10 best things to do in Cartagena

Looking for what to do in Cartagena? This Caribbean jewel is one of Latin America’s most atmospheric destinations — a place where pastel-coloured colonial mansions, palm-fringed plazas and centuries-old fortifications blend seamlessly with coastal breezes and tropical energy. Whether you love culture, photography, food, nightlife or beaches, Cartagena offers an experience that feels both historic and intensely alive.

Most travellers base themselves inside the walled Old Town or nearby Getsemaní, two of the most charming neighbourhoods in Colombia. From here, explore the city’s UNESCO-listed architecture, eat your way through Caribbean-Colombian cuisine, cruise to nearby islands and discover why Cartagena remains one of the most romantic destinations in the Americas. These are the 10 best things to do in Cartagena.

1. Wander the magical Walled City (Ciudad Amurallada)

Cartagena’s historic centre is the city’s heart and its greatest attraction. Enclosed by imposing stone walls built in the 16th and 17th centuries, the district is a maze of bougainvillea-draped balconies, colourful façades, wooden doors, palm-shaded plazas and ornate churches. Walking here feels like stepping into a living painting, with every street offering new corners to photograph.

Highlights include the postcard-perfect Plaza de los Coches, the Clock Tower (Torre del Reloj), the grand Cathedral of Cartagena and the tranquil Plaza Santo Domingo. Small museums, boutique hotels and artisan shops hide behind wooden colonial doors, while horse-drawn carriages clip-clop through cobblestone streets at night. Spend at least half a day simply wandering — the magic lies in slow exploration.

2. Explore vibrant Getsemaní

Once a working-class neighbourhood, Getsemaní has transformed into Cartagena’s artistic and bohemian soul. Here, colourful street murals decorate nearly every wall, creating one of Colombia’s most Instagrammable neighbourhoods. During the day, wander streets like Callejón Angosto and Calle de la Sierpe to admire the street art, flags and flower-covered balconies.

At night, Plaza de la Trinidad comes alive with street performers, food vendors and locals socialising outdoors. The area is filled with independent cafés, boutique hostels, live-music bars and small restaurants serving Caribbean-inspired dishes. Getsemaní is less polished than the Walled City but far more local — an essential contrast that deepens your understanding of Cartagena.

3. Visit the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas

Sitting on a hill overlooking the city, Castillo San Felipe is one of the most impressive fortresses in the Americas. Built by the Spanish to defend the city from pirates and invading fleets, the fortress features thick walls, angled battlements, cannons and a network of tunnels designed for sound amplification and surprise attacks.

Climb to the top for panoramic views across Cartagena’s skyline, the Caribbean Sea and the colourful rooftops below. Early morning or late afternoon visits are best to avoid heat, although the fortress’s dramatic lighting at night creates an equally memorable atmosphere.

4. Relax on the beaches of the Rosario Islands

If you’re craving white sand and turquoise water, a day trip to the Rosario Islands is one of the best things to do in Cartagena. This protected archipelago lies just over an hour offshore and boasts coral reefs, calm swimming spots and beach clubs ranging from rustic to luxurious.

Visitors typically choose between day-pass beach clubs, snorkelling excursions or full-day tours that combine multiple islands. Popular choices include Isla Grande, Isla del Pirata and Isla Bora Bora. For quieter beaches, consider taking a private boat or choosing an island with capped visitor numbers. The water here is much clearer than Cartagena’s urban beaches.

5. Climb the city walls for sunset views

Cartagena’s fortified walls — built to withstand pirate attacks — now serve as one of the best viewpoints in the city. Walking atop the ramparts around golden hour is a quintessential Cartagena experience, offering wide views of the Caribbean, the Old Town rooftops and the silhouettes of modern Bocagrande in the distance.

The most popular stretch is near Café del Mar, where travellers gather nightly to watch the sun dip into the sea. For a quieter experience, walk further east along the less crowded sections. Bring a camera: the combination of warm light, colonial architecture and ocean scenery creates some of the city’s best photographs.

6. Taste Cartagena’s Caribbean cuisine

Cartagena’s culinary scene blends Afro-Caribbean, Indigenous and Spanish influences, resulting in a vibrant mix of flavours. Must-try dishes include fried fish with coconut rice, ceviche with tropical twists, arepas de huevo, shrimp stews, plantain-based plates and fresh fruit juices made with lulo, guanábana or corozo.

In the Old Town, expect elegant seafood restaurants and upscale tasting menus. Getsemaní offers more casual eateries, street-food stalls and family-run kitchens. For a deep dive into Cartagena’s food culture, join a market tour of Bazurto Market — chaotic but unforgettable — where you can taste local ingredients and watch traditional cooking in action.

7. Stroll Bocagrande’s seaside promenade

Bocagrande is Cartagena’s modern, high-rise district — a contrast to the colonial centre. Though its beaches are darker and less idyllic than those of the islands, the area offers a long waterfront promenade, upscale restaurants, shopping centres and contemporary hotels.

It’s especially nice in the evening when locals jog, families stroll and the skyline lights begin reflecting off the water. For travellers who enjoy combining urban comforts with beach access, Bocagrande is an appealing area to explore or stay in.

8. Visit the Palace of the Inquisition & Museo del Oro Zenú

Cartagena’s history includes both grandeur and darker chapters. At the Palace of the Inquisition, visitors learn about the Spanish Inquisition’s presence in Cartagena, including its tribunals, punishments and influence over colonial life. The building itself — with its elegant balconies and central courtyard — is one of the finest Baroque structures in the city.

Just steps away, the Museo del Oro Zenú showcases goldwork, pottery and artefacts from the Indigenous Zenú culture. Together, these museums provide essential context for understanding Cartagena beyond its famous walls and beaches.

9. Enjoy Cartagena’s nightlife

Cartagena is one of Colombia’s most exciting nightlife destinations. In Getsemaní, small bars pulse with salsa, champeta and Afro-Caribbean rhythms. In the Walled City, rooftop lounges, cocktail bars and live-music venues draw both travellers and locals. Bocagrande provides glossy clubs with DJs and bottle service.

Whether you prefer sophisticated rooftops or energetic street-party vibes, Cartagena offers a night scene that runs well past midnight. Don’t miss trying local cocktails made with corozo berries, Caribbean rum or tropical fruit infusions.

10. Take a boat to Tierra Bomba for a beach day

Closer than the Rosario Islands but far quieter than Cartagena’s urban beaches, Tierra Bomba offers a convenient escape just minutes away by boat. Small beach clubs line the island’s shores, offering loungers, fresh seafood, music and views of Cartagena’s skyline across the water.

It’s an excellent choice if you want a laid-back beach day without committing to a full-day excursion. The island also offers hiking trails, fort ruins and lookout points for those wanting a blend of nature and history.