Cartagena
Country: Colombia · Region: Panama and Central America · Currency: Colombian Peso
Cartagena is a UNESCO World Heritage Site on Colombia's Caribbean coast, founded in 1533 with a beautifully preserved walled colonial city and nearby beaches. It is the most visited Colombian city by tourists.
Top sights
Walled Old Town, Castillo de San Felipe, La Popa monastery, Iglesia de San Pedro Claver, Palacio de la Inquisición, Plaza de Bolívar
Things to do
- Castillo de San Felipe
- A 1657 fortress built by the Spanish for protection against pirates, featuring an extensive maze of tunnels and a 24-minute historical video.
- Convento & Iglesia de San Pedro Claver
- A 17th-century convent honoring the patron saint of human rights, with relics visible under the altar and Afro-Caribbean art on the second floor.
- Palacio de la Inquisición
- A museum housed in the former Spanish Inquisition palace displaying torture instruments and documenting the tribunal's history.
- La Popa
- A 150-meter high hill with a restored 17th-century Santa Cruz monastery offering great views over Cartagena and the harbor.
Beaches
- Playa Blanca
- A nearby beach accessible by boat tours such as the Alcatraz, which include lunch and allow same-day return.
- Castillogrande Beach
- A quiet beach in the exclusive Castillogrande neighborhood filled with modern condos and places to jog.
Where to eat
- Walled Colonial City Restaurants
- The old town contains many fancy restaurants serving local cuisine.
Bars and nightlife
- Chiva Bus
- Colorful open-air buses offering evening tours with local music, drinks, and dancing at various pickup locations.
Getting around
The old town is best explored on foot; taxis (without meters, negotiate fare in advance) and Transcaribe buses serve other areas like Bocagrande and Castillogrande.
What to eat
The walled colonial city has many fancy restaurants; the Alcatraz boat tour to Playa Blanca includes a good lunch.
Tips
Negotiate taxi fares before getting in; confirm your destination and price with the driver to avoid inflated rates.
Best for
Colonial history, Caribbean beaches