Emily & Alex
Things To Do
A Brief History Of This Amazing City
Cartagena de Indias is a port city, colonized during the Spanish Colonial era, situated in a bay in the Caribbean Sea. Founded in 1533, the city's strategic location made it a main port for trade between Spain and its overseas empire, establishing its importance by the early 1540s. Cartagena today is a mix of old and new. When you fly in you will be struck by the vibrant modern city filled with skyscrapers, cruise boats and commercial activity. Becoming a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984, the City and its walls have a lengthy and rich history. Cartagena's Old City/Ciudad Amurallada is its main attraction. Particularly the inner walled town, consisting of the historical districts of El Centro and San Diego. It is a real gem of colonial architecture, packed with churches, monasteries, plazas, palaces and mansions with overhanging balconies and shady patios.
Walk Along the Wall of the Old City
It's hard to miss. In fact, you have to drive through it to even get to your hotel. This wall is considered the most extensive fortification in all of South America. The wall stretches 4 Kilometers around the city and provides breathtaking views of the ocean and old city buildings. The walled city of Cartagena is a mix of culture, architecture, artistry and modernism. The city is known for its vibrant alleys. There are lots of restaurants, shops, street vendors, and street performers.
Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas
This is the most famous landmark in Cartagena. This magnificent fortress built from 1656-1769, is proof that the pirates of the Caribbean did exist. Some 300 years ago, the city repelled attacks of French and English pirates from this castle's massive stone and coral walls. Climb and explore the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas in the early morning or late afternoon and weave your way through underground passages and admire the impressive architecture.
Getsemani
For our Miami friends, this is the "Wynwood of Cartagena". This area of the city is filled with art, murals, crumbling buildings, local homes, and an absolute ton of amazing street food here. Take a graffiti tour to learn all about the meaning behind the murals, the artists, and the political and social movements they represent.
Day Trip to the Rosario Islands
If you are planning to stay in Cartagena for more than a couple of days, we recommend visiting the cluster of islands 45 minutes outside of the city. There are 28 islands with crystal clear turquoise water. You can purchase a package from a guide in the street, or have your concierge organize a boat or yacht and sail around the islands and spend the day on the idyllic island retreat on Isla Grande. Plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing, etc... almost all of the packages come with a freshly caught fried fish for lunch with coconut rice and patacones.
Free Walking Tours
Cartagena is an incredible walking city. For those who want a bit more structure to their stroll, there are a number of free walking tours available. These tours are an amazing and quick way to learn more about the city during your stay. Feel free to 'Google' to learn about other available walking tours.
Café del Mar
Sip a fresh mojito or a shot of Aguardiente at Cafe del Mar during sunset. No other bar in Cartagena offers such an amazing view from atop the historic fortress walls; you'll be overlooking the city rooftops and the Caribbean Sea. Get there early or book a table in advance because it gets crowded.
Alquimico Bar
Great spot to grabs drinks. They have a wide variety of small plates that can be shared. Located in the Historical Walled City in a colonial palace. There are two sections at Alquimico: either the eye-catching 360° art-deco cocktail bar on the ground floor, or the large, relaxed roof terrace upstairs. In both, you'll enjoy a soundtrack curated by house DJs, incorporating hip-hop, funk, electro and jazz. All in all an unforgettable and unique experience.
Epoca Espresso Bar
For our fellow coffee lovers! Perfect place to go early in the morning for breakfast and coffee (because it does get crowded later in the day)
El Mirador cafe bar
Spacious rooftop bar facing Torre del Reloj. If this one is full, try the rooftop bar next door with views just as beautiful.
La Garza Café Bar
One of our favorite restaurants with delicious ceviche, cocktails, and mediterranean dishes.
Montesacro Resto Bar
2nd floor restaurant that overlooks Plaza de Bolivar. Delicious seafood, ceviche, and custom cocktails.
Arepas Colombitalia
While you're exploring the streets of Getsemani, make sure to stop here and experience some amazing street food with an arepa and a cold beer.
El Arsenal: The Rum Box
Exceptional cocktails, great food, and super chilled out vibe. The Rum Box is also home to the world’s largest collection of Colombian rums.