South America · Colombia
Cartagena Travel Guide
Cartagena is Colombia's Caribbean jewel — a UNESCO-listed walled city of colonial balconies draped in bougainvillea, vibrant street life, Afro-Caribbean music, and some of the best seafood in South America.
How Do You Get to the Walled City?
Walk from Manga terminal (20 min) or taxi (10,000 COP). The walled city is entirely walkable and car-free in the centre.
What Can You See in 6 Hours?
Walled City — Walk the city walls, explore Plaza Santo Domingo, San Pedro Claver church, and the colonial balcony-lined streets.
Getsemani — The vibrant neighbourhood outside the walls. Street art, local restaurants, and Plaza Trinidad.
Castillo San Felipe — A massive Spanish fortress with underground tunnels. Entry 33,000 COP.
Rosario Islands — Boat trip to white sand beaches and snorkelling. Half-day from 100,000 COP.
Where Should You Eat?
Ceviche: Colombian-style ceviche with shrimp, octopus, or fish. Fresh lime, coconut, and tropical fruit.
Arepa de huevo: Fried cornmeal pocket with an egg inside. Cartagena's street food icon.
Fresh fruit: Tropical fruits you've never seen — lulo, guanabana, and zapote. Buy from street vendors.
Worth Exploring Independently?
The walled city is walkable from the port. Safe, beautiful, and easy to navigate. Ship excursions offer nothing you can't do yourself.
Useful Local Phrases
Hola, buenos dias
Hello, good morning
(OH-lah, BWAY-nos DEE-as)
Gracias
Thank you
(GRAH-see-as)
Cuanto cuesta?
How much?
(KWAN-toh KWES-tah)
Chevere!
Cool! / Awesome! (Colombian)
(CHEH-veh-reh)
Local Tips
- •The walled city (Ciudad Amurallada) is the main attraction — walk the walls, explore the squares, and soak in the colour.
- •Getsemani neighbourhood just outside the walls has the best street art, food, and nightlife.
- •Fruit vendors carry enormous bowls of tropical fruit on their heads. Try the mango with salt and lime.
- •Emeralds are Colombia's famous gemstone. Buy from reputable dealers inside the walled city.