Cartagena.

Cartagena, one of the most colourful and vibrant places I have ever been. Colonial streets, endless rooftop restaurant and bar options, live music everywhere, as well as art and culture around every corner. This guide will cover where to stay, what to do, and where to book! Whether you’re travelling here for a few short days, a week, or more, you are guaranteed to fall in love.

Where to Stay.

One beautiful week in March, spent in the neighbourhood of Getsemaní. This Airbnb was equipped with a secure entrance, your own personal jacuzzi, and a rooftop pool with phenomenal views on Cartagena. Booked through Airbnb, I would definitely stay at this Cartagena Loft again. Within walking distance to everything you need, including the Walled City, or “Old Town” across the way. If you only have time to explore one neighbourhood outside of the Walled City, make it be Getsemaní.

More About Getsemaní.

If you are looking for vibrancy and art, every street here is filled. Colourful murals, hanging umbrellas, live music, and great happy hour spots. The perfect place to wander without a plan. When sunset hits, the streets come alive. Dancing in the streets, music from restaurant and bars pouring into the street, and endless amounts of photo opportunities. There is something for everyone in Getsemaní; whether you are a travel enthusiast, foodie, photographer, or nightlife lover.

The Heart of Cartagena.

Just a short walk from Getsemaní, you can arrive to Cartagena’s Old Town. The history is evident, the architecture is prevalent, and the cobblestone streets go hand in hand when creating the most perfect area to experience Colombian culture.

Churches, boutiques, cafes, and stunning hotels are also all within Old Town. Be sure to visit iconic landmarks like Plaza Santo Domingo, Plaza Bolívar, Torre del Reloj, and the famous Cartagena Cathedral. Along the way, stop for fresh fruit from local vendors, shop for handcrafted souvenirs, or enjoy a rooftop cocktail overlooking the city's rooftops.

Viva La Vida and Cande, are worth the recommendation. Viva La Vida was the perfect place to start your evening and enjoy a sunset cocktail. Cande is an award winning resturant that showcases the essence of Colombia. From the amazing menu options, to the live music and dancing throughout dinner, Cande should be planned, penciled in, and booked. I recommend booking in advance to secure a reservation. Make sure to book a time where the live music will be guaranteed!

Cande Restaurant - Details Do Not Disappoint, Even in the Bathrooms!

Where to Eat.

The amount of stellar options when it comes to cafes & food spots are almost overwhelming in Cartagena. Truly, I don’t think you can go wrong wherever you choose to stop either a coffee or a quick lunch. Some of my personal favourites are Nia Bakery Coffee Shop & Cocktails and Epoca Cafe & Bar. Nia Bakery is the best spot for brunch, coffee, cocktails, and the most beautiful pastries. To match the quality of the food and drinks, the architecture and design inside will make you want to stay longer than planned. Epoca Cafe is also a great option for brunch, lunch, or coffee. Try and get a table upstairs and get a glimpse of the incredible details inside like their tiled floors, stone walls, and fantastic art pieces.

No Shortage of Aesthetic Restaurants in Cartagena.

Nightlife.

Start your evening in Plaza de la Trinidad. Street food, drinks, and live entertainment make this area come alive before starting your bar hopping experience through the neighbourhood of Getsemaní. I would start in Getsemaní as it is guaranteed to get your mood, and overall vibe ready for one of the most exciting nights you will have in South America.

The Walled City, or “Old Town,” offers a more upscale nightlife experience with elegant rooftop bars, cocktail lounges, and stylish clubs hidden inside centuries-old colonial buildings. Some MUST VISIT spots are Café Havana and Alquímico.

Café Havana is the cities most iconic salsa club. Alquímico has been consistently ranked as one of the world’s top cocktail bars. The coolest part about Alquímico is that each level offers a different expierence. Different vibes, different style, different music, and a different cocktail menu. Start at the bottom, and work your way to the rooftop!

Looking for a club? Movida Cartagena!

Day Trip.

At the end of the day, I am an ocean lover and usually travel more to beach towns versus cities. Although there are beaches close to the city of Cartagena, they are nothing like what you could experience if you took a forty five minute boat ride to Islas Del Rosario. Made up of 27 small islands surrounded by beautiful clear water. Bora Bora is the beach club I chose to book, but the options are plentiful. Bora Bora was the perfect mix of relaxed but also lively, depending on what side you choose to sit on. Equipped with a great menu, and amazing additions like on site spa treatments. Boat ride back to the city is included in your booking. Booking is possible online, or through the many offices you will pass by while exploring the city by foot.

Cartagena is a destination that effortlessly blends history, culture, adventure, and charm. A week here offers the best intro to one of Colombia's most captivating cities—but don't be surprised if you leave already planning your return. After leaving here, I hold the desire to travel the country more.

I hope this guide helps you experience a small bit of the best parts of Cartagena and inspires you to create memories you'll never forget. For more content on Cartagena, check out my Instagram and TikTok!

Greece Boat Charter.

KELEECI