Cartagena de Indias is the Colombian Caribbean’s most visited city, and the best first stop on the coast. Its Walled City, with the fortress of San Felipe de Barajas and the surrounding monuments, was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984. Around it you get colorful Getsemaní, modern Bocagrande, a bay full of islands and villages with deep African and indigenous roots a short drive inland.
What to do in Cartagena
- Walk the Walled City. Plazas, balconies full of flowers, convents and the old walls at sunset. A city tour with a local guide explains what you are looking at.
- Explore Getsemaní. Street art, small plazas and the city’s liveliest evenings.
- Take an island day. The Rosario Islands and Tierra Bomba are the classic escape: clear water, snorkeling and a long lunch.
- Eat well. From street food to fine dining, Cartagena is a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy. Start with our guide on where to eat in Cartagena and the best coffee shops.
- Plan your evenings. Rooftops, salsa bars and sunset sails. See what to do in Cartagena after sunset.
- Go beyond the city. The mud-bath volcano of Totumo, the hammock-weaving town of San Jacinto and Palenque de San Basilio, the first free African town in the Americas.
For a full list, read our things to do in Cartagena guide.
How many days in Cartagena?
| Days | Suggested plan |
|---|---|
| 2 | Walled City and Getsemaní, plus one island or beach day |
| 3 | Add food experiences and a sunset sail |
| 4 | Add a cultural day trip (Totumo, Palenque, San Jacinto) or birdwatching |
Best time to go
The driest months are December to April. From May to November it is hotter and more humid, with short, heavy afternoon showers; September to November are the rainiest. The sea is warm all year, and midday heat is intense, so plan walks for the morning or after 4 pm.
Where to stay
- Walled City: atmosphere, walkable restaurants and boutique hotels.
- Getsemaní: lively, more affordable and great for nightlife.
- Bocagrande and Castillogrande: beach hotels and apartments, a short taxi ride from the old town.
Getting there and around
Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG) is about 15 minutes from the center. The old town is walkable; use registered taxis or a ride app for longer trips. For islands and day trips, boats and ground transport are arranged for you.
Plan your Cartagena trip with us
We are based in Cartagena (RNT 74577) and run city tours, island days, food experiences and cultural day trips. Choose a tour below or tell us what you want to do and we will send you a personal quote.
