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Cartagena Travel Guide - Travel S Helper

Cartagena

travel guide

Cartagena, also known as Cartagena de Indias, or “Cartagena of the Indies,” is a city on Colombia’s northern coast in the Caribbean Coast Region and the headquarters of the Bolvar Department. According to the 2005 census, the city had a population of 892,545 people. It is Colombia’s fifth-largest city and the region’s second-largest after Barranquilla. The metropolitan area of Cartagena is also the country’s fifth-largest. Tourism and the marine and petrochemical industries are among the economic activities.

On June 1, 1533, the city was built and named after Cartagena, Spain, which was named after the old Carthage in Tunisia. However, indigenous peoples have been settling in this area surrounding Cartagena Bay since 4000 BC. Cartagena had an important role in the administration and growth of the Spanish empire throughout the colonial era. Because to the presence of monarchy and affluent viceroys, it was a hub of political and commercial activity. The medieval walled city and castle of Cartagena were named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984.

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Cartagena | Introduction

Cartagena – Info Card

POPULATION : • City 895,400 (approx.)
• Metro 1,239,430
FOUNDED :    June 1, 1533
TIME ZONE :  EST (UTC-5)
LANGUAGE :  Spanish
RELIGION :
AREA :   572 km2 (221 sq mi)
ELEVATION :   2 m (7 ft)
COORDINATES :  10°24′N 75°30′W
SEX RATIO :  Male: 49.2%
 Female: 50.8%
ETHNIC :
AREA CODE :  5
POSTAL CODE :  130000
DIALING CODE :  +57 5
WEBSITE : www.cartagena.gov.co

Tourism in Cartagena

Cartagena is a city in Bolvar, Colombia, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city was one of the earliest havens for liberated African slaves in the Americas and is now home to an ethnic mix typical of Colombia’s own variation.

Cartagena, with a population of almost 900.000 people, is situated on the Caribbean Sea’s northern coast. It was fortified and served as the regional seat of the Inquisition after being founded by the Spanish in 1533. The outstanding Spanish-era structures are now a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Cartagena is becoming the most visited tourist destination in Colombia. During the December holidays and Holy Week, when schools are out and most Colombians are on vacation, it becomes tremendously congested. The city includes two major tourist areas: the walled colonial city (“ciudad amurallada”), which is genuinely wonderful and has many elegant restaurants, bars, and hotels; and Bocagrande, a long strip of hotel towers and condominiums fronting onto the beach. It’s also worth going to the posh Castillogrande area, which has freshly constructed condominiums, places to jog, and a peaceful beach to soak up some rays.

The city’s climate is characterised by dry and wet seasons due to its location in the tropics. The dry season lasts from December to April, and it rains less in July. Despite this, there are still more sunny days than wet days every month throughout the rainy season. Except for September and October, the monthly rainfall averages less than 100 mm. As a result, the temperature is quite consistent throughout the year, with daytime highs of +32°C and nighttime lows of +23°C.

TOURIST OFFICES

  • Turismo Cartagena de Indias, Plaza de la Aduana,  +57 5 660 1583.M-Sa 9-13 & 15-19, Su 9-17. The main tourist office.

Climate of Cartagena

Cartagena has a tropical climate that is both rainy and dry. The average humidity is over 90%, with rainy seasons occurring in May–June and October–November. The weather is often hot and windy.

The city’s climate is characterised by dry and wet seasons due to its location in the tropics. The dry season lasts from December to April, and it rains less in July. Despite this, there are still more sunny days than wet days every month throughout the rainy season. Except for September and October, the monthly rainfall averages less than 100 mm. As a result, the temperature is quite consistent throughout the year, with daytime highs of +32°C and nighttime lows of +23°C.

Geography of Cartagena

To the west, Cartagena confronts the Caribbean Sea. The Cartagena Bay to the south has two entrances: Bocachica (Small Mouth) to the south and Bocagrande (Big Mouth) to the north. Cartagena can be found at 10°25′ North, 75°32′ West (10.41667, 75.5333).

How To Travel To Cartagena

Get In - By plane

International flights arrive at Rafael Núñez International Airport (IATA: CTG) from New York City (JetBlue), Panama City (Copa Airlines), Quito, Fort Lauderdale (Spirit Airlines), Miami (Avianca), and Madrid (Iberia). Seasonal flights are available from a number of Canadian locations.

Domestic nonstop flights are available from Medelln, Cali, San Andrés, Bogotá, Montera (ADA airlines), Barrancabermeja, Bucaramanga, and Cucuta. The city is also served by the new low-cost airline VivaColombia.

The airport lies three kilometers north of the historic city. There are many ATMs and an exchange bureau at the airport where you may exchange cash and traveler’s checks. To go downtown, head to the taxi stand, where you’ll be given a receipt with the precise amount you’ll have to pay the driver, which will range between $10 and $12,000 depending on your location (2015 rate). To travel into town for less money, go approximately 50 meters (150 feet) to the street and hail one of the yellow taxis. You should be able to grab a taxi into town for around $6,000.

A more inexpensive option are the “Metrocar” and “Vehitrans” minibuses that run from Calle 70 near the airport to the India Catalina monument on the western outskirts of downtown ($1,800). Take the “Vehitrans” bus from downtown to the airport, which stops at the corner of the India Catalina monument (ask the driver to confirm the bus goes to the airport).

Get In - By bus

The bus terminal is 11 km east of the old city. Frequent white and green air-conditioned metrocar buses go to the old city and cost $1,800 (depending on the traffic goes between 45-90 minutes). Taking a cab costs $10,000, a late night surcharge of $500 applies after 8PM. Expreso Brasilia has lines:

  • to/from Medellin : $90,000 (normal)- 130,000 COP (VIP)/ 13 hour (6+ per day )
  • to/from Bogota : $128,000 COP / 18 hours

Unitransco has lines:

  • to/from Barranquilla : $12,000 COP / 2.5 hours (4 a day)
  • to/from Santa Marta : $28,000 COP / 4 hours (4 a day)
  • to/from Mompox : $40,000 COP / 6 hours (1 a day)
  • to/from Tolú : $23,000 COP / 3 hours (6:30PM)
  • to/from Montería : $40,000 COP / 4.5 hours (every 45min)

Rapido Ochoa has lines:

  • to/from Riohacha : $30.000 / 8 hours (daily)

If you are coming overland from Panama, your first bus will be from Turbo. Turbo to Monteria is $25,000 (4 hours) and Monteria to Cartagena $35,000 (4 hours) for express services. Expreso Brasilia, Expreso Amerlujo and Unitransco have a daily connection via Barranquilla to the Venezuelan capital Caracas, the two former for $200,000 taking 20 hours. If you travel with Unitransco it’s a bit cheaper but it entails and additional transfer of buses at the border.

You may be able to bargain down prices for long-distance tickets, locals do that too.

Get In - By boat

Cartagena is a major port for charter boats traveling between Colombia and Panama. There are numerous private boats that do this voyage, but prepare to wait several days. Fares range from $375 to $500, depending on the size of the boat and the on-board facilities. The expedition normally lasts four nights and five days, including a two- or three-day break in the San Blas Islands. Instead of leaving from Colón, the boats depart from Portobelo or Carti Islands Kuna Yala in Panama. The hotel Casa Viena has reliable information about departure dates and captains.

Cruise ships frequently make day-long port calls here, especially during the colder months in North America. Depending on their size and quantity on any given day, possible shore excursions might range from trips to the city itself to adjacent beaches and islands. Few people will travel to other cities. The cruise ship harbor is roughly 3 kilometers southeast of the old town and is probably easiest reached by cab or foot.

Get In - By Car

Good highways connect the city to the rest of Colombia. Ruta 90 (Transversal del Caribe) runs along the coast from Cartagena to Barranquilla and Turbo and has been converted to a limited-access motorway. You may also drive here from Bogota, but it will take you more than 1000 kilometers.

How To Get Around In Cartagena

Get In - By foot

The best way to explore the ancient town is on foot. The majority of Bocagrande’s attractions are also within walking distance.

Get In - By bus

Many buses travel around the city to various sites such as the San Felipe fort, Bocagrande, Castillogrande, and the airport. Inquire with the driver or other passengers about which bus will take you to your destination. The driver sold an urban bus ticket for $1800. On the negative, buses move slowly, stop at every intersection, and seldom choose the shortest route, so anticipate a bus journey from A to B to take multiple times as long as a cab ride.

Get In - By bike

  • VelotoursCalle Don Sancho, Edif. Agua Marina Of. 100A,  +57 5 6649714Bike rental. 3 hours COP$22.000, 8 hours $47.000, (first) day $120.000, each following day $30.000, week $240.000.
  • Bike & ArtMedia Luna 10 #23,  +57 311 4185883, e-mail:Bike rental. 1hour $4,000, 3 hours $10,000.

Get In - By taxi

Taxis in Cartagena do not have meters, therefore fares must be negotiated. There are printed fares, although they are more in the nature of minimum fares. Even agreed prices are frequently higher, especially during peak season. There are additional night and air conditioning costs in the hundreds of pesos. Before getting inside the vehicle, confirm your fare. Taxi drivers may demand exorbitant prices if they are not pre-negotiated.

Taxis are normally simple to obtain, however in the old town, you may need to go a few streets out from the center, toward the larger road along the wall. Expect to pay $6,000 for transportation from the old town to Boca Grande or vice versa, or $6,000 for transportation inside Bocagrande or within the old town; transportation from the airport to the old town or vice versa is $10-12,000.

Get In - By chariot

A chariot ride is a popular option for tourists to see the ancient town. These may be hailed down on the street, or there are typically a few waiting around the Plaza Bolvar or the Santa Clara hotel. They are evocative of historic Cartagena’s public transit and effectively complete the ambience of the old town.

Get In - By boat

Cartagena has various harbors for boats sailing to the Islas del Rosario and Playa Blanca, including the Muelle Turistico de la Bodeguita and Muelle Todomar. One of the simplest alternatives (which includes a nice lunch and roundtrip tickets [you may return the same day or stay as long as you like as long as you maintain your ticket stub] is to travel on one of the huge ships like the Alcatraz. These are the cheapest at $25,000, but be warned: they take roughly four hours to reach to Playa Blanca since they travel slowly and stop at the Rosario Islands Aquarium first (which is rather boring).

Sights & Landmarks In Cartagena

Cartagena has numerous faces: a grimy, spreading Caribbean metropolis, a vast “hotel ghetto” in Bocagrande, and lastly the old town, with its well-polished façade of a once-affluent colonial city. Cartagena’s major draw is its ancient old town, which is encompassed by the city wall. The Clock Tower Building serves as the main entryway. Centro, San Diego, Getseman, and the contemporary portion La Matuna are all part of the walled city. Cartagena’s historic center is located around Plaza Trinidad in Getseman. Cartagena’s 500-year-old coralstone forts and large portions of its walled city remain in excellent condition and represent some of the greatest examples of civil and military architecture from the Spanish colonial period.

Almost all of the churches in the historic center are worth seeing, particularly the Iglesia de San Pedro Claver, named after the priest St. Pedro Claver, who was the first saint of the new world for his work with slaves; La Catedral, near Plaza de Bolvar; and the Iglesia de Santo Domingo.

The old town is separated into three sections: El Centro, which has the cathedral and several palaces in the Andalucian style, San Diego, which houses commerce and the bourgeoisie, and Getseman, which houses the poorer classes. The historic harbor of Getseman, which once separated El Centro and San Diego, has been turned into the old town’s new commercial center, La Matuna, during the previous century. The pedestrian area Camellón de los Martires is also located here, and it is a wonderful site to start exploring the ancient town.

  • Plaza de los CochesFrom Camellon de los Martires you pass through the historical city gate Puerto del Reloj, the gate of the clock, onto the triangular square Plaza de los Coches, the place of the carriages. Once this was one of the largest slave markets in all of Latin America, a major source of wealth to the city, aside of the gold export to Spain. Nowadays a statue of Pedro de Heredia, the founder of the city, stands on this square.
  • Plaza de la AduanaNext to the former, there is another beautiful triangular square, Plaza de la Aduana, surrounded by impressive arcaded buildings.One of these is Casa del Premio real, the house of the Spanish viceroy. This square has a statue as well, of Christopher Columbus.
  • Convento & Iglesia de San Pedro ClaverPlaza de San Pedro Claver,  +57 5 664 4991Mo-Sa 8-17, Su -16.30Named after Pedro Claver (1580-1654), a Spanish Jesuit who worked for 40 years for the rights and the wellbeing of the slaves in the city. He was beatified in 1888, and in 1985 named the patron saint of human rights. His relics are visible in a crystal arch under the altar. Moreover, on the second floor you can visit the room where he lived the last times of his life and died. On the second floor there is also an exhibition of Afro-Caribbean art. COP$6.000.
  • Museo Naval del CaribeCalle San Juan de Dios No 3-62+57 5 664 24409-19Located in a former Jesuit college right behind the convent. It offers an informative overview of the history of the city and the naval history of the Caribbean. However the exhibits are replicas, not originals. COP$6.000.
  • Plaza de BolívarSome blocks inwards there’s the Plaza de Bolívar with an equestrian statue of the liberation hero. Before the independence of Colombia this was known as Plaza de Inquisición, and next to it you can find the inquisition palace. where during two centuries the Catholic church held processes against heretics.
  • Palacio de la Inquisición (Museo de la Inquisición), Plaza de Bolívar,  +57 5 664 4570Mo-Sa 9-18, Su 10-16The museum of Palacio de la Inquisición (Palace of Inquisition) was where the Spanish Inquisition tortured, judged and convicted people accused of crimes against religion.The tribunal was responsible for all of South America and sentenced almost 700 people, including Jesuits opposing slavery. Many of the accused were badly tortured. Today the museum shows some instruments of torture actually used back then.COP$17.000. A tourist guide, in English, can be purchased for $15,000.
  • Museo del Oro y ArqueologíaPlaza de Bolívar,  +57 5 660 0778Tu-Fr 10.00-13.00 & 15.00-19.00, Sa 10.00-13.00 & 14.00-17.00, Su 11.00-16.00Also at the same square, this museum shows the religious gold artefacts of the Zenú (or Sinú) people who used to live along the coast. Not as large as the gold museum of Bógota, but still very worth seeing. However, the museum’s archaeological museum is even more interesting, showcasing the native people’s impressive achievements in controlling and canalling Rio Magdalena.Free.
  • Catedral de Santa CatalinaTu-Su 9.30-18.30A three-naved cathedral which is rather crude on the inside, but has an impressive tower. COP$10.000.
  • Iglesia de Santo DomingoPlaza de Santo Domingo,  +57 5 664 1301Tu-Sa 9-19, Su 12-20Not far from the cathedral is the oldest church in Cartagena. Santo Domingo on the eponymous square has been here since 1552. You can rent audio guides, available in many languages. COP$10.000.
  • Casa de Rafael Núñez (outside the walls, direction Marbella),  +57 5 664 5305Tu-Fr 9-17.30, Sa 10-17.30, Su 10-16This wooden building was the home of the 19th century poet and president Rafael Núñez (1825-1894). He wrote the text to the Colombian national anthem, and also participated writing the constitution which was in force from 1886 to 1991.COP$4.000.
  • Monumento a la India CatalinaA landmark dedicated to and named after the city’s founder Pedro de Heredia’s native translator Catalina.
  • Castillo de San Felipe8AM-6PMA fortress designed by the Dutch engineer Richard Carr and built in 1657 by the Spanish for protection against pirates while shipping gold out to Europe. The largest fort the Spanish ever built in their colonies, this fort was conquered only once by French privateer Baron de Pointis in 1697. It’s filled with an extensive maze of tunnels, which you can explore on a guided tour. $17,000 COP (half price on Wednesdays). Great audio guide $10,000 COP.
  • La PopaClose to the San Felipe fortress is the 150m high La Popa hill, which offers great views over Cartagena and the harbour area. The 17th century Santa Cruz monastery is here, which has a beautifully restored courtyard and a fine image of the Virgin of La Candelaria, the patron saint of the city. On the 2nd of February every year, pilgrims celebrate her. Entrance to La Popa is $8,000 for adults and a little less for children. Note that taking a taxi up and down the hill will cost you a shocking $50,000. Negotiate this with the driver before going. It is advised that you do not walk up as it can be dangerous.

Things to do In Cartagena

The historic and urban beauties are enhanced by nearby coral reefs, powdery beaches, spectacular mangroves, and canals.

Tours

  • Chiva Busafternoons, eveningsChiva Bus is a must do fun activity in Cartagena. If you’ve visited Cartagena for even a day you’ve undoubtedly seen the open air, colorful buses going through the city loaded with people having fun, drinking and enjoying the loud beat of local music. A good activity for couples, families or groups. There are various pickup locations at mostly tourist hotels (Decameron, Caribe, Hilton etc.) or just talk your the people to make arrangements. Prices range from $18.000-25.000 depending on tour.

You can also take a horse and carriage tour

  • Guided bike toursCalle Don Sancho, Edif. Agua Marina Of. 100A+57 5 6649714historical tour USD 45, night tour USD 60.

Learn

  • Latin Dance LessonsLatin dances, firstly the Salsa form an integral part of Caribbean culture. The colorful mixture of people in Cartagena and their passionate way of living find one if its most eminent expressions in the vibrant rhythms all around. Crazy Salsa offers you a wide range of Latin dance classes, focusing on Salsa, Meringue and Bachata. There are introductory classes every Friday and Saturday at 5PM for just $10.000—for advanced and intensive classes, workshops or other questions visit crazysalasa.net.
  • Spanish ClassesCartagena is an ideal city for some extended Spanish language studies—a beautiful but not too large city center, close by beaches and heaps of activities to do. Colombia is also renown for its pure Spanish which is perfect for learners. There are several Spanish language schools in Cartagena. BABEL International Language Institute is located directly in the old city in one of the picturesque streets. They offer all kinds of group and private classes and also combined Spanish and Salsa packages
  • Casa Cultural Colombo Alemana de CartagenaCalle 38 No. 5 – 31, Calle Estanco del Aguardiente,  +57 5 6602522
  • Nueva LenguaCalle del Pozo No 25-95,+57 5 660 1736Located in Getsemaní, this language school offers courses from five days and longer.
  • Raíces: Spanish & CultureGetsemaní. Del Pozo Street. N° 28-24 Oficna 102.(Diagonal the Plaza de la Trinidad.),  +57-3183696923, e-mail: 09:00-18:00The main focus of this Spanish school is immersion courses: their philosophy is that it’s more interesting and better for students to learn in a cultural environment that shows the richness of the Spanish language. Flexible schedule, good prices, nice and friendly teachers committed with the learning of their students.

Beaches southwest of Cartagena

The most convenient way to go to the beach is to head west, where there are sand beaches both north of the old town and on the Bocagrande peninsula.

However, there are a few beach spots within one or two hours of Cartagena by boat. Boats often depart Cartagena in the morning and return in the early afternoon (mostly around Muelle de la Bodeguita). Trips are frequently offered as two-way boat tickets with lunch, but to prevent disappointment, avoid dealing with roving ticket touts and instead purchase tickets at a ticket office or kiosk. Be informed that a $10.000 port cost is not included in the advertised ticket pricing. You should also bring insect spray with you to these out-of-town spots.

Playa Blanca is commonly recognized as Cartagena’s nicest beach, however it is not easily accessible. With its beautiful sand and crystal blue water, it is likely one of Colombia’s greatest beaches. It is also incredibly serene and quiet once the tour boats leave in the afternoon. It is worthwhile to spend at least one night on Playa Blanca. There are various locations to hire hammocks and purchase food and beverages. “Wittenberg’s location,” for example.

You will be solicited on the beach to buy massages, fruit platters, sea cuisine, and jewelry, among other things – they may be rather persistent in pushing their products and services. Keep an eye out for oyster dealers who will offer you an oyster to try as a gift (regalo). They will rapidly open the shells and bring you a number of oysters before telling you that each one costs $2.000. Avoid the $30.000 fine and the ensuing confrontation on the beach. Ask around for Nelson Mandela if you want amazing fish and Coco Locos. Sunbathers are frequently urged to hire a $5,000 “stall.”

  • By boat Take a bus or taxi to “Mercado Bazurto”, the big market of Cartagena about 10 minutes from the Center. From there, every day, except Sundays, small cargo-boats (lancha de carga) leave for Playa Blanca. They don´t have an exact departure time, be there before 9AM to be sure. You will have to pay about $20.000 each way (December 2008) and the trip takes more or less 1 hour to reach the beach. The way back is much easier, most boats (tour boats) will bring you back for around $15.000. Keep in mind that the last boats from Playa Blanca to Cartagena leave around 2-3PM! More comfortable and safer is taking a round-trip from the centre at Muelle de las Pegasos. You can bargain down a one-way-trip without lunch to about 25.000 Pesos plus 8.300 port tax. The tour takes you to Rosario Islands first until it reaches Playa Blanca in the late morning. You can leave the tour there to stay overnight.
  • Overland by public transport (1.5 hours): take a bus to Pasacaballos from calle 30 / carrera 17 (in front of the castle – the bus will have a big Pasacaballos sign in front). The bus will leave you either in Pasacaballos or a bit before, under a highway arch; either way, you can take a taxi or mototaxi to Playa Blanca. The bus is 1,900 COP and the taxi is 10,000 COP per person (the mototaxi should be a bit less). The whole trip takes about 1.5 hours.

Cholon’s Bay Sportbaru is located farther down from Playa Blanca on Isla Baru in the Gulf of Cholon and is definitely worth a visit. This serene beachside resort has water activities, boat excursions, eco walks, gaming and meeting areas, a restaurant and bar, and an amazing staff that is highly attentive to satisfy any of your needs. You may take a day trip from Cartagena or stay overnight in one of the lovely cabanas that front the beach.

The Rosario Islands Several travel companies provide boat trips to Islas del Rosario. A group of tiny islands off the shore. The excursion usually includes lunch, a visit to an aquarium, and a few hours at Playa Blanca. The harbor tax and park admission cost ($12.000 total) as well as the aquarium entrance fee ($15.000) are not included in the price. If you purchase your tour from a street seller, do not pay in advance; rather, pay in part or in whole when you return to Cartagena. At least one of these trips takes you to a resort called “Coco Liso,” which is similar to a Colombian butlins. You’ll be promised a beach, pay a premium charge, and then disembark after an hour and a half on a boat to be greeted with a rather basic hotel, gimmicky pool, and a little sliver of beach. Purchasing a piece of “coral” jewelry from one of the many hawkers, engaging them in conversation, and they may bring you to their private beach – rather gorgeous, and all the more intriguing for its existence being completely denied by tour operators. The tourist offices in the old town are an excellent site to compare the many island itineraries available.

Food & Restaurants In Cartagena

Cartagena has a complex fusion cuisine that combines products and methods from the New and Old Worlds, as well as its original African, Arabian, and other traditions. Lunch and supper set menus at local restaurants called ‘corrientes’ cost roughly $6.000 (US $3). Fried fish (if you’re near the shore), chicken or beef, eaten with coconut rice (arroz de coco), fried plantains (patacones), and salad are traditional dishes. There are several establishments that sell $2,000 fruit drinks. Colombia has a wide selection of exotic fruits that may be blended with water or milk.

Several nice eateries may be found strewn around the streets of the old town, notably near the Plaza Santo Domingo. Keep in mind that many of the city’s eateries are closed on Sundays.

Budget

  • Pan de Bono (corner of Calle del Porvenir and Calle San Agustin). A bakery where you can get a fresh and inexpensive snack in the form of sandwiches. Try the local cassava bread! Budget.
  • Café Juan Valdez (corner of Cl. San Agustin and Cl. de la Universidad, also other locations). Coffee chain with a large variety of coffees and different cakes. Free WLAN.Budget.
  • Crepes & Waffles (Several locations). Very nice Colombian franchise restaurant which offers very good dishes to excellent prices (dishes around US $5). dishes around $15000.
  • El Corral (One is located on Plaza San Pedro, 4 others further out.). Very nice Colombian franchise hamburger chain. Good quality hamburgers for $10.000-15.000 pesos for a combo.
  • Gelateria ParadisoHas unreal ice cream, with a large assortment of different exotic fruit flavors. Fans of coffee ice cream must stop by for a scoop.. Corner of Calle del Cuartel and Calle de la Estrella. $4.000 for small cup, $6.000 for medium.
  • AbacoCalle de la MantillaCafe & Book Store is a great place to relax and get some peace and quiet. Local books on Cartagena in addition to great coffee. Hot beverage and cake around $9000.
  • AtahualpaCarrera 7 (At end of Calle de Tablada at the Plaza de Managua.). Peruvian place with fresh fish. The menu of the day is great value Set dinner soup, main and juice for only $12.000.

Mid-range

  • El BistroCalle Ayos 4-46 (2 blocks from Plaza Santo Domingo),  +57 5 664 1799German-owned restaurant with excellent European kitchen, especially the steak is good. Also, they have home-made German bread and you can have German beer here too. Breakfast for around $10000, mains around $25000.
  • La CevicheriaCalle Stuart 7 (opposite Hotel Santa Clara),  +57 5 664-2760A great selection of hot and cold ceviches. around $25000 a dish.
  • La VitrolaCalle Baloco no. 33-201Considered the best restaurant in town. Cuban ambiance, good food – high prices. It is located Calle Baloco on the corner front to the historical walls. Mid-range.
  • Sol de la IndiaCalle Tumbamuertos 38-43+57 5 660-947611:30AM-10PMExcellent vegetarian Indian food in the old town. For lunch they offer an all-inclusive (also drinks) buffet for $15,000 pesos that varies every day. They also offer yoga classes (around US $8) and massages. Super nice and enthusiastic restaurant owners. dishes around $25000-30000, also pizza and pasta for around of that.
  • Restaurante Bar El Muelle (El Laguisto Beach Club), Carrere 1 ra. No. 1A – 23There are many good restaurants in the Bocagrande area on the beach. The food is of decent quality, but the delight is the water coming up to the restaurant. The host speaks English, Spanish, French, some Portuguese and Turkish! Mid-range.
  • La MulataCalle Quero 9-58+57 5 66 46 222A choice of a few set lunch options. Different menu every day of the week. Delicious and unpretentious. mains $20000-30000.
  • Otro Mundo (Bistrò-Bar-Pizzeria), Calle San Agustin 6-68+57 5 660231409-24Otro Mundo Bistrò-Bar-Pizzeria it is located in Centro Historico de Cartagena de Indias, Calle San Agustin 6-68, close Universita de Cartagena (Cartagena University). There you can eat excellent Croatian dishes, pastas, and the best pizza of America. Ambient is rustically tip, very clean with excellent service. The price of dishes and pizza is very good. In the local you can use gratis WiFi internet connection. They do also pizza delivery. Croatian Cevapcici $18.000 (US $10), Pasta frutos del mar $20.000 (US $11), Pizza small from $12.000 (US $7), Pizza medium $25.000 (US $14), until Pizza large $35.000 ($20).
  • El BalkoonCalle Tumbamuertos No. 28-85 2do. Piso Esquina2nd floor restaurant that overlooks the Plaza San Diego. Small balcony for seating, but great food, both fish and meat. Good set menus and 2-for-1 specials on cocktails every day from 6PM-9PM. About $26.000 with drink.
  • Restaurante La Casa de SocorroCl. Larga No. 8B-112,  +57 5 6644 658Traditional restaurant serving typical Caribbean fare: langoustines, crabs, ceviche, fish, all very tasty and well prepared. Popular among locals, especially for lunch. $20000-40000.
  • TeriyakiPlaza San Diego No. 8-28Sushi and Thai restaurant. $10000-30000.
  • Restaurante ZebraPlaza San Diego No.8-34,  +57 5 6642 177African-Caribbean fusion, pasta. Mid-range.

Splurge

  • Club de PescaAvenida MiramarFine dining restaurant specializing in the “fruits of the sea”. Great seafood and great atmosphere. Located in Manga with view to the bay and marinas of Cartagena. mains around $40000-60000.
  • Donde Olano (Olano´s), Calle Santo Domingo #33 – 81 (Near Plaza de Santo Domingo). Great sea food with fusion style, don´t miss the shrimps in passion fruit and coconut rice! Mains $30000-70000, but does have some more affordable alternatives.
  • QuebrachoCalle Baloco 2-69Argentinian restaurant at its best. Good meat, good ambiance. Dishes around $55000.
  • Cafe El SantisimoCalle del Torno 39 – 76One of the must see restaurants of Cartagena. Dishes around $50000.

Shopping In Cartagena

Getting money

Most hotels and expensive restaurants accept credit cards, however many establishments, particularly taxis, only accept Colombian pesos. Some banks will exchange money, however the rates may not be the best. Using your debit card at an ATM machine is the simplest way to get pesos. Another method is to use a Cambio or currency exchange kiosk, however your exchange rate will be somewhat higher than if you used a debit card. When using a credit card at an ATM, you must enter a PIN number, so contact your banking institution ahead of time.

  • CitibankAv Venezuela, Edificio Citibank (1st floor). the bank M-F 8-12 & 14-16.30There is a large Citibank ATM location on calle Venezuela near Barrio San Diego that has a guard out front. Seemingly available 24/7.
  • Banco de BogotáAv Venezuela (Centro Comercial Uno # 105-107). M-F 8-11.30 & 14-16, Sa -16.30, Su
  • Giros y Finanzas (several locations around town). M-F 8-17, Sa 8-14Western Union affiliated exchange office.

Handicrafts

Handcrafts are trendy and classy. Emeralds are sold all across Cartagena, including polished and uncut loose emeralds, as well as stunning jewelry. The rates in the old walled city can be inexpensive, and the selection is wide. The shops that sell emeralds and emerald jewelry go by many titles, such as “Taller y Fabrica de Joyas” (jewelry workshop and manufacturer), “Museo de Artesanias y Esmeraldas” (crafts and emeralds museum), or simply “Joyeria” (jewelry). Store owners will negotiate and give a “authenticity” certificate.

  • La Bemba GaleríaCalle Tumbamuertos #38-65 (Near Plaza San Diego, in the Historic Center), +57 3006780486, e-mail: M-W 9:30AM-8PM, T-Sat 9:30AM-9PMA cultural giftshop and gallery. Urban and pop art, to wear, to use, to play, to see, to give or just to remember. The perfect place to find sustainable gifts from Cartagena. The articles in the store are made, painted or designed by local or national (Colombian) artists. La Bemba Gallería soports local artists foundations.
  • Bóvedas (next to the city wall, near the Santa Catalina bastion). Various artesanal goods of good quality.
  • Q DesignCalle de la Iglesia, 4-16Design objects.
  • Portal de los Dulces (near Puerto del Reloj). Local sweets.

Touts

Take precautions. There are street hawkers everywhere, eager to guide you to establishments that give them significant “commissions”; you really pay them…through increased pricing. And, according to many reliable sources, if you don’t know much about emeralds and can’t tell the difference between 14K and 18K gold, you risk buying fake or “enhanced” stones or gold-plated metalwork at some stores, or paying more for quality items here than you would in reputable stores elsewhere in the Caribbean or at home.

If a street seller approaches you, your best chance is to smile and say “no, thank you,” and they will most likely leave you alone. If you do it harshly, they will most likely follow you around for a longer period of time.

Festivals and events In Cartagena

Major events take place during the dry season, coinciding with the Northern Hemisphere winter.

  • Fiesta Taurina2-6 JanBull fighting festival with fights on Plaza de Toros on Av. Pedro de Heredia outside downtown.
  • Festival lnternacional de Músicaearly JanClassical music festival with concerts in Teatro Heredia, the convents of Santa Teresa and Santa Clara and public places in the old town.
  • Hay Festivallate JanLiterary festival with public readings by authors.
  • Fiesta de Nuestra Señora de La Candelarialate Jan-early FebThe patron saint of Cartagena is celebrated during several days, the highlight being a massive procession up to the convent on the hill Cerro La Popa each 2nd of February.
  • o’Festival lnternacional del Cinelate Feb-early MarTraditional film festival featuring Latin American movies and documentaries.
  • Festival de Música del Caribelate MarAs the name reveals, a lot of reggae, calypso, salsa and merengue performances.
  • Carnaval de Cartagena11 NovThe party of the city, a large street festival in Getsemani.
  • Festival de Jazz Bajo la LunaDecJazz festival with performances all over the city.

Nightlife In Cartagena

The majority of pubs and clubs may be located in the old town or on Avenida del Arsenal, close to the Convention Center. Plaza San Diego is a bustling area with several clubs and restaurants on weekends.

  • La Avenida del ArsenalLa Avenida del Arsenal is located along the bay near the Centro de Convenciones. In its heyday it was the place to be. Now much of the nightlife in Cartagena has moved to the Ciudad Vieja, but this strip of about 10 discotecas is still a raging place to experience on weekends. Entry to most of the discos is $10.000-20.000.
  • Mister BabillaOne of the most popular watering holes for local Cartageneros is Mister Babilla, located on the Avenida del Arsenal, near the Centro de Convenciones. This place is great on the weekends and is notorious for having people dancing on the tables and the bar late into the night! A great time!
  • Cafe del MarBaluarte de Santo DomingoLocated atop the western wall providing sunset views and cocktails.
  • Salsa Donde FidelPlaza de la Aduana (Right by the clock gate). Great place to sit and people watch as the night gets going. Indoor and outdoor seating, according to one visitor the indoor is better. Good prices on drinks (beer $2500) and the place to meet Cartageneros and tourists alike.
  • Otro Mundo (Bistrò-Bar.Pizzeria), Calle San Agustin 6-68,  +57 5 660231409-24Otro Mundo Bistrò-Bar-Pizzeria is situated in Centro Historico de Cartagena, Calle San Agustin 6-68 and is near Universita de Cartagena. There you can eat excellent croatian dishes, pastas, and the best pizza of America. Ambient is very clean and service is excellent. The price and quality of the dishes and pizza are very good. Every day you can listen good music and taste also good drinks, like beer, coctails, juice and natural juice, all this with very good price and hospitable service.
  • Zorba WiskeriaPlaza Fernandez de MadridA great little corner bar that offers bottle service and a decent street scene. Very local. Beers are COP$3000 and a bottle of rum will set you back $27.000, which is pretty good. Right next door to a Pizzeria and up the street a few doors from a Lebanese Falafel house. Calle de la Tableda.

Nightlife In Cartagena

The majority of pubs and clubs may be located in the old town or on Avenida del Arsenal, close to the Convention Center. Plaza San Diego is a bustling area with several clubs and restaurants on weekends.

  • La Avenida del ArsenalLa Avenida del Arsenal is located along the bay near the Centro de Convenciones. In its heyday it was the place to be. Now much of the nightlife in Cartagena has moved to the Ciudad Vieja, but this strip of about 10 discotecas is still a raging place to experience on weekends. Entry to most of the discos is $10.000-20.000.
  • Mister BabillaOne of the most popular watering holes for local Cartageneros is Mister Babilla, located on the Avenida del Arsenal, near the Centro de Convenciones. This place is great on the weekends and is notorious for having people dancing on the tables and the bar late into the night! A great time!
  • Cafe del MarBaluarte de Santo DomingoLocated atop the western wall providing sunset views and cocktails.
  • Salsa Donde FidelPlaza de la Aduana (Right by the clock gate). Great place to sit and people watch as the night gets going. Indoor and outdoor seating, according to one visitor the indoor is better. Good prices on drinks (beer $2500) and the place to meet Cartageneros and tourists alike.
  • Otro Mundo (Bistrò-Bar.Pizzeria), Calle San Agustin 6-68,  +57 5 660231409-24Otro Mundo Bistrò-Bar-Pizzeria is situated in Centro Historico de Cartagena, Calle San Agustin 6-68 and is near Universita de Cartagena. There you can eat excellent croatian dishes, pastas, and the best pizza of America. Ambient is very clean and service is excellent. The price and quality of the dishes and pizza are very good. Every day you can listen good music and taste also good drinks, like beer, coctails, juice and natural juice, all this with very good price and hospitable service.
  • Zorba WiskeriaPlaza Fernandez de MadridA great little corner bar that offers bottle service and a decent street scene. Very local. Beers are COP$3000 and a bottle of rum will set you back $27.000, which is pretty good. Right next door to a Pizzeria and up the street a few doors from a Lebanese Falafel house. Calle de la Tableda.

Stay Safe & Healthy In Cartagena

Stay Safe In Cartagena

The touristed old town is no more hazardous than any other city in the first world, but venturing off the beaten path to the city’s outskirts puts you at risk of being robbed. When wandering at night, especially in isolated areas of the city, use extreme caution. Locals are generally kind and helpful. Street sellers might be vexing, but a simple “No quiero nada” in Spanish can put them at bay.

Possession of illicit narcotics can result in criminal prosecution in Colombia. Tourists are being duped into purchasing illicit substances as part of a hoax. If you try to buy, the “police” (the rest of the con gang) will appear in a minute, haul you off to the next ATM, and demand that you withdraw exorbitant sums to pay “fines” or even abduct you.

Watch out for the “money-changing-magicians”

Those street merchants will give you a very favorable exchange rate. After you’ve counted the money, you’ll see that a tiny bit is missing, and after you protest, he’ll put exactly that amount back on top. They’ll take some large notes from the bottom in the same move. Most individuals will not count their money again after thinking they received a good bargain but were actually ripped off.

Dodgy tours to Islas del Rosario and Playa Blanca

The trips available to explore Islas del Rosario and Playa Blanca might be disappointing. For about $50.000, you’ll be given a trip that “includes” either snorkeling or aquarium admission plus a supper at Playa Blanca. Once on the vacation, you discover that you must pay an additional $15.000 for the aquarium or snorkeling. To minimize conflicts, ensure that the tour guide on the boat is informed of what is covered by the person who sold the tour.

Going inside the marina and ignoring the “sales” guys outside is the best method to arrange a tour. They are paid a commission on sales and have no obligation to you. Once inside, request Elizabeth (known lovingly as La negra Liz”). She owns multiple boats, will give you the greatest deal, and most importantly, she will keep her word. For $700.000, you may charter your own tiny boat or reserve a seat for $75.000. Inquire about the itinerary ahead of time. Her firm, in instance, has a “resort” on the Rosario Islands. The resort is clean and attractive, with delicious meals at a fair price. Unfortunately, their beach access is restricted and underwhelming. Her boats will insist on transporting you there, but you can refuse. The greatest beach is by far Playa Blanca, however it might be overpowering with residents attempting to sell you their wares.

Baru Island and private villas operated by major hotels are more affluent locations (Santa Clara, Santa Teresa). Most enable you to spend the day at the beach. Each tour boat has its own agenda.

Taking a long distance bus

If you intend to take a bus to Santa Marta from the bus station, it is best to approach the ticket booths and purchase your tickets there. Otherwise, be aware that there is usually a bus service with a link in Barranquilla, where you will have to change buses and pay a second fee to Santa Marta, even if you have previously paid it in a previous vehicle and even if you were assured that this was a direct bus to Santa Marta. If you have this type of connection in Barranquilla, make sure you keep your tickets (even if they are collected shortly after departure) and that the guy who will meet you in a bus and guide you to another bus during a connection was clearly notified by a bus driver that you have already paid your fare to Santa Marta.

Stay Healthy In Cartagena

Colombia is experiencing an outbreak of the Zika virus, which is dangerous for pregnant women since it may seriously harm the fetus in the womb. The Colombian government advises its citizens to avoid pregnancy, while other countries urge women who are or may become pregnant to avoid traveling to the region. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued a travel warning.

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