Cartagena Colombia Travel Tips for an Enjoyable Visit

Cartagena Colombia is a city full of life, colors, and history. If you have never been there, you might only know it as a warm place near the sea. But there is much more to this city-old walls, busy markets, tasty food, and friendly people. Staying here feels like stepping into a lively storybook. Let me take you on a walk through the streets, the smells, and the sounds that make Cartagena special. Whether you want to relax by the ocean or learn about Colombia’s past, Cartagena offers something for every visitor.

For travelers interested in vibrant coastal cities rich with history and lively markets, discovering the charm of Izmir offers a refreshing Mediterranean experience that complements Cartagena’s Caribbean vibe well.

If you appreciate cities where history blends with vibrant local culture and delicious food, Valencia offers a similar inviting charm through its unique landmarks and lively neighborhoods that complement the warmth you find in Cartagena.

Historic Walls and Coastal Views

The heart of Cartagena is its old town, surrounded by large stone walls built many years ago. These walls protected the city from pirates and invaders. Walking along the top of the walls is like walking through history with a clear view of the Caribbean Sea on one side and colorful buildings on the other. If you arrive in the early morning or before sunset, the light makes the city glow with warm colors, perfect for photos or just quiet moments.

One favorite spot is the fortress called Castillo San Felipe de Barajas. It looks like a giant stone mountain but inside hides tunnels and paths that once helped defend the city. It’s easy to imagine soldiers running here long ago. Climbing those walls gives a nice view of the city’s red roofs and palm trees swaying in the breeze.

Tasting Cartagena’s Flavors

Food in Cartagena is a mix of sea, land, and culture. Near the neighborhood called Getsemaní, you can find small restaurants serving fresh seafood dishes like fried fish and coconut rice. This dish is sweet and salty and tastes like the coast itself. Another favorite is arepas, small corn cakes that locals eat at any time of day, often with cheese or eggs.

Don’t miss trying “postre de natas” – a creamy, sweet dessert made from milk and sugar. It’s a perfect treat after a spicy meal. Markets nearby are full of fresh fruit like mangoes and passion fruit, which are juicy and cheap. Sitting on a bench with a cold fruit juice, hearing music from a nearby café, gives you a real taste of life in Cartagena.

Getting Around Cartagena Colombia

Moving in and out of Cartagena is quite simple. When you arrive at Rafael Núñez International Airport, the city center is less than 20 minutes away by bus or shuttle. Inside the city, people often use colorful buses called “busetas” or small motorbike taxis to get around. Walking is also very popular, especially in the old town where narrow roads are better for feet than cars.

Be ready for the heat and sunlight; carrying a bottle of water and a hat can make walking more pleasant. Also, if you like to explore neighborhoods outside the old town, like Bocagrande with its tall buildings and beaches, public buses or bike rentals are good options. These ways of moving around give you a chance to see the city as locals do, hearing the music and chatter all around.

Local Customs and Friendly Advice

Colombians in Cartagena are warm and often greet you with a smile or a nod. It’s polite to greet people with “buenos días” or “buenas tardes” when entering shops or restaurants. When dining, waiting for everyone to get their food before starting is common. Also, tipping around 10% is appreciated at restaurants but not always expected.

One important thing: avoid discussing politics loudly with strangers-Colombians prefer to keep such talks private and friendly. Another small but useful tip is to dress lightly but respectfully, especially when visiting churches or historic places. Cartagena is a city where the past and present meet, so showing some respect in sacred places is appreciated.

Markets, Music, and Moments Off the Path

When I lived in Cartagena, a favorite moment was early morning walks to the Bazurto Market. This market is lively, noisy, and a little chaotic. You find everything here-fresh fish, tropical fruits, spices, and handcrafted goods. It’s not the most polished place, but to feel the city’s pulse, it’s unbeatable. Just be ready for loud calls from sellers and the mix of smells from food and sea.

Music is everywhere in Cartagena. From the quiet corners to busy squares, you hear rhythms like cumbia and champeta, which invite dancing even if you don’t know the steps. One night, I sat at a small plaza in Getsemaní, watching local musicians play drums and guitars under string lights. The music felt like a heartbeat of the city, full of energy and history.

Not many tourists know this, but Cartagena has a unique tradition called “palenqueras.” These are women dressed in colorful skirts and headscarves who sell fruits and sweets on the streets. Their bright clothes contrast wonderfully with the city’s old stones. Talking with a palenquera is like opening a little window into Afro-Colombian culture, rich with stories and smiles.

Where to Stay for a True Cartagena Experience

Accommodation options are many, but the best way to feel Cartagena’s spirit is to stay near the old town or in Getsemaní. Here, you wake up to the sound of church bells and street musicians. Avoid the very touristy parts if you want peace; instead, choose small guesthouses or apartments with balconies full of flowering plants.

Near Bocagrande, you find taller buildings and more modern places, closer to beaches with sand and sea breeze. It’s a good area if you want a mix of city life and relaxation. But for those who want morning coffee with colonial architecture around, the old town remains unbeatable. Whatever your choice, Cartagena welcomes with a mix of calm and excitement, old and new.

Surprising History and Local Stories

Cartagena was one of the most important cities during the Spanish colonial time. It was a main port for gold and silver, which attracted pirates and enemies. There is a funny story about a famous pirate named Sir Francis Drake, who tried to take the city but was stopped by the strong walls and clever defenders. Imagine pirates sailing in the morning and the city’s people preparing to defend their homes-that drama is part of the city’s spirit even today.

Another interesting point is that Cartagena was a center of the slave trade. Today, the city celebrates its Afro-Colombian roots with festivals, music, and art. Meeting people who share these stories adds depth to your visit. It’s not just a beautiful place but a city with many layers, like an onion you can slowly peel while walking its streets.

In sum, Cartagena Colombia offers more than beaches and sunshine. It invites you to feel history, taste new flavors, hear different sounds, and meet friendly faces. Whether you stay a few days or longer, the city will leave memories like bright colors on a canvas-hard to forget and wonderful to remember.

Author: Lara Jensen

A digital nomad exploring cities across the globe, with a passion for local street food and hidden cafes.