Top reasons to visit Cartagena
- Stunning Beaches: Cartagena boasts beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters, perfect for relaxation and sunbathing.
- Rich Cultural Heritage: Explore the city's fascinating history through its charming streets, historical sites, and vibrant local customs.
- Delicious Cuisine: Savour delightful meals at local restaurants, offering a taste of Colombia's rich culinary traditions.
- Lively Nightlife: Experience unforgettable nights filled with music and dancing at salsa clubs across the city.
- Nearby Islands: Enjoy day trips to nearby islands for a tranquil escape from the bustling city life.
Find great hotels in Cartagena
Explore a range of charming hotels and guesthouses in Cartagena, where sun-kissed beaches meet vibrant culture. Whether you're seeking a pet-friendly retreat or a business-friendly environment, this enchanting city offers top hotels that cater to every traveller's needs. Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure in the heart of Bolívar, with options that ensure a memorable holiday.
- Hyatt Regency Cartagena: This 4.5-star hotel offers a family-friendly atmosphere, ideal for those seeking a memorable vacation experience in Cartagena. With a guest rating of 9.4 out of 10, Hyatt Regency Cartagena is tailored to accommodate families, providing amenities such as a children’s pool, first aid kit, and a children’s club available for a fee. Parents can appreciate the thoughtful features like window guards and breakfast options for kids, ensuring a safe and enjoyable stay for families. The hotel’s modern design and comfortable accommodations further enhance the family vacation experience.
- InterContinental Cartagena De Indias by IHG: Rated at 4 stars with a guest rating of 9.4 out of 10, this hotel caters to families and business travellers alike. InterContinental Cartagena De Indias by IHG combines elegance with practicality, offering children’s amenities such as free cribs, a children’s pool, and window guards to ensure safety. The hotel also provides breakfast options for children, making it a convenient choice for families on the go. Its prime location allows for easy exploration of Cartagena’s rich culture while providing a comfortable retreat for all types of travellers.
- Hilton Cartagena: This 4.5-star resort, with a commendable guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, is perfect for those seeking a beachside escape. Hilton Cartagena boasts direct access to the beach, allowing guests to enjoy sun-soaked days by the sea. The resort offers a range of amenities for families, including a shared playground, free cribs, and a children’s pool. With its emphasis on family-friendly services and beachfront location, this hotel provides a splendid setting for a relaxing holiday in Cartagena.
Where to stay in Cartagena
Cartagena, a vibrant metropolis steeped in history, offers an enriching travel experience for culture enthusiasts and city explorers. Wander through its charming streets, where friendly locals welcome you to enjoy the relaxing beaches and historical sites. Discover the heart of Cartagena, with its perfect blend of modernity and tradition, while nearby regions promise secluded excursions, making for an unforgettable Colombian holiday. Whether you’re seeking adventure or tranquillity, Cartagena and its surroundings have something for everyone.
- Cartagena Walled City: The historic heart of Cartagena, the Walled City is a UNESCO World Heritage site brimming with colonial architecture and vibrant culture. Surrounded by impressive fortifications, this area offers an immersive travel experience with its colourful streets, bustling plazas, and historic landmarks. Visitors can enjoy local shopping, exquisite dining, and body treatment services, all while exploring attractions like the iconic San Felipe de Barajas Castle and the beautiful beaches nearby. With peak visitor numbers from January to March, this neighbourhood is perfect for culture enthusiasts and those seeking a rich urban experience.
- Bocagrande: Known for its stunning beaches and modern high-rises, Bocagrande is a lively neighbourhood that blends urban life with coastal relaxation. This area is popular among tourists looking to enjoy the sun, sand, and a variety of amenities, including shopping centres and educational venues. The beachfront promenade offers a perfect setting for a leisurely stroll, while numerous dining options can be found nearby. With peak arrivals in January, July, and September, Bocagrande is ideal for those who want a beach-themed holiday without straying far from the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
- Rosario Islands: A stunning archipelago located a short boat ride from Cartagena, the Rosario Islands are an idyllic getaway for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. This tropical paradise boasts crystal-clear waters and lush greenery, making it perfect for family adventures and relaxation. Popular activities include body treatments and exploring the various outdoor attractions, including pristine beaches and vibrant marine life. With visitor numbers peaking from January to March, the islands provide a serene escape from the bustling city, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a slice of paradise.
Things to do in Cartagena
Shopping
In Cartagena, visit the bustling Las Bóvedas market for unique handicrafts and souvenirs. For a more modern experience, head to Centro Comercial Caribe Plaza, where you’ll find various shops and dining options. Explore local boutiques in the historic walled city for artisan gifts and traditional Colombian crafts.
Recreation
At the Hotel Casa San Agustín's wellness centre, indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments and soothing massages. Afterward, explore the nearby vibrant streets of Cartagena, rich with culture and history, or take a leisurely stroll along the stunning beaches to unwind amidst the scenic beauty.
Adventure
Explore the stunning Rosario Islands, a short boat ride from Cartagena, where vibrant coral reefs invite snorkelling and diving adventures. Enjoy pristine beaches and lush landscapes, perfect for relaxation and water sports, making it an ideal escape from the bustling city.
Experience the thrill of paragliding over the picturesque landscapes of Cartagena. Soar high above the coastline, taking in breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea and the historic city, offering an adrenaline rush and a unique perspective of this vibrant destination.
Venture into the nearby Tayrona National Park, where hiking trails lead you through lush jungle and stunning coastal scenery. Discover diverse wildlife and hidden beaches, perfect for a day of adventure amidst nature's beauty, away from the urban hustle.
Take a thrilling ATV tour through the rugged terrain surrounding Cartagena. Navigate through scenic landscapes, local villages, and dirt trails, providing an exhilarating way to explore the countryside while enjoying the fresh air and beautiful vistas.
Nightlife
Experience Cartagena's vibrant nightlife at Café del Mar, perched on the city walls for stunning sunset views. For dancing, La Movida offers lively beats, while the iconic Getsemaní neighbourhood features numerous bars with a laid-back vibe, perfect for mingling and enjoying local cocktails.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Cartagena
Cartagena offers numerous ways to save money during your visit. Enjoy free attractions like Bocagrande Beach and Isla Grande Beach, and opt for walking or buses to get around affordably. The best time to visit is from September to November, when prices are lower, especially for hotels if booked a month in advance. For spontaneous travellers, last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia can yield significant savings. Tuesdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Fridays tend to be more expensive. Consider bundling your hotel with flights and activities for additional discounts.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Cartagena are September to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to August and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Cartagena is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Cartagena is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Cartagena is Friday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can organise your results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring the most affordable hotels appear first. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Cartagena with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Cartagena
Cartagena offers a delightful blend of culture, city exploration, and beach experiences, making it ideal for various types of vacations. Visitors can enjoy stunning beaches, picturesque piazzas, and beautiful churches while immersing themselves in the local culture. Additionally, exploring the nearby islands enhances the overall experience, providing a perfect escape from the bustling city. Discover the charm and vibrancy of Cartagena during your stay.
- La Marina Park: This urban park offers a serene escape within Cartagena, perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. With its lush greenery and city vibes, visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls, picnics, and vibrant community events, all while soaking in the local atmosphere.
- Bocagrande Beach: Renowned for its stunning coastline, Bocagrande Beach is a lively spot where you can relax on golden sands and enjoy the refreshing Caribbean waters. With a vibrant beach culture, it’s an ideal place for sunbathing, swimming, and indulging in local seafood delicacies at nearby eateries.
- Clock Tower: This iconic clock tower serves as a historical landmark in Cartagena, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich culture. Its striking architecture and central location make it a popular meeting point, surrounded by charming streets and lively markets.
Best time to go to Cartagena
The best time to visit Cartagena can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Cartagena falls in May and June. June has slightly low visitor numbers and mostly sunny weather. The coolest average temperature in Cartagena falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Cartagena
Flying into Cartagena is convenient via its major airport, Cartagena (CTG-Rafael Núñez Intl.), located 5km from the city. Nearby, the luxurious Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena, a 5-star resort, is situated 3km away, while the Charleston Santa Teresa Cartagena and Hotel Casa San Agustin, both 5-star options, are 5km from the airport. For those considering other airports, Barranquilla (BAQ-Ernesto Cortissoz Intl.) is 100km away, with hotels like Dann Carlton Barranquilla and Barranquilla Marriott Hotel. Santa Marta (SMR-Simon Bolivar), 163km from Cartagena, offers the Santa Marta Marriott Resort Playa Dormida among others, providing various transport services to and from these airports.
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