Cartagena is a beautiful and historic city located on the Caribbean coast of Colombia. With its colorful buildings, narrow streets, and rich culture, it’s no wonder why it’s become one of the top tourist destinations in South America. If you only have 3 days to explore this amazing city, we’ve got you covered with our ultimate travel guide.
Top Attractions in Cartagena
Cartagena is full of incredible attractions, from historic sites to beautiful beaches. Here are some of the most important places to see:
- Walled City of Cartagena: This historic city center is surrounded by walls and features colorful buildings, charming plazas, and beautiful churches.
- Castillo San Felipe de Barajas: This fortress was built in the 17th century to protect Cartagena from attacks by pirates and foreign armies.
- Plaza de la Trinidad: This lively square is a great place to experience the local culture, with street vendors, musicians, and artists.
- Bocagrande Beach
- Getsemaní Neighborhood: This trendy neighborhood is known for its street art, live music, and vibrant nightlife.
- Rosario Islands: These beautiful islands are located just off the coast of Cartagena and offer crystal-clear waters and stunning beaches.
- Palacio de la Inquisición: This 18th-century palace features exhibitions on the history of the Spanish Inquisition in Colombia.
- San Diego Neighborhood
- Cathedral of Cartagena: This beautiful church is located in the heart of the Walled City and features stunning architecture and artwork.
These are just a few of the many amazing attractions in Cartagena. Make sure to plan your itinerary in advance to make the most of your 3 days in the city.
Routes in Cartagena
There are many great routes to explore Cartagena, depending on your interests and time available. Here are some suggestions:
- Historic Walking Tour: This route takes you through the Walled City, where you can see some of the most important historic sites, including the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas and the Cathedral of Cartagena.
- Street Art Tour: Getsemaní is known for its street art, and this route takes you through the neighborhood to see some of the best murals and graffiti.
- Beach Day: Spend a day relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Cartagena, including Bocagrande and the Rosario Islands.
- Nightlife Tour: Getsemaní is also known for its vibrant nightlife, and this route takes you through the best bars and clubs in the neighborhood.
- Shopping Tour: Cartagena is a great place to buy souvenirs and local crafts, and this route takes you through some of the best markets and shops in the city.
Of course, there are many other routes to explore Cartagena. Make sure to do some research and plan ahead to make the most of your time.
Where to Sleep in Cartagena
Cartagena has many great options for accommodation, from luxury hotels to budget hostels. Here are some of the best places to sleep:
- Bastión Luxury Hotel: This boutique hotel is located in the heart of the Walled City and offers luxurious rooms and personalized service.
- Casa La Fe Hotel: This charming hotel is located in the historic Getsemaní neighborhood and offers comfortable rooms and a rooftop pool.
- Hotel Caribe by Faranda: This classic hotel is located on the beachfront and features a large pool and beautiful gardens.
- Casa Lola: This budget-friendly hotel is located in the Walled City and features colorful rooms and a friendly atmosphere.
These are just a few of the many accommodation options in Cartagena. Make sure to book in advance, especially during peak tourist season.
Where to Eat in Cartagena
Cartagena is known for its delicious cuisine, which includes traditional Colombian dishes as well as international options. Here are some great places to eat:
- La Cevichería: This casual restaurant is located in the Walled City and offers delicious ceviche and seafood dishes.
- Café del Mar: This iconic bar is located on the city walls and offers stunning views of the Caribbean sea.
- El Boliche Cebicheria: This popular restaurant is located in Getsemaní and offers a variety of ceviche and seafood dishes.
- El Santísimo: This elegant restaurant is located in a historic building in the Walled City and offers traditional Colombian cuisine with a modern twist.
- Alma Restaurant: This upscale restaurant is located in the San Diego neighborhood and offers delicious seafood and international dishes.
- Epoca Espresso Bar: This cozy café is located in the Walled City and offers excellent coffee and light bites.
Make sure to try some of the local specialties, such as arepas, empanadas, and patacones, while you’re in Cartagena.
Free Tours in Cartagena
If you’re on a budget or want to learn more about Cartagena from a local perspective, there are many free tours available. Here are some options:
- Real City Tours: This tour company offers a variety of free walking tours, including a Walled City tour, a street art tour, and a Getsemaní tour.
- Cartagena Free Tours: This tour company offers a free Walled City walking tour as well as a food tour and a night tour.
- Free Walking Tour Cartagena: This tour company offers a free Walled City walking tour as well as a Getsemaní tour and a bar tour.
These tours are a great way to explore the city and learn more about its history and culture. Make sure to tip your guide if you enjoy the tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the best time to visit Cartagena? The best time to visit Cartagena is from December to March, when the weather is dry and sunny.
- What is the official currency in Colombia? The official currency in Colombia is the Colombian peso. Make sure to exchange some money before you arrive, as not all places accept credit cards.
- Do I need a visa to visit Cartagena? It depends on your nationality. Citizens of some countries can enter Colombia without a visa, while others need to apply for a visa in advance. Check with your local embassy or consulate for more information.
- What is the best way to get around Cartagena? Cartagena is a relatively small city, and most attractions are within walking distance. However, you can also take taxis or buses if you prefer.
For more information, visit the official tourism website of the city of Cartagena:https://www.cartagenacaribe.com/
