THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO THE BEST ACTIVITIES IN CARTAGENA
Hi! I’m Angie, a proud Cartagenera. I’ve lived here my whole life and I’ve experienced everything from the simplest plans to the most extreme adventures—Cartagena has it all. That’s why today I’ll be your guide and show you exactly what to do when you visit Cartagena.
1. RENT A BOAT
If you’re visiting Cartagena, you should start your day bright and early with the first item on my list: renting a boat. Renting a boat is one of the best ways to have a great time and start enjoying the city.
When I got on a boat for the first time, I was a bit scared, but then I felt the breeze in my hair and the sea spray on my skin—and I knew I’d never forget that moment. The view was incredible, and how could it not be? Cartagena never stops amazing with its beauty.
Boat trips can last as long as you want—an hour or a whole day—it all depends on your preference, and the price will vary accordingly.
Renting a boat is definitely a 10/10 to kick off your Cartagena adventure. If you want to live this experience, here’s a great option to check out.
2. GO TO THE BEACH
To me, one of Cartagena’s greatest charms is the variety of its beaches. There’s ocean everywhere—and not just any ocean. That’s why my next recommendation when you’re wondering what to do in the city is: go to the beach.
The first thing you should do when you arrive at the beach is rent a beach tent or umbrella, which costs around 30,000 Colombian pesos (about $8 USD). It’s perfect for storing your belongings.
I love arriving, feeling the sun and sand, hearing the sound of the waves, tearing off my clothes to reveal my swimsuit, and diving right in. I bet you’ll love it too.
Going to the beach in Cartagena is one of those outings where you can bring lots of friends to enjoy the wonders of the experience together.
With my friends, we played volleyball on the sand, ran around, listened to music, danced, took some amazing dips in the sea, and got a tan.
You know what I forgot to mention? Sandcastles!
If you’re not sure what to do in Cartagena, building sandcastles on the beach is something you’ll love.
This beautiful city has a wide variety of beaches. I’m going to share my top 3 so you can visit them all and pick your favorite:
BOCAGRANDE BEACH: THE MOST VISITED
I have to tell you, this is one of the most well-known beaches in the city. It’s large and always full of tourists soaking up the sun.
If you enjoy shopping for handicrafts, trying local food, or want to indulge in a relaxing massage, this is the best option for you.
BORA BORA BEACH: THE BEST FOR PARTIES
You’re going to love this beach for its lively atmosphere, full of energetic people and unforgettable experiences waiting for you.
PALMARITO BEACH: THE BEST VIEW OF CARTAGENA
This beach offers the most complete experience you can imagine. I truly recommend visiting this place, where you can stay overnight and enjoy the most luxurious beach near the Walled City.
3. LOOKING FOR SOMETHING MORE EXTREME? WATER SPORTS!
I can’t leave the beach without getting on a jet ski, because that is such an awesome experience! It’s about 15 minutes for 12,000 Colombian pesos (3 usd)— but 15 minutes you’ll want to repeat a million times.
In my case, that was the activity I chose, but there are many more water sports options in Cartagena for you to enjoy, whether on your own or with company.
Surfing:
Another must-have experience is surfing at one of Cartagena’s beaches. I took surf lessons and I have to say, I don’t regret a thing. Surfing in Cartagena is all about feeling the adrenaline and freedom your body craves. The laid-back vibe and natural beauty of Cartagena’s coast invite you to connect with the sea in a truly unique way.
Jet-ski:
Riding a jet ski feels like flying over the water. Seriously, if you’re looking for a different kind of adventure and an amazing time, hopping on a jet ski here is the way to go. Don’t miss it — you’re going to love it!
4. TRY THE DELICIOUS FOOD OF CARTAGENA
WHEN IT COMES TO CARTAGENA’S FOOD, IT’S ALWAYS A YES FOR ME!
I’m going to recommend several food options in Cartagena. The city’s gastronomy has all kinds of flavors. You can find every kind of sweet treat at El Portal de los Dulces, but also, throughout the city, you’ll find all sorts of savory dishes.
I crave fried snacks all the time—like a well-stuffed arepa de huevo or freshly made empanadas. Don’t you?
STREET FOOD TO FEEL MORE LIKE A LOCAL
For example, this guided street food tour will take you to the best fried snack stalls in the city so you can try the tastiest carimañolas, empanadas, papas rellenas, and arepas.
And if you’d rather do it on your own, just remember that the cost depends on how much you plan to eat. Fried snacks range from 4,000 to 20,000 Colombian pesos (1-5 USD)
SEAFOOD WITH CARTAGENERO FLAVOR
If you’re in Cartagena these days, I recommend eating seafood at Buena Vida Marisquería, one of the most popular restaurants among seafood lovers in the city. Craving a shrimp cocktail? This is the place!
Cartagena is well-known for its seafood, and the cocktails here are delicious—especially because the place has a rooftop terrace and live music, which only enhances the atmosphere and the overall experience.
It’s a great spot to hang out with friends, celebrate a birthday, graduation, or reconnect with someone you haven’t seen in a while. Highly recommended!
Don’t know what to do in Cartagena? What are you waiting for to try the seafood of La Heroica?
LA MAGNOLIA CARTAGENA ROOFTOP: A GREAT ALLY
To each their own, right?
I also recommend this restaurant because it offers a wide variety of traditional recipes from the city.
Its location in the historic center attracts a lot of people who come daily to enjoy the amazing flavors this place has to offer.
Click here to read the best restaurants in Cartagena, one of my favorities activities in Cartagena
5. TAKE A TOUR AROUND BEAUTIFUL CARTAGENA
TOUR THE FORTIFICATIONS
Going to Cartagena and not taking photos is like not going at all.
Cartagena is known as La Amurallada (The Walled City) because of the many monuments and fortifications found throughout its streets.
If you don’t know what to do in Cartagena, I highly recommend running out to snap some pictures at these historic sites that make Cartagena the iconic city it is.
Remember, every monument tells a story. For example, I really love the story of India Catalina, a key figure in the early days of cultural blending in the city.
Also, the Walls that once protected enslaved people from enemy attacks hold a powerful and moving history. Not to mention the statues of notable historical figures and the unforgettable Old Shoes (Los Zapatos Viejos).
If you don’t know what to do in Cartagena, visiting these monuments is a great plan — it won’t cost you a thing, and it will enrich your knowledge of the city’s past.
TOUR TO KNOW THE MUSEUMS
I’ve visited the museums in my city countless times — they’re amazing for having a fun, wholesome day while learning historical or artistic facts you probably didn’t know before.
Cartagena has all kinds of museums, which makes it perfect to pick a day and go on a museum-hopping tour across the city.
WHICH MUSEUM IS THE EASIEST TO VISIT?
The Gold Museum (Museo del Oro) is open from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., and admission is free. It’s often visited by local students who go there to learn about the Zenú legacy preserved in the museum.
I’ve been there several times, and each floor feels like a world full of stories and possibilities.
HISTORY AT THE NAVAL MUSEUM OF THE CARIBBEAN
The Naval Museum of the Caribbean (Museo Naval del Caribe) is another of the city’s most visited spots. For someone like me, who loves the sea and the sailors, this is the perfect place.
The museum is full of exhibitions about the Colombian Navy and the region’s history. It has affordable prices for both locals and tourists, and sometimes entry is free.
THE MODERN ART MUSEUM
If I start talking about museums, I won’t stop! But to keep this short, I’ll mention just one more: the Modern Art Museum (Museo de Arte Moderno).
This museum is full of works by both local and international artists, with a focus on Latin American art from the 1950s to the present.
6. GRAB A CUP OF COFFEE
After a long tour, nothing’s better than a nice cup of coffee to recharge and keep creating memories in this colorful city. On the hunt for the best brew, I visited several places that serve delicious coffee — here are my top recommendations and here you can find an increible coffe tasting experience: Click here
SOLOIO: THE GREENEST SPOT
Outdoor cafés are everywhere in the city, and this is one of those places you just can’t miss. It offers a truly Latin experience.
Soloio is full of greenery, and you’ll feel amazing there. Personally, I love this place — it’s one of those spots I’ll never get tired of visiting.
ÁBACO: THE MOST INTIMATE
It’s every book lover’s dream (like mine) to read in a cozy, aesthetic café — and it comes true at this magical place called Ábaco.
Visit it, and you’ll be charmed by this little corner of Cartagena. You can check out their location, menu, and everything else before you go.
ÉPOCA: THE MOST TOURISTIC
When I’m craving a good coffee but also feel like grabbing a little something extra, I head to Época — a café-bar that offers a wide range of food and drinks.
If I love it, I’m sure you’ll love it too.
Don’t forget: coffee in Colombia is a tradition — make sure you experience it! Go out and enjoy a great cup of coffee in this incredible city.
7. SPEND QUALITY TIME WITH FAMILY
I can never make up my mind when it comes toamily plans, because there’s always so much to do in Cartagena.
CITY PARKS
This park is located in Chambacú, near the historic center, and it’s a nature-filled space where you can enjoy great moments with your family.
Kids run off to play in the playground area, teens use the outdoor workout machines, and adults lay down picnic blankets to share stories and laughs.
Cartagena has many parks that offer similar experiences. Parque Lineal de Crespo, Parque Castillo Grande, and even Bahía de Manga are excellent outdoor spaces to spend quality time with your family.
CLIMBING SAN FELIPE CASTLE
Castillo San Felipe de Barajas is one of the most important monuments in the city. I wanted to give it its own section because, in my experience, visiting it with family—armed with a big water bottle and some snacks—is an unforgettable experience.
The entrance fee for tourists is around 36,000 Colombian pesos (9usd). Climbing this fortress with a guide who explains its full history will make your visit even more enriching.
On the last Sunday of every month (except January and December), entrance is free for residents of Cartagena. That day, the number of visitors usually triples.
The tunnels—which may seem spooky at first but later become your favorite part—tell the story of enslaved people who used them to hide from enemies. And then there are the cannons, where tourists love taking pictures while learning about a powerful and moving part of La Heroica, Cartagena de Indias.
VISIT THE AVIARY
The last time I visited the Aviario, I was completely amazed by the flamingos. I can’t wait to go back with my family. Honestly, if you don’t know what to do in Cartagena, visiting the Aviario is a great idea.
It’s located on the road to Barú and features various habitats and bird species, including colorful parrots and peacocks.
The entrance fee is 80,000 (20usd) Colombian pesos, though you might find cheaper rates through some tour or guide websites.
VISIT THE AQUARIUM
Cartagena doesn’t just have an aviary—we also have a fantastic Aquarium in the Rosario Islands that’s home to more than 1,400 animals from 140 different Caribbean marine species.
It’s one of the city’s must-see attractions. A good tip: if you’re visiting with family, you can often get special rates through family packages.
8. SHOPPING IN THE MALLS
As a woman, I really enjoy shopping and I’m happy because Cartagena has so many places to go that choosing the best one is always hard.
When it comes to shopping malls, Cartagena has nothing to envy from anyone. If you don’t know what to do in Cartagena, an afternoon of shopping would be a great idea.
CARIBE PLAZA: THE BIGGEST
This mall is located in El Pie de La Popa and features a large cinema, many well-known brands like Panamericana, Homecenter, and Jumbo, plus food franchises such as McDonald’s, KFC, and Crepes and Waffles.
LA SERREZUELA: THE MOST LUXURIOUS
La Serrezuela is a large shopping mall located in Cartagena’s historic center, and it’s a constant favorite among tourists. Locals also visit it frequently, but you’ll find many signs in English for foreigners, and the prices tend to cater mostly to tourists, according to their local currencies.
It has a wide range of clothing stores, lingerie, decorative items, and an entire floor dedicated to restaurants offering a variety of food options to suit your tastes and preferences.
The mall boasts a beautiful terrace, a large fountain, and very eye-catching architecture.
PLAZA BOCAGRANDE: THE MOST EXPENSIVE
This mall is perfect for shopping at its many stores and for taking a walk along the beach — it’s right across the street!
Plaza Bocagrande has luxurious infrastructure and is very safe. Visit it—you’ll surely fall in love with this place just like I did.
9. A NIGHT OUT DANCING AND PARTYING
In Cartagena, tired feet are totally worth it — actually, it’s never enough! So I recommend that after enjoying the wonders of this city, don’t go to sleep just yet. You still need to explore the city’s nightlife and party at its most popular spots.
GETSEMANÍ: THE PARTY NEIGHBORHOOD
Getsemaní, in the historic center, is like a city within the city. At night, this neighborhood is always alive with parties on every street. When I go partying there, I forget all my problems — nothing’s more therapeutic than a night out dancing in the city.
People visit food stalls and join in celebrations happening everywhere. It doesn’t matter if you’re a stranger — in Getsemaní, everything is about party, dancing, and happiness.
Everyone dances, laughs, and enjoys themselves, not even knowing what they’re celebrating but living in the moment as if it would never end.
CHIVA RUMBERA: PARTYING ON WHEELS
I would never say no to a Chiva Rumbera in Cartagena.
These party buses are a tourist favorite because they’re like a moving fiesta where you sing and dance while cruising the city. The guides tend to be outgoing people who bring the party vibes to the ride. Prices vary depending on where you get the Chiva and how long you stay on board.
The music on these buses is the best part of the trip — you’ll laugh, dance, perrear (dance reggaeton style), and want to stay partying forever on one of these.
ALQUÍMICO
This place has great vibes and delicious food, perfect for celebrating with friends. In fact, it was recently named the eighth-best bar in the world. It’s a must-visit in Cartagena.
Here’s a secret you’ll love: in Cartagena, you don’t need a reason to celebrate — there’s always a party going on! So pick any excuse and visit this spot.
SEVEN TIMES
A must-go! The music, atmosphere, and food at this place make it one of my favorites for partying in the Walled City.
I feel like there’s so much more to say, but to keep it short, here are two more recommendations: Selina and Delerium. Visit them — I know you’ll love them.
A WARNING: DOLCE VITA
As an honest and competent guide, I have to tell you about one place that is definitely not recommended: Dolce Vita. You might wonder why? Well, this place has received many criticisms because of the kind of crowd it attracts.
Cartagena is so full of life that to mention everything you can do here would fill many more pages. However, I hope this guide with my best recommendations helps you enjoy everything Cartagena de Indias has to offer — so you never have to wonder again what to do in Cartagena.
