Key Takeaways:
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Cartagena offers stunning colonial architecture, vibrant cultural festivals, beautiful beaches, and historic landmarks year-round.
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Visitors can explore the walled city, attend lively music festivals, relax on Caribbean islands, and experience rich Afro-Caribbean culture.
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Its mix of history, nightlife, cuisine, and natural beauty makes Cartagena one of South America’s most exciting year-round destinations.
Cartagena, located on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, is a city where history, culture, and tropical beauty come together. Founded in 1533, Cartagena’s walled city and fortresses stand as some of the best-preserved colonial architecture in the Americas. Beyond its UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town, Cartagena offers visitors lively street life, colorful markets, gorgeous beaches, and a rich fusion of Afro-Caribbean and Colombian culture. With its warm climate, vibrant energy, and endless attractions, Cartagena is a perfect year-round destination for travelers seeking both history and relaxation.
Table of Contents
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Stroll Through the Walled City (Ciudad Amurallada)
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Visit Castillo San Felipe de Barajas
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Explore Getsemaní Neighborhood
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Relax at Playa Blanca and Isla Barú
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Take a Boat Trip to the Rosario Islands
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Attend the Cartagena International Music Festival
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Discover the Palace of the Inquisition
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Walk Along Las Bóvedas
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Experience the Cartagena International Film Festival
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Enjoy Sunset at Café del Mar
1. Stroll Through the Walled City (Ciudad Amurallada)
The Walled City of Cartagena is the heart of the city’s historic charm and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Cobblestone streets, colorful colonial buildings, and vibrant plazas make walking here feel like stepping back in time. Visitors can admire grand churches, boutique hotels, flower-covered balconies, and lively street performers throughout the old town. The city walls themselves offer scenic walks with stunning views of the Caribbean Sea.
Open year-round, the Walled City is especially enchanting during early mornings and evenings when the weather is cooler. Street vendors, local artists, and musicians add to the area’s vibrant atmosphere throughout the day. Guided walking tours help bring Cartagena’s rich colonial history to life for visitors. Exploring the Walled City is a must for anyone visiting Cartagena and offers countless photo opportunities at every turn.
2. Visit Castillo San Felipe de Barajas
Castillo San Felipe de Barajas stands as one of Cartagena’s most iconic and impressive historical sites. Built in the 17th century, this massive fortress protected the city from pirate attacks and foreign invasions. Visitors can explore its tunnels, ramparts, and lookout points, all while enjoying panoramic views of the city skyline and harbor. Informational plaques and guided tours explain the fort’s fascinating military history and architectural brilliance.
The fortress is open year-round, though mornings and late afternoons are ideal to avoid the midday heat. At sunset, the fort offers particularly dramatic views over Cartagena. Its elevated position allows visitors to see both the old and modern parts of the city. A visit to Castillo San Felipe provides a deeper appreciation of Cartagena’s strategic importance and colonial past.
3. Explore Getsemaní Neighborhood
Getsemaní is Cartagena’s most colorful and bohemian neighborhood, known for its vibrant street art, trendy cafes, and lively nightlife. Once a working-class district, Getsemaní has transformed into a creative hub while retaining its authentic Caribbean charm. Visitors can wander its narrow streets lined with murals, enjoy live music in Plaza de la Trinidad, and discover hidden courtyards and local galleries. The neighborhood offers a more intimate and youthful experience compared to the Walled City.
Getsemaní is lively year-round, with cultural events, food festivals, and spontaneous street performances happening regularly. Local guides often offer walking tours focusing on the neighborhood’s rich history, street art, and evolving identity. In the evenings, the plazas fill with locals and visitors enjoying music, food, and socializing under the warm Caribbean skies. Exploring Getsemaní offers a glimpse into the modern pulse of Cartagena while staying connected to its roots.
4. Relax at Playa Blanca and Isla Barú
Playa Blanca, located on Isla Barú just outside Cartagena, offers visitors pristine white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The beach is a favorite escape for sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing by the Caribbean Sea. Beachfront restaurants serve fresh seafood, tropical drinks, and local specialties right on the sand. Boat tours and day trips to Playa Blanca are easy to arrange from Cartagena.
While Playa Blanca can be busy on weekends and holidays, visiting during weekdays often provides a more tranquil experience. The island is accessible year-round, with warm tropical weather making it ideal for beach activities any time of year. For those who want to stay longer, several eco-lodges and boutique hotels offer overnight accommodations. Playa Blanca and Isla Barú provide the perfect tropical retreat just a short trip from Cartagena’s city center.
5. Take a Boat Trip to the Rosario Islands
The Rosario Islands, located about an hour from Cartagena by boat, form a beautiful archipelago known for their coral reefs, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life. Visitors can snorkel, dive, or simply relax on the white sandy beaches while enjoying the peaceful surroundings. Many boat tours include lunch on the islands, beach access, and opportunities to visit smaller nearby islets.
The islands are accessible year-round, with the dry season from December to April offering especially calm seas and excellent visibility for snorkeling and diving. Private charters and group tours are available to suit different budgets and preferences. The Rosario Islands provide a perfect day trip or weekend getaway for nature lovers and those seeking a quieter Caribbean escape. Visiting the islands adds a stunning natural dimension to any Cartagena itinerary.
6. Attend the Cartagena International Music Festival
Every January, Cartagena hosts the Cartagena International Music Festival, one of Latin America’s most prestigious classical music events. The festival brings together world-renowned musicians who perform in historic venues such as Teatro Adolfo Mejía, colonial churches, and open-air courtyards within the Walled City. The performances range from solo recitals to full orchestras, creating a magical blend of music and history. Visitors can enjoy not only the music but also the beautiful backdrops of Cartagena’s colonial architecture.
The festival attracts international visitors, making January a vibrant time to visit the city. Educational workshops, masterclasses, and free public performances are often part of the program, making the festival accessible to a wide audience. The combination of classical music and Cartagena’s tropical setting creates a uniquely elegant atmosphere. Attending the festival offers an unforgettable cultural highlight during the Caribbean winter season.
7. Discover the Palace of the Inquisition
The Palace of the Inquisition is one of Cartagena’s most important historical museums, located in the heart of the Walled City. The building itself is a stunning example of Spanish colonial architecture, complete with grand wooden balconies and stone archways. Inside, exhibits cover the dark history of the Inquisition in Cartagena, along with displays on colonial life, religious history, and archaeological artifacts. The museum offers a sobering but insightful perspective on the city’s complex past.
Open year-round, the museum provides both self-guided and guided tours that walk visitors through its chilling chambers and informative galleries. In addition to its historical exhibits, the palace’s peaceful courtyards offer a quiet place to reflect. For those interested in the deeper layers of Cartagena’s colonial history, this museum offers an essential and thought-provoking experience. The Palace of the Inquisition provides valuable context to the city’s rich and sometimes difficult heritage.
8. Walk Along Las Bóvedas
Las Bóvedas, or “The Vaults,” are a series of arched storage rooms built into Cartagena’s city walls that once served as military dungeons. Today, they house colorful shops selling local handicrafts, jewelry, paintings, and souvenirs. Visitors can stroll through the corridors, shop for authentic Colombian crafts, and take in views of the Caribbean Sea from the nearby ramparts. The site combines history, commerce, and scenic beauty in one location.
Open daily, Las Bóvedas is especially lively during weekends and holiday seasons. Many vendors sell unique artisan products, including handmade hammocks, emerald jewelry, and woven bags. The nearby city walls offer excellent photo opportunities and a relaxing walk along the fortified edges of the Old City. Las Bóvedas allows visitors to combine shopping with history while supporting local artisans.
9. Experience the Cartagena International Film Festival
The Cartagena International Film Festival (FICCI), held annually in March, is one of the most important film events in Latin America. Established in 1960, the festival celebrates both international and Colombian cinema, showcasing a wide variety of films, documentaries, and short films. Screenings are held in historical theaters, plazas, and outdoor venues, creating a festive atmosphere that takes over the city for several days. Filmmakers, actors, and cinema enthusiasts gather to discuss and celebrate the art of storytelling.
The festival attracts both industry professionals and casual film lovers, with many free public screenings and open-air events. Workshops, Q&A sessions, and networking opportunities add to the festival’s appeal. The blend of cutting-edge cinema with Cartagena’s historical charm creates a vibrant cultural experience. Attending FICCI is a perfect way to explore Cartagena’s contemporary arts scene while enjoying its historical backdrop.
10. Enjoy Sunset at Café del Mar
Café del Mar, located atop the historic city walls, offers one of Cartagena’s most iconic sunset experiences. Visitors can sip cocktails, listen to live DJs, and enjoy panoramic views of the sun setting over the Caribbean Sea. The open-air terrace creates a perfect atmosphere for relaxation after a day of sightseeing. The combination of music, views, and ocean breezes makes Café del Mar a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Open year-round, the venue is especially popular during the dry season when clear skies create breathtaking sunsets. Arriving early secures the best seats along the wall, while the evening hours bring a lively social scene. Whether enjoying a quiet drink or joining the vibrant evening crowd, Café del Mar provides an unforgettable Cartagena experience. It’s the perfect way to end a day exploring the city.
What to do if you have kids?
Cartagena is very family-friendly, offering plenty of attractions for kids. The Rosario Islands and Playa Blanca provide safe swimming and snorkeling opportunities, while the Walled City offers colorful streets and plazas to explore. Many museums, like the Palace of the Inquisition and History Museum, offer exhibits that are educational yet engaging for children. Boat rides, street performers, and interactive cultural events make it easy to keep kids entertained while exploring the city’s rich history and natural beauty.
Where can i find free events in Cartagena Colombia taking place this weekend?
If you’re looking for free events happening in Cartagena this weekend, the best place to start is PlanMyWeekend.ai. Our platform updates constantly with the latest festivals, concerts, art shows, outdoor markets, and family-friendly events happening all over the city. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, PlanMyWeekend.ai helps you discover hidden gems and spontaneous activities to make the most of your time in Cartagena.
Final thoughts
Cartagena, Colombia, offers an extraordinary blend of colonial history, vibrant culture, tropical beauty, and year-round events. From exploring centuries-old fortresses and colorful neighborhoods to relaxing on Caribbean beaches and attending world-class festivals, Cartagena provides something for every traveler. Its lively streets, rich history, and warm hospitality ensure that every visit is filled with unforgettable experiences no matter the season.
Author: Dejon Brooks
Dejon Brooks is an entrepreneur who founded Trend Watchers with his life savings. Aged 24, Dejon has turned Trend Watchers into a successful business. After reaching over 150M+ people on his personal accounts, he now spends his time growing Planmyweekend.ai
