Cartagena, a City of Enchantment: Exploring the Attractions

Cartagena, Colombia, has been nicknamed the Pearl of the Caribbean and the Gold Port thanks to its unique location on the Caribbean Sea and its history as one of the most important ports in Spanish colonial times. One of the best ways to explore Cartagena is through these five attractions that draw in tourists from all over the world. If you’re planning your next trip, make sure you include these places to visit during your stay in Cartagena!

The Best Time To Visit

Cartagena is a city rich in art, architecture and beautiful places. It’s also blessed with an incredible natural beauty. The best time to visit Cartagena is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. This is when the weather is at its finest and the crowds are at their thinnest. I recommend you go in February or March, when you’ll be surrounded by wonderful artistry and architecture, as well as natural beauty. This is the perfect opportunity to explore some of the hidden gems that only exist here in Cartagena!
For example, there’s nothing more beautiful than seeing sunsets at Paseo Bolivar on a clear day.
Enjoying another world-class culinary experience in one of our many restaurants would also be an unforgettable moment for any visitor.
Plus, there are plenty of guided tours available for visitors looking for personalized experiences tailored just for them! Visit Museo de la Memoria y los Derechos Humanos and learn about how beautiful Cartagena once was before it became plagued by violence. You’ll love Parque El Morro, where you can get breathtaking views of Cartagena Bay. Whether it’s your first time visiting or your twentieth, this city has something waiting for everyone!

Getting Around

That way, you can really take in all the sights and sounds of this beautiful city. There are also plenty of art galleries and museums to explore, as well as some beautiful places to relax in. You’ll find many people just hanging out at Parque Bolivar, so don’t be surprised if you end up sitting next to someone reading a book or having lunch.

A visit to Cartagena would not be complete without tasting the traditional food at one of the many restaurants throughout the city. The secret is trying lots of different dishes – often they will make recommendations based on what your preferences are. Don’t forget to try the Tuna Relleno – it’s a local favorite! For dessert, I recommend any of the tres leches cakes (three milk cakes). It has a creamy texture that sets it apart from other desserts.
And, although it might sound odd to tourists who aren’t used to eating with their hands, use your fingers when eating Empanadas (a fried dough filled with meat) for the full experience! Be sure to ask about sancocho de gallina (chicken soup), because it’s a famous dish here in Cartagena. And finally, drink lots of agua de panela! Sweetened cane juice sold on the street corners is a refreshing treat. Then again, there’s nothing better than a cold beer after exploring the town all day.

My personal favorites are Cerveza Cristal and Medellin Brewing Company products; both have shops in downtown Cartagena where you can pick up bottles to go.

The Best Activities in the Historic Centre

1. Start your exploration of Cartagena at its heart, the Plaza de Bolívar. This is where you’ll find some of the city’s most important historical buildings, including the Palacio de la Inquisición and the Cathedral of Santa Catalina.
2. From there, head to the nearby Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, an imposing Spanish fort that was once one of the most important defences against pirate attacks.
3. Next, take a walk down Calle del Cristo for some outstanding examples of colonial architecture in all their splendour.
4. End your tour with a stop in Parque Fernandez y Gomez Moreno for plenty of space to enjoy yourself before heading back into town.
   -Visit the Bocagrande Area:
5. With its resort hotels, sandy beaches and modern attractions, this beachfront district offers something for everyone. Spend a day on its many beaches or visit Kite Beach Park to try out water sports like kitesurfing or parasailing.
6. Visit Monserrate Church, a landmark from 18th century Cartagena.
7. For art lovers, the Rafael Uribe Ulloa Museum houses numerous paintings by Colombian artists from past centuries.
8. Finally, end your trip at Fuerte de San Fernando, a 17th century fortress that guards the bay area and provides beautiful views of both land and sea around it.

Best Things to See Outside of Downtown

1. The Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas is a Spanish fort built in the 1600s to protect Cartagena from attack.
2. The Walled City is the historic center of Cartagena and is full of colonial-era architecture. It’s also a great place to shop for souvenirs and try traditional Colombian food.
3. El Centro Artesanal Santa Barbara is a market with local artisans selling crafts like woven baskets, embroidered dresses, hats and more.
4. Museo Naval del Caribe tells the story of Colombia’s history at sea through interactive exhibits including boats, models and paintings.
5. There are many beaches close to Cartagena that are ideal for swimming, snorkeling or just relaxing on the sand.
6. A visit to Las Bóvedas, a former prison that was turned into an upscale restaurant and wine bar after renovations were completed in 2011 is both fascinating and delicious!
7. Or go kayaking around the Islas del Rosario National Park – about 40 minutes outside of Cartagena – to explore its beautiful islands and coral reefs.
8. Cartagena’s Plaza Bocagrande is home to a variety of shops, restaurants and bars. I recommend La Campana for lunch or dinner where you’ll find authentic criollo cuisine such as sancocho soup and arroz con pollo (chicken with rice).
9. For nightlife, head to Santander Street where you’ll find dozens of restaurants, bars and clubs all within walking distance.
10. Finally, be sure to check out Escuela Nacional de Ballet Maria Yarará for some fantastic dance performances.

What to Do at Night

When night falls in Cartagena, the city comes alive with energy and excitement. There are plenty of things to do to keep you entertained throughout the night. You can start your evening by grabbing a bite to eat at one of the many delicious restaurants. Then, you can head out to enjoy some live music or go dancing at one of the clubs. If you’re looking for something a little more low-key, you can stroll through the city’s quaint streets or visit one of the many bars for a drink.

Be sure to stop by the Plaza de Bolivar to watch the locals play dominoes or soccer. The plaza is also home to one of Colombia’s most famous landmarks, El Cabildo. The Cabildo was built between 1753 and 1765, replacing an earlier fortification that was built on this site in 1604. It served as a meeting place for the city council (the cabildo) from 1810 until 1819 when it became the headquarters of Simón Bolívar’s revolutionary government. In 1980, UNESCO declared it as part of World Heritage Site known as Historic Centres of Cities.
At night, the square becomes even more lively than during the day. You will see families sitting around their dinners or listening to live performances while young couples walk hand in hand under the street lights. You might be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of someone playing dominos on one of the stone tables set up all around. Keep your eyes peeled because if you’re lucky enough, you might even spot one of Cartagena’s infamous stray cats!

Best Restaurants

La Vitrola is one of the most popular restaurants in Cartagena and for good reason. The menu is extensive and offers something for everyone, plus the atmosphere is elegant and inviting. Another great option is El Bistro, which serves French fare in a cozy setting. For seafood lovers, be sure to check out La Cevicheria, where you can enjoy fresh ceviche prepared right before your eyes. And finally, no visit to Cartagena would be complete without sampling the street food.

If you’re up for some spice, try some fried chilies with cheese (known as ajiados) or hot Colombian arepas stuffed with cheese and beans. If it’s hot dogs that tickle your fancy, head over to Hot Dog Stands on Calle Duque de la Popa; they have all sorts of toppings available! So what are you waiting for? Get yourself to Cartagena today! You won’t regret it.