Things To Do
Explore the Old City
Most tourists will stay in the old city of Cartagena, which includes the neighborhoods of Centro, San Diego, and Getsemani. Here you’ll be close to the most historical parts of the city and its picturesque streets, particularly within the walled city (La Ciudad Amurallada), an UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll find tons of colorful colonial architecture, flowers, artists, and people selling trinkets on the streets. 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.
Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas
This might be the most incredible fortress ever built by the Spanish in any of their colonies and it’s a landmark within the city of Cartagena. Construction began in 1639, and it’s never been taken despite numerous attempts to attack the city. There are tunnels within it specifically designed to allow even small sounds to travel well so that any intruders would be detected easily. You can stroll through some of these dark passageways and make your way along the fort’s walls and battlements when you visit.
Museo Naval del Caribe
It's a fantastic museum that tells the history of Cartagena. The displays are in Spanish, so use your Google Translate app!
Las Palenqueras and Exotic Fruits
In Colombia, you’ll find lots of interesting fruits that you won’t find at home, including lulo, maracuya, and granadilla. Pick some up from streetside vendors or even better, grab a few cups of fruit from the colorfully dressed ladies selling them in the streets of the old city. Known as palenqueras, these iconic women will accept a tip for a photograph or you can just buy some of their delicious mangos or pineapples, and they’ll let you snap a pic. Originally from the village of San Basilio de Palenque, they’re known for their traditional Caribbean dresses as well as their ability to balance heavy bowls of fruit on their heads.
Go Shopping
As a popular tourist town, Cartagena is filled with tons of shopping so you can take home whatever it is you’re looking for. If you can’t find it on the streets, check out Las Bovedas, the little shops built into the walls of the city with alcoves and columns all around. They house everything touristy, from cheap trinkets to clothing, original artwork, and hammocks. You can find higher end boutiques and shops by local fashion designers like Silvia Tcherassi selling strappy sandals, bags, and dresses, as well as home decor shops like Casa Chiqui. You’ll also be spoiled for choice when it comes to jewelry stores specializing in emeralds and gold pieces featuring indigenous designs and wild animals.