Discover Cartagena de Indias, a jewel of world heritage
Cartagena is a city located on the shores of the Caribbean Sea. Its colorful streets full of charm make it the gateway to South America. In Colombia, it is located in the north of the country, and it is the capital of the Bolívar region. 'La Heroica', as it is called, is surrounded by several archipelagos and islands that are true paradises for real relaxation.
Cartagena adds to its charm the attractions of an intense nightlife, cultural festivals, and lush landscapes. The city’s beaches invite you to enjoy tourism, relax and have fun with the refreshing breeze and the warm waters of the sea.
Likewise, The weather in Cartagena de Indias is very pleasant, as its tropical climate will allow you to enjoy its beaches and other charms. The temperature in Cartagena throughout the year averages 27°C. An ideal climate to get to know the walled city, the restaurants, among other emblematic places of 'La Heroica'.
In addition, Cartagenahas an excellent gastronomic offering and an important hotel and tourism infrastructure.
This fantastic destination keeps the secrets of history in its walled city, in its balconies and narrow stone paths that served as inspiration forGabriel García Márquez, winner of the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1982.
Framed by a beautiful bay, Cartagena de Indias is one of the most beautiful and best-preserved cities in the Americas; a treasure that, today, is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Colombia.
Photo: Gilber Franco
The old bullring of Cartagena is now the La Serrezuela shopping center.
What to do in Cartagena de Indias?
Undoubtedly, you must explore the architectural and cultural heritage of the city by walking through its historic center, which is surrounded by long kilometers of old walls that make up the walled city. The beauty and importance of this Cartagena landscape made it declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984.
In La Heroica, in addition to feeling hundreds of years of history in cobblestone streets, you can explore the impressiveCastillo de San Felipe de Barajas, which dates back to the 17th century. This way, you can learn about the history of Cartagena and get a detailed description of the city.
Likewise, you can be amazed with a tour of the old churches and famous monuments of Cartagena de Indias such as those dedicated to India Catalina, Zapatos Viejos, and Pegasos. Another activity you can consider if you are wondering what to do in Cartagena, is visiting the Naval Museum or the La Serrezuela shopping center.
On these walks, in addition to enjoying Cartagena’s pleasant temperature, you will appreciate the local rhythms that play in the streets and the handicrafts that adorn the shops. On the other hand, if you are wondering what to see in Cartagena, we encourage you to enjoy a graffiti tour in the Getsemaní neighborhood
At nightfall, the charm of the colonial area is perfect for touring the city on a horse-drawn carriage. It is an experience that will transport you back in time.
'La Heroica' is a vibrant city where you can enjoy many tourist activities.
Unique experiences
But 'La Heroica' is not only history, as the city is the stage of a vibrant present manifested in important world-class events, which position today’s Cartagena.
One of them is the International Music Festival and the Hay Festival, which is held in January and brings together the leading exponents of instrumental music and international literature.
Likewise, in 'La Heroica' the International Film and Television Festival takes place in March, an event attended by filmmakers, actors, musicians, and fans of the seventh art, and which features high-level free film screenings.
Undoubtedly, all these events are unmissable when looking for what to do or what to visit in Cartagena.
Cartagena, Colombia is a vibrant city, with countless perfect plans for all kinds of tourism.
One example of this is the varied gastronomy offered by the city. In this way, restaurants in Cartagena range from international cuisine restaurants to traditional places where you can taste local delights, such as arroz con chipi chipi, pork loin in tamarind sauce, and shrimp cream.
Photo: Carlos Urrego
In addition, the city has the Caribbean Sea, which allows for relaxation and fun with always pleasant weather. Another option is to enjoy thecruises that depart from Cartagena and enjoy the wonderful landscapes of the Colombian coast. Likewise, if you prefer to stay in the city, the beaches near Cartagena are perfect to enjoy a cocktail or a local dish, sunbathe, relax, or also venture to practice all kinds of water sports.
Cartagena has more than 5 island complexes around it that, in turn, provide more than 20 beaches to visit and enjoy. The white sand, palm trees, sea breeze, and in some cases coral reefs, will welcome you to these paradises of rest. The main and best beaches in the Cartagena area are found in the Islas del Rosario, Barú, San Bernardo and Tierra Bomba.
In addition, if you want to experience the most touristy area of La Heroica, you can visit Bocagrande, which has wide beaches, hotels, restaurants, shopping centers, and nightclubs.
The best time or season to travel to Cartagena varies little during the year and depends on your interests. January is ideal for enjoying cultural events such as the Hay Festival, a great gathering around writing, and theFestival de Música de Cartagena. Another great time to visit Cartagena’s beaches and beautiful landscapes is between late November and late April. A good period considering that the weather is drier and fresher thanks to the sea breeze.
To get to Cartagena de Indias, if you are coming from abroad, you can take a cruise or a plane. Airlines such as American Airlines, JetBlue, Interjet, KLM, Delta, and Copa fly directly to Rafael Núñez International Airport in Cartagena.
If you are already in the country, you can take a flight with Avianca, LATAM, VivaAir, or Wingo, among others. You can also rent a car from cities such asBarranquilla, andSanta Marta, with trips that will take 2 to 4 hours.
Getting around is very easy, especially by taxi, as the distances in tourist areas are not very long. However, we recommend that you check taxi prices in advance to avoid problems with overcharges.
Accommodation options are diverse and range from budget hostels to traditional colonial hotels, as well as exclusive boutique hotels.
Finally, in case of any questions, go to the numerous information points you will find in the city’s tourist areas.
With these simple recommendations, you will be able to fully enjoy your stay in the wonderful 'Heroic City'. The city that has inspired and captivated so many tourists awaits you to give you the warmest welcome to the most welcoming country in the world. Discover more here!
Through our regions with their charming destinations and experiences, you will discover that the diversity that defines Colombia includes its tourism offer.
Here you can enjoy adventure tourism, cultural, community, gastronomic, meetings and much more.
Geh Axio Suites
Located in Marbella, Cartagena, Hotel Aixo Suites is just five minutes from the historic Walled City and the Caribbean beaches. Enjoy the culture, gastronomy, and nightlife. Committed to the environment, this hotel offers a warm and unforgettable experience for tourists and business travelers alike. Your Caribbean adventure awaits!
Experience a high-level stay at Estelar Cartagena de Indias Hotel & Convention Center. Enjoy 339 ocean-view rooms, a convention center for up to 1,000 guests, and cocktails at the 51 Sky Bar, the highest in Colombia. Make your visit a truly memorable experience! We’re also Pet Friendly.
El Estelar Playa Manzanillo is an all-inclusive beachfront hotel on the Colombian Caribbean, ideal for both fun and relaxation. We offer top-quality services, exquisite cuisine, a variety of activities, comfortable rooms, event venues, and we’re Pet Friendly. Your perfect getaway awaits!
In Bocagrande, enjoy a memorable stay in one of 380 modern rooms overlooking the Caribbean Sea or Cartagena Bay. Select a suite for Regency Club access or a residence with a full kitchen, dining, and living area.
Built in 1621 as a Clarissa convent, this property has been a hospital, prison, and medical school. In 1995, it became an iconic hotel, part of a collection celebrating cities with cultural heritage. Discover its rich history and French art de vivre style.
An exclusive gem on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, designed to blend with nature. Gentle breezes, stunning views, and white sands surrounded by turquoise waters create a serene retreat for the soul.
In Barú, 50 minutes from Cartagena, this exclusive retreat features 4 bedrooms, a 20-meter infinity pool, and a private 70-meter beach. Solar panels promote sustainability, making it perfect for families, friends, or couples.
Renovated in 2022, this 17th-century palace boasts colonial architecture, double-height ceilings, and Moorish arches. Its lush gardens create a romantic, luxurious ambiance. It's Colombia’s only Relais & Châteaux member.
This boutique hotel evokes the 17th century, blending luxury and history across three colonial houses. With 20 rooms and 11 Colombian-style suites, it offers a modern yet heritage-rich atmosphere with top-notch amenities.
Traveling around the bay with friends, a nice glass of wine, and a delicious meal for the same price you would pay at a good restaurant is an excellent plan.
Getting to know Bazurto means delving into the culture of Cartagena, which struggles every day to survive, and despite the hardships, never forgets to smile. With the Insider tour, I had the pleasant opportunity to meet five iconic characters who showed their faces, reflecting the culture of the city: its creativity, its music, its gastronomy, its industrial side, its culture, and its idiosyncrasies. This is an interesting proposal from the Insider group to highlight what many tourists overlook. Highly recommended!
Going there is like touching paradise. It's highly recommended, peaceful, comfortable, and welcoming. Just remember to bring water and leave your cell phone behind, because there's no signal or electricity, so you can just relax and enjoy yourself.
From the moment you make your reservation and travel to the beach, there is constant communication with the logistics team, who ensure that everything goes according to plan. The place offers a peaceful and comfortable space to relax, enjoy the beach, and unwind. The staff are excellent, the location has everything you need (bathroom, showers, swimming pool, music), and the food is delicious! Definitely worth repeating.
By horse-drawn carriage, bicycle, segway, or on foot — any means of transport is perfect to marvel at the colorful flower-filled balconies of the Historic Center of Cartagena, its sunsets outlining…
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