Cartagena, Colombia Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know

First impressions

Cartagena is a jewel of the Caribbean with a perfectly preserved walled city, colorful colonial facades, and a lively cultural life that spills into plazas and rooftop bars. The city’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site where history, romance, and tropical heat combine into an intoxicating mix of street vendors, horsedrawn carriages, and latenight salsa. Cartagena is also a gateway to nearby islands and mangrove ecosystems.

History & Stay

A brief history: Founded in the early 16th century, Cartagena became a major Spanish port and fortress city; its walls and fortifications were built to defend against pirates and rival powers, leaving a dramatic military and architectural legacy.
Recommended stay: 3 Days is the ideal amount of time to experience the main highlights without rushing.

What a day actually costs

Backpacker

Accommodation
$12–25 hostel dorm (~50,000–100,000 COP)
Food
$4–8 menú del día lunch (~15,000–30,000 COP)
Transport
$0.75–2 TransMilenio & Metro (~3,000–8,000 COP)

Mid-range

Accommodation
$55–95 boutique in Poblado/Chapinero (~230,000–400,000 COP)
Food
$18–30 sit-down dinner
Transport
$5–10 InDriver/Cabify across town

Luxury

Accommodation
$180+ luxury hotel or Cartagena old-town suite
Food
$55+ chef-driven tasting menu
Transport
$40+ private driver

Cards work in cities but street food and small towns are cash-only. Currency is the Colombian Peso (COP, ~4,000 per USD).

What earned its place

Walled City and Castillo San Felipe de Barajas

Walk the cobbled streets of the Old Town, admire the balconies and plazas, and climb Castillo San Felipe for panoramic views and a sense of the city’s defensive history. The fortress’s tunnels and ramparts are atmospheric and informative.

Best time to go:: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat
Admission:: Paid for Castillo; Old Town free to explore

Rosario Islands

Day Trip A short boat ride brings you to coral reefs, clear water, and beach clubs ideal for snorkeling and relaxation; choose an ecominded operator to protect marine life. Day trips vary from rustic island stops to more developed beach clubs with food and drinks.

Best time to go:: Morning departures for calmer seas
Admission:: Paid; tour fees vary

Getsemaní and Nightlife

The neighborhood of Getsemaní is Cartagena’s creative quarter with street art, lively plazas, and a thriving nightlife scene; it’s the best place to find live music and local bars. Dine at a local restaurant, then wander plazas where impromptu salsa and live bands often appear.

Best time to go:: Evening for music and dining
Admission:: Free to explore; dining and cover charges vary

Getting around

Cartagena is compact and walkable within the Old Town; use taxis or ride apps for longer trips or late nights. Beware of sun exposure and stay hydrated; bring a hat and sunscreen for daytime exploration.

InDriver / Cabify / Didi

Uber operates in a legal grey zone here. InDriver lets you name your own fare, which is often the cheapest option.

TransMilenio (Bogota) / Metro (Medellin)

Medellin's metro is the pride of the city and impressively clean. Load a Civica or one time card at any station.

Domestic flights

For hops like Bogota to Cartagena, flying beats a 20 hour bus ride. Book Avianca or Latam a few weeks ahead.

Cartagena