Top Things to Do in Cartagena, Colombia

Set along Colombia’s stunning Caribbean coast, Cartagena is becoming a must-see destination, particularly for travelers from the U.S. and Canada, thanks to newly available and convenient flight routes.

Once mostly known for its association with crime and drug cartels, Colombia is now a thriving tourist hotspot. In fact, tourism has exploded, with the number of international visitors rising from 1 million in 2006 to over 3 million by 2018, according to the national tourism board.

Though it’s not Colombia’s capital (that’s Bogotá) or the subject of a famous Madonna song (Medellín, anyone?), Cartagena offers a unique blend of relaxed beach vibes and vibrant city life. The historic center, including its fortifications, is also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering both cultural and sun-soaked experiences.

The Essentials

Much like many places across Latin America, Cartagena derives its name from a city in Spain. As a result, it’s commonly referred to as 'Cartagena de Indias,' or Cartagena of the Indies. The people here are known as Cartageneros (or Cartageneras in the feminine form).

Cartagena’s historic center lies within the fortified walls built by the Spanish between the 16th and 18th centuries. Known as the Ciudad Amurallada, or Walled City, it’s home to the majority of the city's hotels, restaurants, and is very pedestrian-friendly.

If you're short on time, it's best to stay within the Walled City. For a longer visit, spend the initial days here to get your bearings before exploring the rest of Cartagena.

The iconic Clock Tower is a key landmark marking the edge of the Walled City, perched above the main Old City Gate. Once you pass it, you’ll enter Getsemaní, a vibrant, colorful neighborhood with a working-class charm.

Getsemaní is where you'll find striking street art, budget-friendly dining spots, and a lively, close-knit community atmosphere.

Southeast of the Walled City lies the narrow strip of land known as Boca Grande, where you'll find many of Cartagena’s luxurious hotels and all-inclusive resorts.

Now that you're settled in, it’s time to indulge in the city’s vibrant food, dance, and drink scene.

The Highlights

Many of Cartagena’s top attractions are conveniently located close to one another.

If you look at postcards of Cartagena, you’ll quickly notice that many of the city’s iconic buildings are painted in bright yellow, with the Clock Tower being one of the most notable.

The Clock Tower not only provides an excellent view of the old city walls but also serves as a prominent landmark, making it an easy reference point for navigating the city.

The narrow street opposite the Clock Tower is called El Portal de los Dulces, or Sweets Street.

On this street, vendors – mostly women, who display wooden signs with their names above their stalls – sell local treats like coconut and panela (a brown sugar-like substance) cookies, guava jellies, and dulce de leche shaped into coins, hearts, or even babies.

Most of these sweets are pre-wrapped, making them easy to take as souvenirs or gifts for family and friends back home. You can often sample them before purchasing.

Art and Architecture

Even if you can’t attend a performance, the pastel-colored Teatro Adolfo Mejía is usually open to visitors, allowing you to admire its beauty.

Built on the foundations of a former church, this stunning building now stands as a cultural hub, with a breathtaking fresco of the nine muses on its ceiling, painted by renowned Colombian artist Enrique Grau.

A short walk away, you'll find the former residence of Gabriel García Márquez, arguably the most famous figure to come from Cartagena, and the winner of the Nobel Prize in Literature.

García Márquez’s legendary novel 'Love in the Time of Cholera' is set in a slightly fictionalized version of Cartagena, and a quote from the author can be seen on the side of his former home.

Although the house remains privately owned and is not open to the public, the mural on the building's exterior can be admired from Calle 7, right next to the Hotel Makondo, named after the town featured in 'One Hundred Years of Solitude.'

Cartagena is home to many beautiful churches, but none more so than the Church of San Pedro Claver, a stunning example of colonial architecture with its impressive stone facade.

Originally a 1600s church built by Spanish Jesuits, this structure was later renamed after Pedro Claver, who was canonized in 1888. Claver earned recognition for his humanitarian work, providing medical care and nourishment to enslaved Africans brought to Colombia.

Pedro Claver is now revered as the patron saint of Colombia and enslaved people. The church features a museum dedicated to his life, works, and legacy.

Just a short walk from the church, you’ll find Cartagena's Modern Art Museum. This quaint, two-story gallery showcases Colombian and Latin American art, with informative displays in both Spanish and English.

Teatro Adolfo Mejia, Calle De La Merced 3638 Carrera 10 Centro, Cartagena, +57 5 6646023

Casa Gabriel Marquez, Calle Zerrezuela, Cartagena

San Pedro Claver Church, Plaza de San Pedro Claver, Cra. 4 ## 30-01, Cartagena

Modern Art Museum of Cartagena, Cl. 31 #69, Cartagena, Cartagena, +57 5 6645815

Food and Drink

Though small in size, the walled city is brimming with everything from street food that draws crowds waiting in line for half an hour, to trendy, upscale dining spots.

Many beloved local dishes, like arepas con huevo (corn arepas filled with egg, ground beef, and cheese), are deep-fried, which may not be the most appealing option on a scorching hot day.

Thanks to Cartagena's coastal setting and Colombia's Peruvian culinary influence, the city offers a wealth of excellent ceviche.

Although La Cevicheria gets a lot of attention (including here at Dinogo Travel), it tends to have long lines and higher prices. If you'd prefer to skip the wait, visit Cebiches & Seviches, located through a nearly hidden door by Portal de los Dulces.

At Cebiches & Seviches, you can’t go wrong with their beautifully simple sea bass (corvina) served with fresh avocado and crispy toasted corn. Be sure to try the signature leche de tigre, a tangy mix of lime juice, fish stock, and cilantro.

Colombia boasts an impressive variety of tropical fruits, many of which are rare outside the country.

A great spot to sample these fruits is La Palettería, a charming little shop serving popsicles made from unique fruits like lulo (a citrus variety), maracuyá (a tangy passionfruit), and corozo (a sweet, cranberry-like berry). If you're in the mood for something more familiar, they also offer classic flavors like vanilla and chocolate.

If you need a break from exploring, Abaco is the perfect spot to unwind. This cozy bookstore and café is filled with stacks of paperbacks, and offers table service, a wide selection of coffee (since you're in Colombia!), and free Wi-Fi. It’s the ideal place to relax and recharge.

Known for its vibrant nightlife, Cartagena has plenty to offer after dark. For a great night out, head to El Baron, located just across from San Pedro Claver. Enjoy small plates and expertly crafted rum cocktails, and be sure to snag an outdoor table to soak in the lively atmosphere.

For a taste of Colombia’s budding craft beer scene, visit The Beer Lovers. You'll find local brews from brands like 3 Cordilleras, Bogotá Beer Company, and Chelarte, whose beers are uniquely named after women like Raquel and Zenaida.

For an unforgettable experience, stop by KGB Bar, a quirky spot brimming with Soviet-era memorabilia, from cosmonaut uniforms to military medals. If you’re lucky, they might even let you try on a Russian military hat while sipping your drink.

Cebiches & Seviches, Carrera 7 #32-25, Cartagena, +57 5 6797671

La Palettería, Calle 35 #03-86, Cartagena, +57 5 6661579

Abaco Libros Y Cafe, Calle 36 #3-86, Cartagena, +57 5 6786143

El Baron, Carrera 4 #31-7, Cartagena, +57 5 6643105

The Beer Lovers, Calle Gastelbondo y Calle Factoría, Cartagena, +57 5 6642202

KGB Bar, Carrera 7 #38-152, Cartagena

Exploring Getsemaní

While Cartagena's walled city is ideal for newcomers, Getsemaní offers a more immersive experience. This vibrant neighborhood has a youthful energy, free from the bustling crowds of English-speaking street vendors that populate the historic center.

For an introduction to Getsemaní, consider a food or street art tour with Cartagena Connections. This locally owned company offers small group tours for a more personal and authentic experience.

For an authentic neighborhood experience, head to Cafe del Mural, a cozy coffee shop located on a mural-lined street. Beyond coffee (with the option for an informal tasting), they also serve fresh fruit juices, herbal teas, and delicious cakes.

The cafe offers Wi-Fi and is a great spot to catch up on emails, though it's best to wait until after 3 p.m. when they open. (Take this as a reason to disconnect and enjoy the moment.)

For lunch, you can’t go wrong with Oh La La, a French restaurant with a Caribbean twist, or Cafe Lunatico, where fresh fish and seasonal fruit juices change frequently. Oh La La also offers cooking classes in both Spanish and English.

The best time to experience Getsemaní is at night, when the neighborhood comes alive with vibrant energy and stunning views.

For a memorable dinner, head to the rooftop of Malagana, where you can enjoy the city’s best fish tacos along with breathtaking views and refreshing breezes.

Demente, located just off Plaza de Trinidad in the heart of the neighborhood, serves up delicious pizzas, flavorful small plates (be sure to try the albondigas), and impressive cocktails. On pleasant nights, the retractable roof opens up to the sky.

Plaza de Trinidad is a lively spot with nightly entertainment, from community Zumba classes to performances by traditional Palenquero dancers. The plaza is also filled with food carts and vendors offering water and canned beer, some using solar-powered or bike-powered blenders to mix fresh juice.

For just a few dollars, you can enjoy a meal, find a seat, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere that is Cartagena.

Cafe del Mural, Calle de San Juan #29100, Cartagena, +57 5 6472912

Oh La La, Calle 25 #8b300, Cartagena, +57 5 6644321

Caffe Lunatico, located at Calle Espíritu Santo #29-184, Cartagena, +57 5 6601735

Malagana, situated at 31-55 Calle Tripita y Media, Cartagena, +57 5 6601360

Demente, found at Carrera 10 #29-29, Cartagena, +57 5 6604226

Exploring beyond the basics

Cartagena's city center has plenty to offer, but it falls short in one key area – the beach. Fortunately, several nearby resorts offer day passes and excursions, often including meals and drinks to make the experience even more enjoyable.

Many resorts also offer beach chairs and umbrellas as part of the package, but be sure to bring your own towel unless you're staying at the property.

The Conrad is an ideal choice, conveniently situated halfway between the airport and the walled city. It's perfect for an overnight stay if you have an early flight, helping you avoid traffic or giving you a bit more time to rest in the morning.

One of Cartagena’s most iconic historical landmarks is the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, a fortress and castle built by the Spanish in the 16th and 17th centuries. Thanks to its UNESCO World Heritage status and its well-preserved condition, the Castillo remains a standout, especially the grand entrance overlooking the water.

However, the area around the castle is not the safest, and many locals avoid going there alone. It’s best to take a taxi to the fortress and arrange for the driver to wait for you and return you to safety.

For an authentic Colombian experience, make sure to visit Mercado Bazurto, located about 4 km (3 miles) outside of Cartagena. It’s a truly unique and vibrant local market.

The market is a vibrant, chaotic, and lively place, much like the city itself. In just an hour, you can buy a handwoven blanket or basket, witness a fish being cleaned, and share a beer with a local, listening to their tales of how life used to be.

The selection of fresh fruit, vegetables, meats, cheeses, and chocolates is outstanding, though navigating the market can be a challenge for those who aren't fluent in Spanish. It's vast and maze-like, which can be either thrilling or overwhelming depending on your mood, and it's also notorious for pickpocketing in the busy, narrow spaces.

To truly experience the market, it's best to go with a local. Several Airbnb experiences offer guided tours with a local guide, followed by a home-cooked meal made from ingredients you picked out together. This not only provides a safer way to explore, but also offers a personal connection to local life and culture.

Conrad Cartagena, Anillo Vial, KM 12 Between Manzanillo del Mar and, Vía Punta Canoa, Cartagena, +57 5 6517220

Blue Apple Beach House, Playa Mamon #1, Bocachica, Isla Tierra Bomba, Cartagena, +57 316 7506979

Castillo de San Felipe Barajas, Carrera 17, Cartagena +57 5 6421293

Mercado Bazurto, Carrera 29 #36-07, Cartagena