CartagenavsRio de Janeiro
Can't decide between Cartagena and Rio de Janeiro? 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
Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro is a city of breathtaking natural beauty, samba rhythms, and infectious energy. From the iconic Christ the Redeemer to legendary beaches and vibrant Carnival, Rio offers an unforgettable blend of nature, culture, and celebration.
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
Rio de Janeiro offers Christ the Redeemer, Copacabana Beach, Sugarloaf Mountain
Food & Dining
Cartagena is famous for its local dining scene
Rio de Janeiro is famous for its local dining scene
Nightlife
Cartagena has legendary nightlife
Rio de Janeiro offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
Best Time to Visit
December to April
December to March (Carnival in February)
Weather
Summer: 32°C, Winter: 30°C
Summer: 30°C, Winter: 23°C
Top Attractions in Cartagena
- 1Walled City
- 2Castillo San Felipe de Barajas
- 3Getsemaní
- 4Rosario Islands
- 5Plaza Santo Domingo
- 6Café del Mar
Top Attractions in Rio de Janeiro
- 1Christ the Redeemer
- 2Copacabana Beach
- 3Sugarloaf Mountain
- 4Ipanema
- 5Selaron Steps
- 6Tijuca National Park
Cartagena is Popular With
Rio de Janeiro 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 Rio de Janeiro
- 1
Parque Lage
A beautiful public park at the foot of Corcovado, featuring a stunning Italianate mansion (now an art school), tropical gardens, and a café in the courtyard.
- 2
Pedra do Sal
A historic rocky outcrop in the Saúde neighborhood, considered the birthplace of samba in Rio.
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 Rio de Janeiro
Santa Teresa
A historic, bohemian hilltop neighborhood known for its winding cobblestone streets, colorful colonial mansions, and stunning city views.
Lapa
The epicenter of Rio's nightlife, famous for the grand Carioca Aqueduct (Arcos da Lapa).
Budget Comparison
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Budget in Cartagena
Budget in Rio de Janeiro
Book Activities
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Book Activities in Cartagena
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Book Activities in Rio de Janeiro
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 Rio de Janeiro
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Our Verdict
Both Cartagena and Rio de Janeiro are incredible destinations. Cartagena excels in colonial architecture and Caribbean beaches, while Rio de Janeiro stands out for Carnival and beaches.
Best destination for:
nightlife
Cartagena
beaches
Rio de Janeiro
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