Cartagena is the kind of city you visit to eat, drink, and literally do nothing. With a population of nearly 1 million, it’s a large city, yet few visitors stray far from the beaten path. And honestly? There’s little need to for most of them. If in a rush, most touristic sites of Cartagena can be seen in a day or two. However, the best way to experience it is to take your time, stroll through the streets, and absorb its energy.
With an average temperature of 88F with high humidity, Cartagena is sultry. A good plan is to get up early and experience it before the hustle and bustle. By midday, the sun will be strong and beating down on you, so it’s advisable to get some shade and rest during this time. You’ll want to pace yourself for nightfall, when the temperature cools and the city comes alive.
Neighborhoods in Cartagena
Plaza Trinidad in Cartagena’s Getsemaní neighborhood. From neighbors sipping cafecito in the morning to dancing to chapeta in the wee hours, this small square is always full of life.
There are three main sections of the city where tourists stay: the Over a decade ago, WhERE I Stayed
Traditionally, tourists stayed either in the charming Old City or the modern Bocagrande peninsula. Let’s be clear: even converting US dollars to Colombian pesos, Cartagena isn’t cheap. Let me rephrase that — it’s cheap in comparison to New York, where I’m from, or Western Europe. It’s not especially cheap compared to most of Latin America or even Bogotá, the capital of Colombia. Still, good deals can be had. Bocagrande might remind you of the Miami or Panama City skylines with its towering white condos and hotels. Lots of people stay there because it reminds them of Caribbean resorts. However, if you’re a romantic or architecture nut, you’re going to want to splurge on the Old City. Most of these buildings were formerly private homes and are quaint, with lavish courtyards boasting tropical gardens, elegant chandeliers and architectural detail — many even have pools. Because you’re in the midst of all the action, you’re going to pay for that. If you can swing it, I’d recommend treating yourself to one of the gorgeous hotels in the center. You may be surprised to learn that there are a few hostels in the Old City, some of which are very beautiful. I’m frugal, so when I do, I stay at Hotel El Viajero Centro, a more budget and plain option, or in a hostel. I liked Hostal Boutique Casa Escallón (a now defunct hostel), that was just outside the walls. It even had a small pool and for under $40 a night, you couldn’t beat it. While on the topic…over the past few years, Getsemaní has turned into a backpackers haven and affordable option for those who love the candy colored buildings and Caribbean charm without the price tag. Hostels and boutique hotels have cropped up all over the place. Some of the city’s liveliest nightlife, likeWhere to Eat and Drink
I’m going to preface this section but saying that I am not a nightclub kind of person. That said, I do like to hear good music and throw back a few drinks. For strong, delicious drinks and good music – especially of Salsa, Reggaeton, Cumbia, or Pescando bañado at Restaurante Bar Totopo
