etraveladmin Cartagena is not like any other city in Colombia. It has a distinct personality due to its location on the Caribbean coast, where life is warm, tropical, and colourful. Enjoy the activities in Cartagena, Colombia.
1. Blanca Beach (Baru Islands)
Isla Baru (Baru Island) is one of the most accessible of the many islands off the coast of Cartagena. Although it is not as tropical or luxurious as some of the other islands in the area (for example, the Rosario Islands), it has a vibrant atmosphere that is difficult to match. On weekends, people come here to swim in the azure blue water, relax on the sandy beaches, and get away from the city.
Visit here as one of the top things to do in Cartagena on a day trip! Take a speedboat from the city and enjoy a thrilling 45-minute boat ride over to the island, where you’ll see spectacular views of the Cartegena skyline. Visit Playa Blanca, where you can drink cocktails, relax on sunbeds, and even rent a jetski.
2. Cartagena’s Walls
The old walls are one of the top things to do in Cartagena and are rich in history. As a result, they are a UNESCO world heritage site within the city.
The walls are built around the beautiful old city and serve as fortifications (they were built by the Spanish to defend against oncoming attacks).
People now come to the walls to climb to the top and enjoy spectacular views of the new city. You’ll be able to see the skyscrapers illuminated at night; it’s amazing to see how far the city has grown and developed from this location!
Sunset is a popular time for both tourists and locals! Everyone comes here early in the evening to find a good spot, drink a few beers, and watch the sun set with their friends.
3. San Felipe de Barajas Castle
In Cartagena, Colombia, the Castillo de San Felipe is a large and beautiful 16th-century castle. It’s just across the bridge from Getsemani and a 10-minute walk from the historic center’s clock tower. Most importantly, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, safeguarded due to its significance in defending the city against past attacks.
4. The Rosario Islands
The Rosario Islands, a group of 28 islands not far off the coast of Cartagena, are the jewel of the city. The scenery here is absolutely magical, just like you’d imagine Caribbean landscapes to be! Discover the stunning beaches with their pristine white sand and water so clear that you can see every pattern and colour of the tropical sea life. Best of all, this idyllic paradise is only an hour by boat from the city!
When visiting the Rosario Islands, you have several options:
1. Regular Boat Tour
The majority of boat tours to the Rosario Islands follow a set route around several islands, pausing for lunch on the beach and snorkelling. Because many tours take this route, you will be sharing the beach with many other people as well as the other tourists on your boat (book your standard boat tour).
2. Day Trip on a Catamaran
This is a lovely way to spend your time in Cartagena, Colombia. You’ll float with the wind in your sails and only the quiet sounds of the breeze and waves to keep you company. During the trip, you’ll be able to jump into the water and snorkel and enjoy a delicious lunch on board.
3: Take a private boat tour
Although it is quite expensive, this is the best option for a day trip. You’ll be able to travel off the beaten path, stopping at beautiful, remote islands with no crowds—heaven!
4. Spend an evening on the Rosario Islands.
This is a one-of-a-kind experience and unquestionably one of the best things to do in Cartagena. Because there are so few hotels here, it truly feels like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It’s also an opportunity to see the islands after the boat tours have left
Getsemani District
Getsemani is the best place to hang out during your visit to Cartagena. Some of the city’s best restaurants and cafes can be found in this vibrant, artsy neighbourhood. It’s also the most affordable neighbourhood, so you can enjoy delicious meals and stay in beautiful accommodations for a fraction of the cost. It’s also right next to Cartagena’s old walls, so it’s in an ideal location.
Spend a few hours wandering the charming streets, which are lined with brightly painted houses and adorned with street art, hanging umbrellas, and bunting.
