The top places to see, eat, drink, shop, and stay in Cartagena!
Walking around the city of Cartagena in Colombia is a treat for the eyes. Bright colors and unforeseen views dot the horizon. But that isn’t all Cartagena has to offer. Considered the culinary capital of Colombia, restaurants, and bars are primed with local seaside cuisine. On top of that, the street salsa performances (that can be seen from hotel windows and at town squares) are as memorable as they are enchanting. Cartagena is unlike most seaside cities, but that’s what makes it such an exciting place to explore.
SEE:
Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas
Cra. 17, Cartagena, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia
This popular location is a must-see site for those who are interested in the history of Colombian independence and colonization. This castle is considered to be the greatest fortress ever built by the Spaniards. The fortress is known for being impenetrable. Seeing that no one ever overtook the architectural masterpiece. The castle was commissioned in 1630 and is structured to include dozens of passageways and tunnels- which make for a great bit of exploring!
Las Bóvedas
Cartagena, Cartagena Province, Bolivar, Colombia
Las Bóvedas are a great mix of history and fun, in the way of shopping! The structure is a set of yellow arches, which allow for a view of the Caribbean Sea from the top. Originally Las Bóvedas were built to be dungeons but now handicrafts and other local goods, such as textiles, paintings, and jewelry, are sold underneath the arches. Making for a fun experience on a sunny day out.
EAT:
La Cevicheria
Calle Stuart por el hotel Santa Clara Calle 39 #7 14, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia
You can’t go to the seaside in Latin America and not get yourself some ceviche! Ceviche is a traditional Latin American dish with the basic components being raw fish and citrus juice. The restaurant rose to popularity when the late great chef and host, Anthony Bourdain, visited the spot in 2008. The restaurant is now a favorite for locals and tourists alike and is ‘the’ place to go when it comes to fresh seafood.
Alma
Calle #36, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia
Alma is the perfect chic spot for a night out in Cartagena. The restaurant serves traditionally Colombian cuisine as well as organic food. Alma also caters to gluten-free and vegetarian clientele. The restaurant has a bar that boasts having the most varied menu of gin & tonics in Cartagena. And if you are stumped on what to order the churrasco, octopus, and ceviche or great options!
DRINK:
Cafe Havana
Cra. 10 #ESQUINA, Cartagena, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia
The nightlife in this seaside city is especially exciting due to the lively salsa that takes over many a dance floor in Colombia. And Cafe Havana is no exception, praised for their delicious Cuban cocktails and live music and salsa, there is never a dull moment at this place!
Quiebra-Canto
Camellon de Los Martires Carrera 28 B # 25-110, Cartagena, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia
Another salsa bar! Because when in Colombia, Salsa is the thing to do. This long-standing spot is known for hosting expert salsa dancers and being a local joint. Quiebra-Canto is sure to provide the ultimate authentic Colombian salsa experience, as well as a great selection of beverages.
SHOP:
ChocoMuseo
Carrera 7#36-145, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia
With chocolate originating from Central and Latin America, the prime place to stop at is the Chocolate Museum. This free museum allows you to learn about the history of chocolate and cacao, but more importantly, you also get to buy chocolate! Who doesn’t like to do that?
Silvia Tcherassi
Cl. 31 #31-11, Cartagena, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia
If fashion is your thing than the Silvia Tcherassi’s boutique is the space for you. This Colombian fashion designer has a store that sells her luxury collections. Stop in to shop or take a look at the beautifully crafted designs of Silvia Tcherassi.
STAY:
Casa San Agustin
la No. 36 44, Universidad de Cartagena, Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia
This luxury hotel is a beautiful stay option in the city. The boutique hotel has 20 guestrooms and 11 suites all designed in a quintessential Colombian style. The hotel has original frescoes in its library as well as centuries-old wooden beams. Casa San Agustin also has a private beach, spa, pool and is the hotel where the restaurant Alma is located.
Hotel Charleston Santa Teresa
Cra. 3 #31-23, Cartagena, Provincia de Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia
The chic hotel is located inside a historic building, allowing for a taste of history within its walls. The hotel has multiple restaurants, a bar, spa and accommodates meetings and other events. The large hotel has 87 rooms and suites which are modern in contrast to the hotel’s colonial exterior.
Sophia lived in Colombia for 2.5 years.
