Not Planning a Trip to Cartagena?? Embarrassing...

The Ultimate Cartagena Cheat Sheet (by Your Favorite Colombian)

Read: My intro, Where to stay, Getsemani, Things to do, Picture Spots and Things to know.

Okay, maybe I’m biased as a Colombian living abroad, but Cartagena is my favorite city in the world, and that’s saying A LOT, considering I’ve been to 20+ countries (according to my "Been" app lol).

Today, I’ll convince you to book that trip and experience the best time of your life. Or, if you’re already planning to go, I’ll guide you through the best spots, hidden gems, and must-dos to make the most of it.

And if you’ve never heard of Cartagena… do you live under a rock??? Stop sleeping on it! Cartagena is a gem. And before you even dare asking: No, Colombia is NOT just a jungle. Yes, we have cars, buildings, and WiFi. And NO, not everyone is involved in Narcos. (Please, just don’t).

Now that we’ve cleared that up, let’s get into it.

Just a heads-up: you might never want to leave. You might fall in love with Cartagena… or with a Colombian (not your fault, we’re charming & gorgeous). Or maybe you just wake up hungover af, who knows? Pero de que la pasas bueno, la pasas bueno.... I guess you’ll have to come find out.

Where to Stay?

It’s the coolest neighborhood in the city (and I’m not the only one who thinks so, Forbes literally ranked it as one of the coolest neighborhoods in the world). Picture "Wynwood" if you're familiar with Miami), but 100x better. With actual culture, history, and street art.

I stayed at Casa Santa Ana, an Airbnb in the heart of Getsemaní, and I swear, this place was unreal.

✔ The colonial architecture made me feel like I was in a movie

✔ They had outstanding service (the host is responds instantly & actually cares)

✔ They help you plan EVERYTHING (pickups, tours, transport, etc.)

✔ It is perfect for both small and big groups

✔ ANDDD it is pet-friendly (+1000 aura points)(only Gen Z's can get this reference 😂)

Price-wise... it starts at $600/night for the entire place but it fits 12 people, which is about $50 per person per night for a place that offers a pool, rooftop, private chef, spa, housekeeping, and massages starting at $20 USD an hour. INSANE.

Santa Ana Casa de Huespedes Cartagena Colombia

Other good options my friends have stayed at:

• Casa Lola

• Casa Canabal

• OSH Hotel

• Casa Pizarro

• Armenia Real

"But Ana, I don’t want to stay in Getsemaní. I heard it’s best to stay at El Centro or the Walled/Old City"

Oh, you sweet, misinformed traveler... you are at El Centro and the Old City, let me explain.

The Old City (Centro Histórico) is divided into 3 areas:

1. Santo Domingo (Centro) → The main historic area but it is ($$$) expensive

2. San Diego → Beautiful, more chill

3. Getsemaní → THE PLACE TO BE. Nightlife, bars, art, and way better prices.

Sure, Santo Domingo is stunning, colonial buildings, beautiful balconies, and historical landmarks everywhere. BUT it’s also SUPER tourist central, meaning:

• Way higher prices for hotels, food, and even Ubers.

• Less local charm. It’s more polished and commercial.

If you want to sip overpriced cocktails in a fancy hotel all day, by all means, stay in El Centro. But if you want to actually experience the REAL Cartagena, meet locals, enjoy the best street art, music, and energy, Getsemaní is the move. But hey, you do you, just don’t say I didn’t warn you... or as Colombians would say "Despues no digas que no te avisamos".

Getsemaní

THE NEIGHBOORHOOD THAT IS AS COOL AS ME ;)

"Ana, WTF is up with Getsemaní? Why do you like it so much?"

Hasta que no vayas, no entiendes... It’s just so stinking cool!!! Every time I go, I never want to leave and somehow end up staying out until at least 4 AM. There’s music everywhere, people dancing in the streets, and an energy that’s unmatched.

Colombians are super social, and this place its about that, connecting, socializing, real people, culture, fun, and pure vibes. It’s the kind of place that recharges you...

Things You HAVE to Do in Getsemaní:

• Plaza de la Trinidad: The heart of the neighborhood. At night, it’s PACKED with locals and tourists, live music, and street performers.

• Callejón Angosto: Colorful flags, and Instagram-worthy pics.

• Street Art Walk: Getsemaní is basically an open-air art museum.

• Let a freestyle rapper improvise about you: Yes, they charge, but it’s so funny.

• Brunch at OSH Hotel: Greeeeaaaaat food.

• Sip cocktails for as low as $4 per drink: Yes, you heard right. (at La Playita)

La Playita Bar: If there’s one place you can’t miss, it’s La Playita. This "informal" bar outside a house serves THE BEST drinks , for only $5.

You can play board games, card games, and take Polaroid pictures. Their alcohol is actually GREAT quality, and they’re NOT "chichipatos" with the liquor. (They don’t skimp on the alcohol, your drink is strong the way it should be).

Getsemani, Plaza de la Trinidad, Callejon Angosto and La Playita Cocktails

Things to Do & Where to Go

The ones marked with "♥" are my personal favorites. Highly recommended!

Beaches, Islands and Beach Clubs

• Islas del Rosario : Crystal-clear water, white sand, Caribbean paradise. (boat only). The boat trip takes around 45 minutes, it leaves at 8am and returns at 3-4pm, and it costs aroung $80 - $120pp.

• Playa Blanca (Barú) : Beautiful, go EARLY before it gets packed. (you can go by car)

• Tierra Bomba: Only 10 min by boat from Cartagena, with cool beach clubs. (boat only)

Private Boat or Yatch Rental: expect to pay around $800 USD/day for a private boat.

Makani Beach Club, Tierra Bomba

Restaurants

You’ll eat a lot in Colombia, but don’t worry, calories don’t count here. Seriously, Colombian food is healthier and fresher, so unless you’re only eating junk, you won’t gain weight (or at least that’s what I tell myself 🤡).

• PRO TIP: The fruit is amazing, try it! But wash it first if you can.

• Street empanadas & arepas? A MUST.

• Lemonade & juices from the street? Maybe skip those... just in case.

My favorites:

• BREAKFAST / BRUNCH: OSH Hotel, Casona Vida, Pascal

• COFFEE SPOTS: Mila, Café del Mural, Nia Bakery, La Brioche, Manna Café

• LUNCH/DINNER (MUST GO) Juan Del Mar, Andrés Carne de Res 

Andres Carne de Res Cartagena

Bars & Nighlife

Cartagena has one of the best nightlife scenes in Colombia, so please don’t miss out. I’ve tried them all (yes, for research purposes 🤪), and they all get a ♥, certified by me.

If I had to pick a favorite? Alquímico & La Movida hit different. But honestly, just go to all of them. You won’t regret it.

Alquimico Bar

Places of Interest:

Cartagena isn’t just about the beaches and parties.

• Getsemaní Neighborhood: The heart of Cartagena’s culture, street art, and nightlife.

• The Clock Tower & Plaza de los Coches: Cartagena’s most iconic entrance.

• Plaza de la Aduana: The largest square in the Old City, filled with colonial charm.

• San Pedro Claver Church : A stunning church.

• Plaza de Bolívar & Gold Inquisition Museum: History, legends, and gold artifacts.

• Cathedral Church of Saint Catalina: One of the most beautiful churches in the city, Legend has it that if you walk past with your partner and don’t touch the door, you’ll never get married.

• Santo Domingo Church & Adolfo Mejía Theater: Colonial architecture at its finest.

• The Wall: Super nice to watch the sunset.

• San Diego Square: A picturesque plaza with restaurants, cafés, and local vibes

• "La Popa" Convent: The best panoramic view of Cartagena.

• San Felipe Fort: A must-visit fortress with tunnels and epic history.

• Tierra Bomba Island: A quick escape with beaches and beach clubs.

• Rosario Islands: A Caribbean paradise with crystal-clear waters.

• Playa Blanca: One of the best beaches near Cartagena.

Malls:

• La Serrezuela

• Mall Plaza

• Plaza Bocagrande

Where to Take Cute Pictures?

Getsemaní

• Carrera 10

• Calle de la Magdalena

• Plaza de la Trinidad

• Calle de San Juan

• Calle de La Sierpe or the Flags Street and the Mulata house

• Terraza Municipal

Centro:

• Movich Hotel Rooftop

• Monumento Torre del Reloj

• Baluarte de Santa Cruz and Café del Mar

• Calle de Don Sancho

• Calle 38 and 39

• Santuario de San Pedro Claver

Other

• Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas

Keep in Mind/ Some Advices

Weather:

• 27-35°C (80-95°F): It’s HOT. Staying pretty in Cartagena is a challenge, especially if you sweat as much as I do :( Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and embrace the heat.

No des papaya (Don’t make yourself an easy target)

• Don’t be flashy: Avoid showing off valuables in public.

• Stay alert: Be mindful of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.

• Check prices carefully before paying for anything. Ask in advance.

Public Beaches:

• Expect peddlers everywhere: Vendors will approach you nonstop.

• Everyone will try to sell you something. Just smile and say "No, gracias".

• Weekdays are less crowded, so plan accordingly.

Money & Shopping:

• Negotiate EVERYTHING: Prices in Cartagena are suggestions, not set in stone.

• Cash is king: Many places don’t take cards, so always carry Colombian pesos.

• Avoid drinking tap water: Just… don’t. Stick to bottled or filtered water.

Final Thoughts: Is Cartagena Worth It?

100000% YES. If you made it this far, thanks for reading! If you end up going to Cartagena, let me know if this was helpful and what were your favorite spots!

Now... When Are You Booking Your Trip? ✈️🔥