Steve and Alexis
Things To Do
Explore the Old City
You’ll find tons of colorful colonial architecture, flowers, artists, and plenty of street vendors (the best street vendors you will find are around the Cartagena Cathedral — Catedral de Santa Catalina de Alejandría de Cartagena de Indias — on Calle 34.) 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, the leafy green Plaza Bolivar that’s frequently filled with dancers and performers, and Plaza de los Coches where you’re sure to experience an authentic night in Cartagena. While you’re out exploring, make sure to check out The Palace of Inquisition, The Gold Museum, and the Church of Santo Toribo. If you are interested in a walking tour, there are many listed through Trip Advisor or you can ask your hotel to set one up!
Free Walking Tours
The best way to see the Old City of Cartagena is on one of the free walking tours. With a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll spend a few hours meandering through the city streets while learning about its fascinating history.
Climb The San Felipe Castle
This is the most famous landmark in Cartagena, and it’s pretty hard to miss. It was built way back in 1657 to protect against pirates looking to make off with the silver and gold that was bound for Europe. Wait until later in the day to head up here and explore the maze-like tunnels and enjoy the views of the city off to the side.
Buy Fruit From The Palenqueras
Take a walk around Cartagena, and one of the first things you’ll notice is the groups of women dressed in vibrant colors balancing bowls of fruits on their heads. Known as the palenqueras, these fruit vendors are very much a fixture of the city and an important part of its history. They originally came from San Bassilo de Palenque, which is a small town just south of Cartagena. This little village was actually one of the first places in the Americas to be freed from slavery.
Restaurants / Bars
Restaurants La Cevichería Buena Vida Mar y Zielo Gastro Bar Candé Café del Mar Restaurante Club de Pesca Alma Zaitún Restaurante Interno Restaurante 1621 El Burlador Gastrobar Restaurante Candelaria La Cevichería El Santísimo La Vitrola Don Juan Bars Mirador Gastro Bar Alquimico Bar La Jugada Club House 51 Sky Bar Mirador Gastro Bar
Typical Colombian Dishes
Sancocho - Soup Bandeja Paisa - Rice, beans, meat, sausage Empanadas Arepas - flat bread w/ cheese Patacones - fried plantain Trucha a la Plancha - grilled trout Arroz con Coco Pan de Bono - bread w/ cheese
Things to see
Historic Walled City San Felipe Castle Castillo San Felipe de Barajas Convento de la Popa Palace of Inquisition Plaza Bolívar Las Bóvedas Getsemaní Cerro de la Popa Mercado de Bazurto ChocoMuseo Casa de la Música
Best beaches
Playa Blanca Playa de Bocagrande La Boquilla Islas del Rosario Isla Barú