The old city is a great place to relax and take in the sights. San Basilio de Palenque is the other main cultural day trip in Cartagena. If this is your case too, you can buy a cold beer from the street vendors and find a quieter spot on the wall. Another good recommendation for things to do in Cartagena with or without kids is a unique night excursion alongside plankton. Explore Cartagena at night time. The best beaches in Cartagena are Playa Blanca, Bocagrande, and Castillo Grande. While the party starts on the bus, you will be dropped at various bars around the city and later, you will be left to climax in a larger club. Things to do near Sr Miyagi Sushi Bar - Manga on Tripadvisor: See 115,034 reviews and 50,266 candid photos of things to do near Sr Miyagi Sushi Bar - Manga in Cartagena, Colombia. Cartagena is a fantastic destination for couples. [instagram-feed num=3 cols=3 disablemobile=true], 13 Must-Do Things To Do In Cartagena, Colombia, 3. Many concerts, parades, and parties are organized around this date. Chill in this lovely cafe with your friends or significant other situated in the Baluarte de Santo Domingo. With the citys rapid expansion, this small fishing village, located 20 min from the old town, is now surrounded by numerous buildings. It was civil war dungeon. Cards are Accepted, but Cash is Pesos 14. For History boffs, this is by far one of the best things to do in Cartagena. Also within the walled area is the section of Getsemani which is less expensive but worth a daytime stroll. Learn more about my Tierra Bomba adventure. On top of it, there is a beautiful convent with a flowery inner courtyard and a chapel. Regardless of what tour you choose, a guided walk around old town, Cartagena is a must and one of the best things to do in Cartagena! He is now the patron saint of both Colombia and of enslaved people, and the church here has a museum dedicated to his life and works. Centenario Park, located between Getsemani and the old city center, was built to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the independence of Cartagena. The two areas where English is most widely spoken are inside the walled city of Cartagena and in the Caribbean islands of San Andres and Providencia. It was established in 2002 and welcomes guests from all over the world to enjoy delicious cocktails while feeling the ocean breeze. Interested To Advertise On Bel Around The World. Discover the citys wealth of exquisite architecture by touring the elegant mansions of the Manga neighbourhood, monuments such as San Felipe Castle, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed walled city, the Monastery of La Popa and the modern districts of Cartagena. The oldest Hispanic town in Colombia, Santa Marta is a port that is used as the base camp for the hike to Ciudad Perdida (The Lost City) and a stopping point before moving onto Tayrona Beach. There are some truly beautiful works by skilled artists here, and Cartagena Connections or Streetart Cartagena can lead you to the best ones. Totumo Mud Volcano The only way left for the pirates was to arrive by land. Be sure to check out Plaza Bolvar as well its one of the most popular squares in Cartagena. Aboard his 4*4, accompany him to visitthe village of Bar. This fortress was built in the 16th century and played an important role in defending Cartagena from pirates and other invaders. Just rent a board and enjoy the sun! Learn about the citys history on this personalized tour. You can enter with or without a guide. A post shared by judae (@fyvel) on Jul 24, 2016 at 2:34pm PDT. The streets within the city are peaceful and perfect to stroll around at any time. Its an easy and romantic thing to do in Cartagena. For a laid-back pace, choose beach time and sipping traditional cocktails. I think 3-4 days is good, depends if you like laying on the beach a lot. Still, there are 2 that are worth visiting. If you have the night planned out for dancing, set your mood by hitting plaza la Trinidad early. Get our travel tips Delivered to your inbox. Taking the boat can be a really fun experience. (Do a quick search on the following sites). She enjoys seizing every moment exploring every hideout and doing the unimaginable, like bungee jumping in Phuket and couchsurfing in Europe. Cartagena de Indias (also known as Cartagena) is an old colonial city on Colombias Caribbean coast surrounded by high walls built around its old town area where most historical attractions still stand today. The spot is safe at all times, but mind your belongings and kids, especially at night. Its construction, completed in the late 18th century, took almost two centuries. Stay safe and enjoy your time in Cartagena! It provides a great break from the very busy and touristy area of the old city. Theres a legend about the breasted figure that romantics who caress the breast will have an enduring relationship. From the rich history and amazing nightlife to its churches, colourful buildings and colonial architecture, the city is perfect for honeymoons, family vacations and adventures. The Rosario Islands. It has a youthful, lively feeling without the English-speaking hawkers on every corner. Patacones (a fried, crushed and then fried again platain) with costeo cheese. Fortunately, the country also has a good reputation for its rum. The Rosario Islands are located 1 hour by boat from Cartagena. Oops, this activity is currently unavailable. Top 25 Things To Do In Cartagena, Colombia - Updated 2022, Search Vrbo for the best Holiday Homes & Rentals, things to do in cartagena colombia | admire the stunning architecture of san felipe castle, admire the stunning architecture of san felipe castle, explore the historic old town in a horse-drawn carriage, experience a healing mud bath at the mud volcano, Top 15 Airbnb Vacation Rentals In Cartagena, Colombia - Updated 2022, 15 Best Airbnb Vacation Rentals In Medellin, Colombia - Updated 2022, 5 Best All-Inclusive Resorts In San Andrs, Colombia, 6. Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account, A post shared by Caf del Mar Cartagena (@cafedelmarcartagena). Cartagena is a city with a rich history, which makes it one of the must-sees in Colombia. Epoca Espresso Bar There are two in Cartagena, we went to the one called La Artilieria. Therefore, Cartagena, Colombia is often called by its full name, "Cartagena de Indias," or Cartagena of the Indies. I have been traveling around Colombia and Mexico since 2015 to discover new experiences and help travelers make the right choices. Contents 1. Around the corner from the church is Cartagena's Modern Art Museum. There are still 4 cool things to do outside these areas. Teatro Adolfo Mejia, Calle De La Merced 3638. The most romantic location to enjoy the sunset is the Movitch rooftop (here). It's also a nice choice to stay overnight if you have an early flight and want to beat the traffic or sleep in a little the next morning. 13 Must-Do Things To Do In Cartagena, Colombia 1. Locals are known as Cartageneros (or Cartageneras in the feminine plural). Some of the customers recommend Lobster Paella which is basically lovely wet lobster rice. Arkadin45 55 min. If you're keen for more history and culture, head to the nearby Palacio de la Inquisicon featuring colonial architecture. Cartagenas beaches are definitely worth a visit. The biggest drawback with most group tours heading to the islands is that you will be crammed onto a small boat for 2-3 hours. It is ideal for sporty travelers who stay many days in Cartagena. The city of Cartagena was founded in 1533. The history of Cartagena is fascinating and explains many details that you can see in the city: strange knock doors, wooden or cement balconies, gigantic entrance doors, forts, cannons, and more. Remember to be mindful of your belongings as you wander through! 24 #25-84, Cartagena, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolvar, Colombia. Address: Calle 32, Cartagena, Bolivar, Colombia, Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 6pm; Sun: 10am - 4pm. Depending on your budget, you can book: A free walking tour. Tierra Bomba Island is about a 25-minute boat ride from the city. If youre looking for a lively atmosphere, then Bocagrande is the place to be. The old city is full of narrow streets and small squares, so its the perfect place to wander around. 1. A popular day trip from Cartagena, Colombia is a visit to Volcan de Lodo El Totumo, where you can soak yourself in volcanic mud. There, youll find 2 pleasant places to have a quick break: Plaza San Diego and Parque Fernndez Madrid. per adult (price varies by group size) Totumo Volcano and Mar Rosa Tour in Cartagena with Lunch. You'll also see vendors selling blended juice, some of which are made in blenders operated by bike or solar power. As for accommodation, I found Booking & HotelsCombined to provide the most comprehensive, unbiased comparison of different hotel sites. Thanks in part to the UNESCO World Heritage designation for it and the old city walls, the Castillo is in excellent condition and has been well-maintained, especially the dramatic entrance overlooking the water. One of the most popular squares is Plaza Bolivar, known as the heart of Old Town where you can lounge on one of the benches and watch dancers, performers, and live bands playing traditional Colombian music. The church has a mix between heavy European style coupled with Afro-Caribbean influence manifested through its intricately designed stained glass windows that were brought over. It offers fresh produce, seafood, and practically everything else. There's plenty of police officers on the street and the city is seeing improvements to the crime rate and general security. 23. They also stop in front of the Catedral de Santa Catalina de Alejandra. In our opinion, the must-sees are listed just below. Then some of them go out to the nightclub after midnight. Of the many things to do, make sure to walk and see Cartagena's quaint plazas that reside within its old city walls. Depending on when you arrive, there may be a fantastic event planned. That's where you'll find many of the upscale hotels and all-inclusive resorts. Visit The Castillo De San Felipe De Barajas & La Popa Monastery, 11. And if nightlife is what youre after, theres no shortage of bars and clubs in this vibrant city. A landmark & one of the most popular things to do in Cartagena, Cafe Del Mar open from 5pm til late every day is located right at the head of the city, facing the Caribbean sea, it is the PERFECT place to sit with a beer or cocktail & watch the sun go down! It has a cosy atmosphere, making it the perfect spot to spend the afternoon with friends or loved ones. As always, I find the best way to source the cheapest flights is by checking on Google Flights & Skyscanner. You can find out more about our use, change your default settings, and withdraw your consent at any time with effect for the future by visiting Cookies Settings, which can also be found in the footer of the site. Heres our guide on when its the best time to visit Cartagena. The beach is located on Isla Baru (one of Colombia's Rosario Islands) and is an easy 45-minute shuttle or speedboat ride from the city. It is growing to be a popular spot for tourists and locals to draw in the culture of Cartagena. For the historic adventurer diving into Cartagenas past, visiting this palace can lead to some dark discoveries. If you are wondering where is Cartagena in Colombia, it is located in the north of the country and is the capital of the Bolvar region. Beaches in Cartagena (Colombia) Most Convenient Beach: Closest to port, you'll find La Boquilla , which lies about 5 miles north of Cartagena and is easily reached by taxi. There are also great restaurants in Cartagena, so be sure to try out some local cuisine. The square is always bustling with people and its a great place to watch street performers or just take in the sights and sounds of Cartagena. If youre looking for a relaxing way to spend an afternoon, I would definitely recommend taking a boat tour! Cholon Island Party 7. Here, you'll find clear waters and great diving spots. The Spanish built this church in 1580, and have dubbed it the Parish Church of Santa Maria Magdalena. Fruit Lady Photos Are Not Free 8. And one of my favorite things from the trip! This Museo de Oro y Arqueologa is an archeological and gold museum is located on Plaza Bolivar. Ask Cathy to plan the best Getseman walking tour. Clock Tower Monument, also called La Torre del Reloj, is one of the most important sections of the Walls of Cartagena, considered the main entrance of the old city. After this activity, you still have a couple of hours to enjoy the Playa Linda beach and order homemade gin cocktails at Amare. This mud is then scrubbed off by the local workers in a nearby lake. Visit Cartagena's Gold Museum - The Museo del Oro Zenu 6. ). 32 #8202, Cartagena, Bolvar, Colombia. some of the more popular ones are plaza de los coches - right under the clock tower - so a great meeting point, plaza de la paz, proclamation square, and plaza san pedro claver which is full of cafes to grab a delicious colombian coffee or a popular raspao - which is the colombian version of shave ice - usually covered in condensed milk and The old city is one of the most well-preserved colonial towns in all of South America. San Basilio de Palenque is an hour and a half drive away, and the weather is scorching. Walking tour of Cartagena Old Town. This attracts many street performers, from a Michael Jackson look-alike to a cumbia band and a hip hop show. Address: Bocagrande Beach, Cartagena, Colombia, A post shared by Jorge Martinez (@yoruch). After the tour, you will get to enjoy a delicious island lunch along with a non-alcoholic drink. - Updated 2022, 10 Amazing Bachelor Party Ideas In Cartagena, Colombia - Updated 2022, Top 10 Airbnb Vacation Rentals In Dungog, Australia - Updated 2022, Top 10 Airbnb Vacation Rentals In Dulwich, Australia - Updated 2022, Top 10 Airbnb Vacation Rentals In Drouin, Australia - Updated 2022, Top 10 Airbnb Vacation Rentals In Dundas, Australia, Top 10 Airbnb Vacation Rentals In Dunwich, Australia - Updated 2022. Shop In Bocage In Cartagena 7. 4 ##30-01, Cartagena, Bolvar, Colombia, A post shared by LA CEVICHERA (@lacevicheriacol). You can taste some of Colombia's small but growing craft beer wares at The Beer Lovers -- look out for brands like 3 Cordilleras, Bogot Beer Company and Chelarte (who gives their brews women's names like Raquel and Zenaida). Two great lunch spots are Oh La La -- a French restaurant that incorporates Caribbean flavors -- and Cafe Lunatico, which rotates fresh fish and fruit juices based on availability. Go On A Nightlife Tour 9. Chiva rides are a great way to meet new people. There, you can't go wrong with corvina (sea bass) prepared simply but beautifully with fresh avocado and toasted corn. Walk Around the Instagrammable Old City of Cartagena 5. The landmark connects old Cartagena with Getsemani through the drawbridge and it is one of the countrys most revered attractions. Staff in restaurants, hotels and some shops in Cartagena speak English to at least a reasonable level because of the large number of international . You can also stay on a beautiful private island . Now that you're settled, it's time to eat, dance and drink. This is what this cool Catamaran tour offers. You can also check out the Iglesia de Santo Domingo (location), which is one of the oldest churches in Cartagena. If youre looking for an unforgettable nature experience, be sure to add Isla del Rosario to your list! Parque Nacional Natural Corales del Rosario, 8 Best Beaches in Oaxaca, Mexico You've Probably Never Heard Of, 9 Essential Travel Vlogging Gear For Every Trip. Many of Cartagena's biggest attractions are quite close to each other. In addition to being a great example of where to see the old city walls, the Clock Tower's dramatic skyline presence makes it an easy tool to navigate by. A paid shared tour. Bocagrande, Castillogrande, and Laguito are the modern districts of Cartagena. Bolivar Park 10. Visit La Popa Hill 5. Crawling down into a crowded pit of mud where you'll basically be forced into a massage for tips did not sound like fun. For this article, I'll split them by region in the city. Explore the historic Old Town in a horse-drawn carriage (from USD 80.0), 25. 2. You can also decide to party in Isla Choln with your friends. La Popa is the highest mountain in Cartagena. There's table service, a robust coffee menu (this is Colombia, after all) and free Wi-Fi, making it the perfect place to charge your phone and rest. Tierra Bomba Island is located 15 min by boat from Bocagrande. From the experiences and reviews, the mud bath relaxes the muscles and purifies the skin. Most also include use of beach chairs and umbrellas, but you may need to bring your own towels if you're not staying on property. Over 1,500 travelers experienced this magical tour involving a full day of delicious lunch, relaxing sunset and finally, swimming with plankton in the warm waters of the Colombian Caribbean. And if you want to get more information about the messages behind this street art, dont hesitate to book a graffiti walking tour. It is located on the Caribbean Coast among the Sierra Nevada, about four and a half hours north of Cartagena by car, making it the perfect day trip from the city. Board this interesting bus and get ready to have fun! 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