Cartagena, Colombia - Travel Guide
By MupDay - the planner that does the research for you.
Updated: 2026-08-11
Cartagena is a colonial gem on the Caribbean coast, offering a magical blend of history, culture, and tropical beaches. Explore the walled Old City with its colorful streets, ancient churches, and vibrant plazas, and enjoy an authentic Latin atmosphere and excellent cuisine.
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Top things to do in Cartagena
The must-see places in Cartagena include Walled City of Cartagena, Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, Getsemaní Neighborhood, Rosario Islands, Clock Tower (Torre del Reloj) and more. Here is the full list, with a short note on each:
- Walled City of Cartagena · El Centro
The historic heart of Cartagena, a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning colonial architecture.
- Castillo San Felipe de Barajas · Pie del Cerro
An iconic fortress offering panoramic city views and a lesson in colonial military history.
- Getsemaní Neighborhood · Getsemaní
A vibrant bohemian neighborhood with street art, trendy restaurants, and lively nightlife.
- Rosario Islands · Offshore
A stunning archipelago of tropical islands with crystal-clear turquoise waters and coral reefs, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
- Clock Tower (Torre del Reloj) · El Centro
The iconic main gate to the Old City, a famous and central landmark.
- Plaza de Bolívar · El Centro
A beautiful and lively square in the heart of the Old City, surrounded by historic buildings and shaded trees.
- Cartagena Cathedral · El Centro
An impressive colonial-style cathedral, one of the oldest and most beautiful churches in the city.
- Convento de San Pedro Claver · El Centro
A historic church and convent dedicated to Saint Peter Claver, the patron saint of slaves.
- Plaza de Santo Domingo · El Centro
A vibrant square with restaurants, cafes, and Botero's famous 'Gertrudis' sculpture.
- Palace of the Inquisition · El Centro
A museum showcasing the complex history of the Spanish Inquisition in Cartagena.
- Bocagrande Beach · Bocagrande
A popular beach strip with luxury hotels, restaurants, and water activities.
- Convento de La Popa · La Popa
A monastery on a high hill offering the best panoramic views of Cartagena and the Caribbean Sea.
- Museo del Oro Zenú · El Centro
A small but fascinating museum showcasing a rich collection of gold artifacts from the pre-Columbian Zenú culture.
- Las Bóvedas · San Diego
Ancient vaults transformed into an artisan market, a great place for unique souvenirs.
- Museo del Oro
Frequently asked questions
What are the must-see places in Cartagena?
Walled City of Cartagena, Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, Getsemaní Neighborhood, Rosario Islands, Clock Tower (Torre del Reloj), Plaza de Bolívar
When is the best time to visit Cartagena?
Any season works - MupDay plans around opening hours and the weather, and rebuilds your days as you add or remove places.
How do I plan an itinerary for Cartagena?
Pick places in MupDay and it auto-builds a day-by-day route with no zig-zag, weather-aware.
