Embark on a captivating 7-day journey through Cartagena, where vibrant colonial history meets Caribbean charm. This comprehensive Cartagena itinerary for 7 days will guide you through the best experiences this Colombian gem has to offer, from exploring historic streets to soaking up Caribbean vibes and indulging in delicious cuisine.
Before get into details，here are some other recommendations near in this city:
Upon arrival at Rafael Núñez International Airport, take a taxi or pre-arranged transfer to your accommodation in the Old Town. After checking in, begin your Cartagena adventure with a walking tour of the historic center.
Start at Plaza Santo Domingo, admiring the iconic Botero sculpture and colorful colonial architecture[1]. Continue to Plaza de la Aduana, the city's main square, before visiting the Palacio de la Inquisición to learn about Cartagena's dark history.
As the day winds down, take a sunset stroll along the city walls for breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea. End your first night with dinner at one of Cartagena's renowned restaurants, such as La Vitrola or Alma, to savor traditional Colombian flavors with a modern twist.
Begin your morning with a visit to the imposing Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the largest Spanish fortresses in the Americas. Explore the tunnels and ramparts while learning about Cartagena's strategic importance during colonial times.
In the afternoon, head to the Naval Museum of the Caribbean to dive deeper into the city's maritime history. For those interested in precious gems, consider an optional visit to one of Cartagena's renowned emerald shops.
Spend your evening in the vibrant neighborhood of Getsemani. Enjoy dinner at one of the trendy restaurants like Celele or La Cocina de Pepina, followed by live music at Café Havana for an authentic Colombian nightlife experience.
Dedicate this day to exploring the stunning Islas del Rosario, an archipelago of 27 coral islands about an hour's boat ride from Cartagena. Choose between visiting Playa Blanca on Barú Island for its powdery white sand, or opt for Isla Grande for a more secluded experience.
Spend your day snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, sunbathing on pristine beaches, and indulging in a fresh seafood lunch by the shore. Return to Cartagena in the late afternoon, feeling refreshed and sun-kissed.
Start your day with some shopping in the Old Town, browsing local crafts, souvenirs, and Colombian coffee at Las Bóvedas or Portal de los Dulces. Then, retreat to your hotel for some poolside relaxation. Luxury options like Sofitel Legend Santa Clara or Hotel Charleston Santa Teresa offer stunning rooftop pools with views of the city.
In the afternoon, treat yourself to a spa experience. Many high-end hotels offer traditional Colombian beauty rituals using local ingredients like coffee and cacao.
Cap off your day of indulgence with a romantic dinner at a rooftop restaurant such as Restaurante Carmen or Marea by Rausch, offering panoramic views of Cartagena's skyline and the Caribbean Sea.
Dedicate this morning to exploring Getsemani's vibrant street art scene. Join a guided tour to learn about the neighborhood's transformation and meet local artists. Afterwards, participate in a Colombian coffee tasting session to learn about the country's rich coffee culture.
In the afternoon, embrace Cartagena's rhythm with a salsa lesson. Many dance schools offer beginner-friendly classes that will have you moving like a local in no time.
As night falls, immerse yourself in Getsemani's lively atmosphere. Enjoy dinner at a local favorite like La Cocina de Pepina, then bar-hop along Calle del Arsenal, sampling craft cocktails and dancing to live music.
Start your day with a Colombian cooking class, learning to prepare traditional dishes like arepas, ceviche, or coconut rice. Many classes include a visit to the bustling Bazurto Market, where you can sample exotic fruits and experience local life.
Spend your afternoon at leisure, perhaps revisiting favorite spots or doing some last-minute shopping. For your final evening, indulge in a farewell dinner at one of Cartagena's top restaurants like El Boliche Cebichería or La Cevicheria, savoring the flavors that make Colombian cuisine unique.
On your last morning, take a final stroll through the charming streets of the Old Town. Visit a local café for a last taste of Colombian coffee before heading to the airport.
Cartagena offers accommodations for every budget and travel style:
Choose between staying in the historic Old Town for charm and convenience, Getsemani for a more local vibe, or Bocagrande for beachfront options.
Cartagena is a walkable city, especially within the Old Town and Getsemani. For longer distances, taxis are readily available and affordable. Uber also operates in the city. Public buses are an option for budget travelers, but routes can be confusing for visitors.
Always be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and keep valuables secure. Cartagena is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken.
Cartagena enjoys warm temperatures year-round, but the best time to visit is during the dry season from December to April. However, this is also the busiest and most expensive period.
The rainy season (May to November) sees fewer crowds and lower prices, with brief afternoon showers that rarely disrupt plans. For a unique cultural experience, consider visiting during one of Cartagena's festivals, such as the Cartagena International Film Festival in March or the Independence Day celebrations in November.
This 7-day Cartagena itinerary offers a perfect blend of history, culture, relaxation, and adventure. From exploring UNESCO World Heritage sites to lounging on pristine Caribbean beaches, Cartagena promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you enchanted and yearning to return.
Citations:
[1] Source