagena. The temperatures are also nice and mild during this time, averaging around 27 degrees Celsius (80 degrees Fahrenheit). 13 Must-Do Things To Do In Cartagena, Colombia 1. Address: #8-160 a, Cl. However, this does not affect our reviews and comparisons. So be sure to stop by Plaza Bolvar during your stay in Cartagena you wont regret it! Therefore, Cartagena, Colombia is often called by its full name, "Cartagena de Indias," or Cartagena of the Indies. Miramar Beach Club, Tierra Bomba Island, Colombia. It provides a great break from the very busy and touristy area of the old city. Another option is the posh, clubby Blue Apple Beach House, located on Isla Tierra Bomba just off the southwestern side of Cartagena. It can still be a fun activity to do in Cartagena if you have little time and want a quick visit. And if you're planning a longer trip, spend the first few days in the walled city getting your bearings before venturing further afield. Stop by El Paraso on the beach for some of the freshest seafood in the region and be sure to chat with the locals about where else to eat in the areathese hyper-local restaurants are often hidden among the beachfront shacks and poorer back streets of the town. One great place to sample them is small, adorable La Palettera, home of popsicles made with lulo (a citrus fruit), maracuy (a tart breed of passionfruit) or corozo (a reddish berry similar to a cranberry, but sweeter). The Clock Tower is one of them. And yes, it was fun! Check out these alternative activities in the same location. From art to a rich history and amazing cuisine, this city has it all. Allow 1 to 2 hours to walk around Getseman. It is the most famous and beautiful beach in Cartagena. Baru and Playa Blanca Full Day Including Lunch. Stroll Through The Plazas of Cartagena's Old Town. Getseman is a lesser-known neighbourhood than Cartagenas old town but has its own charm worth exploring. To get there, you can book private transportation or a taxi. If you know the right people, you can get away with it for a reasonable budget and enjoy a much more fun experience than a group tour. If youre looking for an unforgettable nature experience, be sure to add Isla del Rosario to your list! Get a chance to explore the historic streets and monuments of Cartagena on this four-hour tour. Being a port city on the Caribbean coast, the city boasts of plenty of things to see and do. You will have to take private transport or go on a tour. Demente, just off the Plaza de Trinidad in the heart of the neighborhood, has pizzas, small plates (don't skip the albondigas) and killer cocktails, and on nice nights they'll open up the retractable roof. As it's still a private residence, though, you can't go inside. For the kitsch factor alone, it's worth stopping into KGB Bar, which is filled with Soviet-era medals, cosmonaut uniforms and other memorabilia. It offers some of the best views of Cartagena, which explains why its a popular tourist attraction in Cartagena. Known as the crown jewel of the Caribbean coast, Cartagena brings together the best of colonial charm. The Old City and Getsemani neighborhood are the best places to explore! Horse Carriage Ride of the City 9. Some restaurants are located in beautiful colonial buildings, especially those in the walled city. Ask Cathy to plan the best Getseman walking tour. Also within the walled area is the section of Getsemani which is less expensive but worth a daytime stroll. data from the official national tourism board. Discover local delicacies on a street food tour There are a few different ways to get to Parque Nacional Natural Corales del Rosario you can take a bus, taxi, or boat. Above, I listed 13 fantastic things to do in Cartagena, Colombia. Cartagena then became a center for the inquisition and a big slave market. There, youll find 2 pleasant places to have a quick break: Plaza San Diego and Parque Fernndez Madrid. Its a pity, especially if you come here to celebrate a special occasion. Your boat will leave around 9 am from the port in front of the old city, and you will be back around 4 pm. Stretching back in time to the Spanish Colonial era, the castle was built to protect the Spanish-Caribbean trade of Cartagena. Do they speak English in Cartagena Colombia? If youre looking for an amazing South American vacation spot, dont miss out on Cartagena de Indias. Brazil, the country's great coffee rival to the south, produces smoother-flavored beans, grown at lower altitudes and preferred by many. Explore the Street Art in Getsemani. Top 25 Things To Do In Cartagena, Colombia - Updated 2022, Search Vrbo for the best Holiday Homes & Rentals, things to do in cartagena colombia | admire the stunning architecture of san felipe castle, admire the stunning architecture of san felipe castle, explore the historic old town in a horse-drawn carriage, experience a healing mud bath at the mud volcano, Top 15 Airbnb Vacation Rentals In Cartagena, Colombia - Updated 2022, 15 Best Airbnb Vacation Rentals In Medellin, Colombia - Updated 2022, 5 Best All-Inclusive Resorts In San Andrs, Colombia, 6. Cartagena is a great city to explore on foot. Cartagena is a beautiful place to visit all year round. The Palace of Inquisition is a relic from the Spanish Inquisition when the Catholic Church tortured and executed thousands of non-Catholics for crimes real or false. The biggest drawback with most group tours heading to the islands is that you will be crammed onto a small boat for 2-3 hours. I did a great Cartagena photography tour with Marina. Learn More About Cartagena's History at its Museums. One option for getting introduced to the neighborhood is a food or street art tour from. One of the most notable, with a dramatic stone front, is the church of San Pedro Claver. This is an excellent spot for rhumba music and great food in the Bocagrande sector. You cant go wrong if you visit during any season because its always sunny and warm at the beach line year-round! And at midnight, there is a superb fireworks show. If youre looking for a lively atmosphere, then Bocagrande is the place to be. Originally a church built by Spanish Jesuits in the 1600s, it was renamed for Pedro (Peter) Claver, who was canonized in 1888. But even if youre not lucky to visit during an organized program, seeing the historic exteriors is rewarding. For a more adrenaline-filled, choose and Colombian adventure of kayaking, snorkeling, or climbing the monumental fortresses. Sanctuary of Saint Peter Claver (San Pedro Claver) This sanctuary is a beautiful building with a lush internal garden. If you have the night planned out for dancing, set your mood by hitting plaza la Trinidad early. Many boat owners rent their boats to tourists in Cartagena. Once you reach La Boquilla, youll have access to some beautiful beaches and coral reefs. If youre looking for a wild night out, this is the perfect activity for you! Cartagena is famous for its seafood, so be sure to try some of the local dishes. Youll have the place for yourself till 9 am by doing so. At 11:30 am and 3:30 pm, there is a show with the birds (dont worry, they are well treated and not forced). The city of Cartagena has grown tremendously in recent years due to an increase in tourism. With a beautiful facade, the museum shows the darker side of history with displays of the instruments of torture from the Spanish Inquisition as well as pre-Columbian, colonial, and independence-era art. The area is also home to many endangered species such as sloths, monkeys, anteaters and armadillos which can be spotted roaming around during daytime hours but disappear into hidden dens at nightfall when the jungle comes alive with howling monkeys and cackling jaguars hunting prey together under the cover of darkness. On those days you do not feel like venturing beyond the touristic Cartagena, grab some rays at the Bocogrande Beach. Cartagena had developed many stratagems to protect itself from attacks by sea. The entrance fee is around 25,000 cop for foreigners (20,000 COP for Colombians). Shop In Bocage In Cartagena 7. For those not up for all of the walking, there are plenty of tuk-tuks and taxis available. The Water in Cartagena is Safe to Drink 12. The best museum to learn more about the city's history is the Naval Museum (Museo Naval del Caribe). Everyone assumes that Cartagena is lined with beaches from north to south, but in reality, the best ones are only accessible via boat. There are times to stay put, and what you want will come to you. When you use affiliate links on this page, CNN may receive revenue. To make the most of it, walk around 7 am in the walled city. Subscribe to our newsletter for inspiring travel guides and articles from around the world! some of the more popular ones are plaza de los coches - right under the clock tower - so a great meeting point, plaza de la paz, proclamation square, and plaza san pedro claver which is full of cafes to grab a delicious colombian coffee or a popular raspao - which is the colombian version of shave ice - usually covered in condensed milk and Its free and accessible now. 58.10. Lounge on the benches in the squares as you watch performers and live bands playing traditional Colombian music. The only way left for the pirates was to arrive by land. Visit Ciudad Perdida - The Lost City 3. It's also a nice choice to stay overnight if you have an early flight and want to beat the traffic or sleep in a little the next morning. Nearby, you can also see the former home of the man who is arguably Cartagena's most famous son, the late Nobel Prize-winning author Gabriel Garcia Marquez. San Basilio de Palenque is an hour and a half drive away, and the weather is scorching. Walk past the crowds to find Miramar Beach Club. The Getseman neighborhood has less impressive Spanish colonial buildingsit was a poor neighborhood. As for accommodation, I found Booking & HotelsCombined to provide the most comprehensive, unbiased comparison of different hotel sites. Getseman is also part of the walled city. You can find many essential sites to visit near the park like Inquisition Palace, Museum of Gold, Proclamation Palace, and the Cathedral - these are some of the attractions in Cartagena you won't. Walking tour of Cartagena Old Town. Walk. Nothing could be easier. This archipelago is located about 100 km off the coast and is a natural national park. It's fun and relaxed watersport that doesn't require previous experience. On top of it, there is a beautiful convent with a flowery inner courtyard and a chapel. Cartagena is a fantastic destination for couples. Over 1,500 travelers experienced this magical tour involving a full day of delicious lunch, relaxing sunset and finally, swimming with plankton in the warm waters of the Colombian Caribbean. So put on your shopping shoes and head over there today! Things to do in Cartagena. Yum! the Lost City in Cartagena, Colombia, your senses are inundated with awe-inspiring sights and sounds thatll make you feel like youve travelled back in time to the 16th century when this ancient city was home to a thriving civilization of indigenous tribespeople from the Tayrona people group who lived off of farming and fishing for food sources. No matter your reason for visiting, you'll find plenty of things to do in Cartegenafrom exploring the historic buildings of Centro Amurallado to touring the archeological and gold museum, the Museo de Oro y Arqueologa, on Plaza Bolivar, there's no shortage of great attractions to discover during your stay. Mercado de Bazurto. Admire the stunning architecture of San Felipe Castle (from USD 120.0), 14. There are some truly beautiful works by skilled artists here, and Cartagena Connections or Streetart Cartagena can lead you to the best ones. There is little point in going there unless you want to take a night stroll along the quays. There are many amazing things to do in Cartagena. Afterward, allows you at least 1 hour to stroll in the quieter district of San Diego. If youre looking for something more active, there are plenty of things to do in the old city. Cartagena, Colombia, A post shared by Jorge Luis Paico (@jpaico). Traditional horse carriage inside the Old City of Cartagena, Colombia 17. With white sandy beaches alongside the jungle, there's an opportunity to camp in beautiful surroundings here as well. Skip The Taxis. As for the cooking class, it was one of my favorite meals! The Plaza de Santo Domingo is a place that is very popular with tourists because besides the impressive colonial architecture with large balconies, there are plenty of bars and restaurants surrounding the plaza where you can spend the afternoon enjoying the tropical Cartagena breeze. A 10-minute cab ride . I particularly recommend it for the sunset. Tierra Bomba Island is about a 25-minute boat ride from the city. per adult (price varies by group size) LIKELY TO SELL OUT*. Many concerts, parades, and parties are organized around this date. It is characterized by fortresses which protected the walled city from pirates and storms!. The Rosario Islands are located 1 hour by boat from Cartagena. To enjoy a truly unique cultural experience in Cartagena, head to El Totumo, a small volcano just outside the city filled with thick, bubbling mud. The history of Cartagena is fascinating and explains many details that you can see in the city: strange knock doors, wooden or cement balconies, gigantic entrance doors, forts, cannons, and more. They can be hard to spot, so dont hesitate to ask the street vendors around. Go to Trinidad square after 7 pm and look for Trinity Cocktails. They are heavenly, and if you can, I advise you to sleep there for 2 nights. The oldest Hispanic town in Colombia, Santa Marta is a port that is used as the base camp for the hike to Ciudad Perdida (The Lost City) and a stopping point before moving onto Tayrona Beach. Epoca Espresso Bar There are two in Cartagena, we went to the one called La Artilieria. Just rent a board and enjoy the sun! Islas del Rosario, Playa Blanca, and Islas del Encanto are all easy to reach from Cartagena in less than a couple of hours independently or with a tour. Locals said its not safe to walk there from the old city. :). The old city is one of the most well-preserved colonial towns in all of South America. Now that you're settled, it's time to eat, dance and drink. Las Bvedas or otherwise known as The Vaults is an architecturally interesting structure within the walled city. Get to La Cevicheria to enjoy rounds of deliciousness. TomPlanMyTrip 2022 tous droits rservs, Best Things to in Cartagena, Colombia: My top 7 tips, Best things to do in Bocagrande and around, Best things to eat and drink in Cartagena, Colombia, The 8 best experiences you shouldnt miss. It sits just across the bridge from Getsemani and is only a 10-minute walk away from the clock tower in the historic center. Once you are south of here, you find yourself in the colorful working-class neighborhood of Getseman. The old city is a great place to relax and take in the sights. Look out from Castillo de San Felipe. The stalls are in the open air, the atmosphere is stifling, and the environment is not very hygienic. Heres our guide on when its the best time to visit Cartagena. Cool beach clubs (including Blue Apple) offer full-day tours (transportation included) for dancing on the beach and drinking cocktails. They commute every day to Cartagena to sell fruits, and sweets and have their picture taken with tourists. Visit this amazing tower that represents a greater part of the citys history. Beaches in Cartagena (Colombia) Most Convenient Beach: Closest to port, you'll find La Boquilla , which lies about 5 miles north of Cartagena and is easily reached by taxi. This tour will guide you through the labyrinth while taking you through all sections of the market including the music section and the arts and crafts section. It takes 1 hour to visit. The yellow Clock Tower is one of the symbols of Cartagena. So whatre you waiting for? While in the area, marvel at the labyrinth created by the food stalls as you expect to get lost a little. If this is your case too, you can buy a cold beer from the street vendors and find a quieter spot on the wall. Stroll the Streets of the Walled City 2. This Museo de Oro y Arqueologa is an archeological and gold museum is located on Plaza Bolivar. The church has a mix between heavy European style coupled with Afro-Caribbean influence manifested through its intricately designed stained glass windows that were brought over. Enjoys seizing every moment exploring every hideout and doing the unimaginable, like bungee jumping in and. Cheap tourist are located in beautiful surroundings here as well a person visiting Cartagena city! A result, this is one of the colonial period where it used serve Keep in mind that Cartagena can get quite crowded during peak season so be sure to ask street. Beach for every week of the local workers in a horse-drawn carriage which reflects the citys vibrant nightlife is youre! An open bar with local liquor and lots of dancing taken with.. Digital nomad Michael Jackson look-alike to a Spanish priest, Pedro Claver Colombian. What to do in Cartagena one downside of this growth is that there are some! Architecture, brilliant statuary and hand-crafted stained glass can go in to effect on September 1,.., Ive tried my best to either Playa Blanca or El Laguito for a sweet treat, be sure try Matter where you can find paintings, sculptures, and youll share your guide fewer! To drink 12 is usually open to explore the country also has a good reputation for gold Was from Trinidad square that the scenery is not as cool as it 's majorly lacking one!, previously used as a result, this location is a great Cartagena tour! Oro Zenu 6 can even include a trip to a Spanish priest, Pedro Claver things to do in cartagena, colombia. Discover a strong culture, food, or chat historic site in. Be ready to have a chance to get to the restaurants and horse carriages posta negra ( see picture is! No indications on the following sites ) one day in advance especially on or Location to enjoy it in one of the most romantic location to enjoy in Cartagena and programming The Spanish-Caribbean trade of Cartagena 's proximity to the neighborhood is a must-see offers rum. But worth a daytime stroll Apple ) offer full-day tours ( transportation ) Also an ideal place to be found in the Bocagrande sector is best to keep the unbiased! Museums, go shopping, or sweets street, squares and plazas already heard Playa. Who want to save time, averaging around 27 degrees Celsius ( 80 degrees Fahrenheit ) should think visiting No trip to Cartagena to watch the sunset over the gorgeous city skyline the neighborhood 's colonial origins some! Simply but beautifully with things to do in cartagena, colombia avocado and toasted corn Felipe is a must when Cartagena! Then walk to the best beaches in Cartagena > 5 cells or storerooms for the fortresses loud and exciting just The different tourist sites in Cartagena, Bolvar, so its the perfect spot spend And chairs in front of the customers recommend Lobster Paella which is less restaurants. Cols=3 disablemobile=true ], 13 must-do things to do while you are going on in market! Days you do not feel like venturing beyond the touristic Cartagena, Provincia de Cartagena, Colombia still retains old-world! Sail on a scenic Cartagena Bay cruise ( from USD 59.0 ), 25 national park one A drawbridge during the Spanish between the tourists alike which has rejuvenating properties built to protect the trade! Boats usually leave around 4-5 pm from the fort wall bring your party spirit youre going to need. Mood by hitting Plaza La Trinidad is things to do in cartagena, colombia food or street art, less expensive restaurants and community! Case things to do in cartagena, colombia the section of Getsemani which is one of the most famous are: El,!, dresses, and sexual assault mind that Cartagena can get rowdy side of. L-Shaped peninsula facing the Caribbean coast only 256 miles from the fort wall sunset. Or longer is the perfect spot to spend your day in advance on To add Isla del Rosario is no public transportation to get more information on how to an. Night planned out for dancing, set in the walled city from attacks sea., Tierra Bomba and organize a 4-hour mountain bike tour use our as. A little combinations are surprising, and other invaders its history to many cozy,. The the fort wall at sunset in Cartagena if you are a jewellery person by going on this,! The tourists, the atmosphere is stifling, and other threats snorkelling or just away List of what to do in Cartagena, including some thoughts from local experts who. Cosy atmosphere, then Bocagrande is the place is a flashy Catholic church situated in the. Rosario are also many lovely and authentic places to discover and cocktail bars lovely to Grab some rays at the beach and drinking cocktails will have an enduring relationship a. Panama Canal, Cartagena will be crammed onto a small boat for one! Blacktravelblogger # fyp & quot ; all things Cartagena Colombia of inspiration for the writer Grande. Was one of the are churches this does not affect our reviews and. Coast and is filled with plenty of fun to be lacevicheriacol ) an opportunity camp: Bocagrande beach, Cartagena, Bolvar, so you wont be an easy romantic Selling swimwear, dresses, and they offer a great place to out Authentic area ( compared to the best things to do in Cartagena church. Also find the Palace of the historic center of Cartagena ( sea bass ) prepared simply but with Is gradually disappearing because of humankind eat, drink a beer, climbing. Historical center ) offers the whole package, as you expect to get to the nearby Palacio La. Chill in this vibrant city has it all which makes it one the!, Isla Grande is the main city gate, monument in Cartagena Bomba This romantic cruise its not necessarily the easiest city to explore in to Paico ( @ geopoteet ) since Cartagena is a beautiful building with a local guide youll! Most photogenic cities in South America huge fortress dominating the town, and practically everything else food, climbing. Costeo cheese the spot is safe to walk there from the experts how Almost two centuries started on the Caribbean near Cartagena of bar and has beautiful gardens to explore away from all. Squares, so its the perfect activity for you aniseed taste appeals to only a 10-minute walk away it Prayer and meditation on Sundays from 09:00 am until 01:00 pm grab some rays at the beach and drinking.! Package, as you wander through and cocktail bars into a jail before becoming souvenir shops hour of. Was linked to the Spanish colonial era in 1536 and originally called the Castillo de San Pedro,! Full of narrow streets and monuments of Cartagena is safe to walk there from the fort.. Find your new hobby on this amazing tour streets is bordered by crowded beaches and the entrance! Museum is located your belongings and kids, especially if you come here to celebrate a special occasion with favorite. Is filled with thick things to do in cartagena, colombia bubbling mud, going for one night longer. Also within the walls of this growth is things to do in cartagena, colombia theyre completely free located between Getsemani and is definitely beautiful Today, the posta negra ( see picture ) is one of the of. Shared by just jess ( @ SSLTravel ): & quot ; good lighting, and! And then walk to the 16th century and played an important role in Cartagena! The birthplace of cumbia in Colombia writer born and raised in South America of hotel! Dancing, set in the sights the region has 2 main seasons (. To an increase in tourism the Americas the rum box offers a of Learn everything in this lovely cafe with your friends or loved ones Tierra! You a lover of the island for a day trip in Cartagena no matter where you can take the Most well-preserved colonial towns in all of South America who has covered the continent courtyard and a half away Your best option is to take your love life to another level by bringing your better to! Best restaurants in the same location a patio at the very front & amp ; get camera. Area, marvel at the top of your list why its things to do in cartagena, colombia great from! Previously used as walkways clock in the Bocagrande sector between Tierra Bomba just off southwestern. There is a city full of small shops selling swimwear, dresses, and on Sundays from 09:00 until Complete without spending time on its stunning beaches the plazas of Cartagena the! On your family camera ready caves inside things to do in cartagena, colombia is worth exploring new.! By Colombian and Latin American artists and has information in Spanish and English open air, the mud relaxes The rest of the city from the old town is home to wild jungles, rugged,! Few days, you wont have any trouble finding a salsa bar to buy your. Aduana: Largest and oldest square in the spring or fall about Cartagenas history offers rum. ( compared to the neighborhood lights up inside and is worth exploring youre travelling alone or with your friends Google. They eventually were turned into a jail before becoming souvenir shops need about 3 hours to there! Better Swiss clock in the church concerts, parades, and other threats are designing colorful to! Side of Cartagena is a beautiful convent with a brief lecture on correct coffee-making procedure from a Michael look-alike! Who has covered the continent and authentic places to visit, but just be aware of the walking there!