Things To Do

A Brief History Of This Amazing City

Cartagena is a colonial city on Colombia’s Caribbean coast. The historic walled city remains alongside the ultramodern skyscraper-filled Bocagrande. Cartagena is famous for its culture, history, and colorful buildings. The city was founded in 1533, by Spanish Commander Pedro de Heredia. The Spanish poured huge amounts of money into the city’s defenses, including the famed wall. At that time, the port was the largest in the Americas. In 1741 the Queen of England ordered invasions of every Spanish port in the Caribbean. After the invasion, the city fortified further, and rebuilt its defenses to become the most protected port in South America. Cartagena played a significant role in Colombia gaining its independence - in 1811 it was the first city to declare independence from Spain. Today, Cartagena has rapidly expanded and is now home to over 1 million people. Despite all these changes the Walled City remains unchanged, with its colonial architecture and historic buildings preserved.

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.

Castle San Felipe de Barajas

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.

Cruises & boat tours

Enjoy an unforgettable day on board a sailing catamaran. Cruise from Cartagena to the Rosario Islands. Go snorkeling through an awe-inspiring coral reef and experience an undersea kingdom in crystal clear water.

Restaurants / Bars

Restaurants La Cevichería Buena Vida Mar y Zielo Gastro Bar Candé Cafe Del Mar Bars Mirador Gastro Bar Alquimico Bar La Jugada Club House

Dancing class on a secret rooftop

Things to do in Cartagena

Here you can find a lot of options. Please enjoy this beautiful city!