Best Time to Visit
December to April
Currency
Colombian Peso (COP)
Language
Spanish
Timezone
COT (UTC-5)
Discover Cartagena
Cartagena de Indias isn't just a city; it's a living storybook where every cobblestone whispers of pirates, Spanish galleons, and revolutionary dreams. Step through the monumental Clock Tower Gate into the UNESCO-listed Walled City, where bougainvillea spills over balconies of candy-colored mansions and the scent of arepas frying mixes with sea salt. This is a place where you can trace the ramparts of the colossal Castillo San Felipe de Barajas at sunrise, sip coconut lemonade in the shade of Plaza Santo Domingo's Botero sculpture, and dance salsa until dawn in the vibrant, mural-covered streets of Getsemaní.
Beyond the walls, Cartagena reveals its Caribbean soul. A short boat ride transports you to the Rosario Islands' archipelago, where coral reefs teem with life and beaches of powdered sugar sand meet turquoise water. Back on the mainland, the city's energy is palpable—from the rhythmic beats of champeta music spilling from corner stores to the sophisticated cocktail bars atop historic hotels. It’s a sensory feast of colonial grandeur, tropical heat, and some of the most vibrant coastal culture in South America.
Why Visit Cartagena?
A Perfectly Preserved Colonial Masterpiece: Explore the Walled City (Ciudad Amurallada), a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can walk the complete 11 km of historic fortifications, marvel at the gold-leaf altar in the Cathedral of Cartagena, and get lost in the labyrinth of streets lined with iconic buildings like the Palace of the Inquisition.
Unbeatable Caribbean Beaches and Islands: Escape to the pristine Rosario Islands (Islas del Rosario) for world-class snorkeling at the Oceanarium, or visit the closer, lively Playa Blanca on Barú for a day of sun, fresh fish lunches, and crystal-clear waters just an hour from the city.
A Culinary Powerhouse: Savor Cartagena's legendary seafood, from tangy, citrus-marinated ceviche at La Cevichería to the rich coconut rice and fried fish of an authentic 'pescado frito con arroz de coco' in the Getsemaní market. The city is a top destination for food lovers in Colombia.
Incredibly Vibrant Nightlife and Culture: Experience the infectious energy of salsa clubs like Café Havana, enjoy sunset cocktails at the iconic Café del Mar on the city walls, and witness the spontaneous street parties and incredible graffiti art that make the Getsemaní neighborhood come alive after dark.
A Deep and Tangible History: Delve into stories of resistance and conquest at the immense Castillo San Felipe de Barajas fortress, learn about Colombia's struggle for independence at the Museo de la Independencia, and feel the weight of history at the San Pedro Claver Church and Monastery.
A City of Romantic Atmosphere and Color: Stroll hand-in-hand through flower-filled plazas like Plaza de los Coches, take a horse-drawn carriage ride (chiva) around the old city at dusk, and stay in a beautifully restored boutique hotel with a courtyard pool for an unforgettable romantic getaway.
Cartagena is Known For
Ready to explore Cartagena?
Cartagena Neighborhoods
Ciudad Amurallada (The Walled City)
The historic heart and soul of Cartagena, enclosed by massive stone walls. This area is a dazzling display of Spanish colonial and republican architecture, with grand churches, luxurious hotels, fine dining, and elegant plazas. The vibe is romantic, upscale, and steeped in history.
Highlights:
Best for:
Getsemaní
Once a rough neighborhood, now the city's hip, artistic, and most energetic quarter. Located just outside the walls, its streets are an open-air gallery of stunning murals, filled with hostels, trendy cafes, and buzzing bars. The vibe is creative, youthful, and authentically local.
Highlights:
Best for:
Bocagrande
Cartagena's modern oceanfront district, reminiscent of Miami Beach. This peninsula is lined with high-rise hotels, condominiums, shopping malls, and a long, bustling beach. The vibe is contemporary, resort-like, and convenient, offering a different perspective from the historic center.
Highlights:
Best for:
Manga
A quiet, mostly residential island connected by bridges, offering a glimpse into local life and Cartagena's republican-era architecture. It's home to beautiful, often crumbling, mansions and a more relaxed pace. The vibe is local, tranquil, and slightly off-the-beaten-path.
Highlights:
Best for:
Top Attractions
Local Tips & Insider Knowledge
- •For the best sunset views without the Café del Mar crowds, walk south along the wall to the quieter Baluarte de Santo Domingo. Bring your own drink and enjoy the same spectacular show.
- •Always negotiate the price BEFORE getting into a taxi (they rarely use meters). A fair price from the Walled City to Bocagrande is around 15,000-20,000 COP. Use the 'InDriver' app for better rates.
- •Visit the Mercado de Bazurto for a true local experience, but go with a guide or a trusted local. It's chaotic, overwhelming, and not particularly safe for obvious tourists wandering alone.
- •The best and cheapest ceviche is often found at the small, plastic-chair stalls in Getsemaní, like near Plaza de la Trinidad, not just at the famous (and pricier) spots in the Walled City.
- •Buy a 'Tarjeta TuLlave' card at a metro station for the city buses. It's much cheaper (around 2,500 COP per ride) than the informal vans and more reliable for routes to areas like La Boquilla.
- •Dress for the heat but pack a light sweater or shawl. Air conditioning indoors (malls, nice restaurants, buses) is often turned to 'Arctic' levels, and you'll need it to avoid freezing.
- •Learn a few basic salsa steps before you go. Locals love when visitors try to dance, and it's the key to truly engaging with the nightlife beyond just watching.
- •To escape the relentless street vendors on the beaches (especially Playa Blanca), rent a chair at a beachfront restaurant or 'kiosko' for the day. A small purchase grants you peace and a place to leave your stuff.
- •Carry small bills (10,000, 20,000 COP notes). Many small shops, street vendors, and taxi drivers will claim they don't have change for larger bills as a tactic to keep the extra money.
- •The 'Palenqueras'—women in bright dresses selling fruit—are a cultural icon. It's okay to take their photo from a distance, but if you want a picture with them, expect to pay a small tip (5,000-10,000 COP is fair).
Cartagena Food Scene
Cartagena's cuisine is a triumphant fusion of its coastal location, African heritage, and Spanish roots. Seafood is king, prepared with coconut, lime, and local herbs. The food scene ranges from humble street-side stalls serving fried fish to world-class restaurants reinventing Colombian classics.
Must-Try Dishes
Traditional & Local
- • La Cocina de Pepina (for Posta Negra)
- • Restaurante Coroncoro (for whole fried snapper)
- • La Mulata (for a classic Cartagena menu)
Lunch ('almuerzo') is the main meal. Look for set menus ('menú del día') for incredible value, often including soup, main, drink, and a small dessert.
Street Food & Markets
- • Arepa de Huevo from street vendors
- • Mango Biche (green mango with salt and lime)
- • Empanadas from 'La Esquina del Pandebono' in Getsemaní
The best street food is often found in the late afternoon or evening. Always check that the oil looks clean for fried items.
Upscale & Innovative
- • Carmen (tasting menus with local ingredients)
- • Marea by Rausch (top-tier seafood with a view)
- • Celele (creative Caribbean fusion)
Reservations are essential, especially for dinner. Dress is generally smart-casual; men will rarely need a jacket.
Coffee & Sweet Treats
- • Juan Valdez Café (reliable national chain)
- • Abaco Libros y Café (bookstore cafe)
- • Cocadas (coconut sweets) from street vendors
For a true local coffee experience, ask for a 'tinto'—a small, strong black coffee often served sweetened.
Popular With
Best Time to Visit Cartagena
Spring
Spring (March-May) is the tail end of the dry season, transitioning into the rainy season. Temperatures are very hot and humid, with increasing chances of afternoon thunderstorms, especially in May.
Pros:
- + Still mostly dry in March/April
- + Lower tourist crowds after Easter
- + Lush, green landscapes
Cons:
- - Intense heat and humidity
- - Rainy days become more frequent in May
- - Potential for high mosquito activity
Summer
Summer (June-August) is the heart of the rainy season, characterized by high humidity, very warm temperatures, and frequent, heavy but often short-lived afternoon downpours.
Pros:
- + Lowest tourist prices on accommodation
- + The city is vibrantly green
- + Cultural festivals like Independence celebrations in November (technically autumn, but similar climate)
Cons:
- - Almost daily rain can disrupt outdoor plans
- - Extremely high humidity
- - Some beach days may be washed out
Autumn
Autumn (September-November) sees the rain begin to taper off, particularly in November. It remains hot and humid, with the weather becoming more unpredictable.
Pros:
- + Rain decreases as the season progresses
- + Good hotel deals before the high season
- + November is a great month to visit
Cons:
- - September/October can still be very wet
- - Hurricane season can affect the Caribbean (though Cartagena is rarely hit directly)
- - Unpredictable weather
Winter
Winter (December-February) is the peak dry season, with minimal rain, lots of sunshine, and strong breezes that make the heat more bearable. This is the most popular and expensive time to visit.
Pros:
- + Guaranteed sunny, dry weather
- + Perfect conditions for beaches and islands
- + Festive atmosphere with Christmas and New Year decorations
Cons:
- - Peak tourist crowds and highest prices
- - Need to book everything far in advance
- - Beaches and main attractions can be very crowded
Find cheap transport to Cartagena
Compare prices for trains, buses, and flights to Cartagena
Enter your departure city to see prices
Book Activities in Cartagena
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Day Trips from Cartagena
Islas del Rosario (Rosario Islands)
1-1.5 hours by speedboat
A stunning national park archipelago of 27 coral islands. This is Cartagena's premier escape for pristine beaches, transparent turquoise waters, and some of the best snorkeling and diving in the region.
Volcán de Lodo El Totumo (Totumo Mud Volcano)
1.5 hours by car
A unique and quirky experience at a small, active mud volcano. Visitors climb into the dense, warm mud, which is so buoyant you float effortlessly, followed by a wash-off in a nearby lagoon.
San Basilio de Palenque
1.5 hours by car
A UNESCO-recognized village founded by escaped slaves in the 17th century. It's the first free African town in the Americas and preserves a unique culture, language (Palenquero), and musical traditions.
Cartagena Budget Guide
Cartagena can cater to all budgets, but it's generally more expensive than other Colombian cities, especially within the Walled City. Costs spike dramatically during the December-April high season.
Budget
$30-50 USD per day for hostels, street food, and public transport.
per day
Mid-Range
$80-150 USD per day for a nice hotel/B&B, sit-down meals, tours, and taxis.
per day
Luxury
$250+ USD per day for luxury boutique hotels, fine dining, private guides, and island excursions.
per day
Money-Saving Tips
- •Stay in Getsemaní or Manga for better value than the Walled City.
- •Eat 'menú del día' lunches for a complete meal under $5-7 USD.
- •Use the 'TuLlave' card for buses and walk within the historic center to save on transport.
- •Bargain politely but firmly for souvenirs at Las Bóvedas and with beach vendors.
- •Pre-book popular tours and hotels online in advance during high season to avoid inflated last-minute prices.
Cartagena Hidden Gems
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.
Most tourists visit Castillo San Felipe, but La Popa provides a breathtaking, less crowded perspective and houses a beautiful chapel and tranquil gardens.
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.
It's an intense, authentic sensory overload far removed from the tourist trail. Go with a guide to safely navigate and taste incredible, ultra-fresh street food.
Las Murallas at Sunrise
Walking the historic city walls as the sun rises over the Caribbean Sea, with the city still quiet and cool.
You'll have this iconic landmark almost entirely to yourself, a stark contrast to the crowded sunset scene at Café del Mar, and the light for photography is magical.
Café San Alberto in Getsemaní
A specialty coffee shop focused on single-origin Colombian beans, offering tastings and brewing classes in a cool, minimalist space.
It provides a serious, educational coffee experience beyond the standard 'tinto' or Juan Valdez, highlighting Colombia's premium coffee culture.
La Boquilla Fishing Village
A traditional Afro-Colombian fishing village north of the city, where you can take a canoe tour through mangrove tunnels with local guides.
It's an opportunity to see a working fishing community, learn about mangrove ecosystems, and support community-based tourism initiatives directly.
Cartagena Culture & Customs
Cartagena's culture is a proud, rhythmic blend of Indigenous, Spanish, and African roots, expressed through music, dance, and a relaxed yet passionate approach to life. The city is deeply Catholic but also vibrantly festive, with a strong oral storytelling tradition and a deep connection to the sea.
Cultural Etiquette
- •Greet people with a friendly 'Buenos días/tardes' (Good morning/afternoon). A handshake is common; close friends may hug or kiss on the cheek.
- •Dress respectfully when visiting churches—cover shoulders and knees.
- •Haggling is expected in markets and with street vendors, but do so with a smile and good humor, not aggression.
- •It's polite to say 'provecho' (enjoy your meal) to others when entering or leaving a restaurant.
- •Punctuality is flexible ('la hora colombiana'). Social events often start later than stated, but be on time for tours and business meetings.
Useful Phrases
Frequently Asked Questions about Cartagena
Is Cartagena safe for tourists?
The historic center (Walled City and Getsemaní) is very safe for tourists, with a visible police presence. As in any major city, practice common sense: don't flash valuables, be cautious in isolated areas at night, avoid the outskirts, and only take official taxis or use ride-hailing apps.
Do I need to speak Spanish in Cartagena?
It's not essential but highly recommended. In tourist areas, many people in hotels and restaurants speak some English. However, learning basic Spanish phrases will greatly enhance your experience, help with bargaining, and is appreciated by locals, especially outside the main tourist zones.
What is the best way to get to the Rosario Islands?
Book a day tour with a reputable operator from the Muelle de la Bodeguita pier. Options range from basic speedboat transfers to all-inclusive catamaran trips. Avoid the touts on the beach; book through your hotel or a trusted agency for safety and reliability.
Can I drink the tap water in Cartagena?
No, it is not recommended to drink tap water in Cartagena. Always drink bottled or filtered water. Most hotels and restaurants provide purified water. Use bottled water for brushing your teeth to be safe.
What is the voltage and plug type?
Colombia uses 110V electricity, the same as the US and Canada. The plug types are the two-pronged flat Type A and the two-pronged flat with round grounding pin Type B. Travelers from Europe will need an adapter.
How should I dress in Cartagena?
Dress for hot, humid weather: light, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for the cobblestones. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen. For evenings, smart-casual is fine for nice restaurants; men rarely need jackets.
Is Cartagena expensive?
Compared to other Colombian cities, yes, especially within the Walled City. Prices for hotels, food, and tours are geared toward international tourism. You can manage costs by staying in Getsemaní, eating at local spots, and using public transport.
What's the deal with the street vendors?
Street vendors selling everything from hats to massages are a constant, friendly presence in tourist areas. A polite but firm 'No, gracias' is usually enough. If you're not interested, avoid making eye contact or stopping to look. On beaches, renting a chair from a kiosk helps keep them at bay.
Cartagena Itineraries
Travel Guides
Compare with Other Cities
Plan your Cartagena adventure
Let AI create the perfect itinerary for your trip to Cartagena. Just describe what you want to experience.
Plan Cartagena trip