Cartagena de Indias, the jewel of the Colombian Caribbean, not only captivates its visitors with colonial architecture and paradisiacal beaches, but also with a vibrant nightlife that blends Caribbean tradition with cosmopolitan sophistication.
The walled city has become a world-class gastronomic and entertainment destination, where every corner offers a unique experience for lovers of fine cocktails and nightlife.
In this historic city, bars are not just places to drink; they are spaces that tell stories, where salsa music mixes with contemporary rhythms, where craft cocktails coexist with traditional rum, and where each establishment has its own personality and charm.
From elegant rooftops with panoramic views to cozy bars in the heart of the Getsemaní neighborhood, Cartagena offers options for all tastes and occasions.
Cartagena’s nightlife scene has evolved considerably in recent years, positioning itself as one of the most important in Latin America.
This guide will take you through the best bars in Cartagena, organized into categories that will help you find exactly what you’re looking for during every moment of your visit to this magical and romantic Caribbean city.
The Best Rooftop Bars
The rooftops and terraces of Cartagena offer a unique experience where the perfect tropical climate combines with spectacular views of the colonial city.
These elevated spaces allow you to enjoy the Caribbean breeze while watching the sunset over the red-tiled rooftops and the waters of the Caribbean Sea.
Here are four magical options where you can spend a delightful afternoon admiring the Caribbean skies in detail or enjoying a brunch to the rhythm of music.
7 Cielos Rooftop
This beautiful spot in Bocagrande has established itself as one of the most impressive rooftops in the city. Located on the upper floors of one of Cartagena’s buildings, this gastro-bar offers an incomparable panoramic view of the urban and maritime horizon.
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Address: Cra. 3 #10-59, 7th floor
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Gastronomy: A delicious and diverse signature cuisine. Tacos, ceviches, rice dishes, meat cuts, seafood, sushi, and pizza. A wide and tasty menu to suit every preference.
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Price range: approx. $9 – $39 USD
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Unique features: Pinterest- and Instagram-worthy décor with a spectacular view of the Caribbean Sea. You can even stay in the same building in beautiful aparta-lofts like this one: Click here.
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Menu: 7 Cielos Menu
Its gastronomic proposal literally rises to new heights, combining signature cocktails with a menu that fuses local flavors with international techniques. The atmosphere is sophisticated yet relaxed, perfect for enjoying both a romantic dinner and a fun night out with friends.
The Movich Hotel Rooftop
Located in one of the most sought-after hotels in Colombia, this rooftop is a stunning spot to enjoy. It has earned recognition as one of the best places to watch the sunset in Cartagena. Its privileged location near Plaza de los Coches offers a panoramic view of the sea stretching beyond the city walls.
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Address: Historic Center, Calle de Vélez Danies No. 4 – 39
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Gastronomy: Mediterranean cuisine with a Caribbean soul. A broad selection of wines perfectly paired with dishes ranging from octopus on a bed of hummus, burrata, risottos, and paella, to a juicy New York steak.
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Price range: approx. $7.50 – $55 USD
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Unique features: 360-degree view of the Caribbean Sea and the historic center. The rooftop also features an infinity pool, a jacuzzi, and a stylish bar.
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Menu: Movich Rooftop Menu
The hotel has created a trendy yet cozy atmosphere where every sunset becomes a natural spectacle, accompanied by carefully curated music and cocktails inspired by the vibrant colors of the Caribbean.
Mirador Gastro Bar
This viewpoint is another must-visit when it comes to rooftops in Cartagena. This multi-level establishment in the heart of the historic center features different spaces, including the Mirador Lobby Bar and the Mirador Lounge, but its crown jewel is undoubtedly the expansive upper terrace.
From here, you can enjoy privileged views of the iconic Clock Tower and the vibrant Getsemaní neighborhood. The musical selection is carefully curated, creating the perfect atmosphere for each moment of the day.
The Best Bars in Cartagena with Restaurant
The fusion of gastronomy and mixology is always a perfect match for your vacation. This type of offering has reached exceptional levels in Cartagena, where several establishments have perfectly balanced both proposals, delivering complex culinary experiences that flow from the starter to the digestif.
Buena Vida Marisquería & Rooftop
A perfect example of how a bar-restaurant can capture the Caribbean essence in every aspect of its proposal. Specializing in fresh seafood and coastal cuisine, this establishment has earned recognition both for its excellent food menu and for its innovative cocktail program.
Its famous Caribbean Chic Brunch includes iconic dishes such as Arepa de Huevo y Mar, Nutella French Toast, and Crispy Cheese Yuca Waffles, accompanied by a selection of mimosas and morning cocktails that turn every visit into a celebration.
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Address: Buena Vida Marisquería & Rooftop
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Gastronomy: Seafood restaurant — one of the best places in Cartagena for fresh fish and shellfish.
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Price range: approx. $16 – $88 USD
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Unique features: Three ambiences in one place — the first and second floors as a seafood restaurant, and the third floor as a rooftop terrace overlooking the historic center.
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Website: Buenavida Marisquería
Buena Vida’s philosophy is centered on “bringing good life” to its guests through memorable gastronomic experiences that combine traditional flavors with contemporary presentations. Its rooftop terrace is the perfect setting to enjoy fresh lobster, made-to-order ceviches, and catch-of-the-day fish, all paired with cocktails crafted from tropical fruits and premium spirits.
Urania Rooftop
This rooftop deserves a special mention in this category for its integral proposal that goes beyond being just a bar within Hotel Sophia. Located in a beautiful colonial house by Plaza de la Aduana, this establishment unfolds across three levels, each with its own personality.
The food menu perfectly complements its cocktail offerings, featuring tapas and main dishes that reflect Colombian identity with a contemporary twist.
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Address: Plaza de la Aduana – Hotel Sophia, Cl. 32 #4 – 45
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Gastronomy: Caribbean-inspired food with signature cocktails. Brunch menu includes small plates, French toast, ceviches, and more.
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Price range: approx. $9 – $25 USD
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Unique features: The option to stay in a beautiful boutique hotel for a complete experience. Rooftop with a pool. Colonial architecture blended with modern comfort.
El Baluarte
El Baluarte embodies the essence of Cartagena’s open-air afternoons. This rooftop-restaurant bar offers a full experience with a wide variety of dishes, tapas, and drinks in an atmosphere that blends casual with elegant.
Its terrace is the perfect place to enjoy the colors of a Cartagena sunset while savoring an excellent selection of tropical cocktails and Caribbean cuisine.
The Best Bars in Cartagena for Cocktails
Cartagena has established itself as a mixology capital in Latin America, with bars that have revolutionized the art of cocktails by incorporating local ingredients, innovative techniques, and spectacular presentations that have earned international recognition.
Alquímico
Undisputedly leading this category, Alquímico was recognized as the eighth-best bar in the world in 2024 according to the prestigious “The World’s 50 Best Bars” list. This achievement is no accident but the result of years of innovation and mastery in mixology.
Its bartenders, who often break into spontaneous dance routines, create cocktails that are true liquid works of art, using cutting-edge techniques and native Colombian ingredients.
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Address: Cl. del Colegio #34-24, El Centro
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Gastronomy: “On the first floor, explore the Comunidad menu, a journey through Colombia’s regions and their characteristic ingredients. On the second floor, find classic cocktails with a Colombian twist using local fruits and flavors. Finally, the rooftop pays tribute to the #fromthefarmtothebar experience, featuring ingredients grown on our farm.”
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Price range: approx. $5 – $22.50 USD
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Unique features: Three floors with distinct experiences. Winner as one of the best bars in the world — a must-visit.
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Menu: Alquímico Menu
Alquímico’s approach goes beyond simply serving drinks; each cocktail tells a story and reflects Colombian identity. Its three floors offer different experiences: from the intimacy of the first level to the festive energy of the rooftop, where every night becomes a celebration attracting an international crowd seeking Cartagena’s most authentic and sophisticated cocktail experience.
El Barón
Established as another temple of Cartagena mixology, El Barón is recognized for its unique flavor combinations and visually spectacular presentations. This bar has crafted a cocktail menu that surprises with both innovation and impeccable execution.
Each drink is a complete sensory experience, where flavors, aromas, and textures harmonize to create lasting memories.
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Address: Carrera 4, Cl. San Pedro Claver #31-7
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Gastronomy: Small plates, fries, ceviches, and dishes designed for sharing with friends.
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Price range: approx. $5 – $16 USD
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Unique features: Extensive cocktail menu and merchandise including shirts, pins, and beautiful accessories.
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Website: El Barón Pre-Menu
Botika Santa Clara Bar
Located in the iconic and luxurious Hotel Santa Clara, this bar elevates cocktail-making to an exceptional level of sophistication. Its concept focuses on creative cocktails that incorporate premium ingredients and refined techniques, all served in an elegant atmosphere with stunning city views.
The Best Bars in Cartagena with a View
Cartagena’s privileged coastal location allows several establishments to offer direct views of the Caribbean Sea, creating experiences where the blue horizon becomes the star of the evening. These bars capitalize on the natural beauty of the surroundings to offer unique and unforgettable moments.
Townhouse Rooftop
An innovative concept that fuses art, hospitality, and mixology in the heart of Cartagena’s historic district. This eleven-room boutique art hotel was a pioneer in opening its rooftop to the public, guided by the philosophy: “these views are too good to keep to ourselves.”
The Townhouse rooftop offers generously spectacular views over the historic domes, churches, and colonial buildings of the walled city. It has become one of the most coveted destinations for those seeking tropical ambiance, innovative cocktails, and privileged views.
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Address: Cra. 7 #36-88, San Diego
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Gastronomy: Delicious shareable dishes like nachos, fries, mini burgers, fish and chicken skewers. Also enjoy a selection of cocktails and spirits.
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Price range: approx. $9 – $15 USD
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Unique features: Unique style, excellent brunch, and a welcoming atmosphere that feels like home.
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Menu: Townhouse Rooftop Menu
This rooftop is a fresh tropical delight, lined with palm trees. Open from 8 a.m. to midnight, it functions as a cocktail bar and restaurant all day, with pools that allow for a complete relaxation and entertainment experience.
La Magnolia Rooftop
A hidden gem in Cartagena’s historic center, located on the top floor of a restored colonial house at Calle del Curato #38-99. La Magnolia offers one of the most charming panoramic views of the walled city.
With a 4.9/5 rating on TripAdvisor and ranked 61 out of 995 restaurants in Cartagena, this rooftop has earned recognition for combining spectacular views with exceptional gastronomy.
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Address: Calle del Curato #38-99, 4th floor, El Centro
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Gastronomy: Exquisite and visually stunning cuisine, including ceviches, pizza, baos, sushi, casseroles, and rice dishes.
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Price range: approx. $9 – $39 USD
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Unique features: Large, stunning pool with breathtaking views.
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Menu & Info: La Magnolia Rooftop
The experience is complemented by standout dishes such as ceviche, baos, gyozas, tacos, and octopus pizza, all served with the meticulous attention to detail characteristic of Cartagena’s best rooftops.
Terraza Marbella
Located on the eighth floor of Hotel Cabrero Mar, this rooftop offers a unique perspective of the city. Terraza Marbella has cultivated an intimate and exclusive atmosphere, perfect for special occasions where the panoramic view of the Caribbean Sea serves as a backdrop for an unforgettable evening.
Cartagena has established itself as one of Latin America’s premier gastronomic and nightlife destinations, offering a diversity of experiences that cater to both adventurous travelers and discerning connoisseurs.
The city has preserved its Caribbean essence while incorporating international trends, creating a unique blend of tradition and modernity. Cartagena’s bars are not just places of entertainment; they are true cultural ambassadors showcasing the best of Colombian hospitality. From panoramic rooftop views to the intimacy of historic bars, each establishment tells part of the city’s story.
The evolution of Cartagena’s nightlife reflects its transformation into a world-class tourist destination. International recognition of establishments like Alquímico demonstrates that Cartagena can compete with the best cities globally in terms of quality, innovation, and gastronomic experience.
The key to their success lies in creating memorable experiences that go beyond simply serving food and drinks. Each bar, terrace, and gastro-bar has developed its own identity while maintaining that Caribbean charisma that makes Cartagena a unique and unforgettable destination. And of course, the Caribbean landscape adds a vibrant energy to every establishment.
My Top 3 Picks in Cartagena’s Nightlife
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Alquímico – The crown jewel of global mixology. Ranked 8th best bar in the world in 2024, Alquímico offers a unique experience combining avant-garde mixology with a festive atmosphere in a historic three-story mansion. Its cocktails are true liquid works of art celebrating Colombian identity, and the bartenders’ spontaneous dance routines create a one-of-a-kind atmosphere attracting visitors from around the globe.
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7 Cielos Rooftop – The ultimate elevated culinary experience. This gastro-bar perfects the combination of cocktails, gastronomy, and panoramic views. With literally elevated cuisine and stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and colonial city, it is ideal for special occasions where every detail contributes to lasting memories.
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Townhouse – A full experience blending art, flavor, great music, and the city’s best brunch. Surrounded by palm trees and beachy vibes, enjoy excellent cocktails, refreshing breezes, and lively sunset parties.
On LA CARTA, you’ll find more quality gastronomic content to discover the best flavors and culinary experiences in Colombia and around the world. Our blog is dedicated to culinary explorers like you, seeking authentic and memorable experiences.
Don’t miss our upcoming guides on the best restaurants in Cartagena, Caribbean Colombia food routes, and exclusive content to help you uncover the city’s best-kept culinary secrets.
La Carta: The Best Bars in Cartagena, Colombia
