Find Hotels in Cartagena

Overview

Cartagena, Bolivar, Colombia, is the crown jewel of the country's Caribbean coast. This city captivates visitors not with a plethora of traditional attractions but with its own vibrant essence. Encased by formidable defensive walls built to fend off invaders like Sir Francis Drake, who once besieged the city for months, Cartagena is a living testament to its storied past. The average price of hotels in this destination right now is $135, but ranges from $12 to $2,733. With 340 hotels available, visitors have a variety of options to choose from. Popular neighborhoods for accommodations include Cartagena Walled City, Bocagrande, Cartagena Centro, Getsemani, and Zona Norte. Among the most sought-after hotels are the Mirador Apartahotel, Pop Art Hotel CLC Mamonal Cartagena, and Hotel Estelar Playa Manzanillo.

Things to do in Cartagena

The Walled City, or Ciudad Amurallada, is the historic heart of Cartagena. Enclosed by walls up to 20 meters thick, this area is a treasure trove of colonial architecture. Its streets, lined with colorful merchant houses and iconic balconies, are a delight to explore. During the day, students from the University of Cartagena add to the lively atmosphere, which continues into the night with bustling cafes in Plaza Aduana and Plaza Santo Domingo. The districts of San Diego and El Centro are must-visits, offering a mix of world-class dining, street food, and vibrant palenqueras selling fruit in their traditional, colorful attire.

Another highlight is the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, a marvel of Spanish colonial military engineering. Completed in the late 18th century, this fortress was never conquered despite numerous attempts. Visitors can explore part of its intricate tunnel system, and guided tours are highly recommended for a deeper understanding of its history.

For those seeking a beach escape, the Rosario Islands are just an hour's boat ride away. These islands are part of Colombia's only underwater national park, teeming with marine life and stunning coral reefs. Activities like snorkeling, diving, and kayaking through mangrove forests are popular here. Playa Blanca, with its pristine white sands, is another must-visit, though it's advisable to choose a reputable tour company to avoid any unpleasant surprises.

The Palace of Inquisition offers a sobering glimpse into the brutal history of the Spanish Inquisition. This colonial building houses a small museum where visitors can see torture devices and learn about the grim methods used to extract confessions of heresy and witchcraft.

The Getsemani neighborhood is a vibrant area known for its nightlife and well-preserved colonial architecture. Plaza de la Trinidad is a popular spot where locals and tourists mingle over drinks and street food, making it a lively place to spend an evening.

Where to Go Out / Nightlife in Cartagena

Café del Mar is a prime spot for evening drinks, located atop the city's old ramparts. The open-air terrace offers stunning views of the water, especially at sunset, accompanied by live music. The cafe serves a variety of drinks, including cocktails, and specializes in Colombian seafood dishes.

For those interested in salsa dancing, Cartagena offers several great spots. Donde Fidel and Quiebra Canto are popular choices, but Crazy Salsa stands out for its combination of live music and salsa classes catering to all skill levels.

Chiva Party Buses offer a unique way to experience Cartagena's nightlife. These vibrantly colored buses provide an open bar, Colombian snacks, and live music and dance shows. The tour usually ends at a popular nightclub, making it a fun option for younger and solo travelers.

Demente in Getsemani is another nightlife hotspot, known for its lively outdoor terrace and delicious tapas-style dishes. It's a favorite among both locals and visitors.

Finally, Cafe Havana is a must-visit, made famous by a visit from Hilary Clinton. This bar offers a lively atmosphere with mojitos, live music, and dancing, making it a memorable stop on any night out in Cartagena. Open from Wednesday to Sunday, it's located in Getsemani on Calle de la Media Luna.