Cartagena
Cartagena is a UNESCO-listed Caribbean gem of colonial architecture, vibrant street life, and turquoise waters that punches well above its weight for the price. Compared to comparable beach-and-culture destinations in Europe or Southeast Asia, your dollar stretches remarkably far here.
Why go to Cartagena
Walled City (Ciudad Amurallada)
Stroll centuries-old cobblestone streets lined with bougainvillea-draped balconies and gold-hued colonial mansions, all completely free.
Castillo San Felipe de Barajas
A jaw-dropping 17th-century Spanish fortress honeycombed with secret tunnels and commanding panoramic views over the city.
Islas del Rosario
A stunning archipelago of coral islands with crystal-clear water, reachable by boat for snorkeling and beach-hopping.
Palacio de la Inquisición
A chilling yet fascinating Baroque palace turned museum that unveils the dark colonial history of the Spanish Inquisition.
Getsemaní Neighborhood Street Art
An open-air gallery of world-class murals telling Afro-Colombian stories, raw, colorful, and utterly free.
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Good to know in Cartagena
- Transit: Use shared minibuses called 'busetas' for under $0.50 a ride; taxis are cheap but always negotiate the fare before getting in, agree on $2-4 for most city trips.
- Tipping: Not mandatory but appreciated; 10% is standard at sit-down restaurants, round up for street food and mototaxi drivers.
- Tap water: Do NOT drink tap water in Cartagena, buy large 5-liter bottles at supermarkets (around $0.80) or use a filtered water bottle.
- Free-entry days: Castillo San Felipe and Palacio de la Inquisición occasionally offer free or discounted entry on national holidays and the last Sunday of certain months, check Colombia's Museos Gratis schedule before your visit.