Step into Cartagena, where the streets are a canvas of colorful colonial architecture surrounded by the protective walls of a historic city. The city comes alive with a dynamic cultural scene, where music echoes through the streets, lively plazas host local gatherings, and enticing treats from street vendors fill the air. This lively atmosphere, coupled with a contagious energy and the genuine warmth of its people, collectively crafts a distinctive and inviting ambiance.
Where to Stay
The recommended neighborhood is the historic old town, otherwise known as El Centro. This is the central location in the heart of Cartagena that allows you to be within a walking distance to a variety of restaurants, plazas, shops, and nightlife venues. The accommodations listed below blend Colombian culture with a colonial ambiance.
Hotel Casa San Agustin: Luxurious accommodation with rooms ranging from $500-600.
Ananda Hotel Boutique Hotel - A boutique hotel with rooms around $300.
Casa BuGo - A more budget-friendly option with rooms around $100-$150.
Food to Try
Bandeja Paisa
Colombia's National Dish that includes a generous serving of beans, rice, ground meat, chicharrón (crispy pork belly), fried egg, plantains, and avocado.
Sancocho
A Colombian stew made with a variety of meats (chicken, beef, or pork), potatoes, yams, plantains, corn on the cob, and other vegetables. It's a comforting and nutritious dish.
Arepas
A staple in Colombian cuisine, arepas are thick cornmeal patties that can be grilled, baked, or fried.
Day 1: Historic Old Town
Morning: Inside the Walled City
Take a walking tour of the walled city, wandering through the maze of narrow, cobblestone streets and bright-colored, Spanish Colonial buildings.
Torre del Reloj
The Torre del Reloj, or Clock Tower, serves as the main gateway to the historic Old Town.
Plaza de Santo Domingo
This is the city's most famous square, encompassing Cartagena's art, culture, and history. It has a dark past, as it served as the main point of entry for slaves coming from Africa into Colombia. Now, street performers, outdoor cafes, and historic monuments contribute to the lively atmosphere that this central square is today.
La Gorda Gertrudis is a sculpture by Fernando Botero of a nude bronze woman. The local legend is that touching La Gorda's breast will make you lucky in love.
The Palenqueras, The Fruit Ladies of Cartagena
Originally from San Basilio de Palenque, a village near Cartagena founded by African slaves who sought freedom, the "Palenqueras" are women who are direct descendants from these liberated individuals. Known for their trade in fruits and vegetables, they showcase their produce on the city's streets. Wearing colorful, traditional dresses, they have become iconic symbols of the city's cultural identity.
Tip: Loto del Sur is a great place to buy gifts or take home local items such as lotions, candles, soaps, scrubs, and oils.
Lunch: La Cevicheria
Highly recommended restaurant. It made its debut in Anthony Bourdain’s show and they are known for their ceviche, but you also can't miss out on the extra large seafood paella, large enough for 3-4 people.
Afternoon: Outside the Walled City
Castillo San Felipe
Located just outside the walled city, Castillo San Felipe is a well-known landmark in Cartagena. This castle, once a defense against pirates, now offers a glimpse into the city's history. It's a great place to explore and learn about Cartagena's past. Since the castle is on top of San Lázaro Hill, it makes for a great spot to enjoy elevated views of Cartagena.
Getsemaní
While the Walled City preserves colonial charm and historic landmarks, Getsemaní offers a more bohemian and local experience. Take a walking tour to explore the Plaza de la Trinidad, discover the colorful murals that tell stories of local culture, and visit Iglesia de la Trinidad, the historic church that stands as a cultural landmark.
Dinner: Maria Bonita Taqueria
While in the Getsemaní neighborhood, stop into the colorful and floral restaurant known for their tacos, enchiladas, and quesadillas.
Evening: Colombian Dancing
Cafe Havana
Also located in the Getsemaní neighborhood, this iconic venue allows you to truly experience the lively Colombian culture, offering a blend of live music, salsa dancing, and a lively crowd. Whether you're a seasoned dancer or just looking to soak in the ambiance, Cafe Havana provides an authentic and unforgettable taste of Caribbean nightlife.
Day 2: Day Trip to the Islas del Rosario
The best way to experience the clear Caribbean waters with minimal crowds is to take a day trip on a catamaran to the Islas del Rosario, especially considering Bocagrande beach in Cartagena may not be as desirable. It's an archipelago, composed of 27 small islands off the coast of Colombia. Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch, sip on tropical drinks, and snorkel along the coral reefs to enjoy a relaxing day away from the city.
Afternoon: Cafe del Mar
For a prime sunset experience, head to Cafe del Mar on the historic city walls. After a day out in the sun and water, arrive early at this open-air terrace. Sip on refreshing cocktails and listen to the live music while enjoying panoramic views of the sunset over the Caribbean Sea.
Dinner: Carmen
An elegant and intimate restaurant located in a traditional colonial home. They offer a fusion of international and Colombian dishes and specialize in unique, craft cocktails. The incredible food, cozy, dim-light ambiance, and tropical drinks all together make this a must-visit spot.
Evening: Rooftop Bars
Mirador - Offers a picturesque setting with the backdrop of the Monumento Torre del Reloj.
Alquimico - Enjoy the music, apps, and drinks at this eclectic rooftop bar. Try the pan de bono - soft cheese paired with yucca bread.
Movich - An upscale rooftop bar with panoramic views of the city.
Additional Day Trips/Activities
El Totumo
A mud volcano located ~45 minutes North of Cartagena. After a short hike to the top, you can take a therapeutic mud bath inside the volcano. You can even opt to receive a massage from one of the attendants.
Playa Blanca
Isla Baru, situated off the coast of Cartagena, is renowned for its popular beach, Playa Blanca. Accessible by boat or car, it's a picturesque beach with clear, blue water. Due to its close proximity, it can get crowded.
Blue Apple Beach
An exclusive beach club located on Tierra Bomba Island, accessible by a short boat ride from Cartagena. Lay by the pool, unwind on the private beach, engage in water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding, opt for their spa services, or dine at the restaurant. Explore the day pass options here:
Comentários