Explore Cartagena

Colombia, South America

Calendar

5/12 5/13 5/14 5/15 5/16 5/17 5/18

Day 1: Sat, May 12
6:10 A.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

3:00 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

5:30 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

Day 2: Sun, May 13
6:10 A.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

3:00 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

5:30 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

Day 3: Mon, May 14
6:10 A.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

3:00 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

5:30 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

Day 4: Tue, May 15
6:10 A.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

3:00 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

5:30 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

Day 5: Wed, May 16
6:10 A.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

3:00 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

5:30 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

Day 6: Thu, May 17
6:10 A.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

3:00 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

5:30 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

Day 7: Fri, May 18
6:10 A.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

3:00 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

5:30 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

About Cartagena

Cartagena, located in the Bolivar department of Colombia, is a vibrant and culturally rich city that perfectly blends historical charm with modern amenities. The city's well-preserved colonial architecture in the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a sight to behold with its colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and ornate churches. Visitors can wander through the narrow alleys, visit the iconic Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, and admi ...View More

Cartagena, located in the Bolivar department of Colombia, is a vibrant and culturally rich city that perfectly blends historical charm with modern amenities. The city's well-preserved colonial architecture in the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a sight to behold with its colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and ornate churches. Visitors can wander through the narrow alleys, visit the iconic Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, and admi ...View More

Popular Destinations

  • Walled City
  • Getsemaní
  • Bocagrande
  • San Diego
  • Manga
  • La Boquilla
  • Crespo
  • El Laguito
  • Castillogrande
  • Zona Norte
  • Marbella

Walled City

Located in the heart of Cartagena, Colombia, the Walled City (Centro Histórico) is a UNESCO World Heritage site brimming with colonial charm, cobblestone streets, and vibrant plazas. It’s the cultural and historical core of the city, enclosed by 16th-century walls. Ideal for history buffs, photographers, and romantics.

Known For

Strolling through Plaza Santo Domingo, surrounded by historic buildings and lively cafes.

Visiting landmarks like the Cathedral of Cartagena and Palacio de la Inquisición.

Shopping for local crafts and emeralds at Las Bóvedas, a former military prison turned market.

Enjoying rooftop cocktails with sunset views over the city walls.

A captivating district blending history, architecture, and vibrant culture.

Getsemaní

Adjacent to the Walled City, Getsemaní is a trendy and bohemian neighborhood known for its street art, lively nightlife, and vibrant community atmosphere. Once a working-class district, it has transformed into a cultural hub. Ideal for creatives, foodies, and nightlife lovers.

Known For

Admiring colorful murals and street art along Calle de la Sierpe.

Dancing to live music at local bars like Café Havana.

Dining at open-air restaurants serving local and international cuisine.

Visiting Plaza de la Trinidad, a lively square where locals and tourists mingle.

A dynamic neighborhood offering a mix of creativity, culture, and nightlife.

Bocagrande

Located on a peninsula just south of the Walled City, Bocagrande is Cartagena’s modern district, known for its high-rise hotels, shopping malls, and beaches. It’s a cosmopolitan area perfect for relaxation and leisure. Ideal for beachgoers, families, and luxury travelers.

Known For

Relaxing on sandy beaches like Playa de Bocagrande, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

Shopping at upscale malls like Plaza Bocagrande and local boutiques.

Dining at beachfront restaurants offering fresh seafood and tropical cocktails.

Taking a stroll along the Bocagrande Boardwalk, with views of the Caribbean Sea.

A contemporary district blending urban convenience with coastal charm.

San Diego

Located within the Walled City, San Diego is a quieter and more residential neighborhood known for its colonial architecture, boutique hotels, and charming streets. It’s a serene retreat within the bustling historic center. Ideal for couples, families, and those seeking tranquility.

Known For

Staying at boutique hotels like Casa San Agustín, offering luxury and charm.

Visiting Plaza de San Diego, a picturesque square surrounded by restaurants and shops.

Exploring historic landmarks like the Convento de Santo Toribio.

Shopping for unique crafts and souvenirs at local artisan markets.

A peaceful and elegant neighborhood offering a mix of history and relaxation.

Manga

Located on an island near the city center, Manga is a tranquil residential district known for its colonial mansions, marina views, and local eateries. Ideal for families, boaters, and history enthusiasts.

Known For

Walking along the Avenida Miramar, lined with stunning views of Cartagena’s bay.

Visiting Fuerte de San Sebastián del Pastelillo, a historic fortress offering panoramic views.

Dining at waterfront restaurants specializing in fresh seafood.

Relaxing at quiet parks like Parque de Manga, ideal for a serene afternoon.

A laid-back and picturesque district offering history and waterfront charm.

La Boquilla

Located north of Cartagena, La Boquilla is a coastal village known for its serene beaches, mangroves, and Afro-Caribbean culture. It’s a perfect escape for nature lovers and those seeking an authentic local experience. Ideal for beachgoers, adventurers, and cultural travelers.

Known For

Relaxing on uncrowded beaches with a tranquil vibe.

Exploring the Ciénaga de la Virgen mangroves by kayak or canoe.

Learning about local Afro-Caribbean traditions through community tours.

Dining at rustic beachside shacks offering freshly caught fish and seafood.

A hidden gem blending natural beauty with cultural richness.

Crespo

Located just north of Cartagena’s historic center and near the airport, Crespo is a quiet residential neighborhood known for its tranquil beaches and laid-back atmosphere. Ideal for families, transit travelers, and those seeking relaxation.

Known For

Enjoying peaceful walks or sunbathing at Crespo Beach, a less crowded alternative to Bocagrande.

Exploring local cafes and bakeries offering traditional Colombian treats.

Taking in scenic views along the Avenida Santander, a coastal road connecting Crespo to the city.

Visiting the India Catalina Monument, symbolizing Cartagena’s rich history.

A serene and convenient area blending beachside relaxation with local charm.

El Laguito

Located on the peninsula south of Bocagrande, El Laguito is a vibrant area known for its luxury hotels, scenic waterfront, and family-friendly environment. Ideal for beachgoers, couples, and leisure travelers.

Known For

Staying at waterfront hotels offering stunning views of the Caribbean Sea.

Relaxing at El Laguito Beach, popular for its calm waters and recreational activities.

Dining at seaside restaurants specializing in fresh seafood and cocktails.

Enjoying water sports like paddleboarding and kayaking along the coast.

A lively and picturesque neighborhood offering modern comfort and coastal beauty.

Castillogrande

Located south of Bocagrande, Castillogrande is an upscale residential area known for its exclusive beaches, luxury apartments, and tranquil vibe. Ideal for luxury travelers, families, and those seeking sophistication.

Known For

Relaxing on Castillogrande Beach, known for its pristine sands and calm waters.

Walking along the Castillogrande Promenade, perfect for scenic strolls and sunsets.

Dining at fine restaurants offering a mix of international and Colombian cuisine.

Enjoying views of the bay and the Cartagena skyline from exclusive vantage points.

A refined and elegant area offering luxury living and peaceful beachfront relaxation.

Zona Norte

Stretching along Cartagena’s northern coastline, the Zona Norte (North Zone) is a rapidly developing area known for its modern resorts, secluded beaches, and proximity to nature. Ideal for families, nature lovers, and resort seekers.

Known For

Staying at luxury resorts and beachfront properties offering all-inclusive experiences.

Visiting Playa Manzanillo, a tranquil beach perfect for relaxation and water sports.

Exploring nearby natural attractions, including the Ciénaga de la Virgen mangroves.

Enjoying golf and other activities at upscale country clubs in the area.

A serene and modern area blending natural beauty with luxury amenities.

Marbella

Located along the coastline just north of Cartagena’s Walled City, Marbella is a vibrant neighborhood offering stunning beaches, local dining, and easy access to the historic center. Ideal for beachgoers, locals, and budget travelers.

Known For

Relaxing at Marbella Beach, a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike.

Enjoying traditional Colombian dishes at beachfront restaurants and food stands.

Walking or jogging along the Avenida Santander, with views of the ocean and skyline.

Staying in boutique hotels or budget-friendly accommodations near the beach.

A lively and accessible neighborhood offering a mix of local culture and coastal charm.

Top Stays*

  • Budget
  • Mid-Range
  • Luxury

Casa del Pozo Boutique Hostel

A budget-friendly hostel offering dormitory and private rooms, located in a historic building within walking distance of Cartagena's attractions.

Hostal Casa Baluarte

A budget-friendly guesthouse featuring colorful rooms and a communal kitchen, situated near the walled city and the beach.

Bourbon St Hostal Boutique

A budget-friendly hostel with a lively atmosphere, located in the Getsemani neighborhood with dorms and private rooms.

Hotel Casa San Martin

A charming boutique hotel in the Getsemani neighborhood, offering comfortable rooms and a rooftop terrace with views of the city.

Hotel Quadrifolio

A boutique hotel in the old town known for its stylish rooms, personalized service, and lush courtyard.

Casa Cordoba Estrella

A boutique hotel housed in a restored colonial house, featuring a rooftop terrace, plunge pool, and personalized service.

Hotel Charleston Santa Teresa

A luxurious hotel featuring a historic colonial building with modern amenities, located in the heart of Cartagena's old town.

Sofitel Legend Santa Clara

A five-star hotel housed in a former convent, offering elegant rooms, gourmet dining, and a spa within the walled city.

Casa San Agustin

A boutique hotel blending colonial charm with contemporary design, featuring a rooftop pool and excellent service.

Disclaimer* Please keep in mind that the definition of budget categories may vary, and the prices and ratings of hotels can fluctuate. Hotel prices and availability can vary based on the time of year, special events, and other factors. Always do your research, compare prices and read recent guest reviews to find the best accommodation that suits your budget and preferences.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Cartagena largely depends on your preferences for weather, budget, events and crowd levels. Also, it depends on your personal preferences and what you want to experience during your trip. Here's a breakdown of the different seasons:

Dry Season (December–April): This is the best time to visit Cartagena, with sunny skies, warm temperatures, and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for beaches, exploring the walled city, and boat trips to the Rosario Islands. December–February is peak season, bringing large crowds and high hotel prices, especially around Christmas, New Year’s, and Carnaval in February. March and April offer great weather with slightly fewer tourists and lower prices.:

Rainy Season (May–November): Cartagena experiences higher humidity, frequent rain showers, and fewer tourists, making it a more budget-friendly time to visit. However, the rain often comes in short bursts rather than all-day storms, allowing for sightseeing between showers. September and October see the heaviest rainfall, while May–August still offer many sunny days with lower hotel rates.:

Average Weather

°C & Kmph | °F & mph

Partly cloudy

Partly cloudy

January

32°C / 24°C

Patchy rain possible
Partly cloudy

sunrise

6:24 AM

sunset

5:59 PM

Precipitation

0.7mm

Humidity

76%

Wind

11kmph

Partly cloudy

Partly cloudy

February

32°C / 25°C

Patchy rain possible
Partly cloudy

sunrise

6:22 AM

sunset

6:10 PM

Precipitation

0.91mm

Humidity

72%

Wind

14kmph

Cloudy

Cloudy

March

33°C / 25°C

Patchy rain possible
Cloudy

sunrise

6:09 AM

sunset

6:13 PM

Precipitation

0.41mm

Humidity

72%

Wind

13kmph

Light rain shower

April

32°C / 26°C

Light rain shower
Patchy rain possible

sunrise

5:51 AM

sunset

6:13 PM

Precipitation

4.14mm

Humidity

76%

Wind

11kmph

Light rain shower

May

30°C / 25°C

Light rain shower
Patchy rain possible

sunrise

5:41 AM

sunset

6:16 PM

Precipitation

8.97mm

Humidity

83%

Wind

8kmph

Light rain shower

June

29°C / 24°C

Light rain shower
Patchy rain possible

sunrise

5:41 AM

sunset

6:24 PM

Precipitation

9.71mm

Humidity

86%

Wind

8kmph

Light rain shower

July

30°C / 24°C

Light rain shower
Patchy rain possible

sunrise

5:48 AM

sunset

6:28 PM

Precipitation

10.75mm

Humidity

84%

Wind

10kmph

Light rain shower

August

30°C / 25°C

Light rain shower
Patchy rain possible

sunrise

5:53 AM

sunset

6:20 PM

Precipitation

10.99mm

Humidity

83%

Wind

9kmph

Moderate or heavy rain shower

Moderate or heavy rain shower

September

29°C / 25°C

Light rain shower
Moderate or heavy rain shower

sunrise

5:52 AM

sunset

6:02 PM

Precipitation

14.54mm

Humidity

85%

Wind

8kmph

Light rain shower

October

29°C / 24°C

Light rain shower
Patchy rain possible

sunrise

5:51 AM

sunset

5:45 PM

Precipitation

9.21mm

Humidity

85%

Wind

8kmph

Light rain shower

December

30°C / 24°C

Patchy rain possible
Light rain shower

sunrise

6:12 AM

sunset

5:43 PM

Precipitation

5.85mm

Humidity

83%

Wind

8kmph

SunriseSunrise SunsetSunset PrecipitationPrecipitation HumidityHumidity WindWind Speed

Disclaimer: Please note that the event dates and details can change, so it's advisable to check with official event websites and local sources for the most up-to-date information before planning your trip.

Travel Readiness

Travel Advisory

Stay informed about potential travel risks and safety considerations before embarking on your journey. Travel advisories provide essential information about security concerns, health alerts, natural disasters, and other important updates. We recommend reviewing the latest travel advisories to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.​

TRAVEL.STATE.GOV

Travel Entry Requirements

Before traveling, ensure you meet the entry requirements for your destination. These requirements may include vaccination records, visas, and other travel documentation. Requirements vary based on nationality and recent travel history. For the latest information, visit the official government website for your destination.​

LEARN MORE

Currency

When traveling, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the local currency. Before you go, check the current exchange rates and consider exchanging some money in advance. Many destinations also accept major credit cards and digital payments, but it’s a good idea to carry local. Below is a quick guide to the official currencies used in this destinations:​

Colombian Peso (COP)

Language

Understanding the local language can enhance your travel experience. While many destinations have English-speaking locals, knowing a few key phrases in the native language shows respect and can be very helpful. Here’s a quick overview of the official and widely spoken languages in this destinations:​

Spanish (official)

Timezone

Knowing the local time zone of your destination helps you plan your itinerary, stay connected, and avoid scheduling mishaps. Many destinations also observe daylight saving time, so it’s important to check for seasonal changes. Below is a quick reference for common time zone(s) in this destinations:

Colombia Time (COT), UTC -5

How To Get Around

Always consider the best mode of transport depending on your destination and the distance you need to cover:

Walking

Cartagena's Old Town is a pedestrian-friendly area with narrow streets and colonial architecture, making it perfect for exploring on foot. Many of the main attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance of each other.

Taxi

Taxis are a convenient way to get around Cartagena. Make sure to use registered taxis and agree on a fare before starting your journey as the city does not use meters.

Transcaribe

This is the city's bus rapid transit system which provides an affordable and efficient way to travel between different parts of Cartagena. The buses are air-conditioned and offer designated stops along major routes.

Bicycle

Several bike rental companies operate in Cartagena, allowing you to explore the city at your leisure. The flat terrain and bike lanes along the waterfront make cycling a popular choice for tourists.

Chivito

These colorful open-air buses are a fun and traditional way to see the city. Chivitos operate on set routes and are a great option for sightseeing.

Boat

If you want to visit the nearby islands or beaches, you can take a boat tour from Cartagena's harbor. Many tour operators offer day trips to places like Rosario Islands or Baru.

Calendar

5/12 5/13 5/14 5/15 5/16 5/17 5/18

Day 1: Sat, May 12
6:10 A.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

3:00 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

5:30 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

Day 2: Sun, May 13
6:10 A.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

3:00 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

5:30 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

Day 3: Mon, May 14
6:10 A.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

3:00 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

5:30 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

Day 4: Tue, May 15
6:10 A.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

3:00 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

5:30 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

Day 5: Wed, May 16
6:10 A.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

3:00 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

5:30 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

Day 6: Thu, May 17
6:10 A.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

3:00 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

5:30 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

Day 7: Fri, May 18
6:10 A.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

3:00 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

5:30 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

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