We’ve been fortunate enough to visit Cartagena, Colombia, many times over our years of sailing the high seas. Each time our cruise ship pulls into the cruise port, we’re filled with a renewed sense of excitement for this vibrant, historic city. It’s a place that truly offers something for everyone, whether you’re a first-time cruiser dipping your toes into the world of international travel or a seasoned globetrotter with countless voyages under your belt. For those of you planning your next cruise vacation and find Cartagena on your itinerary, you’re in for a real treat. We’ve put together our top 10 summer things to do in Cartagena, carefully curated to give you the most authentic and enjoyable experience during your visit.
Our goal with this guide is to be your trusted companions, offering insights and tips that only come from experiencing a place firsthand. We’ll help you navigate the rich history, dazzling colors, and delicious flavors of Cartagena, ensuring your day ashore is as memorable as the journey itself. From historical explorations to culinary delights and relaxing beach escapes, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive into what makes Cartagena an absolutely essential stop on any Caribbean cruise booking.
Delving into the Walled City: A Step Back in Time
For us, the absolute heart of Cartagena is its magnificent Walled City, a UNESCO World Heritage site that transports you to another era. We always recommend starting your exploration here, as it’s easily accessible from the cruise port and offers a fantastic introduction to the city’s charm.
Wandering the Colorful Streets
We love to simply get lost in the labyrinthine streets. Each turn reveals a new kaleidoscope of pastel-colored colonial buildings, adorned with vibrant bougainvillea spilling over balconies. It’s a photographer’s dream, and we guarantee you’ll find countless Instagram-worthy spots. We’ve spent hours just people-watching from a café, soaking in the atmosphere.
Exploring Plaza de Bolívar
This central square is a lively hub, often filled with street performers, vendors, and locals enjoying the shade of the trees. We always make a point to visit the Palace of the Inquisition, which, despite its dark history, boasts stunning colonial architecture. It’s a stark reminder of the city’s past and a place where we often reflect on the complexities of history.
Visiting the Cathedral of Saint Catherine of Alexandria
The cathedral, with its striking bell tower, is a prominent landmark within the Walled City. We find its interior to be surprisingly peaceful, offering a moment of quiet contemplation amidst the bustling streets. The intricate details and beautiful stained glass windows are truly captivating.
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Culinary Adventures: A Feast for the Senses
One of our favorite aspects of any travel experience is indulging in the local cuisine, and Cartagena certainly doesn’t disappoint. We always make sure our cruise vacation to Cartagena includes ample time for culinary exploration.
Savoring Street Food Delights
We highly recommend trying the street food. It’s an authentic and delicious way to experience local flavors. Keep an eye out for arepas con huevo (corn cakes with an egg inside), empanadas, and freshly squeezed tropical fruit juices. We’ve had some of our most memorable meals from street vendors – don’t be shy!
Enjoying a Fine Dining Experience
For those looking for a more upscale culinary adventure, Cartagena offers a fantastic array of fine dining restaurants. We’ve enjoyed exquisite seafood dishes at places like La Vitrola, where the live music adds to the incredible ambiance. It’s a wonderful way to experience the sophisticated side of Cartagena’s food scene. Remember to check if reservations are needed, especially for popular spots.
Taking a Cooking Class
For the more adventurous foodies among us, a cooking class is an incredible way to immerse yourselves in Colombian cuisine. We’ve participated in a few and always come away with new skills and a deeper appreciation for the local ingredients. It’s also a fantastic way to meet other travelers and share a unique experience. Many classes include a visit to a local market, which is an adventure in itself!
Unwinding on the Beaches: Sun, Sand, and Sea
After all that exploring, we often crave some relaxation, and Cartagena’s nearby beaches offer the perfect escape. While the cruise port area itself isn’t a beach destination, there are excellent options just a short boat ride away.
Relaxing on Bocagrande Beach
Bocagrande is the city’s main urban beach, easily accessible and lined with high-rise hotels. We find it a convenient option for a quick dip and some sun. While it can be busy, it’s a good spot if you’re short on time and want to experience a typical city beach atmosphere. You’ll find vendors offering everything from massages to fresh fruit.
Escaping to the Rosario Islands
For a truly idyllic beach experience, we always point people towards the Rosario Islands. These stunning Caribbean islands, part of a national park, boast crystal-clear turquoise waters and pristine white sand. We recommend booking a shore excursion that includes a boat trip to one of these islands, like Isla Barú or Isla Grande. Snorkeling and swimming in these waters are simply breathtaking. We’ve spent many glorious afternoons here, feeling a million miles away from the hustle and bustle.
Indulging in a Beachside Lunch
Many of the beach clubs on the Rosario Islands offer delicious fresh seafood lunches. We’ve enjoyed countless plates of fried fish with coconut rice and plantains, all while gazing out at the stunning Caribbean Sea. It’s an unforgettable sensory experience that perfectly complements a relaxing day at the beach.
Historical Sites Beyond the Walls: A Glimpse into Cartagena’s Past
While the Walled City is undeniably captivating, we always encourage fellow cruisers to venture just a bit further to explore other significant historical landmarks that offer a deeper understanding of Cartagena’s past.
Ascending San Felipe de Barajas Castle
This impressive fortress is a testament to Cartagena’s strategic importance and its resilience against pirate attacks. We always recommend making the climb to the top for panoramic views of the city, the Caribbean Sea, and the modern skyline. The history here is palpable, and we find it fascinating to imagine the battles that took place within these walls. It’s a substantial structure, and exploring its tunnels and ramparts is a true adventure.
Visiting La Popa Monastery
Perched on the highest point in Cartagena, La Popa Monastery offers the most breathtaking views of the entire city. We always make sure to include this in our itinerary, as the vistas are simply unparalleled. The small chapel within the monastery is also worth a visit, and the peaceful atmosphere provides a nice contrast to the vibrant city below. It’s a fantastic spot for photographs, especially on a clear day.
Exploring the Zenú Gold Museum
For those interested in pre-Columbian history and exquisite craftsmanship, the Zenú Gold Museum is a must-visit. We find the collection of gold artifacts to be absolutely stunning, offering insights into the indigenous cultures that thrived in this region long before the arrival of the Spanish. It’s a smaller museum, making it easy to navigate, and the exhibits are well-curated and informative.
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Embracing the Local Culture: Beyond the Tourist Trail
We believe that truly experiencing a destination means engaging with its culture and its people. Cartagena offers numerous opportunities to do just that, creating memories that go beyond typical sightseeing.
Discovering Getsemaní: The Bohemian Heart
Just outside the Walled City lies Getsemaní, a vibrant and artistic neighborhood that we absolutely adore. It’s a little grittier, a little more bohemian, and bursting with colorful street art, lively plazas, and fantastic restaurants. We love to wander through its charming streets, admire the murals, and soak in the energetic atmosphere. It’s a wonderful place to grab a coffee or enjoy a delicious meal.
Enjoying a Traditional Dance Performance
Cartagena is rich in Afro-Colombian culture, and we often seek out opportunities to witness traditional dance performances. The rhythms and movements are captivating, telling stories of history and heritage. Many restaurants and cultural centers offer these performances, providing an authentic and entertaining evening. It’s a fantastic way to feel the pulse of the local culture.
Shopping for Local Crafts
We always make time to browse the local artisan markets and shops. You’ll find beautiful handmade jewelry, textiles, leather goods, and artwork, perfect for souvenirs or gifts. We prefer to support local artisans, and bargaining (politely!) is often part of the experience. The crafts are a tangible reminder of your incredible cruise vacation to Cartagena.
Practical Tips for Your Cartagena Cruise Visit
We’ve learned a few things over the years that can make your cruise port experience in Cartagena even smoother.
Staying Hydrated and Sun-Safe
Cartagena in summer can be hot and humid. We always recommend carrying a water bottle, wearing a hat, sunglasses, and applying plenty of sunscreen. Staying hydrated is key to enjoying your day without feeling drained.
Transportation from the Port
Most cruise ship passengers will arrive at the cruise terminal, which is a bit outside the Walled City. Taxis are readily available, and many cruise lines offer shuttles as part of their shore excursion packages. We always negotiate the taxi fare before getting in to avoid any surprises.
Currency and Language
The local currency is the Colombian Peso (COP). While some vendors might accept US dollars, you’ll generally get a better exchange rate by paying in pesos. We also recommend knowing a few basic Spanish phrases; while many people in tourist areas speak English, a little effort goes a long way.
Safety and Awareness
Like any major city, it’s wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. We always recommend keeping an eye on your belongings and avoiding walking alone at night in less-trafficked areas. Stick to well-lit and populated areas, and you’ll generally have a fantastic time.
Making the Most of Your Shore Excursion
Whether you book a shore excursion through your cruise booking or venture out independently, planning is key to maximizing your time in Cartagena. We always advise having a general idea of what you want to see and do, but also leaving some room for spontaneous discoveries. Cartagena is a city that invites exploration, and sometimes the best experiences are those you stumble upon unexpectedly. We hope this guide helps you create your own unforgettable memories in this truly magical city. Safe travels, and enjoy every moment of your cruise vacation!