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Cartagena
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Discover Cartagena, Colombia's historic coastal gem, where colonial charm, vibrant culture, and stunning Caribbean beaches create an unforgettable travel experience.

Cartagena, located on the northern coast of Colombia, is a vibrant city that seamlessly blends historic charm with modern allure. Known for its stunning colonial architecture, Cartagena's Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring cobbled streets, colorful buildings, and impressive fortifications. Walk through the historic walled city and explore its many plazas, such as Plaza Santo Domingo, where you can enjoy local music and cuisine.
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Beyond the historic center, Cartagena boasts beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. The nearby Rosario Islands offer a perfect getaway for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Visit Bocagrande, a modern district lined with luxury hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers, providing a stark contrast to the historic areas.
Cartagena's vibrant culture is evident in its festivals, music, and dance. The city is famous for its lively nightlife, with salsa clubs and rooftop bars offering breathtaking views. Don't miss the chance to try local delicacies like arepas, ceviche, and fresh seafood at the bustling Mercado de Bazurto. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality, Cartagena is an unforgettable destination for any traveler.

When is the best time to visit Cartagena?

Best: January–March · 32°C
Average daytime high and rainfall by month
MonthHigh (°C)Rainfall (mm)
January (best)320
February (best)320
March (best)320
April330
May330
June330
July320
August320
September320
October320
November320
December320

Getting to and around Cartagena

How to get there

Cartagena is served by Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG), located about 4 kilometers from the historic city center. The airport offers direct flights from major cities in North and South America. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a pre-arranged shuttle to your accommodation. For those arriving by bus, Cartagena's main bus terminal is located approximately 11 kilometers from the city center and is well connected to other major Colombian cities.

Transportation

Cartagena has various transportation options, including taxis, buses, and bike rentals. Taxis are plentiful and relatively inexpensive but ensure the meter is used or agree on a fare beforehand. Public buses and small vans (colectivos) are available for travel within the city and to surrounding areas. For a more eco-friendly option, consider renting a bicycle to explore the historic walled city and its surroundings. Ride-sharing apps like Uber are also available.

Best attractions in Cartagena

Cartagena offers a unique blend of history, culture, and stunning natural beauty for visitors to explore. From the well-preserved colonial architecture of the Old Town to the vibrant street art scene in Getsemani, there is something for everyone. Visitors can wander through the colorful streets, take a horse-drawn carriage ride, or relax on the beautiful beaches overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Don't miss the chance to visit the imposing Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, explore the fascinating history of the Palace of the Inquisition, or take a boat trip to the nearby Rosario Islands for a day of snorkeling and relaxation. With its vibrant atmosphere, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality, Cartagena is sure to captivate visitors and leave them wanting more.

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Best landmarks in Cartagena

Cartagena offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the imposing Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, a fortress that played a crucial role in protecting the city from invaders, to the charming streets of the walled Old Town with its colorful colonial buildings and lively plazas, there is something for everyone to explore. Don't miss the chance to walk along the historic city walls and take in panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea, or visit the Palace of the Inquisition to learn about the city's dark past. With its vibrant street art scene, bustling markets, and pristine beaches, Cartagena is a must-visit destination for any traveler looking to immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of Colombia.

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Explore Cartagena on the map

Plan your Cartagena trip on one map. See where the top attractions, landmarks, restaurants, bars and hotels are, find what's near where you're staying, and book hotels and experiences in a few clicks.

Neighbourhoods in Cartagena

Best restaurants in Cartagena

Cartagena's dining scene is a vibrant blend of traditional Colombian flavors and international influences, offering visitors a culinary experience like no other. From street food vendors serving up delicious arepas and empanadas to upscale restaurants showcasing innovative fusion dishes, there is something for every palate in this coastal city. Be sure to try the fresh seafood caught daily from the Caribbean Sea, indulge in a traditional Colombian bandeja paisa, and sip on refreshing mojitos while taking in the picturesque views of the historic Old Town. With its colorful and lively atmosphere, Cartagena's dining scene is a feast for the senses that should not be missed.

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Best bars in Cartagena

The nightlife scene in Cartagena is vibrant and diverse, offering something for every visitor. From lively salsa clubs where you can dance the night away to trendy rooftop bars with stunning views of the city, there is no shortage of options for a night out. Local rum and cocktails flow freely, and the music ranges from traditional Colombian beats to international hits. Whether you prefer a relaxed evening sipping cocktails by the beach or a high-energy night of dancing, Cartagena has it all. The city truly comes alive after dark, and exploring its bustling streets and lively bars is an experience not to be missed.

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Best nightclubs in Cartagena

The nightlife scene in Cartagena is vibrant and diverse, offering something for every visitor. From lively salsa clubs where you can dance the night away to trendy rooftop bars with stunning views of the city, there is no shortage of options for a night out. Local rum and cocktails flow freely, and the music ranges from traditional Colombian beats to international hits. Whether you prefer a relaxed evening sipping cocktails by the beach or a high-energy night of dancing, Cartagena has it all. The city truly comes alive after dark, and exploring its bustling streets and lively bars is an experience not to be missed.

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Best shops in Cartagena

In Cartagena, shopping is a vibrant and colorful experience that reflects the city's rich history and culture. Visitors can explore the bustling markets of the historic Old Town, where they can find handcrafted goods, unique souvenirs, and traditional Colombian items such as emerald jewelry and colorful textiles. Trendy boutiques and high-end stores line the streets of Bocagrande, offering a mix of local and international brands. For a more authentic experience, visitors can head to the local artisan markets in the Getsemaní neighborhood, where they can haggle for handmade goods and immerse themselves in the local culture. From traditional Colombian handicrafts to designer fashion, Cartagena offers a diverse shopping scene that caters to every taste and budget.

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Cartagena essentials

Currency and Payment
The official currency in Colombia is the Colombian Peso (COP). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and street vendors. ATMs are readily available throughout Cartagena, especially in tourist areas. Be cautious when withdrawing cash and avoid using ATMs at night or in secluded areas.
Safety
Cartagena is generally safe for tourists, but it's essential to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in less crowded areas. Be cautious of pickpockets in busy places like markets and tourist attractions. Areas such as the neighborhoods of La Popa and parts of the outskirts can have higher crime rates. Stick to well-traveled areas and use reputable transportation services. Always keep an eye on your belongings and avoid displaying valuables.
Emergency Situations
In case of emergency, dial 123 for police, medical, or fire assistance. The main hospital in Cartagena is Hospital Universitario del Caribe, which provides comprehensive medical services. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, numerous pharmacies (farmacias) are available throughout the city, often providing over-the-counter medications.
Do's and Don'ts
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and appropriately for the tropical climate. Lightweight clothing and sun protection are essential. Avoid overly revealing outfits, especially in religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches, dress modestly and keep noise to a minimum. Public Transport: Do be respectful and patient. Keep personal belongings secure and avoid eating or drinking on buses. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or a friendly 'Hola.' Colombians are generally warm and polite. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food and drink offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it may be considered impolite.
Local Tips
To experience Cartagena like a local, visit the Getsemaní neighborhood, known for its vibrant street art and local eateries. Enjoy a sunset at Café del Mar on the city walls. Engage with locals at Mercado de Bazurto, the bustling central market, for an authentic experience. Take a Chiva bus tour for a lively and musical way to see the city. Don’t miss trying local delicacies like arepas, ceviche, and fresh tropical fruits.
Eve, your Evendo local guide

From Eve

Local phrases worth knowing

You don't need to get them perfect. A few words go a long way, and locals appreciate the effort.

6 phrase groups · English, local and pronunciation

Basics
EnglishLocalSay it
HelloHola[oh-lah]
GoodbyeAdiós[ah-dee-ohs]
YesSí[see]
NoNo[no]
Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada[por fah-vor/deh nah-dah]
Thank youGracias[grah-see-ahs]
Excuse me/SorryPerdón/Lo siento[pair-dohn/loh see-ehn-toh]
How are you?¿Cómo estás?[koh-moh ehs-tahs]
Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?[bee-ehn. ee too]
Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?[ah-blahs een-glehs]
I don't understandNo entiendo[noh ehn-tee-ehn-doh]
Eating & Drinking
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver el menú, por favor[meh goo-stah-ree-ah behr ehl meh-noo, poor fah-vor]
I don't eat meatNo como carne[noh koh-moh kahr-neh]
Cheers!¡Salud![sah-lood]
I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor[meh goo-stah-ree-ah pah-gahr, poor fah-vor]
Emergencies
EnglishLocalSay it
Help!¡Ayuda![ah-yoo-dah]
Go away!¡Vete![veh-teh]
Call the Police!¡Llama a la policía![yah-mah ah lah poh-lee-see-ah]
Call a doctor!¡Llama a un médico![yah-mah ah oon meh-dee-koh]
I'm lostEstoy perdido[ehs-toy pair-dee-doh]
I'm illEstoy enfermo[ehs-toy ehn-fehr-moh]
Shopping
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...[meh goo-stah-ree-ah kohm-prahr...]
I'm just lookingSolo estoy mirando[soh-loh ehs-toy mee-rahn-doh]
How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?[kwan-toh kwehs-tah]
That's too expensiveEsto es demasiado caro[ehs-toh ehs deh-mah-syah-doh kah-roh]
Can you lower the price?¿Puede bajar el precio?[pweh-deh bah-hahr ehl pree-syoh]
Time & Numbers
EnglishLocalSay it
What time is it?¿Qué hora es?[keh oh-rah ehs]
It's one o'clockEs la una[ehs lah oo-nah]
Half past (10)Las diez y media[lahs dee-ehs ee meh-dee-ah]
MorningMañana[mah-nyah-nah]
AfternoonTarde[tahr-deh]
EveningNoche[noh-cheh]
YesterdayAyer[ah-yehr]
TodayHoy[oy]
TomorrowMañana[mah-nyah-nah]
1Uno[oo-noh]
2Dos[dohs]
3Tres[trehs]
4Cuatro[kwah-troh]
5Cinco[seen-koh]
6Seis[sace]
7Siete[see-eh-teh]
8Ocho[oh-choh]
9Nueve[nweh-veh]
10Diez[dee-ehs]
Transport & Directions
EnglishLocalSay it
Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está...?[dohn-deh ehs-tah]
What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?[kwahl ehs lah dee-rehk-syohn]
Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?[pweh-dehs mohs-trahr-meh (ehn ehl mah-pah)]
When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (autobús)?[kwan-doh ehs ehl proh-ksy-moh (ow-toh-boos)]
A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (a ....)[oon boh-leh-toh (ah ....)]

History of Cartagena

Founding of Cartagena

Cartagena was founded on June 1, 1533, by Spanish commander Pedro de Heredia. The city was named after Cartagena, Spain, and quickly became a significant port for the Spanish empire. Its strategic location made it a vital hub for trade and military operations in the Caribbean.

The Golden Age and Fortifications

During the 16th and 17th centuries, Cartagena became one of the wealthiest ports in the New World due to the booming trade in gold, silver, and other valuable resources. To protect against frequent pirate attacks, the Spanish Crown invested heavily in fortifications. The most prominent of these is the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, an impressive fortress that stands to this day.

The Inquisition in Cartagena

In 1610, Cartagena became one of the three seats of the Spanish Inquisition in the Americas. The Palace of the Inquisition, now a museum, was established to try cases of heresy, sorcery, and other crimes against the Catholic faith. This period left a dark yet significant mark on the city's history.

Independence Movement

Cartagena played a crucial role in Colombia's fight for independence from Spanish rule. On November 11, 1811, Cartagena declared its independence, becoming one of the first cities in Colombia to do so. This act of defiance was a major milestone in the country's journey toward freedom.

The Battle of Cartagena de Indias

In 1741, Cartagena was the site of a major battle between the British and Spanish empires. Under the leadership of Admiral Edward Vernon, the British launched a massive attack on the city, but the Spanish forces, commanded by Blas de Lezo, successfully defended Cartagena. This victory solidified Spain's dominance in the Caribbean.

Modern Cartagena

Today, Cartagena is a vibrant city that blends its rich historical heritage with modern culture. The city's old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and colorful buildings. Cartagena's unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty continues to attract visitors from around the world.

Cartagena in Photos

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Evendo: Your Ultimate App-Based Travel Guide to Cartagena, Colombia

Discover Cartagena with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide covering top attractions, landmarks, restaurants, hotels, and more for an unforgettable experience.

  • Detailed information on top attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities
  • Rich descriptions, images, local tips, maps, and contact details for each location
  • Easy booking for hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences
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Explore Cartagena like never before with Evendo, your ultimate free travel guide app. Discover top attractions, local tips, and easy booking options all in one place.

  • History of Cartagena and travel essentials
  • Tons of good, local advice to maximize your visit
  • Easy navigation through the app and the city
  • 'Near Me' feature to discover nearby attractions
  • Curated local tips for an authentic experience
  • 100% free with no in-app purchases
  • Coverage of 7,000+ destinations worldwide

Welcome to Cartagena, Colombia, a city rich in history, culture, and stunning landscapes. With Evendo, your ultimate app-based travel guide, you can explore every corner of this magical city with ease and confidence. Whether you're wandering through the colorful streets of the Old Town, visiting the historic Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, or enjoying the vibrant nightlife at Café del Mar, Evendo has got you covered.

Our app provides detailed information on the best attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities in Cartagena. Each location comes with rich descriptions, images, local tips, maps, and contact details, making it easy for you to plan and organize your trip. Discover amazing new places like the Rosario Islands, the bustling Bazurto Market, or the serene Getsemaní neighborhood.

With Evendo, booking your hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences is a breeze. No more searching for what to see, do, or experience and then figuring out how to get there or get tickets. Everything you need is in one place. Plus, our 'Near Me' feature ensures you never miss out on local gems, no matter where you are in the city.

Download Evendo today and immerse yourself in the wonders of Cartagena. Experience the city like a local with curated tips and travel essentials, all while navigating easily through the app and the city. And the best part? It's 100% free, forever.

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