CartagenavsHavana
Can't decide between Cartagena and Havana? Compare these two amazing destinations to find your perfect match.
Cartagena
Cartagena is a Caribbean jewel of colorful colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and tropical energy. This walled city enchants with its romantic plazas, vibrant nightlife, nearby islands, and some of the best ceviche in South America.
Known for
Havana
Havana is a time capsule of 1950s Americana, crumbling colonial mansions, and revolutionary history. Cuba's vibrant capital offers vintage American cars, salsa in the streets, world-famous cigars, and an intoxicating atmosphere unlike anywhere else on Earth.
Known for
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Head-to-Head Comparison
See how these destinations stack up in key categories
Culture & History
Cartagena offers Walled City, Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, Getsemaní
Havana offers Old Havana (Habana Vieja), Malecón Seawall, Classic Car Rides
Food & Dining
Cartagena is famous for its local dining scene
Havana is famous for its local dining scene
Nightlife
Cartagena has legendary nightlife
Havana offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
Best Time to Visit
December to April
November to April
Weather
Summer: 32°C, Winter: 30°C
Summer: 32°C, Winter: 22°C
Top Attractions in Cartagena
- 1Walled City
- 2Castillo San Felipe de Barajas
- 3Getsemaní
- 4Rosario Islands
- 5Plaza Santo Domingo
- 6Café del Mar
Top Attractions in Havana
- 1Old Havana (Habana Vieja)
- 2Malecón Seawall
- 3Classic Car Rides
- 4Tropicana Cabaret
- 5Fábrica de Arte Cubano
- 6Cigar Factory Tours
Cartagena is Popular With
Havana is Popular With
Hidden Gems
Discover lesser-known attractions in each city
Hidden Gems in Cartagena
- 1
Convento de la Popa
A 17th-century monastery perched on the highest hill in Cartagena, offering panoramic 360-degree views of the entire city, bay, and coastline.
- 2
Mercado de Bazurto
The city's sprawling, chaotic central market where locals buy everything from fresh fish and exotic fruits to household goods and traditional remedies.
Hidden Gems in Havana
- 1
Callejón de Hamel
A short, vibrant alleyway in Centro Habana entirely covered in murals, sculptures, and installations dedicated to Afro-Cuban culture and the Santería religion.
- 2
Fusterlandia (Jaimanitas)
The home and neighborhood project of artist José Fuster, who has covered entire blocks with dazzling, Gaudí-esque mosaics and sculptures.
Neighborhoods to Explore
Discover the best areas to visit in each city
Top Areas in Cartagena
Ciudad Amurallada (The Walled City)
The historic heart and soul of Cartagena, enclosed by massive stone walls.
Getsemaní
Once a rough neighborhood, now the city's hip, artistic, and most energetic quarter.
Top Areas in Havana
Habana Vieja (Old Havana)
The historic heart and UNESCO World Heritage Site, a dense maze of cobblestone streets and breathtakingly restored colonial plazas.
Vedado
A leafy, more modern district from the early 20th century, known for its eclectic architecture, grand hotels, and vibrant cultural scene.
Budget Comparison
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Budget in Cartagena
Budget in Havana
Book Activities
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Book Activities in Cartagena
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Book Activities in Havana
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Getting There
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Find cheap transport to Cartagena
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Find cheap transport to Havana
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Our Verdict
Both Cartagena and Havana are incredible destinations. Cartagena excels in colonial architecture and Caribbean beaches, while Havana stands out for vintage cars and cigars.
Best destination for:
nightlife
Cartagena
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