For an authentic Colombian experience full of vivid architecture lined amongst cobblestone streets, consider a trip to the colorful, Spanish-influenced city of Cartagena, Colombia.
The city's Spanish Colonial architecture and lively plazas create a unique atmosphere that has inspired artists and writers alike, including the backdrop for Gabriel Garcia Marquez's famous novel "Love in the Time of Cholera."
Steeped in rich history and romantic ambiance, Cartagena is a must-visit destination for those looking to immerse themselves in an adventure along the Caribbean coast.
This unique city is an up-and-coming destination that is just starting to gain worldwide recognition for its historic charm and stunning views, making now an excellent time to discover this city's hidden gems. So, is Cartagena worth visiting? Here are a few reasons you may want to consider planning a trip to this South American city.
Top Reasons to Visit Cartagena
Home to the Walls of Cartagena (which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and known for its lively, romantic atmosphere, Cartagena is an idyllic destination for those who love to leisurely explore the world around them while soaking up the culture and flavor of the local community.
These are just a few of the reasons why you should consider a trip to Cartagena during your Caribbean vacation:
1. Ancient Charm Permeates the City's Atmosphere
Cartagena was founded during the 16th century as a small port city in the rapidly expanding Spanish empire. Its proximity to the ocean and its abundance of natural resources quickly made it one of the most vital port towns in the Spanish Empire, allowing the population to grow and expand exponentially during this time.
To this day, the city's colonial past influences its current culture. There are historic sites all around the city to explore, particularly within the Walls of Cartagena, a walled city that is often referred to as Old Town.
Within the walled city, consider taking a private walking tour in order to enjoy these incredible sites:
- Puerta del Reloj: The iconic clock tower in the walled city is considered to be one of the most prominent symbols of Cartagena.
- Plaza de los Coches: Located just beyond the clock tower, you will find the Square of the Carriages, which features colorful homes and inviting walkways.
- Plaza de Bolivar: Featuring some of the most well-preserved colonial buildings in the city, this plaza is home to the Cathedral, the Palace of the Inquisition and the Gold Museum. Be sure to bring your camera to this plaza, it's one of the most stunning places in Cartagena.
- Iglesia de Santo Domingo: Famously known as the oldest church in the city, Iglesia de Santo Domingo dates back to the 16th century, around the time Cartagena was established. Check out its crooked bell tower — according to local legends, its crookedness is the work of the devil.
2. Colorful Art can be Discovered Around Every Corner
Street art has become a way for local residents to express themselves, share their culture and showcase their triumphs. Amid the colonial architecture and the shady plazas, you will find an abundance of bright, colorful and beautiful public art displays. From murals tucked onto the sides of buildings to sculptures strategically placed throughout the city, there is always something new to discover in Cartagena.
To see the street art movement come to life in Cartagena, consider visiting the Getsemani neighborhood and enjoying a street art walking tour.
3. It's Becoming Known as One of the World's Most Romantic Destinations
Sometimes, visiting a new destination is all it takes to rekindle that spark and enjoy the pleasures of new romance once again. Whether you have been with your partner for years or you are still in the throes of young love, you will find that Cartagena offers a romantic, whimsical atmosphere. Its plethora of boutique hotels — many of which are located in the city's historic colonial buildings — combined with its eclectic and flavorful restaurants, makes this a favorite destination among couples. There are many tours available, like the Boutique Rum and Chocolate Tasting at Lunático, for couples who prefer a more guided experience.
The sights and sounds of the city allow people to truly escape the worries of their daily lives and focus on what matters most — being in the present moment with the person that they love.
4. It's Home to the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, a 17th Century Castle
Quickly after Cartagena was established, it became a target for pirates and those who wanted to steal the wealth of the city's resources. As a result, the Spanish had to make defense a top priority, and the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas was built in the early 17th century.
Serving as a fortress and a castle, this fort protected the city and allowed the Spanish to defend it. Today, visitors can tour the site and learn more about the role it played in the city's history.
5. You Can Savor Authentic Colombian Cuisine
Culinary travel has increased in popularity in recent years, and foodies who want to experience the flavor of South America will find that Cartagena is one of the best destinations. This seaside town features an abundance of locally owned restaurants, many of which offer specialty menus based on fresh, local ingredients.
Expect to find flavorful seafood dishes at most restaurants, with many seafood entrées being complemented by sweet coconut rice and plantains. While the atmosphere varies from one restaurant to the next, expect to discover intimate locales with relaxed atmospheres or busier areas with delicious street food.
In Cartagena, meals are meant to be savored and enjoyed, not rushed through. In addition, if you enjoy wine, you will quickly discover that the best complement to any meal is a refreshing glass of crisp white wine bottled at one of the local Colombian vineyards.
6. It Offers a Vibrant Nightlife
From salsa dancing to reggaeton, movement and music play a prominent role in the local lifestyle. If you aren't ready to head back to the hotel room after a night on the town, you will find that there are plenty of entertainment options that will stretch well into the early morning hours. You can take a local dance class to brush up on your moves ahead of time.
The nightlife scene in Cartagena appeals to young or young-at-heart travelers and couples alike, adding a sense of youthful vitality to any trip.
7. You Can Enjoy a Therapeutic Mud Bath
Travel has a way of igniting the senses and restoring the soul, making the therapeutic mud bath experience a favorite among tourists. The Totumo Mud volcano tour is an excellent day trip to consider for your Cartagena itinerary. During this tour experience, you will travel to the dormant Tortumo Volcano, which houses a bed of natural mud in its epicenter.
Tourists are invited to soak in the mud and enjoy its restorative benefits. After emerging from the volcano crater covered in mud, rinsing off will leave your skin refreshed and silky smooth.
8. You Can Easily Visit Nearby Islands for a Dose of Caribbean Beauty
Cartagena is located along the turquoise blue waters of the Caribbean Sea, and most visitors want to experience the pristine natural beauty of this region. There are dozens of islands to consider for an excursion, but these are some of the most popular islands near Cartagena:
- San Bernardo Islands — If you are willing to venture a little further away from Cartagena, these islands will provide a worthwhile escape. Located about two hours away by boat, the San Bernardo Islands are relatively remote and not popular among tourists, giving you a rustic, up-close-and-personal experience that many other travelers do not get.
- Isla Tierra Bomba — If dancing and partying is your scene, this is a perfect day trip from Cartagena. It's only about 30 minutes away from the city by boat, and offers spectacular oceanfront views of the Cartagena skyline. You can take a 5-stop Rosario Islands tour in order to see and experience this lively party island.
- Isla de San Andres — You need to take a plane to get to this far-off island off the Colombian coast, but you will be glad that you made the effort. A perfect spot for snorkeling and exploring, this island offers natural beauty and a relaxed vibe.
How to Get Around Cartagena
The best way to get to Cartagena is to fly directly into the city. Avoid flying into other airports and trying to navigate the public transportation system, as it can be complicated and confusing for tourists. Once you are in the city, you will find that Cartagena's historic center is incredibly walkable. The winding streets and peaceful squares are perfect for strolling. Exploring the Old Town on foot is a great way to spend time in Cartagena, walking down alleyways and stumbling into historic sites, delectable restaurants and interesting shops. A few other ways to get around in Cartagena include:
- The local taxi services are a great way to get around if you need transportation via vehicle. The official taxis are bright yellow and have the license plate listed on the passenger side door.
- Rideshare apps are also readily available in Cartagena if you prefer to go that route.
- Cartagena has a public bus system called TransCaribe (BRT) that operates on four routes and a few feeder lines. You can purchase tickets at the station but be aware that the bus system can be a bit complex to navigate as a tourist.
When is the Best Time to Visit Cartagena?
Cartagena enjoys pleasant weather throughout the entire year, making this a wonderful escape if you are seeking warmth and sunshine.
December to March is considered to be the peak tourist season, so you may find that prices are a bit higher and the crowds are bigger during these months. However, this is for good reason as it is the dry season, so there is less chance of rainy weather affecting your itinerary.
From June until August, you will find fewer crowds and lower prices, making summer a great time to visit Cartagena. However, be aware that this is the rainy season, so you won't be getting the peak weather that encapsulates the best of Cartagena.
FAQs About Cartagena
Still have questions about visiting this beautiful Colombian city? AAA Travel has answers for you. Here are some common questions people have about visiting Cartagena:
Is Cartagena a family-friendly destination?
Families that want to introduce their kids to culture and history, as well as allow them to sample foods from around the world, will love Cartagena. Cartagena is a family-friendly destination that offers a mix of cultural sights and fun-filled attractions, appealing to families with kids of all ages.
In addition to being a family-friendly vacation spot in South America, Cartagena is a favorite among solo travelers and couples. Its laid-back atmosphere and romantic vibes make it a wonderful place to enjoy an immersive vacation experience.
Is Cartagena safe?
Yes, Cartagena is generally considered to be a safe destination for tourists. Its recent uptick in popularity means that more travelers are heading to Cartagena than ever before, and there is a strong police presence in the touristy areas.
For the most part, it's recommended that tourists in Cartagena stick to well-developed neighborhoods and popular tourist attractions. The Walled City and Getsemani are two neighborhoods that are safe for tourists to explore.
What is Cartagena famous for?
Cartagena is most well-known for its Spanish colonial history. Visitors from around the world come to this romantic Colombian city in order to enjoy its colorful, ornate architecture, its storied past, its flavorful food and its bustling nightlife scene. Travelers in Cartagena have the opportunity to customize their itinerary in order to create a travel experience that suits their tastes and preferences.
Young couples may want to spend more time exploring the various restaurants in the city in order to soak up the flavor of South America, whereas families may find that the Old Town offers the immersive and educational experience that they want out of their vacation.
Do I need anything other than a passport to visit Cartagena?
United States travelers who are visiting Cartagena will need a passport to enter the country. In addition, travelers will also need to show proof of their return flight in order to prove that they will not be in the country for more than 90 days. Anyone who is planning to stay in Cartagena for more than 90 days will need a travel visa.
If you are planning to visit one of Colombia's national parks during your time in Cartagena, there may be additional vaccination requirements. The Colombia Health Ministry offers more information about specific vaccinations that may be required for travelers depending on their travel plans.
Where are the best places to stay in Cartagena?
Cartagena is known for its abundance of boutique hotels, all of which offer travelers an intimate experience with touches of local flavor throughout their stay. Some of the best places to stay in Cartagena include:
- Estelar Cartagena de Indias: A boutique hotel with waterfront views and sleek, modern amenities
- Sonesta Cartagena Hotel: A luxury, resort-style hotel located in the heart of Cartagena and offering unparalleled access to the city's best attractions.
What are some of the best places to eat in Cartagena?
Considered to be one of the best culinary destinations in South America, there is no shortage of restaurant options in Cartagena.
- For rooftop views overlooking the Walled City and authentic Colombian fare, consider Trendi Restaurante Bar y Roof Top. This fine dining establishment is a favorite among tourists who want to enjoy the flavor of the region while soaking up panoramic views of the city's skyline.
- For a more intimate and romantic experience, check out Clero Restaurante, which features exposed brick walls, whimsical arches and delicious food.
Is Cartagena an expensive city to visit?
As the country's most popular tourist destination, Cartagena is known as one of the most expensive cities in Colombia. However, most travelers find that it is a relatively budget-friendly destination, offering affordable accommodations and low prices for tours, food and transportation. You may find that prices are higher during the peak tourist season, so consider traveling off-season during the months of June, July and August for the best possible prices.
Ready to Visit Cartagena, Colombia?
Effortlessly blending natural beauty with ancient architecture, Cartagena is truly a delight for the senses. Wondering if a trip to Cartagena, Colombia is worthwhile? This city offers romance, culinary delights and wondrous architecture — what more could you ask for?
If you're inspired to start planning a Colombian vacation, make sure you talk to the AAA Travel experts. They can help you find the accommodations you want, plan an itinerary and much more.
Whether you're traveling halfway around the world or just down the road, if you're a AAA Member, you can get exclusive discounts on lodging, rental cars and a whole lot more.