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SOUTH AMERICA · COLOMBIA
The 6 Best Things to Do in Cartagena
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)
TYPICAL BUDGET
$900–$1,800 per person for a week
6 best things to do in Cartagena
1
Walk the walls of the Old Town at golden hour
2
Getsemaní street art and nightlife
3
Day trip to the Rosario Islands
4
Fresh ceviche and Caribbean seafood
5
Castillo San Felipe fortress
6
Rooftop sunset over the cathedral
How to fit it into a day
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.
See it laid out day by day: the 4-day Cartagena itinerary →
LOCAL TIP
Explore the walls at sunrise or sunset — midday heat is intense.
Turn this list into a real trip
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Build my Cartagena trip — free →Cartagena itineraries by length
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