Cartagena Colombia 6 Day Itinerary

Cartagena, Colombia: A 6-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of the Old Town

  • Morning: Arrive in Cartagena and check-in at Hotel Casa San Agustín or similar.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Plaza de Bolívar, the heart of the old town, and explore the surrounding streets to get a feel for the city.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at La Macarena, a trendy restaurant serving contemporary Colombian cuisine.

Day 2: History and Architecture

  • Morning: Visit the Catedral de Cartagena, a stunning colonial-era cathedral, and explore the adjacent Plaza de la Proclamación.
  • Afternoon: Take a guided tour of the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, a massive fort that offers breathtaking views of the city.
  • Evening: Enjoy cocktails at Café Havana, a popular spot for people-watching.

Day 3: Beaches and Seafood

  • Morning: Take a boat tour to the Rosario Islands, a stunning archipelago with crystal-clear waters and coral reefs. Snorkel or swim in the ocean.
  • Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at La Cevichería, a seafood restaurant serving fresh catches of the day.
  • Evening: Relax at your hotel or explore the nightlife in the old town.

Day 4: Culture and Nightlife

  • Morning: Visit the Museo de Arte Moderno de Cartagena (MAMC) to explore contemporary Colombian art.
  • Afternoon: Take a stroll along the Malecón, a scenic waterfront promenade with great views of the city.
  • Evening: Experience the vibrant nightlife in Getsemaní, a trendy neighborhood with bars, clubs, and live music.

Day 5: Day Trip to Totumo Mud Volcano

  • Morning: Take a day trip to the Totumo Mud Volcano, a unique natural wonder where you can bathe in warm mud.
  • Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant near the volcano.
  • Evening: Return to Cartagena and enjoy dinner at El Bistro, a cozy French-Colombian fusion restaurant.

Day 6: Last Day in Cartagena

  • Morning: Visit the Mercado de Bazurto, a bustling marketplace where you can find local handicrafts and souvenirs.
  • Afternoon: Relax at your hotel or explore the old town one last time.
  • Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at La Cevichería before departing Cartagena.

Things to Know

  • Language: Spanish is the official language, but many locals speak some English. Learn basic phrases to show respect and appreciation for the culture.
  • Currency: Colombian Peso (COP). You can exchange currency at banks or use ATMs.
  • Safety: Take normal precautions to stay safe in Cartagena. Avoid traveling alone at night and keep valuables secure.

Transportation

  • Airport Transfer: Book a private transfer or take a taxi from Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG) to your hotel.
  • Getting Around: Walk or take taxis within the old town. For longer distances, use buses or ride-hailing apps like Tappsi or Cabify.

Tips and Other Things

  • Sun Protection: Cartagena is sunny year-round. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
  • Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes and other insects can be prevalent in the evening. Bring insect repellent to stay comfortable.
  • Respect Local Culture: Dress modestly when visiting churches or historical sites, and respect local customs and traditions.

Accommodation

Restaurants

Activities

  • Walking Tours: Explore the old town with a guided walking tour.
  • Boat Tours: Take a boat tour to the Rosario Islands or nearby beaches.
  • Cooking Classes: Learn how to prepare traditional Colombian dishes with a cooking class.