What to do in Cartagena
Centro Histórico de Cartagena
The old city of Cartagena, where our events will take place and the perfect place to spend time wandering, shopping and eating! Vibrant and charming, colorful colonial homes, plazas, 16th century walls and cobblestone streets. 🍽️ Baruco by Cuzco (Peruvian/fusion, one of our favorites) 🍽️ Celele (contemporary Colombian) 🍽️ Alma (contemporary Colombian) 🍽️ Carmen (contemporary Colombian, steak) 🍽️ Buena Vista Marisquería (Seafood with a great rooftop) 🍽️ La Cevichería (known for paella and ceviche) 🍽️ Restaurante Candé (Cartagena cuisine) 🍽️ La Mulata (Cartagena cuisine, lowkey) 🍽️ Juan Del Mar (pizza, pasta, paella) 🍽️ Restaurante Árabe Internacional (Lebanese) 🍽️ Crepes & Waffles (beloved fast casual chain, huge menu) 🍸 Alquimico (rated one of the top 10 bars in the world) 🍸 El Barón (also a must) 🍸 Casa Pura Rooftop ☕ Café San Alberto (expert baristas, great beans to take home) ☕ Nia Bakery Coffee Shop (great pastries and beans) ☕ La Esquina del Pandebono
Getsemaní
Just outside the walled city, Getsemani is a lively, artistic neighborhood known for street art and nightlife. 🍽️ La Cocina de Pepina (Colombian) 🍽️ Manna (brunch) 🍽️ Carta ajena (brunch) 💃 Café Havana is a famous restaurant/bar with live salsa and son cubano music every night.
Castillo San Felipe de Barajas
A 10-15 min drive from the old city, this 16th century fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage site and has awesome panoramic views of the city from the top. Go early to beat the heat and bring plenty of sunscreen and water!
Museo del Oro Zenú
A small museum in the old city with beautiful gold and pottery pieces from pre-Colombian peoples.
Isla Tierra Bomba
Just a 20 min boat ride from Cartagena, this is an easy day trip if you want to get some sun/pool/beach in. There are a few resorts that offer day passes, or you can stay overnight; Blue Apple Beach (in the Michelin Guide) is our top pick. Perhaps more touristy than Barú and the islands because of its proximity to the city.
Isla Barú
1h by car or boat from Cartagena, Barú is the other easiest way to add a beach getaway to your trip. Think crystal blue waters and white sand beaches. Also home to the National Aviary Park. 🏖️ Check out Casa Córdoba as a more budget-friendly option, and luxury resorts Hotel Las Islas and Sofitel Barú Cartagena.
Islas de San Bernardo
Group of small, idyllic coral islands 2.5h from Cartagena by boat. 🏝️ We went to Isla Múcura on our first trip to Colombia together and highly recommend Hotel Punta Faro! Private white sand beach, paddleboarding, all inclusive with excellent food and drinks. The perfect place to totally disconnect and relax. Great for a 2-3 night stay.
Islas del Rosario
Group of islands 45-90 min from Cartagena by boat. Good for a day trip or to spend a few days. 🏝️
🛍️ La Serrezuela Mall
This modern mall is cool to check out as it used to be a bull-fighting ring. If you're walking around exploring the city, stop in here at some point for the AC. Check out many Colombian brands, like Mario Hernandez and Velez for leather goods, Azulu and Malva for women's clothing, and Loto del Sur (like Colombian Aesop). Try famous restaurant Andrés Carne de Res or the top floor food court, and have great coffee at Café Quindío.
🛍️ Joyería Hector Liñan
Recommended by friends, this jewelry shop in Bocagrande is great and worth a visit if you're looking for something beautiful and high quality, and at a better price than in the center. He can also make something custom for you. 10 min uber ride from the old city. Instagram @joyeriahl