Things to Do in Cartagena: A Complete Guide for Traveler
Planning a trip and wondering about the best things to do in Cartagena? Here is the short version explore the Old Town, watch the sunset from the city walls, sip a cocktail at Café del Mar and take a boat to the Rosario Islands. I wrote this guide because Cartagena surprised me in the best ways and I want you to enjoy it like I did.
Explore Cartagena’s Old Town
The Old Town is where Cartagena’s charm begins. Cobblestone streets, pastel houses and flower-draped balconies make wandering here unforgettable. It’s famous for its history but what I loved most was the lively plaza and cafés.
Stopping at Plaza Santo Domingo is a must. Grab a limonada de coco watch the street performers and enjoy one of the easiest free things to do in Cartagena. Simply walking here is also one of the most rewarding things to do in Cartagena if it’s your first visit.
Walk the Historic City Wall
Cartagena colonial walls were built to defend the city from pirates. Today they’re among the most iconic Cartagena things to do.
Most sections are free to walk, though some bastions have cafés. I went at sunset when locals and traveler gathered for the view. Early mornings are calmer if you’d rather avoid crowds. Strolling these walls is one of the classic things in Cartagena you can’t skip.
Climb Castillo San Felipe de Barajas
The Castillo San Felipe de Barajas dominates the skyline. First built in 1536 and later expanded it became one of the strongest fortresses in the America. Exploring it is high on the list of essential things to do in Cartagena.
The climb is steep but worth it for the views. Bring comfy shoes and if possible a guide you’ll appreciate how clever the defense were. Learning the fortress’s stories is one of the most fascinating things to do in Cartagena for history lovers.
Catch a Sunset at Café del Mar
For postcard views, head to Café del Mar. Perched on the walls with the Caribbean in sight, it’s one of the most memorable things to do in Cartagena for adults.
Yes, drinks cost more here, but for me, the atmosphere was worth it. Watching the sky turn orange while waves crash below is one of the most romantic things to do in Cartagena.
Take a Boat to the Rosario Islands
When the city feels too hot, escape to the Rosario Islands. Crystal-clear water, white sand and palm trees make this trip one of the top-rated things to do in Cartagena.
I joined a group tour once, but next time I’ll book a private boat for more freedom. If you’re traveling as a family the islands are among the best things to do in Cartagena Colombia with kids safe swimming and Snorkeling make them a hit with children and adults alike.
Wander Through Getsemaní
Just beyond the Old Town, Getsemaní has its own vibe. Murals brighten the streets and music fills the plazas. Spending time here is one of the more colorful things to do in Cartagena.
At Plaza de la Trinidad, locals, musicians and traveler gather every night. If you’re after unique things to do in Cartagena this neighborhood is where you’ll find them.
Visit the Convento de la Popa
The Convento de la Popa, high on a hill offers the best views of the city. Built in the 1600s, it’s peaceful and historic a perfect break from the busy streets. Visiting it is one of the most rewarding things to do in Cartagena if you love panoramic views.
Skip walking up go by taxi or tour. I combined this with Castillo San Felipe and together they made for a day of unforgettable things to do in Cartagena.
Spend a Day at Playa Blanca
If you want a beach without leaving the mainland, head to Playa Blanca. Powdery sand, turquoise water, and grilled seafood make it one of the classic things to do in Cartagena.
It gets busy fast. Arrive early, or stay overnight at a small, nature-friendly hotel. For beach lovers, relaxing here is one of the must-do things to do in Cartagena.
Step Inside Cartagena’s Museums
Cartagena’s museums add depth to your trip. The Museo del Oro Zenú shows off pre-Colombian craftsmanship, while the Palace of the Inquisition shares a darker history. Exploring both is among the more educational things to do in Cartagena.
Families should check out the Naval Museum of the Caribbean interactive exhibits make it one of the top things to do in Cartagena Colombia with kids.
Experience Cartagena at Night
Evenings transform the city. Salsa clubs, rooftop bars, and live music all compete for your attention. Experiencing this nightlife is one of the most exciting things to do in Cartagena at night.
At Café Havana, I ended up dancing despite being a beginner the live band made it impossible not to join in. For adults, a night here is one of the most unforgettable things to do in Cartagena.
Eat Your Way Through a Street Food Tour
Trying local food is one of the tastiest things to do in Cartagena. From crispy arepas de huevo to tropical fruit, the streets are packed with flavor.
I recommend a guided food tour you’ll try more in one evening than you could alone, and you’ll hear the stories behind each dish. This is one of the most delicious things to do in Cartagena if you love food.
Dive Into Cartagena’s Local Markets
Markets show you the city’s real side. Bazurto Market is loud, messy, and chaotic, but it’s also authentic. Visiting it is one of the most adventurous things to do in Cartagena, Colombia.
With a guide, I discovered a fish soup that was unforgettable. If you want adventurous things to do in Cartagena, Colombia, this market is the place to go.
Celebrate Cartagena’s Culture
Cartagena celebrates all year. The Cartagena International Music Festival and the Hay Festival in January are two highlights. Experiencing them is one of the most cultural things to do in Cartagena.
Even outside festival season, you’ll find music everywhere. One night in Getsemaní, I stumbled into a champeta show, which became one of my most memorable things to do in Cartagena.
Take a Unique Day Trip
Looking for more unique things to do in Cartagena? Head beyond the city. The Volcán del Totumo mud bath is quirky fun, and the mangroves of La Boquilla are peaceful for kayaking.
If I had to pick one, I’d choose San Basilio de Palenque a UNESCO-recognized Afro-Colombian community. Visiting it isn’t just sightseeing; it’s a chance to connect with local life up close. These trips add to the list of adventurous things to do in Cartagena that many travelers overlook.
Where to Stay in Cartagena
Where you stay shapes your experience. The Old Town is charming but pricey, Bocagrande offers modern beachfront hotels, and Getsemaní feels local and creative. Choosing your area is one of the most practical things to do in Cartagena while planning.
Practical Tips (and What Not to Do in Cartagena, Colombia)
- Best time to visit: Dry season is Dec–Apr. Rains peak May–Jun and Sept–Nov, but showers are usually short.
- Getting around: Walking works in the Old Town. For longer trips, use official taxis. Rideshares work too, but sometimes can’t pick you up directly, especially at the airport.
- Budget: Meals are $5–10, cocktails $8–12, attractions just a few dollars budgeting is one of the easier things to do in Cartagena.
- Safety: Stick to busy areas and official taxis.
- What not to do in Cartagena, Colombia: Don’t wear flashy jewelry, avoid unofficial taxis, and don’t expect clear water at city beaches. Saving the best beaches for islands is one of the smartest things to do in Cartagena.
Suggested Itineraries
3 Days in Cartagena
- Day 1: Old Town, city walls, Café del Mar.
- Day 2: Castillo San Felipe, La Popa, Getsemaní.
- Day 3: Rosario Islands or Playa Blanca.
5 Days in Cartagena
- Do the 3-day plan.
- Add: Bazurto Market, museums and a day trip to Totumo Volcano or Palenque.
- End with salsa or a rooftop bar.
Following these itineraries makes sure you hit the top things to do in Cartagena without feeling rushed.
FAQs
Is Cartagena safe for solo travelers?
Yes. Stick to the Old Town and Getsemaní, and you’ll be fine. Exploring these areas is one of the most stress-free things to do in Cartagena solo.
How many days do I need in Cartagena?
Three days covers highlights, while five lets you add day trips and islands both itineraries focus on the main things to do in Cartagena.
Can you swim at Cartagena’s beaches?
Yes, but the clearest water is at Playa Blanca or the Rosario Islands. Swimming there is one of the most popular things to do in Cartagena.
Is Playa Blanca worth visiting?
Definitely. Arrive early or stay overnight. Relaxing here is one of the must-do things to do in Cartagena.
Conclusion
Cartagena mixes history, color, nightlife, and Caribbean beaches in a way few cities can. Whether you’re after unique, adventurous, or free things to do in Cartagena, you’ll find them all here. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will discover their own favorite things to do in Cartagena and that’s what makes this city unforgettable.
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