This incredible town of Cartagena is the fifth-largest city and is considered to be one of the most beautiful cities in Colombia. The city is characterized by cobblestone streets, squares and colonial structures lined by boutiques, restaurants and horse carriages. It is also a great beach destination gilded with white sand, palm trees and coral reefs. Being a port city on the Caribbean coast, the city boasts of plenty of things to see and do. From the rich history and amazing nightlife to its churches, colourful buildings and colonial architecture, the city is perfect for honeymoons, family vacations and adventures. Explore the city in an entirely unique way by preparing a list of what you are going to do while in the city. This article will help you get started on the things to do in Cartagena, Colombia.
1. Explore the ancient Walls of Cartagena
Walls of Cartagena, an 11-kilometer (6.8-mile) stone wall, complete with bastions and fortifications, is one of the city’s major attractions. Its construction, completed in the late 18th century, took almost two centuries. The wall was erected to protect the historic area from pirates and other attackers. Thanks to this structure, you can now appreciate the well-preserved old city. Although some of its sections are broken, you can stroll on certain parts of the building and admire the location’s historical and architectural wonders, such as the vibrant city plazas.
Walls of Cartagena
Address: Cartagena, Cartagena Province, Bolivar, Colombia
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
2. See the famous Clock Tower Monument up close
Clock Tower Monument, also called ‘La Torre del Reloj,’ is one of the most important sections of the Walls of Cartagena, considered the main entrance of the old city. The landmark connects old Cartagena with Getsemani through the drawbridge and it is one of the country’s most revered attractions. It initially contained a weapon room and a chapel, until in the late 19th century, when it was rebuilt to house a pendulum clock. However, the clock was replaced with a better Swiss clock in the 20th century, still in use today. From the gothic furnishings to the restaurants and bars in the area, this location is a must-see.
Clock Tower Monument
Address: Boca del Puente, Cartagena, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
3. Stroll along Plaza Santo Domingo
Plaza Santo Domingo is one of the most popular squares in the town, set in the old city’s middle. From its history to many cozy diners, housed in Colonial-inspired buildings, the venue is a favorite meeting point for locals and tourists. Aside from the restaurants, the main draws to this location are the 16th-century Church of Santo Domingo — the oldest and the most beautiful church in the city and a Botero Statue. There’s a legend about the breasted figure that romantics who caress the breast will have an enduring relationship.
Plaza Santo Domingo
Address: Cl. 35, Cartagena, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
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4. Buy souvenirs in Clock Square
Clock Square, also called Plaza del Reloj, is the main facade of the old town’s gate where the Clock Tower is located. Here, you’ll find street food stalls serving various local dishes, including sweets, agua panela, and egg arepa. It’s also an ideal place to shop for souvenirs. Plus, Folkloric performances, a fantastic street show, brightens up the area every night for you to enjoy local culture with friends or family. The spot is safe at all times, but mind your belongings and kids, especially at night.
Clock Square
Address: #8-160 a, Cl. 32 #8202, Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
5. Experience extraordinary shows at Colon Theater
This colonial-inspired building is the oldest opera house on the continent. The national theater was established in the late 19th century to honor the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus’s arrival to the Americas. Although it underwent major remodeling from 2008 to 2014, it still retains its old-world charm, especially the charming white facade. Today, the 785-seat-capacity hall hosts myriads of national and international performances from renowned artists and groups. But even if you’re not lucky to visit during an organized program, seeing the historic exteriors is rewarding.
Colon Theater
Address: Cl. 24 #25-84, Cartagena, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia
6. Admire the stunning architecture of San Felipe Castle (from USD 135.0)
Get a chance to explore the historic streets and monuments of Cartagena on this four-hour tour. Discover the city’s wealth of exquisite architecture by touring the elegant mansions of the Manga neighbourhood, monuments such as San Felipe Castle, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed walled city, the Monastery of La Popa and the modern districts of Cartagena. The tour includes a private guide, private vehicle, paid for entrance fees and round-trip hotel transport. Learn about the city’s history on this personalized tour.
Cartagena Private City Tour with San Felipe Castle and Manga
Duration: 4 hours
7. Appreciate the colourful street art in Getsemani
Getsemaní is a lesser-known neighbourhood than Cartagena’s old town but has its own charm worth exploring. It is growing to be a popular spot for tourists and locals to draw in the culture of Cartagena. The neighbourhood is the centre of the growing hotel industry and features excellent bars, restaurants and cafes where people can meet up. The neighbourhood also boasts some great art on its colourful buildings, making it a great place for photoshoots. Put on your best clothes, grab your camera and head to Getsemani for some wonderful experience!
Getsemani
Website: Getsemani
8. Enjoy the sunset from Café del Mar Ltda
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Chill in this lovely cafe with your friends or significant other situated in the Baluarte de Santo Domingo. It was established in 2002 and welcomes guests from all over the world to enjoy delicious cocktails while feeling the ocean breeze. It is a magical place that features the most beautiful sunsets, great music, exotic nights and a cosmopolitan atmosphere for spending memorable hours with friends. The case is the most recognized Bar & Restaurant in Cartagena and throughout Colombia and provides its customers with excellent services and facilities.
Café del Mar Ltda
Address: Sto Domingo Bulwark Center. Cartagena, Colombia
Website: Café del Mar Ltda
Opening hours: 5pm - 3am (daily)
Price: 15 - 50 USD
9. Sunbathe in the Bocagrande Beach
On those days you do not feel like venturing beyond the touristic Cartagena, grab some rays at the Bocogrande Beach. Being a public beach, it is always busy during the holidays and weekends and the hawkers may disturb your peace. However, securing a spot off the beaten track by the trees, a little further from the sea will save you from the hassle.
Bocagrande Beach
Address: Bocagrande Beach, Cartagena, Colombia
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
10. Marvel at the colonial architecture of the Palace of the Inquisition
For the historic adventurer diving into Cartagena’s past, visiting this palace can lead to some dark discoveries. The Palace of Inquisition is a relic from the Spanish Inquisition when the Catholic Church tortured and executed thousands of non-Catholics for crimes real or false. The palace was created in 1610 and exits now as one of the colonial, civil architecture in the city. A visit to the palace involves a tour of two full rooms with horrifying torture devices, excellent exhibits such as paintings illuminating less tragic periods, maps, ceramics, pre-Colombian statues and much more!
Palace of the Inquisition
Address: Calle 32, Cartagena, Bolivar, Colombia
Website: Palace of the Inquisition
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 6pm; Sun: 10am - 4pm
Price: 7 USD
11. Enjoy the views from the quaint Convent of La Popa
Convento de La Popa sits on the highest hill in the city and boasts the most exciting views of the city. In addition to the views, it also boasts of the stunning cloisters in Colombia. While the convent no longer houses monks, it can be visited from Monday through Saturday. The views from here are outstanding as well as the charming flower-filled patio and the statues. To get to the place, a cab is recommended for safety purposes.
Convent of La Popa
Address: Calle 37, Cartagena, Colombia
Website: Convent of La Popa
Opening hours: 8:30am - 5:30pm (daily)
Price: 1.80 USD onwards
12. Shop souvenirs at Las Bovedas
Las Bóvedas or otherwise known as The Vaults is an architecturally interesting structure within the walled city. It was civil war dungeon. The structure is situated in the San Diego district between Santa Clara and Santa Catalina where it serves as an excellent place to find souvenirs. The shop owners are friendly and the prices of souvenirs are affordable. The souvenir shops are well-stocked with emeralds, Botero knockoffs, hammocks, hats and molas. These alcoves are interspersed with cramped bars and galleries.
Las Bovedas
Address: Between the Santa Catalina bastion and the former Santa Clara convent, Cartagena, Colombia
Website: Las Bovedas
Opening hours: 7am - 8pm (daily)
13. Soak in the nightlife vibes at Eclipse Disco Bar
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This is an excellent spot for rhumba music and great food in the Bocagrande sector. It features an excellent location, good lighting, decorations and seating area as well as air conditioning. You will find a patio at the back where you can sip a good cocktail as you appreciate the stars. They offer affordable food with exquisite taste, live music and excellent programming of events.
Eclipse Disco Bar
Address: Bocagrande, Carrera Tercera, Centro Commercial La Mansion | Local 26., Cartagena 130001, Colombia
Website: Eclipse Disco Bar
Opening hours: Thu - Sun: 9pm - 3am (closed from Mon - Wed)
14. Interact with the locals at the Bazurto Market (from USD 122.0)
Those looking to experience the real Cartagena should think about visiting Mercado de Bazurto. It is a busy and pretty overwhelming food market that sells everything from herbs to cooked turtle. While in the area, marvel at the labyrinth created by the food stalls as you expect to get lost a little. This tour will guide you through the labyrinth while taking you through all sections of the market including the music section and the arts and crafts section. Remember to be mindful of your belongings as you wander through!
Cartagena: 3-Hour Bazurto Market Tour
Duration: 3.0 hour
15. Dance to the tune of salsa at Salsa Donde Fidel
Salsa Donde Fidel is a great place to people watch, listen to and dance to salsa tunes and drink the coldest beer in town. It is situated next to the Clock Tower and boasts a local vibe that refuses to succumb to new trends You will find drinks like Cerveza and aguardiente, no fancy cocktails. The inside features loud Cuban music, salsa spinners and a fantastic collection of photographs of Fidel posing with the greatest salsa dancers. There are seats on the terrace outside for those who cant withstand the loud music.
Salsa Donde Fidel
Address: Plaza de Los Coches, Cartagena, Colombia
Website: Salsa Donde Fidel
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 12am - 12pm, 4pm - 12am; Mon: 4pm - 12am
16. Soothe your soul at the serene Sanctuary of San Pedro Claver
The Iglesia de San Pedro Claver is a flashy Catholic church situated in the heart of the old Walled City. The building is dedicated to a Spanish priest, Pedro Claver, who gave his life to serve God and people in need. The building boasts a lovely architecture, brilliant statuary and hand-crafted stained glass. Locals and visitors alike often come to this sanctuary to seek some alone time for prayer and meditation. Other come to view the earthly remains of Peter Claver which lie under an altar in the church.
Iglesia de San Pedro Claver
Address: Plaza de San Pedro Claver, Cra. 4 ##30-01, Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia
Website: glesia de San Pedro Claver
17. Treat your foodie soul to exotic ceviche at La Cevichería
Get to La Cevicheria to enjoy rounds of deliciousness. La Cevichería is a lovely restaurant situated a few metres from Plaza San Diego that guides the locals and tourists alike in discovering the flavours that describe Cartagena. It has a cosy atmosphere, making it the perfect spot to spend the afternoon with friends or loved ones. You can choose to stay outside on the patio as you sip a few drinks or sit inside where there is no disturbance from vendors. Some of the customers recommend ‘Lobster Paella’ which is basically lovely wet lobster rice. The food here is high quality and the service is top-notch.
La Cevichería
Address: Calle Stuart 7, Cartagena, Colombia
Website: La Cevichería
Opening hours: 1pm - 10:30pm (daily)
18. Explore the marine biodiversity of the Caribbean Sea (from USD 79.0)
Are you a lover of the waters and sea animals? If yes, this tour is for you. It is a snorkelling tour of the Caribbean Sea where you will get to view colourful fishes, corals, iguanas, birds and much more! Your tour starts with a pick up from your accommodation in an air-conditioned bus from where you will be taken to the island of Baru. From here, you will be taken to the snorkelling site by a boat. After the tour, you will get to enjoy a delicious island lunch along with a non-alcoholic drink. You will have some time to swim in the waters after your lunch, before boarding the bus which will take you back to your accommodation.
Cartagena: Snorkel, Mangroves and Playa Blanca Tour
Duration: 8.0 hour
19. Set sail on a scenic Cartagena Bay Cruise (from USD 54.99)
If you are looking to surprise your significant other with some great time then this option is perfect for you. It offers a romantic experience to its sailors by providing them with a scenic tour of the skyline and the city centre through the bay of Cartagena. It also includes a four-course dinner of world-class cuisine and a bottle of wine for couples. Board this ship and enjoy your dinner as you take in the magnificent view. Take your love life to another level by bringing your better half to this romantic cruise.
Cartagena: Cruise by the Bay with Dinner and Wine
Duration: 2.0 hour
20. Party hard at Plaza la Trinidad
This is a lovely place to hang out at night with friends and loved ones. It is characterized by plenty of restaurants, bars, people and entertainment like musicians, dancers, acrobats and jugglers. You will also find vendors selling street food and drinks. If you have the night planned out for dancing, set your mood by hitting plaza la Trinidad early. Meet new people to socialize with, dance with the performers or get entertained by the dancers as you appreciate their talents with a few bucks.
Plaza la Trinidad
Address: Cartagena, Colombia
21. Visit the iconic Puerta del Reloj
Originally known as the Boca del Puente, Puerta del Reloj is the main city gate and the original entrance of the colonial city. It was linked to the Getsemaní neighbourhood by a drawbridge during the colonial period where it used to serve as a defence mechanism. The side arches of the gate, previously used as a chapel and armoury, are now used as walkways. A republican-style tower with a four-sided clock was then added later. Visit this amazing tower that represents a greater part of the city’s history.
Puerta del Reloj
Address: Main city gate, monument in Cartagena, Colombia
22. Discover authentic Emeralds with the help of a professional guide (from USD 69.0)
Get to see if you are a jewellery person by going on this exciting tour with a professional guide. It involves a visit to an emerald store and museum where you will get to know how gems are sourced and you will also get a chance to see a lovely collection of jewels. Learn from the experts on how to recognize an authentic jewel and also make some purchases for yourself. Who knows, you might find your new hobby on this amazing tour!
Cartagena: Emeralds Tour
Duration: Wheelchair accessible
23. Explore the historic Old Town in a horse-drawn carriage (from USD 80.0)
Old Town, also known as Centro Amurallado, is the heart of Cartagena. It is characterized by fortresses which protected the walled city from pirates and storms!. Within the walls of this city are colonial buildings, churches, squares and plazas. Lounge on the benches in the squares as you watch performers and live bands playing traditional Colombian music. With the number of cars restricted and motorbikes forbidden, horse-drawn carriages are the most used means of transport. The streets within the city are peaceful and perfect to stroll around at any time. Take a ride around the city in a classic horse-drawn carriage which reflects the city’s character without making you look like a cheap tourist.
Cartagena Horse and Carriage Night Ride Including Dinner
Duration: 3 hours
24. Experience a healing mud bath at the Mud Volcano (from USD 40.0)
Head to El Totumo Cartagena in order to enjoy a unique cultural experience. It is a small volcano located outside the city and is filled with thick, bubbling mud. Tourists and locals visit this volcano to take a dip in the warm mud bath which has rejuvenating properties. From the experiences and reviews, the mud bath relaxes the muscles and purifies the skin. This mud is then scrubbed off by the local workers in a nearby lake.
Half Day Mud Volcano from Cartagena
Duration: 5 to 6 hours
25. Take a ride on a Chiva Party Bus (from USD 31.0)
Partying on a Chiva (party bus) is a must-do Colombian activity. You will be entertained by live musicians playing Vallenato, an open bar with local liquor and lots of dancing. While the party starts on the bus, you will be dropped at various bars around the city and later, you will be left to climax in a larger club. Chiva rides are a great way to meet new people. Board this interesting bus and get ready to have fun!
Rumba En Chiva (chiva Party Bus)
Duration: 4 hours
Historic Cartagena
This colonial town has a lot to offer its locals and the tourists alike. From art to a rich history and amazing cuisine, this city has it all. Use our list as a guide to what you will do while you are in the city. This will help you cover the basic things a person visiting Cartagena should do.
History
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