Hugging the stunning Caribbean coast of northern Colombia, Cartagena de Indias is the country’s most visited city and largest port. Its Old City, surrounded by 17-foot-thick fortification walls, reflects layers of history in its brightly colored colonial architecture, elegant courtyards, churches and monasteries. One of the most beautiful, well-preserved cities in the Americas, Cartagena sparkles with stylish accommodations, exciting nightlife, cultural festivals, excellent local and international cuisine, and white-sand beaches.
GETTING THERE & AROUND
Most visitors fly into Rafael Núñez International Airport, just 3.5 miles from the city. Flights arrive from several U.S. cities including New York, Miami and Fort Lauderdale. Taxis operate 24/7 and are inexpensive, about $6 for the 20-minute journey. Ride share options are also available at the airport and within the city. You can explore much of Cartagena on foot, especially the walled city. Taxis are plentiful but unmetered; agree on a fare in advance.
LODGING
Hotel Casona del Colegio
Experience local hospitality and craftsmanship at this upscale boutique hotel featuring exquisite rooms with contemporary Colombian décor. Amenities include free breakfast, poolside bar, rooftop terrace, spa and on-site fine dining.
Calle del Colegio 34-82, El Centro, Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar, Colombia, tel 57 300 384 4185 casonadelcolegio.com
Hyatt Regency Cartagena
The luxurious hotel features 380 rooms and suites and 24 residences with sweeping views of the Caribbean Sea or Port of Cartagena. Unwind at the spa, take a dip in the rooftop infinity pools and savor Caribbean cuisine, all in an ideal location near the Old City.
Carrera 1 12-118, Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar, Colombia, tel 57 605 694 1234 hyatt.com
Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena
Innovative design recreates a tropical palace where the walls and ceilings retain the historical magic of a 17th-century building. The 5-star hotel’s 125 guestrooms and suites offer luxury and comfort with modern amenities, butler service and a truly spellbinding stay.
Calle del Torno 39-29, Barrio San Diego, Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar, Colombia, tel 57 605 650 4700 sofitel.accor.com
DINING
Carmen Cartagena
Enjoy a leisurely dinner in an intimate colonial house in the historic center. Carmen puts a contemporary twist on products and flavors of the Colombian Caribbean, paired with artisan cocktails highlighting fruit, freshness and ancient liquors.
Calle 38 8-19, Calle del Santísimo, Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar, Colombia, tel 57 310 394 9344 carmencartagena.com
Celele by Proyecto Caribe Lab
Winning awards for its menu and concept, Celele celebrates the rich biodiversity of Colombia. Researching the region’s long-forgotten flavors and methods, the chefs showcase stunning dishes that put an upscale spin on humble ingredients.
Carrera 10c 29-200, Calle del Espíritu, Santo Getsemaní, Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar, Colombia, tel 57 301 742 0389 celelerestaurante.com
Restaurante Candé
For an immersive Cartagena experience, Candé showcases music, dance and traditional dress in its elegant dining venue. Watch the show and enjoy fresh seafood, meats like ram or rabbit, and soups like cheese mote and higadete (liver and ripe banana soup).
Centro Histórico, Calle de la Serrezuela 39-02, Cartagena de Indias, Bolívar, Colombia, tel 57 605 668 5291 restaurantecande.com
ATTRACTIONS
Graffiti in Getsemaní
Admire the colorful culture of Cartagena through the Caribbean- and African-influenced street art in Getsemaní, a barrio filled with little cafés, bars and art galleries. Vibrant murals adorn most streets but are abundant along Calle de la Sierpe.
Rosario Islands
Cartagena has no shortage of beaches, but you’ll find the most beautiful stretches of white sand and turquoise water in the Rosario Islands, a chain of coral islands about an hour by boat from the mainland. Plan a daytrip or an overnight stay; island-hopping boat tours are available.
Walled City
Constructed to defend the city from pirate attacks, the 6-mile-long stone fortification surrounds the historic center. Climb the stairs to the top for views of the Caribbean Sea and neighborhood streets, especially stunning at sunset. Take time to admire the preserved colonial architecture of the Old City.
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