Things to Do in Cartagena
30 curated spots from Cartagena itineraries
Activities & Attractions
16 curated experiences
San Felipe de Barajas Castle
Iconic 17th-century fortress with tunnels, battlements, and panoramic views of Cartagena Bay. Explore the underground passages and climb to upper levels for sunset views.
1h 40m · $8–12 per person
Bazurto Market Guided Adventure Tour
Guided tour through the labyrinth of stalls, meeting vendors, watching metal workshops and crafts, listening to Champeta music, sampling herbal remedies, visiting poster artists, includes lunch at Ceci's.
3h · $60–100 per person
Bocagrande Beachfront Stroll
Take a gentle beach and waterfront break along Bocagrande for sea air, casual people-watching, and a simple sunset photo stop.[3][4]
1h 30m · Free
Cartagena Walled City Walk
Wander the colonial streets, plazas, and photo-worthy corners of the old city at an easy pace; focus on the facades, balconies, and shaded squares.[2][3]
2h · Free
Emerald Museum & Factory Tour
Learn about Colombian emeralds, mining history, and see gemstones. Visit showroom with expert guidance for potential purchases.
1h 30m · $10–25 per person
Emerald Museum & Showroom Tour
Learn about Colombian emeralds and mining history; see raw stones and finished jewelry; optional purchases with expert guidance. Short (1-hour) educational tour.
1h · $10–15 per person (tour only; purchases optional)
Free Walking Tour of Cartagena (Alternative: Basics & History)
Low-cost (tip-based) walking tour covering Old City and Getsemaní history, street art, local stories, and hidden gems. Flexible group pacing.
2h 30m · $15–20 per person (tips)
Getsemaní Neighborhood Street Art & Nightlife Walk
Explore Cartagena's hip bohemian quarter: vibrant graffiti street art, local galleries, craft breweries, beach bars, and music venues. Can be self-guided or part of a 3-hour walking tour (US$15–20).
3h · Free (self-guided) or $15–20 per person (guided)
Getsemaní Street Art & Neighborhood Walk
Explore colorful graffiti murals, hip cafes, galleries, and street art. Meet local artists and soak in the neighborhood's creative energy and nightlife vibe.
1h 30m · Free
Las Bóvedas Market & Crafts Shopping
Browse handmade crafts, souvenirs, and local artisan goods in the historic market setting. Treasure-hunting for gifts and mementos.
1h 30m · Free to browse; $5–50 per person for purchases
Las Bóvedas Market & Getsemaní Art Stroll
Browse Las Bóvedas Market for handmade crafts, souvenirs, and local art. Adjacent to Getsemaní, so combine with afternoon street art walk. Mix of tourist and local shopping.
1h 30m · $0–50 per person (depends on shopping)
Luxury Sunset Cruise
2-hour romantic boat with open bar, wine, live music, appetizers, and beach sunset views; 10-min walk/taxi from Getsemaní.
2h · $50-80 per person
Palace of the Inquisition (Palacio de la Inquisición)
Museum exploring colonial history and the Spanish Inquisition's presence in Cartagena. Grand colonial building with courtyard, balconies, and historical artifacts. Docent-led tours available.
1h 15m · $5–8 per person
Plaza de la Trinidad and Getsemaní Murals
Spend time around the murals, small plazas, and lively streets of Getsemaní; this is the best place for street photography and a more local vibe.[2][3]
2h · Free
Private Beach Club Experience
Access exclusive beach clubs at luxury resorts or nearby properties with reserved seating, premium food and beverage service, water sports facilities, and attentive staff. Some offer day passes or membership options.
3h · $100-250 per person
Walled City & San Pedro Claver
Start at Clock Tower, stroll architecture-rich streets to Cathedral and art museum in former convent.
3h · $15-20 or FreeRestaurants & Food
14 local favorites
Ábaco Libros y Café
Have a slow breakfast with coffee and pastries in an air-conditioned bookshop café; order a strong Colombian coffee and a light pastry to ease into the day.[3]
1h · $8-18 per person
Alquimico
Award-winning rooftop bar-restaurant; savor small plates, craft cocktails, and wine pairings.
2h · $80-120 per person
Café Brunch Co.
Modern Colombian café with excellent fresh juices, arepas, and Colombian coffee. Long tables suit groups; casual vibe with reliable service.
45m · $8–15 per person
Café Lunático
Choose a relaxed dinner with Colombian-inspired dishes and cocktails; look for seafood or a coastal specialty if you want a tasteful but unfussy final meal.[4]
1h 30m · $20-40 per person
Cande Restaurant at Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena
Start your day with a lavish breakfast buffet featuring Colombian specialties, fresh tropical fruits, pastries, and international options. Enjoy your meal in an elegant setting overlooking the old city.
1h 15m · Included with stay
Casual lunch spot near San Felipe Castle
Simple local fare—arepas, grilled chicken, rice and beans. Quick refuel before or after castle exploration.
1h · $12–20 per person
Colombian Breakfast Café - Old City
Experience authentic Colombian breakfast with arepa, fresh juices, and local pastries in a charming old-city café setting. Great for understanding local food culture.
1h · $15-25 per person
Donde Olano (Street Food Corner)
Pop-up street food stall or informal restaurant serving arepas, patacones, and fresh salads. Casual, cheap, wildly popular with locals.
45m · $8–15 per person
El Vegetariano de Getsemaní
Colorful vegetarian café with fresh salads, smoothie bowls, and local herbs. Great for lunch before afternoon exploration.
45m · $10–18 per person
Gourmet Restaurant at Hotel Las Américas Casa de Playa Cartagena de Indias
Enjoy a leisurely beachfront lunch featuring fresh seafood and Caribbean-inspired cuisine. The resort's multiple dining venues offer upscale options with ocean views and relaxed tropical charm.
1h 30m · $50-80 per person
Ice cream shop in Getsemaní
Local ice cream (helado) and tropical flavors. Casual group treat while exploring street art.
30m · $3–6 per person
Juice stall at Bazurto Market
Fresh tropical juice (included in market tour). Refreshment and local beverage introduction during morning market exploration.
15m · $2–4 per person
La Cevichería
Upscale casual seafood spot in historic center specializing in ceviches and fish platters. Lively atmosphere perfect for groups celebrating.
1h 30m · $25–40 per person
Las Bóvedas Market café
Local coffee, pastries, and light snacks in the historic market atmosphere. Casual group browsing and refuel.
45m · $5–10 per person