How to Plan Dream Vacation to Cartagena, Colombia : A Complete Guide
Cartagena, the coastal Colombian gem, is a vibrant city that offers a perfect vacation full of dancing, drinking, and indulging in delicious food. This tropical paradise is known for its Caribbean vibes, historic stone-walled old city, colorful colonial architecture, and unique Colombian culture. Whether you want to sip the world’s best coffee on a bougainvillea-laced balcony, explore lush tropical islands, or dance the night away in one of Cartagena’s famous nightclubs, this city has something to offer everyone.
Table of Contents
- Where to Stay in Cartagena
- What to Do in Cartagena
- Exploring Old Town Cartagena
- Shopping for Emeralds
- Best Islands to Visit Around Cartagena
- Biking Around Cartagena
- Watching the Sunset at Cafe del Mar
- Where to Drink and Dance
- Where to Eat in Cartagena
- Know Before You Go
Where to Stay in Cartagena
Cartagena offers two main areas for accommodation: the old city and the “new city” called Bocagrande. Both areas have their pros and cons. Bocagrande is located right on the beach, which is ideal for beach lovers. However, the city beaches are not as impressive as the ones outside the city, such as Baru or Rosario. Therefore, if you plan to spend most of your time exploring the historic Old City, it’s best to stay there.
Hotel Casa San Agustin is a boutique luxury hotel and one of the Leading Hotels of the World. It is composed of three beautiful white houses connected with clay rooftops and offers a stunning view of the clocktower. With only 20 rooms and 10 beautifully-decorated suites, this hotel perfectly blends modern amenities with colonial architecture, providing an authentic Cartagena experience. The premium rooms with private plunge pools or jacuzzis are worth the splurge.
Another great option is Hotel Charleston Santa Teresa, located at the entrance to the Old City. Its prime location makes it easy to explore the city and take day trips to the Rosario Islands. The hotel offers impeccable service, a rooftop with a dreamy courtyard, and a bar with breathtaking views.
For a unique experience, consider Tcherassi Hotel & Spa, a boutique hotel set in a restored colonial mansion. With only 7 rooms and 4 pools, this hotel provides an intimate atmosphere like no other. The rooms feature original stone walls and private balconies, creating a perfect blend of historic charm and modern luxury.
What to Do in Cartagena
Cartagena’s main attraction is its historic Old City. The city’s stone fortresses and walls, constructed to protect it from pirates, create a sense of stepping back in time. The vibrant plazas and colorful cobblestone streets offer a romantic and enchanting atmosphere.
If you’re a jewelry lover, don’t miss the opportunity to shop for emeralds in Cartagena. Colombia produces the highest quality emeralds in the world, and there are several reputable jewelry stores in the city. Lucy Jewelry is a popular spot and offers a wide selection of exquisite emerald pieces.
Exploring Old Town Cartagena
The Old City of Cartagena is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it’s where you’ll find the best restaurants, cafes, and nightlife. The colonial architecture, beautiful churches, and plazas create a charming backdrop for your exploration. One of the most colorful streets in the Old City is where the restaurant Carmen is located.
Shopping for Emeralds
Colombia is known for its high-quality emeralds, and Cartagena is a great place to shop for them. Lucy Jewelry is a reputable store that offers a wide selection of exquisite emerald pieces. Other stores in the city also provide beautiful emerald jewelry.
Best Islands to Visit Around Cartagena
Cartagena is surrounded by breathtakingly beautiful islands that are easily accessible by boat. The most popular islands to visit are the Islas De Rosario island, a group of 28 islands located about an hour off the coast of Cartagena. Gente Del Mar island is a favorite spot among visitors, offering stunning views, delicious food, and refreshing drinks.
Another great island option is visit Playa Blanca on Baru, which is accessible by a 40-minute cab ride over a bridge. This casual and divey island is perfect for a day trip. You can relax on the beautiful beach, enjoy the turquoise water, and indulge in local food and drinks.
Biking Around Cartagena
Many hotels in Cartagena, such as Charleston Santa Teresa and Casa San Agustin, offer complimentary bikes for guests. Biking is a great way to explore the city in the morning before the crowds arrive. You can ride through the colorful streets and discover hidden gems.
Watching the Sunset at Cafe del Mar
For a breathtaking sunset view, head to Cafe del Mar. This outdoor lounge and bar is located on Cartagena’s stone walls and offers a casual atmosphere with unbeatable views. It’s the perfect spot to relax, enjoy a drink, and watch the sun dip below the horizon.
Where to Drink and Dance
Cartagena is famous for its vibrant nightlife. Alquimico is a favorite bar among locals and tourists. With four stories and a gorgeous rooftop, it offers a variety of spaces to dance, mingle, and enjoy great cocktails. La Movida is another popular spot for dancing the night away in the historic district. Mirador is a bustling rooftop with a DJ spinning every night, offering panoramic views of the city.
Where to Eat in Cartagena
Cartagena is a food lover’s paradise, especially for seafood and ceviche enthusiasts. Carmen Cartagena is a fine dining restaurant with a tropical patio and extraordinary food. The menu features innovative and delicious dishes like octopus with chili pepper, yucca croquettes with a liquid foie gras center, and poached prawns with black bisque.
Celele is another must-stop restaurant in Cartagena. It’s ranked as one of the top 50 restaurants in Latin America and offers creative Caribbean fusion cuisine. Zaitun is a Lebanese restaurant known for its delicious hummus, baba ganoush, and “Four Seasons” steak. Alma Restaurant, located inside the Casa San Agustin hotel, provides a romantic atmosphere, live music, and delicious food.
For a more casual dining experience, try La Cevicheria, a seafood haven located on a charming cobblestone street. Pizza en el Parque offers casual pizza overlooking one of Cartagena’s parks, and Pata Negra serves delicious tapas and cocktails in a great ambiance. RPG Pizzeria Boutique is a local pizzeria with thin crust pizzas and other mouthwatering dishes.
Know Before You Go
Cartagena is generally safe for travelers, but it’s always important to stay aware and be smart about your surroundings. Leave your expensive jewelry at home and avoid attracting attention to yourself as a potential target for criminals. Be cautious of drugging incidents, especially if you’re a solo male traveler. Tap water in Cartagena is generally safe to drink, but it’s recommended to buy bottled water. Knowing some basic Spanish will be helpful during your trip, as English is not widely spoken. The power outlets in Cartagena are the same as in the United States, so you won’t need a converter if you’re from there. The best time to visit Cartagena is during the dry season from December to April, but expect hot and humid weather year-round.
With this complete guide, you’re well equipped to plan your dream vacation to Cartagena Island. Whether you choose to stay in the historic Old City, explore the beautiful islands, or indulge in the local cuisine, Cartagena promises an unforgettable experience. Enjoy your trip to this vibrant Colombian gem!