Cartagena
Colombia's most photogenic city is a perfectly preserved walled colonial gem on the Caribbean coast — a UNESCO-listed old city of bougainvillea-draped balconies, candy-colored houses, and cobblestone streets that lead to emerald Caribbean waters. Cartagena is sophisticated, romantic, and serves as the gateway to the Rosario Islands and the broader Colombian Caribbean.
Budget Breakdown by Tier
All prices are estimates for one person. Double for couples (hotels are often the same price for 1–2 guests).
Budget Smart
Hostels, street arepas and local restaurants, tuk-tuks, city walls walks free
Business Class
Boutique walled-city hotels, seafood restaurants, island boat trip, wall sunset tours
Luxury
Sofitel or Hotel Charleston, private island, yacht day trips, fine dining
Top Experiences
Where to Stay
Hostel Mamallena Cartagena
What guests say
“Great hostel inside the walled city — pool, social, and perfectly located for walking everywhere. The island boat trip organized here was excellent value.”
“The pool is everything in Cartagena heat. Good social vibe and the staff know the best spots for Caribbean seafood and nightlife.”
Hotel Santa Clara Cartagena
What guests say
“A converted 17th-century Clarissa convent — the most atmospheric hotel in Colombia. The cloistered garden, rooftop pool, and the Caribbean breezes make this unforgettable.”
“Magnificent building in the heart of the walled city. The convent architecture is extraordinary and the pool in the old cloister garden is very romantic.”
Sofitel Legend Santa Clara
What guests say
“The finest hotel in Colombia — a colonial convent with three pools, exceptional food, and the most beautiful courtyard in Cartagena. Worth every dollar.”
“Luxury and history perfectly combined. The Spanish colonial architecture with Sofitel service is a very successful combination.”
Getting There
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Get a Quote →Local Insider Tips
- ✓The old walled city is extremely walkable — stay inside the walls for the best experience
- ✓Heat and humidity are intense from June-November — the dry season Dec-April is much more comfortable
- ✓The rooftop of Café del Mar at sunset is one of the great sunset spots in the Americas
- ✓Getsemaní neighborhood (just outside the walls) has the best street art and cheapest food
- ✓Book the Islas del Rosario boat trip through your hotel, not the pushy port touts
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