Places to visit in Cartagena

Cartagena de Indias is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Colombia. The city, located on the Caribbean coast of the country, boasts a rich colonial history and a vibrant culture that attracts visitors from around the world. If you are planning a trip to Cartagena , here we present the best places to visit in the city.

1. Walled City

The Walled City is the heart of Cartagena and one of the most iconic places in the city. This walled historic center, built in the 16th century to protect the city from attacks by pirates and corsairs, is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walking through its narrow cobbled streets will transport you to the colonial era, with its colorful houses, beautiful squares and historic buildings such as the Cartagena Cathedral and the Palace of the Inquisition.

2. Castle of San Felipe de Barajas

The Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas is one of the most impressive monuments in Cartagena. Built in the 17th century by the Spanish to defend the city from English attacks, this fort is an impressive stone structure that stands on a hill overlooking the city. From here, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea and the city of Cartagena.

3. The Beaches of Bocagrande

The beaches of Bocagrande are the perfect place to relax and enjoy the sun and the Caribbean sea. This tourist area is located a short distance from the walled city and has several white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. In addition, here you will find a wide variety of restaurants, bars and shops, which makes it a very lively area.

4. La Popa Convent

The Convento de la Popa is a sacred place located on a hill overlooking the city of Cartagena. This convent, founded in the 17th century, offers impressive views of the city and the Caribbean Sea. In addition, the Convento de la Popa is a very special place, as it is home to a community of Carmelite nuns who have lived there for more than three hundred years.

5. Bazurto Market

The Bazurto Market is one of the largest and liveliest markets in Colombia. This open-air market, located in the Bazurto neighborhood, offers a wide variety of fresh products, such as fruits, vegetables, and seafood. In addition, here you will find a large number of vendors offering typical products of Caribbean culture, such as handicrafts, clothing and music.

6. Baru Island

Barú Island is one of the most beautiful islands in Colombia. This tropical paradise boasts dream beaches and crystal clear waters, perfect for practicing water sports and relaxing in the sun. In addition, here you will find a wide variety of tourist activities, such as boat trips, snorkeling and diving.

7. The Hill of La Popa

The Cerro de La Popa is another place from where you can enjoy impressive panoramic views of Cartagena and the Caribbean Sea. This hill, which is located in the eastern part of the city, has a small chapel and a botanical garden. In addition, Cerro de La Popa is a very important place in the history of Cartagena , since it was here that the pirate Francis Drake besieged the city in the 16th century.

8. The Castle of San Luis

The Castillo de San Luis is a fortress located in the extreme north of the city of Cartagena. This castle, built in the 17th century to defend the city from pirate attacks, is an impressive example of colonial-era military architecture. In addition, here you will find a museum that tells the history of the fortress and the city.

9. The House of Gabriel García Márquez

The House of Gabriel García Márquez is a very special place for lovers of literature. This small museum, located on Calle de la Merced, is the home where the famous Colombian writer lived during his childhood and adolescence. Here you can learn more about the life and work of the Nobel Prize for Literature.

10. The Adolfo Mejía Theater

The Adolfo Mejía Theater is an impressive building located in the Plaza de la Proclamación of the Walled City. This theater, built in the 19th century, is one of the most important places for performing arts in Colombia. Here you can enjoy a wide variety of shows, from operas and ballets to classical and contemporary music concerts.

11. The Clock Tower

The Clock Tower is one of the most recognized symbols of the city of Cartagena. This tower, located in the Plaza de los Coches, is the old entrance portal to the walled city. Here you will find a large number of shops and street vendors, which makes it a very lively and busy place.

Cartagena de Indias is one of the most popular and beautiful tourist destinations in Colombia. The city boasts a rich history , culture , and natural beauty , which are reflected in its historic monuments, beaches, and picturesque neighborhoods. If you plan to visit Cartagena, we recommend that you plan your trip in advance to ensure that you can visit all the places you want and experience everything the city has to offer. Also, make sure you book accommodation in a safe and comfortable place, and wear comfortable clothes and shoes to walk the cobbled streets and enjoy the beaches.