Looking for the best things to do in Cartagena, Colombia? This vibrant Caribbean gem is one of the country’s most captivating destinations, blending colonial charm, tropical beauty, and rich history. It offers endless adventures for every traveler, from strolling through the colorful streets of the Walled City to exploring historic forts, lively plazas, and stunning beaches. Cartagena should absolutely be on your travel list and that’s where this guide comes in! Keep reading for the top places to go in Cartagena and what to do for an unforgettable experience in Colombia’s most enchanting coastal city.
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Explore the Walled City (Ciudad Amurallada)
At the heart of Cartagena lies its most famous attraction, the Walled City, also known as Old Town (Ciudad Amurallada). Surrounded by centuries-old coral stone walls built to defend against pirates, this Patrimonio mundial de la UNESCO bursts with color, culture, and history. Stroll through cobblestone streets lined with pastel mansions, vibrant bougainvillea, and grand balconies draped in Colombian flags. Every corner reveals charming boutique hotels, lively cafés, and art galleries housed in restored colonial buildings.
Don’t miss Plaza de Bolívar, home to the Palacio de la Inquisición, where you can learn about Cartagena’s colonial past and darker inquisitorial history. Nearby stands the San Pedro Claver Church, dedicated to the saint who devoted his life to helping enslaved Africans arriving at Cartagena’s port.
Excited to explore the walled city but unsure where to begin? Let our travel and tour experts handle everything for you!
Climb the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas
No visit to Cartagena is complete without exploring Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, the most impressive fortress in Latin America. Located proudly atop San Lázaro Hill, this colossal structure was originally built in 1536 and expanded over centuries to defend the city from pirates and foreign invasions.
Walking through its labyrinth of tunnels, ramps, and lookout points gives you a deep sense of Cartagena’s strategic importance during the colonial era. The panoramic views from the top are breathtaking, you can see the Caribbean Sea, the skyline of Bocagrande, and the colorful sprawl of Getsemaní below.
For a more enriching experience, hire a Two Travel’s local guide or get an audio tour. You will learn about the ingenious engineering behind this fortress, the battles fought here, and how the Spanish crown protected one of its most valuable ports in the Americas.
Planning your Castillo San Felipe de Barajas getaway? Let us take care of all the details! From transport and accommodations to tours and reservations, we have got you covered.
Experience the Color and Art of Getsemaní
Discover the vibrant soul of Getsemaní, once a working-class neighborhood just beyond Cartagena’s old city walls, now transformed into one of the most bohemian and art-driven districts in Colombia. As you wander its narrow alleys, you will find walls painted with bold murals, overhead displays of umbrellas and pennants, and street art celebrating Afro-Caribbean heritage, freedom, and love
At the heart of Getsemaní lies Plaza de la Trinidad, a dynamic square, where, during the day locals gather to play games and catch up. As night falls the atmosphere pulses with live music, open-air bars and street eats. Take time to stroll along mural-lined streets like Calle de la Sierpe and you will understand why this neighborhood is known for its creative energy and community spirit.
Eager to experience the art of Getsemani yourself? Contact us now and kickstart the adventure of a lifetime with the help of our expert!
Relax on Cartagena’s Beaches
If the sun, sand, and sea are calling your name, you will find plenty of Cartagena Colombia attractions along its coastline.
While the city beaches in Bocagrande are convenient and lively, they tend to be crowded. For a serene experience, head to Playa El Laguito in nearby Castillogrande. It is a cleaner, quieter stretch ideal for swimming and sunbathing. From here, take a short boat trip to Tierra Bomba Island, home to beach clubs offering all-inclusive day passes, great food, and crystal-clear waters.
But the real treasures are found farther offshore, the Islas del Rosario and Playa Blanca on Isla Barú. These Caribbean jewels boast turquoise waters, white sands, and vibrant coral reefs perfect for snorkeling or just unwinding in the sun. Our Islas del Rosario tour includes lunch and drinks, making it one of the most popular things to do in Cartagena Colombia.
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Watch the Sunset with a Cocktail on a Rooftop Oasis
One of the most magical things to do in Cartagena, Colombia is to watch the sunset over the Caribbean Sea. This is a daily ritual that perfectly captures the city’s laid-back coastal charm. The Café del Mar, perched atop Cartagena’s ancient city walls, is the most famous spot to witness this spectacle. Here, locals and travelers alike gather with cocktails in hand to watch the sun sink below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of gold and crimson.
For a more relaxed and less crowded setting, Cartagena offers several hidden gems. Head to the Townhouse Rooftop in the heart of the Old Town, a stylish, palm-fringed bar serving creative tropical cocktails like the Colombian Mule and Passion Fruit Coolada. Nearby, the Mirador Gastrobar overlooks the bustling Portal de los Dulces, providing an excellent vantage point for people-watching as the city comes alive at dusk.
In Bocagrande, elevate your evening at 51 Sky Bar, Colombia’s highest open-air bar. Here, panoramic views, signature drinks, and world-class cuisine make for an unforgettable night beneath the stars.
Dance the Night Away at a Salsa Club
Cartagena’s nightlife pulses with Latin energy, and no trip is complete without trying some salsa moves. Even if you have never danced before, you will quickly get swept up in the rhythm.
Start at Café Havana in Getsemaní, an iconic salsa club where live bands keep the crowd moving until the early morning. Though there is a small cover charge, the experience is well worth it. For a more local flavor, check out Club Los Carpinteros, where locals gather for authentic salsa and vallenato tunes.
Don’t worry if you are shy on the dance floor; Cartagena’s people are famously friendly, and you will always find someone willing to show you a few steps. This is not just Cartagena nightlife, it’s cultural immersion.
Taste Cartagena’s Culinary Delights
Cartagena’s cuisine is a feast for the senses, blending Caribbean freshness, African roots, and Colombian tradition. Whether you dine at a five-star restaurant or a street stall, every bite tells a story.
For fine dining, head to Celele in Getsemaní, one of Latin America’s best restaurants. Its chefs reinterpret coastal Colombian dishes using local ingredients and contemporary flair. In the Old Town, Mar y Zielo offers an elegant fusion of Colombian and Middle Eastern flavors, served in a beautifully restored colonial building.
But some of the city’s best flavors are found on the streets. Try arepa de huevo (deep-fried arepa stuffed with egg), patacones (fried plantains), buñuelos, or mango biche seasoned with lime and chili. For seafood lovers, ceviche stands near Avenida Venezuela serve fresh shrimp and fish marinated in lime. It is one of the perfect snack under the tropical sun.
For a raw local experience, visit Mercado de Bazurto, Cartagena’s bustling market. It’s chaotic, loud, and full of life, with stalls selling exotic fruits, fish, and traditional dishes prepared on the spot. Go with our tour guide to explore safely and sample some authentic coastal Colombian flavors.
Join a Chiva Party Bus
Looking for fun, music, and laughter? Jump aboard a Chiva Rumbera, Cartagena’s legendary party bus. Originally used for rural transport, these brightly painted buses are now mobile fiestas that cruise through the city at night.
Aboard, you will find a live band, open bar (with rum or aguardiente), and an atmosphere that’s pure joy. The Chiva winds through Cartagena’s historic streets while everyone sings, dances, and celebrates. After an exhilarating ride, the Chiva usually stops in front of one of the city’s top nightclubs, where the party continues until dawn.
Visit the Museo del Oro Zenú
For a fascinating glimpse into Colombia’s pre-Hispanic heritage, visit the Museo del Oro Zenú, located in a beautifully restored colonial mansion near Parque de Bolívar. This free museum showcases over 6000 years of indigenous culture through intricate gold and copper artifacts.
The Zenú people, who inhabited the Caribbean coast long before the Spanish arrived, were master goldsmiths. Their work, delicate masks, jewelry, and figures, reflects both spiritual beliefs and artistic genius. Exhibits also explore the Zenú’s sophisticated irrigation systems, which sustained their agriculture in this tropical region.
The museum is air-conditioned (a welcome break from the heat) and provides insightful context about the region’s cultural and artistic legacy. This makes it one of the top educational Cartagena Colombia attractions.
Now that you know what to expect before visiting Museo del Oro Zenú, let’s create a personalized itinerary to make your experience truly unforgettable!
Take a Canoe Tour in La Boquilla Mangroves
Escape the city’s bustle and connect with nature on a canoe tour through the mangroves of La Boquilla, a small fishing village just 20 minutes from Cartagena. Local fishermen lead visitors through the intricate waterways, sharing stories about traditional fishing methods and the delicate ecosystem they call home.
Glide through tunnels of mangrove roots, spot birds and crabs, and even try casting fishing nets. Our guided tour ends with a fresh seafood meal, think fried fish, coconut rice, and patacones, prepared right by the water.
This eco-tour supports local communities and offers a glimpse of authentic coastal life. It’s a peaceful, meaningful experience and one of the most unique places to go in Cartagena, Colombia.
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The Charm of Cartagena Awaits
From its storied walls to its sun-drenched islands, Cartagena is a city that leaves an indelible mark on every traveler. Whether you’re soaking in history, savoring street food, or dancing until sunrise, every moment here feels alive with color and soul.
So, if you have been wondering what to do in Cartagena, Colombia, start with these ten unforgettable experiences. They capture the essence of a city where past and present blend seamlessly, a place where every street, song, and smile tells you, you have found somewhere truly special.
You have officially discovered the best things to do in Cartagena, Colombia. Now all you need to do is book a ticket and experience it for yourself. Reach out to our team of experts for a personalized tour of the city!
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