Things to do in Cartagena

Find and book activities, attractions and tours
Cartagena

Cartagena Attractions

Sprawled along the shores of the turquoise Caribbean Sea, Cartagena is a city in a magical tropical locale with a rich history. The city's roots date back to the 16th century, when the Spanish built a settlement on the Bay of Cartagena and began using it as an important trade port. Today, Cartagena represents Colombia's fifth-largest urban area, and draws millions of visitors with its beaches, fascinating historical sites, and lively nightlife. As you soak up the sights and attractions of this vibrant metropolis, experience for yourself why Cartagena has become such a dynamic Caribbean destination.

 

Areas & Neighborhoods in Cartagena

Cartagena spreads outward from its downtown area, which juts out on a peninsula between the Caribbean Sea and the Bay of Cartagena. The walled Old City and the Getsamaní neighborhood offer charming glimpses of the city's characteristic plazas, flower-filled balconies, and colorful street art, while the skyscrapers of the beachfront Bocagrande reveal its modern flavor.


Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.

Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.

One Key members save 10% or more on select activities, hotels, cars and vacation rentals.


Most popular activities in Cartagena

What to do in Cartagena

Free Things to Do in Cartagena

A break in Cartagena need not cost a fortune. You can leave your wallet behind if you go to:

Cartagena's Gold Museum - Young or not so young, this place will excite your imagination and educate your mind.

Fine Arts - If you're eager to get cultured, stop here and enjoy the creativity on display.

Nuevo Bosque Softball Stadium - If you're looking to ramp up the fun factor on your vacation, you can do it here.

Puerta del Reloj - Pay a visit to this historic attraction and learn a bit about the cultural heritage of the region.

Coches Square - This lively spot is a popular rendezvous point for both visitors and locals.

Los Pegasos Dock - Widely recognized among local residents, this place is worth dropping by.

Catedral - Spend some time in meditation or prayer at this tranquil holy site.

Bocagrande Beach - Inhale the ocean air and watch the waves lapping against the shore at this beautiful coastal spot.

Cerro de La Popa - Bring your camera and let the natural surrounds stimulate your imagination.

Centenary Park - Arrange a picnic date and enjoy a stroll around the interesting plants.

Ciudad Amurallada

Cartagena's UNESCO-listed Ciudad Amurallada, or "walled city," was constructed during the 16th century and is packed with gems of colonial architecture. Well-preserved churches, plazas, mansions, and palaces wait around every corner, and the formidable walls surrounding them all showcase a feat of Spanish military engineering.

Getsamaní

Located right next door to the walled city, Getsamaní retains the bright Caribbean colors and narrow streets of old Cartagena but has emerged as the city's hippest neighborhood. As you wander past lively dance halls, bustling eateries, and boutique hotels, the energy in this up-and-coming area is palpable.

  

Bocagrande

White skyscrapers rise from the narrow strip of land known as Bocagrande, which stretches along the longest of the city's beaches. After dark, the fashionable hotels and ritzy apartment high-rises sparkle with colorful lights, and the bars fill with party lovers in search of a good time.

Things to See in Cartagena

Cartagena boasts more than its fair share of history, and the result is a rich collection of landmarks and fascinating museums to discover. Walk the battlements and uncover the subterranean passages of Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, an imposing fortress built during the 17th century to protect the city from attacks by land or sea. The walled city contains the Cartagena's highest concentration of centuries-old buildings, from the majestic Cartagena Cathedral and the Church of Santo Domingo to the vibrant yellow Puerta del Reloj ("clock tower") that adorns the main entryway. The storied Palace of Inquisition stands as a remnant of a dark period in Catholic history, and today functions as a museum with artifacts from Colombia's pre-colonial days up to its independence period. For more indigenous history, set aside time to browse the glittering treasures of Museo del Oro Zenú, which houses a collection of the gold and ceramics of the Zenú people.

Sightseeing in Cartagena

Between its Caribbean beaches and vibrant city center, Cartagena offers plenty of opportunities for relaxation and exploration. Get your fill of sun, sea, and sand with an idyllic beach day at Playa Blanca, a postcard-worthy spot on Isla Barú with rustling palm trees and crystalline waters. A boat ride away from Cartagena, the Rosario Islands beckon visitors with pristine beaches and incredible snorkeling opportunities, and are easily accessed with a speedboat tour. If you're planning to spend the day on the mainland, consider a hop-on hop-off tour to make the most of your time for sightseeing. As you cruise the city in an open-air bus, disembark to visit sites like the leafy Plaza de Bolívar or the impressive fortifications of Fort San Sebastian de Pastelillo at your leisure. Finally, don't miss the chance to party Colombia-style with a wild evening on a colorful chiva bus. Fueled by an open bar and traditional snacks, admire the views of the illuminated cityscape and dance to the pulsing beats of Latin music late into the night.

Things to Do in Cartagena with Kids

There are loads of awesome experiences in Cartagena that the entire gang will enjoy. These are a few of the top family friendly experiences around.


 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Cartagena? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 


 

Frequently asked questions

What to do in Cartagena on a sunny day?
What to do in Cartagena on a rainy day?
When it’s bucketing down, these fantastic indoor activities will keep you entertained (and nice and dry!):


What is Cartagena famous for?
San Felipe de Barajas Castle and Puerta del Reloj deserve to be at the top of your bucket list in Cartagena.
What should I not miss in Cartagena?
Pack your camera, because this trove of attractions is waiting to be discovered:

  • San Fernando Fort
  • San Pedro Claver Church and Convent
  • Jaime Moron Stadium

Are there cheap things to do in Cartagena?
What can you do in Cartagena for free?
You could store your wallet in the hotel safe for the day, because these terrific attractions will cost you nothing at all:

  • Puerta del Reloj
  • San Pedro Claver Church and Convent
  • Isla Grande Beach
  • Blanca Beach


Discover the most popular places to visit in Cartagena

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Cartagena

Ayala Center featuring modern architecture

Cartagena Walled City

4.5/5(1,184 area reviews)

Cartagena Walled City is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Clock Tower and Cartagena Cathedral while in the area.

Cartagena Walled City
Default Image

Bocagrande

4.5/5(928 area reviews)

Boasting the city's most prominent hotels, this upscale area offers shopping at Plaza Bocagrande and Nao Mall, and is close to the popular Ciudad Amurallada. Enjoy various dining options and easy access to the Transcaribe station.

Bocagrande
Ayala Center featuring modern architecture

Getsemani

Travelers come to Getsemani for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Plaza de la Trinidad and Los Pegasos Dock while you're in town.

Getsemani
Default Image

Cartagena Centro

Unique features of Cartagena Centro include the museums and historic sites. Make a stop by Cartagena Cathedral or Plaza Santo Domingo while you're exploring the area.

Cartagena Centro
Cartagena

El Laguito

4/5(105 area reviews)

The beaches and abundant dining options are top of the list for many visitors to El Laguito. A stop by Bocagrande Beach or El Laguito Beach might round out your trip.

El Laguito
Default Image

La Boquilla

4/5(157 area reviews)

The beaches and abundant dining options are top of the list for many visitors to La Boquilla. A stop by La Boquilla Beach or Las Americas International Convention Center might round out your trip.

La Boquilla

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Popular day trips from Cartagena