Cartagena is a vibrant and colourful city on Colombia’s northern coast. It offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. The historic old town, a World Heritage site, is one of the most popular attractions of Cartagena. The city is also known for its beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters and white sand.
Explore the Walled City
Cartagena’s Walled City is a World Heritage Site that is a must-see for any visitor. The historic centre is surrounded by walls that were built in the 16th century to protect the city from pirates and invaders. Within the walls, visitors can explore the city’s rich history, architecture, and culture.
San Felipe de Barajas Castle
One of the most impressive attractions within the Walled City is the San Felipe de Barajas Castle. The Spanish built this fortress in the 17th century to defend the city from attacks. Visitors can explore the castle’s tunnels, ramparts, and cannons while enjoying breathtaking views of the city.
Clock Tower Gate
The Clock Tower Gate is one of the most iconic landmarks in Cartagena. This gate was built in the 18th century and served as the main entrance to the Walled City. Today, visitors can walk through the gate and explore the surrounding area, which is filled with colourful buildings, street vendors, and local musicians.
Historic Streets and Squares
The Walled City is filled with historic streets and squares that are perfect for exploring on foot. Visitors can wander through the narrow streets and admire the colonial architecture, colourful buildings, and beautiful balconies. Some of the most popular squares to visit include the Plaza de Bolívar, the Plaza Santo Domingo, and the Plaza de la Aduana.
Visit the Beaches
Cartagena is a city known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. Whether you’re looking to relax or have some fun in the sun, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Playa Blanca
Playa Blanca is a stunning beach located just outside of Cartagena. It’s known for its white sand and turquoise waters and is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkelling. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of water sports, such as jet skiing and parasailing. There are plenty of restaurants and bars in the area, making it a great place to spend a whole day.
Bocagrande Beach
Bocagrande Beach is located in the heart of Cartagena and is a popular spot for both tourists and locals. The beach is lined with high-rise hotels and offers a variety of activities, including beach volleyball and jet skiing. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of restaurants and bars in the area, making it a great place to spend a day or evening.
Islas del Rosario
The Islas del Rosario are a group of small islands located just off the coast of Cartagena. They are known for their crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and white sand beaches. Visitors can take a boat tour of the islands and enjoy a day of swimming, snorkelling, and sunbathing. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars on the islands, making it a great place to spend a whole day.
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Cultural Experiences
Cartagena is a city rich in history and culture, with a variety of museums, churches, and other cultural attractions to explore. Here are some of the top cultural experiences to check out during your visit:
Palace of the Inquisition
The Palace of the Inquisition is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of Cartagena and the Spanish Inquisition. This impressive building, located in the heart of the Old City, was originally built in the 18th century and served as the headquarters of the Spanish Inquisition in Cartagena. Today, it houses the Historical Museum of Cartagena, which features exhibits on the city’s history, culture, and art.
Gold Museum
The Gold Museum is another must-see attraction for visitors to Cartagena. This museum is home to a stunning collection of pre-Columbian gold artefacts, including jewellery, masks, and other decorative objects. The museum also features exhibits on the history and culture of the indigenous peoples of Colombia.
Santo Domingo Church
The Santo Domingo Church is one of the most iconic landmarks in Cartagena, with its bright yellow facade and distinctive bell tower. This historic church was built in the 16th century and features a mix of architectural styles, including Gothic and Baroque. Visitors can explore the church’s interior, which is filled with beautiful artwork and religious artefacts.
Local Cuisine
When it comes to food, Cartagena is a city that offers a wide range of flavours and dishes. From seafood delights to street food tours and fine dining experiences, the city has something to offer for every palate.
Seafood Delights
Cartagena is known for its fresh seafood, and there is no shortage of restaurants serving up delicious dishes. Visitors can enjoy traditional dishes like ceviche, a seafood cocktail made with raw fish, lime juice, and spices, or arroz con mariscos, a rice dish cooked with seafood. Some popular seafood restaurants in Cartagena include La Mulata, El Boliche Cebicheria, and La Vitrola.
Street Food Tours
For those looking for a more casual dining experience, Cartagena’s street food scene is not to be missed. Visitors can take a street food tour to sample a variety of local dishes like arepas, empanadas, and patacones. These tours offer a great opportunity to taste authentic Colombian cuisine while learning about the city’s history and culture. Some popular street food tour companies include Cartagena Connections and Cartagena Food Tour.
Fine Dining
Cartagena also has several high-end restaurants that offer fine dining experiences. These restaurants often feature international cuisine with a Colombian twist, and many offer stunning views of the city. Some popular fine dining options in Cartagena include Carmen, Marea by Rausch, and Restaurante 1621.
Outdoor Activities
Mangrove Kayaking
Cartagena’s mangroves are a unique ecosystem that can be explored by kayak. Visitors can paddle through the winding channels and observe the diverse flora and fauna. Kayaking tours are available for all skill levels, and experienced guides provide insight into the local ecology.
Snorkeling and Diving
The waters off the coast of Cartagena offer a wealth of marine life, including colourful coral reefs and tropical fish. Snorkelling and diving tours are available for those who wish to explore this underwater world. For more experienced divers, there are also opportunities to explore shipwrecks and deeper reefs.
Hiking in Parque Nacional Natural Corales del Rosario y San Bernardo
Located about an hour from Cartagena, this national park is home to a diverse range of ecosystems, including coral reefs, mangroves, and tropical forests. Visitors can hike through the park’s trails and observe the local flora and fauna, including monkeys, iguanas, and a variety of bird species. The park also offers opportunities for snorkelling and diving.
Festivals and Events
Cartagena Film Festival
The Cartagena Film Festival, also known as FICCI, is one of the most important cultural events in Colombia. It is an international film festival that takes place every year in March. The festival showcases a wide range of films, including feature films, documentaries, and short films from all over the world. The festival attracts many famous actors, directors, and producers, making it an excellent opportunity to meet and learn from industry professionals.
Independence Day Festivities
Cartagena celebrates Independence Day on November 11th with a series of events and festivities. The day starts with a parade that includes marching bands, dancers, and colourful floats. In the evening, there are fireworks displays, concerts, and street parties. The city’s historic centre is decorated with lights and flags, creating a festive atmosphere.
Hay Festival
The Hay Festival is a literary festival that takes place in Cartagena every January. The festival brings together writers, poets, journalists, and intellectuals from all over the world to discuss literature and ideas. The festival features readings, talks, and workshops, as well as music and film events. The Hay Festival is a great opportunity to meet and learn from some of the most influential writers and thinkers of our time.
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