CartagenavsMedellín
Can't decide between Cartagena and Medellín? 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
Medellín
Medellín has transformed from its troubled past into one of South America's most innovative cities. The "City of Eternal Spring" offers perfect weather, innovative public transport, vibrant nightlife, and a welcoming energy that captivates visitors.
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
Medellín offers Comuna 13, Metrocable, Plaza Botero
Food & Dining
Cartagena is famous for its local dining scene
Medellín is famous for its local dining scene
Nightlife
Cartagena has legendary nightlife
Medellín has legendary nightlife
Best Time to Visit
December to April
December to March, July to August
Weather
Summer: 32°C, Winter: 30°C
Summer: 24°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 Medellín
- 1Comuna 13
- 2Metrocable
- 3Plaza Botero
- 4El Poblado
- 5Guatapé Day Trip
- 6Parque Arví
Cartagena is Popular With
Medellín 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 Medellín
- 1
Cementerio Museo de San Pedro
A beautiful, historic cemetery that functions as an open-air museum and park, filled with elaborate mausoleums and sculptures.
- 2
Pueblito Paisa
A replica of a traditional Antioquian village situated atop Cerro Nutibara, a small hill in the city.
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 Medellín
El Poblado
The upscale, trendy heart of Medellín's tourism and nightlife, known for its leafy streets, luxury apartments, and vibrant energy.
Laureles
A relaxed, residential neighborhood with a strong local feel, centered around the circular Carrera 70 and its famous strip of bars and restaurants.
Budget Comparison
Compare the cost of traveling in each city
Budget in Cartagena
Budget in Medellín
Book Activities
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Book Activities in Cartagena
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Book Activities in Medellín
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 Medellín
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Our Verdict
Both Cartagena and Medellín are incredible destinations. Cartagena excels in colonial architecture and Caribbean beaches, while Medellín stands out for eternal spring weather and transformation.
Best destination for:
nightlife
Cartagena
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