Cata & Abel
Cata & Abel
THINGS TO DO IN CARTAGENA
We are so excited to welcome you to Cartagena and want you to make the most of your time here!
You’ll find tons of colorful colonial architecture, flowers, artists, and plenty of street vendors.
Be sure to check out the Torre del Reloj, the historically important and monument-filled Plaza Aduana, the vibrant Plaza Santo Domingo with its Botero statue, the leafy green Plaza Bolivar that’s frequently filled with dancers and performers, and Plaza de los Coches where you’re sure to experience an authentic night in Cartagena.
In the mood for some Colombian history? While you’re out exploring, make sure to check out The Palace of Inquisition, The Gold Museum, and the Church of Santo Toribio.
If you are interested in a walking tour, there are many listed through Trip Advisor, or you can ask your hotel to set one up!
Getsemani Cartagena
This area of the city is filled with arts, murals, crumbling buildings, local homes and an absolute ton of amazing street art here.
Las Bóvedas
Explore Las Bóvedas, which means "The Vaults" in Spanish. They were originally built for military purposes in the late 18th century to store munitions. They were later used as a dungeon during the civil wars of the independence era period, and it's said that at high tide, the prisoners would be up to their knees in sea water. Las Bóvedas has 47 arches and 23 domes and was constructed by engineer Antonio de Arevalo between 1792 and 1798. Today the vaults make for a charming shopping experience, as they are filled with Colombian handicrafts to bring home as souvenirs.
Castle San Felipe de Barajas
This is the most famous landmark in Cartagena, and it’s pretty hard to miss. Climb and explore the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas (San Felipe de Barajas Castle) in the early morning or late afternoon to explore the maze-like tunnels and watch the sun sink behind the rampart walls.
Museum of Cartagena de Indias
Located in Parque Bolivar the house was finished around 1770, it currently serves as a museum showcasing historical artifacts. The museum displays torture equipment used on victims during the inquisition. It has been described as "one of the finer buildings" in Cartagena. Cited as one of Cartagena's "best examples of late colonial, civil architecture".
EL BALUARTE SAN FRANCISCO JAVIER
A great option for happy hour or to watch the sunset along the walls!
OTHER THINGS TO DO IN CARTAGENA
Take a boat out to any of the Rosario Islands for the day! Baru and Bendita Beach are two of our favorites. Among Cartagena's beaches, Las Islas del Rosario receive the most attention, and deservedly so. The beaches are part of a national park and here's where you can find the white sand beaches with crystal clear water. To arrange transportation to another island, please use your hotel concierge or you can book your trip with a street vendor.
Take a Carriage Ride around the old city - day or night! There’s really no better way to see the Walled City of Cartagena than seated in a horse drawn carriage. It’s the perfect way to experience this historic city as you would have two or three hundred years ago. Carriages are available almost anywhere throughout the city and can accommodate groups of four.
Walk around the old city during the day and see all the cool buildings and shop. The walled city of Cartagena is a mix of culture, architecture, artistry and modernism. The city is known for its vibrant alleys. There are lots of restaurants, shops, street vendors, and street performers.