Tatiana & Jonathan
Top things to do in Cartagena
Old City
Cartagena's old city is its principal attraction, particularly the inner walled town, consisting of the historical districts of El Centro and San Diego. It's one of finest examples of preserved colonial architecture.
Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas
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.
Getsemani
Getsemaní, the outer walled town, is less obviously impressive than Cartagena's old city but has some charming parts and is well worth exploring.
Alquimico Bar ROOFTOP DE OUF
Anyone remotely hip ultimately gravitates to this Old Town bar with a pharmaceutical theme. Occupying a gorgeous colonial building, the bar is spread over three floors: the ground floor is a sleek, low-lit lounge etc.
El Boliche Cebichería
Small, delightful and not so well known that it's inundated, El Boliche basks in its relative obscurity. If you're reticent about raw fish, Boliche offers hot and cold ceviche daubed with bold and adventurous ingred…
Café Havana
Havana has it all: live salsa from horn-blowing Cubans, strong drinks, a gorgeous horseshoe-shaped bar surrounded by brilliant eccentrics, wood-paneled walls and a ceiling full of whirring fans.
Café del Mar Ltda.
Ocean breezes swoop in off the coast and bring a relaxing freshness to this touristy outdoor lounge perching on the western ramparts of the Old Town. Dress up a notch or two and be prepared to pay COP$10,000 for a beer!
Gato Negro
A favorite Getsemaní option that concentrates on a plain and simple breakfast menu – omelets, crepes, muesli and continental breakfasts are all available – but does it well. There's a set lunch, too, and it's all served up in a slightly scuffed colonial house with contemporary art on the walls.