Top 10 things to do in Cartagena

The Cartagena City Walls, a resilience of Spanish colonial architecture, encircle the city's heart from the 16th century. Stretching over 11 kilometers, they offer sweeping views from various bastions.

Worth knowing. Catch a sunset from the bastion near Café del Mar for a view of the sea meeting the city.

Monday: Open 24 hours | Tuesday: Open 24 hours | Wednesday: Open 24 hours | Thursday: Open 24 hours | Friday: Open 24 hours | Saturday: Open 24 hours | Sunday: Open 24 hours

The Clock Tower, or Torre del Reloj, marks the gateway to Cartagena's walled city, its bright yellow facade a vibrant symbol of the area. This iconic structure once served as the main entrance, now bustling with the lively energy of street vendors and musicians.

Worth knowing. Hey, when you're at the Clock Tower in Cartagena, hit up the nearby Plaza de los Coches for some bomb street food and chill vibes.

Daily 09:00–19:00

Santo Domingo Square in Cartagena is a vibrant hub filled with lively street performers and colorful vendors, making it the perfect spot to soak up the local culture. Surrounded by stunning colonial architecture, you can relax on a bench and enjoy a refreshing coconut water while watching the world go by. Don’t forget to snap a selfie with the famous statue of the beloved poet, Gabriel García Márquez, as your backdrop!

Worth knowing. Check out the vibrant street art nearby for Insta-worthy shots and a taste of Cartagena's local art scene.

Daily 08:00-20:00

La India Catalina Monument in Cartagena honors the memory of Catalina, an indigenous woman who played a diplomatic role during the Spanish conquest. Sculpted in bronze by artist Eladio Gil, the statue stands at 5 meters high and marks the entrance to the historic city. It’s a photogenic spot for those interested in Colombia's colonial and indigenous past.

Worth knowing. Visit in the late afternoon for softer lighting and fewer tourists.

Daily 08:00–18:00

Las Bóvedas in Cartagena, once a row of dungeons built in the 18th century, now buzzes with life. Seventeen archways hold shops offering crafts and souvenirs, a transformation from their days storing weapons. These stone chambers provide a shopping experience shaded by thick walls once essential for defense.

Worth knowing. Check out the nearby Plaza de los Coches for a chill spot to people-watch and soak up the vibrant energy of Cartagena post-exploring.

Daily 08:00-20:00

Perched high on a hill, the Convento de la Popa in Cartagena offers breathtaking views of the city and the Caribbean Sea. This stunning 17th-century convent is not just a feast for the eyes with its beautiful architecture, but also a slice of history, filled with charming gardens and vibrant flowers. Don’t forget to snap a selfie with the iconic statue of the Virgin of La Candelaria, the convent's beloved protector!

Worth knowing. Head to the Convento de la Popa for a panoramic view of Cartagena, but watch out for the steep climb up the hill, so wear comfy shoes!

Daily 9:00–17:00

Bocagrande Beach in Cartagena is lively, lined with skyscrapers and offering a vibrant mix of street food, music, and a lively promenade against Caribbean waves.

Worth knowing. Skip the pricey beachfront restaurants; grab a delicious and affordable arepa from a nearby street vendor instead.

Daily 08:00–18:00

Cartagena Cathedral anchors the heart of the Old City with its distinctive yellow dome, completed in 1612 after a pirate attack interruption. The 85-meter bell tower offers panoramic views of the Cartagena skyline to those who climb its narrow staircase, a journey suited to history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.

Worth knowing. Hey, when you're near the cathedral in Cartagena, don't miss the nearby Plaza Bolívar for a chill spot to people-watch and soak up some local vibes.

Mon-Sat 8:00-12:00, 16:00-20:00; Sun 8:00-12:00

San Pedro Claver Church in Cartagena is a stunning gem that takes you back in time with its beautiful baroque architecture and vibrant history. Step inside to admire the intricate details and feel the peaceful atmosphere that surrounds this sacred space. Don’t forget to snap a photo of the iconic bell tower – it’s a perfect backdrop for your travel memories!

Worth knowing. Check out the nearby Plaza de la Aduana for a chill spot to people-watch and soak up some local vibes after exploring the historic church in Cartagena.

Mon-Sat 8:00-18:00, Sun 10:00-16:00

Teatro Heredia, an exquisite 1911 neoclassical theater, evokes the grandeur of Cartagena's colonial past with its ornate balconies and lavish interior. Positioned at the Plaza de la Merced, the theater hosts flamenco shows under a ceiling decorated with vibrant frescoes.

Worth knowing. Check out the nearby Plaza de los Coches for a chill spot to people-watch and soak up the vibrant energy of Cartagena's historic center after visiting the theater.

Tue-Sun 10:00-18:00