Cartagena – Colonial Charm, Caribbean Heat & Coastal Flavor

If Bogotá feels like the brain of Colombia and Medellín its heart, then Cartagena is pure soul—and sweat. This Caribbean jewel is a swirling blend of colorful colonial streets, steamy nights, street music, and rich Afro-Colombian culture. It’s beautiful, romantic, chaotic—and totally unforgettable.

Here’s how to make the most of your time in Cartagena, whether you're staying one night or one week.

🏨 Where to Stay

Cartagena is compact but split into very different zones. Choose based on the vibe you want:

• Old Town (Centro Histórico): Picture-perfect colonial architecture, boutique hotels, and a constant buzz.

• Getsemaní: Hip, artsy, and still local—graffiti-covered streets, great nightlife, and cheaper stays.

• Bocagrande: Miami vibes with high-rise beachfront hotels. Less character, more comfort.

• La Boquilla/Morros: Quiet beach area, perfect for relaxing (but far from the city action).

📍 Favorite stays:

• Viajero Hostel – Fun, affordable, and in the heart of it

• Holiday Inn Morros – Quiet beachfront oasis

• Santa Clara Hotel – The iconic luxury pick

• 3 Banderas – Cute colonial vibe + great location

  
  

🚖 How to Get Around

• Taxis are the easiest, but they don’t use meters—always agree on a price before hopping in.

• Inside the walled city, you’ll walk everywhere. It’s tiny, safe, and best enjoyed on foot (especially at sunset).

• For beaches outside town or the airport: taxi or hotel transfer.

  
  

🥘 What to Eat

Cartagena’s food is rich, coastal, and influenced by Afro-Caribbean tradition. Here's what to try:

🐟 Fried Fish, Coconut Rice & Patacones

Classic coastal plate. Crunchy, salty, and comforting.

🍳 Arepa de Huevo

Colombia’s most indulgent arepa: deep-fried with an egg inside.📍 Grab one on the street in the morning with coffee.

🍖 Posta Cartagenera

Slow-cooked beef in a sweet dark sauce—melts in your mouth.

🥣 Mute de Queso

Soup with cheese and corn. Oddly creamy and comforting.

📌 Where to eat:

• La Mulata – Traditional food, casual setting

• Casa de Socorro – Local institution

• Marea – Fancy with sunset views

• Al Alma Café – Best for breakfast and coffee

• San Pedro Hotel restaurant – Excellent sushi and international dishes

  
  

🌇 What to Do

🚶 Walk the Old Town (Day & Night)

Get lost in the narrow streets, colorful balconies, and plazas. It’s safe, photogenic, and magical—especially after dark when the city cools off.

🌅 Sunset on the City Walls

Climb up the ancient wall and grab a drink at Café del Mar. It’s touristy, but the view is unforgettable.

🏰 Castillo de San Felipe

A hilltop fortress with panoramic views. Go early or late—it's scorching hot mid-day.

🛍 La Serrezuela Mall

Luxury shops inside a converted bullring with rooftop restaurants and views. Worth a stop.

🛒 Shop Local

Browse handmade jewelry, linen, local designers, or Wayuu bags. Best finds are in Getsemaní or side streets of the Old Town.

💃 Drinks at Alquímico

One of Latin America’s best bars. 3 levels of wild cocktails and stylish crowd.📍 Map

🎶 People-watch “Donde Fidel”

A no-frills bar with salsa, beer, and energy. Cash only.📍 Location

🏖 Beach Tips

Let’s be real: Cartagena’s city beaches aren’t great. For a proper beach day:

🚤 Islas del Rosario

Take a boat to pristine blue water and white sand. Day trips are easy, but you can also stay overnight on:

• Isla Grande

• Isla Múcura (peaceful, turquoise vibes)

• Casa en el Agua (floating hostel!) → Book

📌 Pro tip: The boat ride back is rough. Sit in the back of the boat, and take motion sickness meds.

🏄‍♂️ Chill at Morros

Quieter beach with more space. You can even take kitesurfing classes if the wind is good.

🧉 Beach Survival Rules:

• Don’t accept free samples from braid/massage ladies—they’ll charge a fortune.

• Say no clearly to vendors unless you’re genuinely interested.

• Never drink cocktails or juices with ice from the beach or street.

• Only buy sealed bottled drinks.

• Agree on prices beforehand for chairs, massages, or souvenirs.

  
  

🧳 Final Word

Cartagena is a whirlwind of heat, flavor, and charm. It can feel intense—but it’s worth every drop of sweat. Whether you're dancing in Getsemaní, drinking a sunset cocktail on the wall, or sailing to a tiny island, you’ll leave sunburned and smitten.

Next up: Post 6 – Santa Marta & Tayrona: Laid-Back Beach Life + Jungle Treks