Unmissable Things To Do In Cartagena Colombia
There are so many amazing things to do in Cartagena, Colombia’s most colonial city. Find out what they are and make your itinerary the most memorable it can be.
“What matters in life is not what happens to you but what you remember and how you remember it.” ― Gabriel García Márquez
Cartagena de Indias is Colombia’s most visited city and for good reason. With vividly coloured colonial buildings, cobblestone streets and horse-drawn carriages this city is something out of a fairytale. There isn’t a shortage of things to do in Cartagena, Colombia and you’ll easily be able to fill up a couple of days in this colonial paradise- and I highly recommend that you do.
It is rife with life and you spend your days walking its picturesque streets, enjoying the colonial architecture and sipping cocktails on its white-sand beaches and soaking up all of the things to do in Cartagena Colombia.
The City of Cartagena is a large place but as a traveller, you’ll probably be interested in just the central, walled city and Getsemani. If you arrive by taxi from the airport or bus station then you’ll notice how large and loud the city really is. Don’t be concerned- the most beautiful parts of the city are small, walkable and self-contained.
*This things to do in Cartagena Colombia post contains affiliate links meaning I might make a small profit if you choose to book at no extra cost to you.
WHEN TO VISIT CARTAGENA COLOMBIA
Cartagena is hot and humid throughout the year and generally, temperatures stay within the mid-80s (Fahrenheit) or high 20s (celsius) all year round. What does vary, however, is the amount of rainfall from month to month. While it probably won’t rain all day for days on end, you can expect to see short bursts of heavy rain during the afternoons. The wettest months in Cartagena are October and November. May and July are quite rainy too. If a bit of rain doesn’t bother you then this also coincides with the low season where there will be fewer people around and you’ll be able to pick up some great discounts on hotels.
The best time to visit Cartagena is between December and April when the weather is hot, but not at its most hot and humid and with guaranteed sunny days. It’s the best time to visit if you’re planning to spend some time on the beaches around the city and on the Rosario Islands. This is high season in Cartegena so expect more people at this time.
If you can try to avoid the Christmas holiday and January and this is when most Colombians take their vacation making Cartagena extremely busy at this time.
Due to the heat, it’s always a good idea to book accommodation with a pool (many hotels and even budget hostels have them) and then sightseeing in the early morning and late afternoon while passing the hottest time of day having a leisurely lunch or in the pool.
WHERE TO STAY IN CARTAGENA COLOMBIA
Many travellers stay within the Old Walled City or in neighbouring Getsemani. Outside of these places you’ll find an ordinary hustling and bustling Colombian city like any other. I highly recommend that you stay in the Old Walled City or Getsemani which have plenty of boutique-style accommodation options for all budgets.
Another option is to stay in the Bocagrande neighbourhood of Cartagena- this is the beach strip part of Cartagena that reminds me a little of Miami beach. Here you’ll find all the 5-star resorts from all the top brands from around the world. While you’re a little further away from the Old Walled City staying here, you do have the beach right in front of you- it really depends on what you’re priorities are.
Here are our favourite places to stay in Cartagena:
Ananda Hotel Boutique
What are the best places to stay in Cartagena I hear you ask? This is one of them. Ananda Hotel Boutique is what dreams are made of. Set in an old, colonial mansion right in the centre of the Old Walled City, this boutique hotel is the kind of place that will have you dreaming of it long after you’ve checked out.
Among thick concrete, walls and staircases and original wooden, beam ceilings, this property really evokes the feeling of the past; their attention to detail is incredible. Suites are beautifully decorated and spacious with TV, wifi and air-con.
There are two gorgeous pools on the property, a rooftop plunge pool and a larger one in the centre courtyard. They also have an onsite restaurant serving delicious local food and a spa where you can cool off from the midday heat and get a message. You won’t be disappointed here.
Check rates and availability here booking.com | Agoda
Hotel Boutique Casa Del Arzobispado
Another stunning option right in the middle of the city centre, this boutique hotel is full of old world-style touches, light and dark contrasts and earth tones. Among its thick concrete walls, you’ll find traditional window shutters, wisteria-filled courtyards and antique furniture.
The rooms here are gorgeously decorated and have everything you need for a comfortable stay; closet space, en-suite bathroom and plenty of space. There’s also a spa on-site that offers a number of different treatments as well as a courtyard pool to relax in during the day. This `property also offers bicycle rental, allowing you to explore the city on your terms.
Don’t forget to check out their cafe/restaurant Epoca just downstairs for some of the best coffee in Cartagena.
Check rates and availability here booking.com | Agoda
Casa India Catalina
For a chance to experience old-world style on a budget, Casa India is a great option. It’s another property housed in an old colonial building with an internal courtyard full of plants, a chillout area and of course a pool. Rooms here are cosy and simple with everything you need for a pleasant stay in Cartagena. They also have a great breakfast to take advantage of before starting your day exploring.
Check rates and availability here booking.com | Agoda
Movich Hotel Cartagena de Indias
For an excellent location, world-class dining and one of the best rooftop views in Cartagena, make sure to stay at the Movich Hotel Cartagena. This stunning, Moroccan themed hotel offers a modern touch to your stay. With exposed stone walls and clean lines in each suite, the rooms are comfortable and luxurious and all the mod-cons.
On the roof terrace, you’ll find a restaurant pool and bar with the best views of Cartagena. Even if you’re not planning on staying here, I highly recommend you come here for a sunset drink.
Check rates and availability here booking.com | Agoda
Hyatt Regency Cartagena
If you’d like to prioritize luxury, rest and beach over exploring the centre stay in Bocagrande at our top choice, the Hyatt Regency. This beautiful, world-class hotel offers a similar service you’d expect from this name around the world. With clean, modern and functional suites, large restaurants, chill-out areas, multiple pools including a rooftop infinity pool and some of the best sea views around, this is a great choice.
On the wellness front, their large spa offers a variety of different treatments to enjoy throughout your stay from massages to facials. It’s the perfect place to relax and get some ‘me’ time and ‘beach’ time.
Check rates and availability here booking.com | Agoda
WHERE TO EAT IN CARTAGENA COLOMBIA
Pezetarian – one of the best options for fresh, healthy and plant-based food in Cartagena, Pezetarian offers delicious, Asian- focused food. Their colourful menu contains only fish, seafood and vegan dishes. Come here for a range of vibrant rice bowls, salads, noodle dishes, sushi and more. This place is perfect for both lunch and dinner and for those looking for a vibrant, healthy meal for all diets.
