Recommendations for your time in Cartagena

Whether you’re joining just for the anniversary event or staying longer to explore, here are some tips and suggestions to help you make the most of your visit.

  • Cartagena is full of history, color, music, and coastline. Here are some experiences we recommend:

    • Walk the Walled City (Ciudad Amurallada): Colonial streets, plazas, and cafés.

    • Explore Getsemaní: Art-filled neighborhood with murals, local food, and music.

    • Sunset on the City Walls: Bring a drink and enjoy the view near Café del Mar.

    • San Felipe Castle: Historic Spanish fortress with panoramic views.

    • Boat to Rosario Islands: Day trips to white-sand beaches and turquoise water.

    • Visit the Aviario Nacional: A unique open-air sanctuary with over 170 bird species.

    • Take a Champeta Dance Class: Cartagena’s Afro-Colombian dance style.

    • Tour the Bazurto Market: A bustling, local-only food and culture experience (with a guide).

    • Canoe through the Mangroves in La Boquilla: Peaceful nature just outside the city.

  • Cartagena has a wide range of accommodations to suit different budgets and styles:

    • Hotels: There are many hotel options to choose from, from boutique colonial mansions in the Walled City to modern towers in Bocagrande.

    • Hostels: Hostels can offer a good social atmosphere, with affordable dorms and private rooms.

    • Airbnbs: Popular for groups or couples — you'll find apartments and houses across the city, especially in the Old Town, Getsemaní, Manga, and Bocagrande neighborhoods.

    • Other tips:

      • You may want to consider booking a place that has a rooftop pool! It’s a good vibe, and a nice way to relax and cool down. 

      • Book early if possible — Cartagena is very popular in February.

    • Lightweight, breathable clothing for warm weather

    • Swimwear, sandals, sunglasses, a hat and a beach towel

    • Sunscreen, bug spray, and any personal medications

    • Comfortable shoes (or sandals) for walking the cobblestone streets

    • Nice clothes for the anniversary party on the catamaran.

    • Taxis are everywhere and can be hailed easily. Sometimes they don’t use meters — if not, agree on a price before you get in.

    • Uber and InDrive apps are widely used and often cheaper than street taxis.

    • Walking is ideal in the Walled City and Getsemaní — most things are close together.

    • Boats and ferries are used for island trips like Tierra Bomba or Isla Rosario.

  • Cartagena has no shortage of great places to eat and drink — whether you’re craving local flavours, seafood, a laid-back brunch, or a night out. Here are some of our recommended places:

    🌴 Local Flavors & Colombian Classics

    • La Mulata – A lively favorite for hearty Afro-Caribbean dishes and local staples.

    • Caffé Lunático – Charming and relaxed, with arepas, cocktails, and views over the old city walls.

    • Espíritu Santo – Classic Colombian plates, quick service, and great prices.

    • Restaurante Candé – Traditional coastal cuisine with live music and a colorful atmosphere.

    🐟 Seafood & Coastal Cuisine

    • La Cevichería – World-famous ceviche and seafood, made popular by Anthony Bourdain.

    • Carmen Cartagena – Refined Colombian fusion with beautiful plating and a tranquil courtyard.

    • Juan del Mar – A Cartagena staple for fresh seafood, live music, and dinner with atmosphere.

    🍕 Italian, Pizza & Casual Dining

    ☕ Brunch, Cafés & Sweets

    • Manna Breakfast & Lunch – Fresh, healthy breakfast and brunch in a peaceful corner of the city.

    • Época Café – Excellent coffee and breakfast with a touch of elegance.

    • La Brioche – Cozy spot for brunch, pastries, sandwiches, and espresso.

    🍸 Cocktails & Nightlife

    • Alquímico – A three-floor cocktail bar with inventive drinks and bold energy. It’s not a rooftop, but it’s one of the most iconic nightlife spots in Cartagena.

    • El Barón – Intimate cocktail bar with beautifully crafted drinks right on Plaza San Pedro.

    • Townhouse – Rooftop bar and boutique hotel with ocean breezes, creative drinks, and weekend DJs.

    • Mirador Gastro Bar – Laid-back rooftop with great sunset views over the Caribbean and a chill vibe.

    • Donde Fidel – Lively salsa bar near the clocktower, loud music, cold beer, and lots of dancing.

    • Café Havana – Classic live music venue in Getsemaní with a full salsa band and lots of movement.

  • Cartagena is generally safe and friendly, especially in tourist areas. That said, it’s smart to take basic precautions:

    • Avoid wearing flashy clothing, jewelry or expensive-looking watches.

    • Keep your phone tucked away when walking in crowds or at night.

    • Use a small crossbody bag or secure backpack.

    • Be cautious with your belongings on the beach.

    • Stick to well-lit, busy streets after dark — and always trust your instincts.

    • It’s very common for people to approach you selling items like hats, jewelry, sunglasses, or offering things like tours or massages. You’re not obligated to stop or engage — a simple “no gracias” with a smile is totally okay (and recommended).

    • Money: Most places accept cards, but bring cash for taxis, markets, and small purchases. ATMs are widely available.

    • Language: Spanish is spoken everywhere. A few basic phrases go a long way, but many people in tourist areas speak some English.

    • Weather: It will be hot and humid (around 30°C / 86°F) in February — stay hydrated and bring sunscreen.

    • Tap Water: Not recommended for drinking — use bottled or filtered water.

    • Packing: Lightweight clothing, swimsuits, sandals, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and a hat are all good to bring.

  • Here’s a small list of Spanish phrases that may come in handy:

    • “Hola, cómo estás?” (Hi, how are you?)

    • “Buenos días” (Good morning)

    • Buenas trades (Good afternoon)

    • Buenas noches (Good evening (or goodnight))

    • “Sí, por favor” (Yes, please)

    • “No, gracias” (No thank you)

    • “Dónde es el baño?” (Where is the bathroom?)

    • “Cuánto cuesta?” (How much is it?)

    • “Una cerveza, por favor” (A beer, please)