Top 10 Things to do in Cartagena, Colombia

Author and Editor: Gabriella Grace

Cartagena, located on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, is a vibrant and colorful city with a rich history and culture. From the walled old town to the beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife, there’s plenty to do and see in Cartagena.

Here are the top 10 things to do in Cartagena, Colombia.

1. Explore the Walled City – Cartagena’s historic center, also known as the walled city, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can spend hours exploring the charming cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and picturesque plazas.
2. Visit the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas – This fortress is one of the most impressive and well-preserved examples of colonial military architecture in Latin America. Take a guided tour to learn about the history of the fortress and the battles that were fought there.
3. Relax on the Beaches – Cartagena is surrounded by beautiful beaches, including Playa Blanca and Bocagrande. Spend a day soaking up the sun, swimming in the crystal-clear water, and enjoying the stunning scenery.
4. Take a Chiva Bus Tour – A chiva bus is a colorful and festive open-air bus that takes you around the city, allowing you to see the sights while enjoying traditional music and dancing.
5. Sample the Local Cuisine – Cartagena is known for its delicious seafood dishes, such as ceviche and fried fish. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as arepas and empanadas.
6. Explore the Rosario Islands – Just off the coast of Cartagena are the Rosario Islands, a group of small islands with stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. Take a boat tour or snorkeling excursion to explore these beautiful islands.
7. Visit the Palace of the Inquisition – This historic building was once the headquarters of the Spanish Inquisition in Cartagena. Today, it houses a museum dedicated to the history of the Inquisition in Colombia.
8. Watch the Sunset from the City Walls – The sunset views from the walls of the walled city are breathtaking. Take a walk along the walls in the evening to see the sun set over the Caribbean Sea.
9. Visit the Monastery of La Popa – This 17th-century monastery sits atop a hill overlooking the city. Take a guided tour to learn about the history of the monastery and enjoy panoramic views of Cartagena.
10. Experience the Nightlife – Cartagena is known for its vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars, nightclubs, and live music venues to choose from. Head to the Getsemani neighborhood for a lively and authentic nightlife experience.

Cartagena is a vibrant and fascinating city with something to offer for everyone. From the historic walled city to the stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife, there’s no shortage of things to do and see. Make sure to add these top 10 activities to your itinerary when visiting Cartagena, Colombia.