Things To Do
Centro
Cartagena is packed with history. The walled city is made up of pastel colonial buildings lined with flowers, cobblestone streets, horse carriages, and plenty of restaurants and boutiques. You can walk the city walls, explore the fortress that’s been protecting the city for hundreds of years, and try all of the area’s Caribbean cuisine, from fresh fish to exotic fruits. Be sure to check out the Torre del Reloj, the historically important and monument-filled Plaza Aduana, the vibrant Plaza Santo Domingo with its Botero statue, and the leafy green Plaza Bolivar that’s frequently filled with dancers and performers.
Plaza del Reloj
Monumento del reloj is the main entrance into the Old Town, Cartagena. This monument separates the old city from the rest of Cartagena, Right in the backside of the clock tower is a lively plaza with food and street vendors, music, dancers restaurants, and access to the rest of Old Town.
San Felipe de Barajas Fort
The greatest fortress ever built by the Spaniards in any of their colonies, the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas still dominates an entire section of Cartagena's cityscape. It was commissioned in 1630, and construction began in 1657. It was truly impregnable and was never taken despite numerous attempts to storm it. Some of the original tunnels are lit and are open to visitors – an eerie walk not to be missed. The fortress is a short walk over the bridge from Getsemaní.
La Serrezuela Mall
This new mall is a recently renovated bull fighting ring - the mall kept many of the original architectural aspects, making a beautiful sight. This also has a lot of great stores, and a great view of the old city and the castle
Agua de Leon Bar Restaurante
Upscale Colombia food - highly recommend it! The restaurant is on the smaller side, so you may want to get reservations ahead of time
Harry's Sasson Restaurant
Great seafood restaurant, located in a historic hotel
Restaurante Jardín Santa Clara
Traditional Colombia food within the historical Santa Clara Hotel - restaurant is surrounded by a beautiful garden
Café del Mar Ltda.
Great seafood restaurant right on the wall of the old city - this is a great spot to catch the sun set
Alquimico
One of the most popular mixology bars in Cartagena - it has three floors, with very different vibes and a great vegan menu
Café San Alberto Cartagena - Plaza Santo Domingo
Best place to try some authentic Colombian Coffee
Namasté Beach Cartagena
If you want to experience white sand beaches and dip your toes in the water, this is a great resort for a day trip - you can purchase a day pass and book transportation through their website
Makani Luxury Wanderlust
Another great resort where you can book a day pass
Blue Apple Beach
Another great resort to spend the day in the sun by the beach
Rosario Islands
These are world famous white sand beaches that you definitely don't want to miss! There are dozens of reputable tour companies at many price points and are often all-inclusive for the day. Your concierge can help organize day trips, or book ahead using TripAdvisor.