Cartagena is one of the most compelling tourism destinations in Colombia. The city is the 5th largest in the country and has a colorful history, the city has been continuously inhabited since 4000 BC and has two unique cities- the Old town of Cartagena and the modern city. Cartagena is a culturally rich city with several historically significant attractions and sites for the discerning traveler to explore. The city also offers top-notch restaurants and bars, nightlife and land and water-based activities.
History and culture If your interest is in history and unique cultural experiences, Cartagena is surely a city that will appeal to you. The old town in Cartagena includes attractions such as the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas which is a castle strategically located on a hill that served as a bastion for the old city against enemies. The Museo del Oro Zenu is a museum that captures the ancient history of Cartagena and has on display over 500 relics of this bygone era. The Palace of Inquisition is another museum that is worth a visit since it also displays artifacts depicting the history of the city. Also, the Museo Del Cacao and the Arte Moderno Museums are compelling options for you if you want to learn more about the culture and history of the city. You can also choose to do a guided tour of the city, where a knowledgeable local guide will take you through the storied history of the city, and you will gain a greater appreciation for the alluring city of Cartagena.
Cartagena is not just a city of culture but also has a vibrant nightlife scene with swinging bars and nightclubs to suit the wildest of party fans. You will have several options to choose from depending on the type of vibe that you are seeking. If you want an authentic local night out experience, with Caribbean flair and fun and a younger crowd, the Bazurto Social Club would be the place for you to party. If you are into salsa dancing or want to learn the enchanting dance move, Café Havana is the club for you, this club host lively salsa parties and is one of the favorite party spots for both locals and tourists alike. Quiebra- Canto and Donde Fidel are also great spots for salsa dancing, by and large, the clubbing scene in Cartagena is always thrilling and lively regardless of when you visit!
Cartagena is a prime destination for water-based experiences. There is a small archipelago of over twenty islands, with the largest and most popular ones been Rosario and Baru Islands located just off the south coast of Cartagena. There is a wide array of water activities available including; scuba diving, snorkeling, windsurfing, jet skiing, sailing, stand up paddle boarding, tubing, and flyboarding. If you want to relax on a beautiful white sand beach, you can choose from the stunning Playa Blanca Beach, Bendita Beach, Fenix Beach, and Tierra Bomba Beach. A day out on the beach or in the warm tropical waters are always a part of a trip to Cartagena.
With such a rich cultural tradition and history, it is no surprise that the beautiful city of Cartagena offers a tasty and rich blend of traditional cuisines influenced by the diverse cultures that have resided in Cartagena over the past five centuries. You can enjoy the sumptuous street food at one of the many local outlets in the city or for a more fulsome experience; you can opt for a guided foodie tour that will take you to the best local spots to sample Cartagena’s best local dishes. Some of the local meals that you should try are; Pargo Frito, pan de Bono, cazuela de mariscos, posta negra cartagenera and ceviche.
