2-Day Local Family Adventure: Relaxation and Sightseeing in Cartagena

Cartagena, Colombia

2 days

Barrio de Bocagrande
Fortified Castle of San Felipe
Skyline
Rosario Island
Cholon Island

About Cartagena, Colombia

Experience the vibrant culture and rich history of Cartagena, Colombia. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a treasure trove of colonial architecture, cobbled streets, and colorful buildings. Explore the historic walled city, visit the imposing Castillo de San Felipe, or relax on the stunning beaches of Islas del Rosario. Indulge in local cuisine, featuring fresh seafood and tropical fruits, and immerse yourself in the lively nightlife. Cartagena is also a gateway to explore the biodiversity of Colombia's rainforests and national parks. With its warm, tropical climate, Cartagena is a year-round destination, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

2-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Historic Walled City and San Felipe de Barajas Castle

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the historic Walled City. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-see, with its beautiful colonial architecture, vibrant streets, and bustling plazas. Take a leisurely stroll through the narrow cobblestone streets, soaking in the rich history and culture of the city.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Colombian lunch at a local restaurant. Try some of the local specialties like arepas, empanadas, and fresh seafood dishes. The cuisine in Cartagena is a blend of indigenous, African, and Spanish influences, making it a unique culinary experience.

Afternoon

After lunch, visit the San Felipe de Barajas Castle. This impressive fortress offers panoramic views of the city and the sea. Explore the tunnels and learn about the history of this important military site.

Dinner

For dinner, enjoy a meal at a restaurant in the Getsemani neighborhood. This area is known for its vibrant nightlife and diverse food scene. Try some local street food or enjoy a sit-down meal at one of the many restaurants.

Evening

End your day with a relaxing walk along the city walls. The views of the city and the sea are stunning, especially at sunset. This is a perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

Morning

Start your second day with a visit to the Rosario Islands. These beautiful islands are a short boat ride away from Cartagena and offer pristine beaches, clear waters, and abundant marine life. Spend the morning snorkeling, swimming, or simply relaxing on the beach.

Lunch

Enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach. Pack some sandwiches, fruits, and snacks from a local market. The fresh sea air and the sound of the waves make for a perfect lunch setting.

Afternoon

In the afternoon, visit the Cartagena Botanical Garden. This lush garden is home to a variety of tropical plants and birds. Take a guided tour to learn about the local flora and fauna, or simply enjoy a leisurely walk through the garden.

Dinner

For dinner, head back to the city and enjoy a meal in the Bocagrande neighborhood. This area is known for its upscale restaurants and stunning views of the sea. Try some fresh seafood or a traditional Colombian dish.

Evening

End your day with a visit to the Plaza de la Trinidad. This lively square is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Enjoy some live music, watch street performers, or simply soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the city.

Attractions in Itinerary (5)

Walled City

1
Walled City

The Walled City is the historic heart of Cartagena, filled with colonial architecture, charming plazas, and a myriad of restaurants, bars, and shops. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Attractions
Landmarks
Architecture
Neighborhoods
San Felipe de Barajas Castle

2
San Felipe de Barajas Castle

A fortress located on the Hill of San Lázaro. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the greatest fortresses ever built by the Spaniards in their colonies.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks
Getsemani

3
Getsemani

A vibrant neighborhood known for its bohemian atmosphere, street art, and nightlife.

Attractions
Neighborhoods
Cultural Experiences
Rosario Islands

4
Rosario Islands

A group of private islands off the coast of Cartagena, known for their vibrant coral reefs, crystal clear waters, and abundant marine life.

Attractions
Beaches
Tours
Cartagena Botanical Garden

5
Cartagena Botanical Garden

The Cartagena Botanical Garden is a beautiful and serene place to visit. It is home to a wide variety of plants and flowers, and is a great place to learn about the local flora. The garden also has a butterfly house and a bird watching area.

Parks
Gardens

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Arepas

Arepas

Arepas are a type of food made of ground maize dough or cooked flour prominent in the cuisine of Colombia. They are often filled with cheese, meat, or eggs.

Ceviche

Ceviche

Ceviche is a seafood dish popular in the coastal regions of Colombia, especially in Cartagena. It is typically made from fresh raw fish cured in citrus juices and spiced with chili peppers, onions, and cilantro.

Empanadas

Empanadas

Empanadas are a type of baked or fried turnover consisting of pastry and filling, common in Latin American and Filipino cultures. In Cartagena, they are typically filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables.

Posta Negra

Posta Negra is a traditional Cartagena dish made from beef, cooked slowly in a sauce of spices, panela (unrefined whole cane sugar), and cola soda.

Sancocho

Sancocho

Sancocho is a traditional Colombian soup made with large pieces of meat, tubers, and vegetables. It's a staple dish in Cartagena and is often served with a side of rice and avocado.

Pargo Rojo Frito

Pargo Rojo Frito is a popular dish in Cartagena, consisting of red snapper fried whole and typically served with coconut rice and fried plantains.

Arroz con Coco

Arroz con Coco is a traditional Colombian side dish made from rice cooked with coconut milk and sugar. It's a staple in Cartagena and is often served with fish dishes.

Raspao

Raspao

Raspao is a popular street drink in Cartagena, made from crushed ice and flavored syrups. It's a refreshing treat in the city's tropical climate.

Refajo

Refajo

Refajo is a traditional Colombian cocktail made from a mix of beer and Colombian soda. It's a popular drink in Cartagena, especially during festivals and celebrations.

Obleas

Obleas are a popular dessert in Cartagena, made from two thin wafers filled with arequipe (sweetened condensed milk) and cheese.

Chicha de Maiz

Chicha de Maiz is a traditional Colombian beverage made from fermented corn. It's a popular drink in Cartagena, often served in clay pots for added flavor.

Enyucado

Enyucado is a traditional dessert from Cartagena, made from yuca, cheese, coconut, and anise. It's a sweet and savory treat often served during holidays and celebrations.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Cartagena, Colombia is during the dry season, which runs from December to March. During these months, you can expect warm, sunny days perfect for exploring the city's historic sites and beautiful beaches. This period also coincides with the city's high season, so it's a vibrant time with many cultural events and festivals taking place. However, if you prefer a less crowded time, the shoulder months of April, May, October, and November can also offer good weather with fewer tourists.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 8

Mon

Epiphany

March 25

Mon

Saint Joseph's Day

March 28

Thu

Maundy Thursday

March 29

Fri

Good Friday

May 1

Wed

Labor Day / May Day

May 13

Mon

Ascension Day

June 3

Mon

Corpus Christi

June 10

Mon

Sacred Heart

July 1

Mon

Feast of Saint Peter and Saint Paul

July 20

Sat

Independence Day

August 7

Wed

Battle of Boyacá Day

August 19

Mon

Assumption of Mary

October 14

Mon

Columbus Day

November 4

Mon

All Saints' Day

November 11

Mon

Independence of Cartagena

December 8

Sun

Feast of the Immaculate Conception

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Cartagena's Old Town is compact and easy to navigate on foot. It's the best way to explore the city's colonial architecture, vibrant street life, and numerous shops and restaurants.

Taxis are plentiful in Cartagena and can be hailed on the street or ordered through a hotel. They are a convenient way to get around, especially for longer distances or when carrying luggage. However, they do not have meters, so it's important to negotiate the fare before starting the journey.

Ridesharing services like Uber and InDriver are available in Cartagena. They offer a convenient and often cheaper alternative to taxis. You can order a ride using the app on your smartphone, and the fare is calculated and paid electronically.

Bicycles are a popular mode of transport in Cartagena, especially in the Getsemani neighborhood and along the beachfront. There are several places where you can rent a bike for the day.

Public buses are a cheap way to get around Cartagena, but they can be crowded and the routes can be confusing for visitors. They are best used for longer distances, such as going to the beaches in the north of the city.

The Chiva Bus is a traditional, brightly painted wooden bus that is often used for city tours and party buses at night. It's a fun and unique way to see the city, but not the most practical for everyday transport.

Horse-drawn carriages are a romantic and traditional way to see the Old Town of Cartagena. They can be hired for a leisurely tour of the city's historic sites.

Boats can be hired for trips to the nearby Rosario Islands, a beautiful archipelago with clear waters and abundant marine life. This is a popular day trip from Cartagena.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency$ COP

Time zoneUTC-5

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone119

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type APower socket type B

Voltage110 V

Things to know about Cartagena, Colombia as a first time visitor

1

Cartagena is located on Colombia's Caribbean coast and is known for its tropical climate. The average temperature is around 82°F (28°C).

2

The official language is Spanish. While some locals and staff in tourist areas may speak English, it's beneficial to know some basic Spanish phrases.

3

The local currency is the Colombian Peso (COP). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller vendors.

4

Tipping is not mandatory in Colombia, but it is customary to leave a 10% tip in restaurants if service charge is not included in the bill.

5

Cartagena is generally safe for tourists, but like any city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings, especially at night and in less crowded areas.

6

Public transportation is available and includes buses, taxis, and 'colectivos' (shared taxis). Uber is also available.

7

The city is divided into various neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm. The most famous is the walled Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

8

The local cuisine is a mix of African, Spanish, and indigenous flavors. Be sure to try local dishes like 'ceviche', 'arepas', and 'empanadas'.

9

Tap water in Cartagena is generally safe to drink, but if you have a sensitive stomach, it's recommended to stick to bottled water.

10

Cartagena is in the Colombian Standard Time zone (COT), which is 5 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC-5).

11

The city is known for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues. The party often continues until the early hours of the morning.

12

The dress code is generally casual due to the tropical climate. However, it's recommended to bring a light jacket for cooler evenings and air-conditioned places.

13

Colombians are known for their friendliness and hospitality. Don't hesitate to ask for help or directions if needed.

14

It's common to haggle in markets and with street vendors. However, prices in shops and restaurants are usually fixed.

15

The city has a strong Afro-Caribbean influence, which is reflected in its music, dance, and festivals. Don't miss the chance to experience a live 'cumbia' performance.

16

The sun can be intense, so it's important to wear sunscreen, especially between 10am and 4pm when UV levels are highest.

17

The city is a popular destination for cruise ships, so it can get crowded during the peak tourist season (December to April).

18

Public restrooms are not always readily available, especially in the Old Town. It's common to use the restroom in a cafe or restaurant, but you may be expected to make a small purchase.

19

Colombia uses a 110-volt power system, the same as the United States. If you're traveling from a country that uses a different voltage, you'll need a power adapter.

20

Cartagena is a city of contrasts, with modern high-rises next to colonial-era buildings. It's a place where you can experience both the old and the new, so keep an open mind and enjoy all that the city has to offer.

Basic Spanish to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Hola

O-la

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Adiós

A-dee-os

Leaving or saying goodbye

Please

Por favor

Por fa-vor

Making a request

Thank you

Gracias

Gra-see-as

Expressing gratitude

Yes

See

Agreeing or confirming

No

No

No

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

Perdón

Per-don

Getting attention or apologizing

I'm sorry

Lo siento

Lo see-en-to

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

¿Hablas inglés?

Ab-las in-gles

Asking if someone speaks English

I don't understand

No entiendo

No en-tee-en-do

When you don't understand what was said

Where is...?

¿Dónde está...?

Don-de es-ta

Asking for directions

Bathroom

Baño

Ban-yo

Looking for a restroom

Help

Ayuda

A-yu-da

In case of emergency

Food

Comida

Co-mee-da

When looking for food

Water

Agua

A-gwa

When asking for water

Beer

Cerveza

Ser-ve-sa

When ordering a beer

Check, please

La cuenta, por favor

La kwen-ta, por fa-vor

Asking for the bill

How much does it cost?

¿Cuánto cuesta?

Kwan-to kwes-ta

Asking for the price

I would like...

Me gustaría...

Me gus-ta-ree-a

Making a request or order

Good night

Buenas noches

Bwe-nas no-ches

Saying goodbye in the evening

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Underwear

  • Swimwear

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Flip flops

  • Sunglasses

  • Hat for sun protection

  • Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner

  • Travel-sized body wash

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Sunscreen

  • Insect repellent

  • First aid kit with band-aids and antiseptic cream

  • Prescription medications

  • Travel-sized laundry detergent

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or other form of ID

  • Printed copies of hotel and flight confirmations

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash in local currency

  • Guidebook or map of Cartagena

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Headphones

  • Camera

  • Charger for camera

  • Universal travel adapter

  • Portable power bank

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel pillow

  • Earplugs and eye mask

  • Snacks for the journey

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Travel-sized wet wipes

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Small backpack for day trips

  • Travel laundry line

  • Books or e-reader for entertainment

Weather Conditions

When visiting Cartagena, Colombia, it's important to be prepared for a tropical climate. The city experiences high temperatures throughout the year, typically ranging from 76°F to 88°F (24°C to 31°C). Humidity levels are also high, often reaching 80-90%, which can make the heat feel more intense. The city has two main seasons: dry and wet. The dry season runs from December to April, and it's the best time to visit if you prefer hot, sunny weather. However, even during the dry season, brief rain showers can occur, so it's always a good idea to carry a lightweight, waterproof jacket or umbrella. The wet season, from May to November, sees more rainfall, particularly in the months of September and October. If you're visiting during this time, be prepared for sudden, heavy downpours. Despite the rain, temperatures remain high, so pack lightweight, breathable clothing. Regardless of when you visit, don't forget to pack sun protection. The sun can be intense in Cartagena, so bring a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of high-SPF sunscreen. Also, remember to stay hydrated, especially when out exploring the city's beautiful historic sites. Finally, keep an eye on the local weather forecast during your stay. While Cartagena is not typically affected by hurricanes, it can experience heavy rainfall and storms, particularly during the wet season. Being aware of the weather can help you plan your activities and stay safe during your visit.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

31° / 23°

January is one of the cooler months in Cartagena, but still very warm with average temperatures ranging from 23°C to 31°C. It's a great time to visit for those who prefer less intense heat.

February

32° / 24°

February sees a slight increase in temperature, with averages between 24°C and 32°C. It's a perfect time for beach activities and exploring the city.

March

33° / 25°

March is one of the hottest months in Cartagena, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 33°C. Make sure to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.

April

33° / 25°

April continues the hot trend with temperatures similar to March. It's a great time to enjoy the beaches and the Caribbean Sea.

May

33° / 25°

May is still quite hot, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 33°C. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy hot weather and want to avoid the peak tourist season.

June

33° / 25°

June sees consistent temperatures, similar to May. It's a great time to explore the city's historical sites and enjoy the local cuisine.

July

33° / 25°

July is a hot month with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 33°C. It's a perfect time for water activities and exploring the city's vibrant nightlife.

August

33° / 25°

August continues the trend of hot weather, with temperatures similar to July. It's a great time to visit the beautiful Rosario Islands.

September

33° / 25°

September is a hot month, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 33°C. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy hot weather and want to avoid the peak tourist season.

October

32° / 24°

October sees a slight decrease in temperature, with averages between 24°C and 32°C. It's a perfect time for beach activities and exploring the city.

November

32° / 24°

November is a warm month with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 32°C. It's a great time to visit for those who prefer less intense heat.

December

31° / 23°

December is one of the cooler months in Cartagena, but still very warm with average temperatures ranging from 23°C to 31°C. It's a great time to visit for those who prefer less intense heat.

Did you know?

Did you know that Cartagena, Colombia is a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its well-preserved colonial architecture and city walls?

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