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SOUTH AMERICA · COLOMBIA
3-Day Cartagena Itinerary
Walled old town, Caribbean color, and island escapes
Cartagena is a UNESCO-listed walled city of bougainvillea-draped balconies and salsa nights, steps from turquoise Caribbean islands. Hot, colorful, and full of history.
BEST TIME
December–April (dry season)
BALLPARK
$400–$750 per person
Your 3-day Cartagena itinerary
Day 1 · Arrive & settle in
Land, drop your bags, and ease into Cartagena with something low-key nearby. Explore the walls at sunrise or sunset — midday heat is intense.
Day 2 · Walk the walls of the Old Town at golden hour
Spend the morning on the highlight, then in the afternoon or evening: getsemaní street art and nightlife.
Day 3 · Last morning & departure
Squeeze in one more before you go — day trip to the rosario islands if you have time — then head to the airport.
Top things to do in Cartagena
- Walk the walls of the Old Town at golden hour
- Getsemaní street art and nightlife
- Day trip to the Rosario Islands
- Fresh ceviche and Caribbean seafood
- Castillo San Felipe fortress
- Rooftop sunset over the cathedral
More detail: the best things to do in Cartagena →
LOCAL TIP
Explore the walls at sunrise or sunset — midday heat is intense.
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