Located on the shores of the Caribbean sea, Cartagena de Indias is the fifth largest city in all of Colombia. The city exists as one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations and is full to the brim with exciting adventures, just waiting to be experienced. Cartagena de Indias is one of the most well-preserved, authentic, and beautiful cities in all of the Americas.
Complete with charming colonial architecture, exciting nightlife, vibrant cultural festivals, and breath-taking landscapes, the city is a true South American treasure. Cartagena de Indias itself is surrounded by several stunning islands and archipelagos including Tierra Bomba Island, Múcura Islan, and Barú Island, which in themselves are true miniature paradises, perfect for a relaxing escape.
Whether it’s learning about the city’s cultural and architectural history, relaxing under the Colombian sun, or simply admiring some of the most mind-blowing landscapes in all of South America, here are this author’s top eleven things to do in Cartagena de Indias.
1st thing to do Walled City of Cartagena de Indias
Existing as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Walled City of Cartagena offers authentic, old-world charm hidden inside an eleven-kilometer-long fortress of protective walls. Initially built in 1586 to protect against incoming pirate attacks, the old walls of the city still stand, lined with authentically preserved lookout posts and canons. The Old City is well-preserved, traditional, and beautiful, and therefore very popular amongst tourists. Not only giving an insight into colonial Cartagena de Indias, but the Walled City of Cartagena also boasts incredibly breathtaking views of the city. There are several points of the wall where stairs lie, at the top of which you will have access to these beautiful views: the Caribbean sea on one side and the neighborhood streets of Cartagena de Indias on the other. For a truly traditional and old-timey experience, why not take a horse-drawn carriage ride around the Old City?
Address: Calle De La Media Luna, Cra. 10b #48, Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar, Colombia
Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas
The landmark fortress of Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas is truly a sight to behold! Often described as one of the most spectacular fortresses ever built by the Spanish in one of their colonies, this stunning castle is not a tourist attraction to be missed. Construction began in 1639, and the fortress has survived numerous attempted attacks. Tour through the many dark passageways, designed to allow even small sounds to travel well so that intruders could easily be discovered. Gaze at the architectural brilliance and ponder a lifetime where this fortress was active. For a truly authentic experience, why not grab an audio tour or site guide to learn more about the fortress’ history?
Address: Barrio Pie del Cerro, Avenida Antonio de Arévalo. Carrera 17., Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar, Colombia
Barrio Getsemani
Barrio Getsemani is a vibrant, bohemian neighborhood located just outside of Cartagena de India’s historic center. Rich in ‘rough charm’, the area boasts incredible street art, independent restaurants, and cafes, and currently exists as a hotspot for local creatives.
Enjoy listening to talented street musicians whilst snacking on some authentic street food. Stop by one of the many brewpubs, cocktail bars, or salsa bars, including the Cafe Havana. One of the main selling points when considering a visit to Barrio Getsemani is the vast amount of colorful street art murals.
Take one of the many available Street Art Tours to fully immerse yourself in the history of the artists, the meaning behind the works of art, and the social and political movements they represent! The neighborhood is a true treat for the eyes and the stomach and will fill your creative heart right to the brim.
Location: Crra9No39-12, Cartagena de Indias, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia
Centro Histórico
Centro Histórico is classed as the historical center of Cartagena de Indias and is a key stop for any tourist! Spend hours exploring the vibrant plazas and leafy parks. Get lost parading through the centuries-old streets, learning about the city’s dark history as you go.
If you’re a real history-nut, why not drop into the Centro Histórico museum, the Palace of Inquisition? Or, stop at one of the many cafes and restaurants for a bite to eat! There are also plenty of shops and boutiques in the area if you’re needing a little retail therapy.
None of this takes your fancy? An area is also a great place to simply sit and people watch whilst admiring the historical sites. There is truly something for everyone here, and this author believes that Centro Histórico just has to be a mandatory stop on your Colombian adventure!
Location: Cra. 7 #32-41, Cartagena de Indias, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia
Sanctuary of Saint Peter Claver
Sitting comfortably within the ancient city walls, near the western edge of Cartagena de Indias, lies the Sanctuary of Saint Peter Claver. Peter Claver, or Pedro Claver, lived during the XVII century and dedicated his entire life to the protection of African slaves, and in turn, three hundred years later, became a Saint.
The sanctuary, complete with a museum, exists as his official resting place. The museum and sanctuary are dedicated to his life, complete with pre-Columbian, religious, and African Caribbean art. In fact, the Sanctuary of Saint Peter Claver is said to be home to the most complete collection of religious art on the Colombian coast. Preserving both the spirit of Peter Claver and the spirit of human rights, the stunning building is well worth a visit. An experience for the eyes, the mind, and the soul.
Location: Carrera 4 No. 31-00 | Centro Histu00F3rico. Plaza de San Pedro Claver., Cartagena 130002, Colombia
Bomba Beach Club
Bomba Beach Club is a mini slice of heaven! Sitting on the beach of Punta Arena on Tierra Bomba Island, just ten minutes by boat from Cartagena, a relaxing day at the beach awaits. With crystal clear waters, white sand, and plenty of room to sunbathe, Bomba Beach Club is the ultimate destination to unwind. With beach day packages starting from just 85000 COP, have access to sunbeds, sun towels, roundtrip transportation, welcome cocktails, and more. Yes, you’re here to see the sights, but why not take a day to relax and soak up the Colombian sun? You deserve it!
Location: Isla Tierra bomba, Sector Punta Arena Calle 1 isla Tierrabomba, Cartagena Province, Bolívar, Colombia
La Serrezuela
Spoil yourself! Take a trip to La Serrezuela, one of the chicest malls and cultural, commercial, entertainment, and gastronomic centers in all of Cartagena. Lined with brand-name retailers and vibrant cafes and bars, the mall is a must-stop destination.
Not only incredible in terms of the quantity of shopping and dining opportunities, but the building itself is also stunning. An arena-style, former theatre building takes the stage as the LaSerrezuela, so the mall is worth visiting solely to admire its architectural beauty! Whether you’re window shopping or spending your holiday savings, make sure this incredible mall is on your Cartagena de Indias bucket list.
Location: Cra. 11 ## 39-21, Cartagena de Indias, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia
Vivarium del Caribe
An exciting trip for all the family: Vivarium del Caribe is a South American, prehistoric theme park, inspired by the evolution of life. There are animals wherever you walk – so watch out for claws, sharp teeth, and armored skins! The Vivarium is a place dedicated to preservation, teaching, and recreating. Wander through the enticing exhibits and awaken the wild, as a tour guide tells you all about the incredible animals residing at the theme park. Feed the turtles, admire the reptiles, and learn all about the fascinating process of evolution in a fun, exciting environment!
Location: Via Pontezuela- Bayunca, Km 15 | Apto 203, Cartagena 130001, Colombia
Iglesia de la Trinidad
The Iglesia de la Trinidad church dates back to the year 1600, and its exterior peeling paint and foggy air definitely indicate this! Despite this, Iglesia de la Trinidad is still a hot spot amongst tourists and locals alike. Whilst the church itself is rarely open, the plaza upon which it sits is always bustling with street performers, food hawkers, and locals taking walks across the square.
So much so, the plaza has been named one of the most entertaining squares in town. The plaza is particularly entertaining at night when the area comes alive with crowds, music, and dancing. The interior of the church exists as a bright place of worship, whilst the outside boasts light and entertainment. There is so much to see and explore here, so definitely consider a visit to Iglesia de la Trinidad!
Location: Cra. 10 ##25, Cartagena de Indias, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia
Street Food Tour
One of the most enticing elements of a visit to Cartagena de Indias is the wide range of delicious cuisine available. To get the very best overview of what is available, why not take part in one of Cartagena’s street food tours? Explore stall upon stall of exciting new dishes, having tasters here and there, or stuffing your face to make the very most of the experience! So bring your appetites and your ambitious attitudes and take part in a Cartagena de Indias street food tour! Many companies offer this experience, so make sure to research the area in which they run so you can make sure the cuisine options are to your taste! But don’t be boring! Make sure to try some Colombian cuisine, you never know – you could find a new favorite!
Location: Varies
