The Complete Travel Guide to Cartagena: Is It Safe, What To Do, & Where To Eat
Cartagena took me by surprise. I was expecting color but I guess I just thought a few streets would be decorated. No, every single street was so colorful and a picture perfect opportunity. The energy was also very present and vibrant every night of the week.
Whether you’re planning a girls’ trip, romantic getaway, or even a solo trip, it’s a great weekend away from the States. It truly has everything: relaxing on the island at the beach club, eating some great food, experiencing the nightlife, and amazing sunsets.
After spending several days exploring Cartagena — from rooftop cocktails and unforgettable dinners to beach clubs and wandering the colorful streets — this guide includes everything I think you should know before you go!
QUICK COLOMBIA TRAVEL FACTS:
Currency: Colombia Peso (COP)
Language: Spanish
Time Zone: Central
Airport: Bucaramanga, Cartagena (CTG)
When to Travel: December - April (I went in July)
Can I Drink the Water? No, bottled water only!!!
Power Plugs: Type A and Type C (Same as USA)
Perfect For: Girls trips, winter escapes, foodies
COLOMBIA PRE TRIP MUST DO’S:
Before every international trip, I do these 3 things:
Get an eSim
International phone plans are expensive!! I use an eSim to stay connected so I have data as soon as I land.
Buy Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is always worth it, especially in today’s climate. Read why I always get it here. It covers flight delays, lost luggage, and medical emergencies. Just trust me on this one.
Register my trip at the nearest US embassy (especially for my solo travelers)
This is a free service that traveler’s can use so you can be contacted in case of an emergency. It’s always good to register where you are especially if you’re solo. You can do it here!
travel essentials I don’t travel without:
IS COLOMBIA SAFE?
Overall, yes.
I was warned several times before going to watch your phone, watch your drinks, and be vigilant. But given that I already do that every trip, I didn’t see how this was any different.
We spent majority of our time within the walled city but I never felt unsafe. My advice to anyone traveling is to always just make sure you’re being smart and safe.
HOW TO GET AROUND COLOMBIA
Airport: The main airport is Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG).
Bus Travel: Overnight buses are affordable and popular for budget travelers.
Train: You'll need to take a train to Machu Picchu unless you're hiking the Inca Trail. The PeruRail can take you to other cities if you want to explore day trips.
Walking: Neighborhoods like Miraflores and Barranco in Lima are very walkable. Cusco is also extremely walkable - there’s just a ton of stairs!
Uber: I used Uber anytime I felt like I couldn’t walk somewhere. In Lima, it’s super accessible and cheap. Cusco, there is Uber but I didn’t need it as much especially when there’s heavy traffic, you will need to take a taxi or walk.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
Cartagena is going to be hot all year round. So it depends on what works best for your schedule.
December - April (High Season): This is dry season and the most popular time to visit. You will always have sunny days, lower humidity, but also higher prices and more tourists.
May - November (Rainy Season): It will be HOT and humid (don’t say I didn’t warn you), possible rain showers, but lower prices and less crowds.
I went in July and it was hot but I didn’t think it was that different from Midwest summer.
WHERE TO STAY IN CARTAGENA
For First Timers
The Walled City
I recommend staying here if it’s your first time visiting - it’s super walkable, close to everything, and safe.
For Foodies and Young People
Getsemani
For Families and Resort Stays
Bocagrande
InterContinental Cartagena De Indias by IHG
WHERE TO EAT IN CARTAGENA
The food here surprised me for how good it was! A great restaurant and cocktail bar scene lives here in Cartagena. Street food is king here, so make sure you are trying a few things from the vendors!
Traditional foods to try:
Ceviche
Arepa de Huevo - a fried corn cake stuffed with eggs, find it from a street food vendor
Patacones - crispy fried plantains
Fresh Tropical Fruit - find at vendors
Posta Cartagena - slow-braised beef dish cooked in a sweet sauce
Coconut Rice
Go on a Food Tour
If you are only here a few short days, you should definitely book a food tour so you can try all of the best foods!
You can book your food tour here
Best Restaurants in Cartagena
BEST THINGS TO DO IN CARTAGENA
Wander the Walled City & Getsemani
This is the most colorful city so just take the time to wander around, snap some pics, and enjoy all the colors. Old Tow is an UNESCO World Heritage location and definitely one of the most photogenic places.
Just outside the walls is Getsemani — and it’s one of the trendiest neighborhoods. Grab a cocktail outside in one of the streets filled with decor ad flags!
Go to the Beach Club
This is a must when visiting Cartagena! Everyone needs/wants a day to relax at the beach with nice food and cocktails. There are several different beach clubs to go to so I would decide based on the vibe you want:
Island Hopping Tour - best way to see multiple beach clubs
Makani - best for luxury, couples, and great drinks
Bora Bora - best for party, socializing
Blue Apple Beach - best for boutique feel, wellness, boho vibes
Watch the Sunset
Head over to Cafe del Mar to catch the sunset - they usually have live music and a DJ. The cocktails are not the best so just come here to watch the sunset and skip grabbing a table.
Visit Castillo San Felipe de Barajas
The largest Spanish fortress ever built in the Americas offers incredible views over Cartagena and a fascinating look into the city’s colonial history. Go early in the morning before the heat sets in, and wear comfortable shoes.
WHAT TO WEAR IN CARTAGENA
It’s going to be hot so you’re going to want to be comfortable and wear light clothings — think flowy dresses, light fabrics, bright colors because it’s the most colorful city you will visit!!
Packing for Peru can be tricky because the climate changes dramatically depending on where you are. Read more about my packing tips here.
Must-pack items - check out my full carry-on list here.
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Portable charger
- Reusable water bottle
- Sunscreen
- Electrolyte packets
I put together a collection of items I did wear and would wear below!
Peru is one of those places that will surprise you in the best way possible. Between the incredible food, rich history, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable experiences, it's easy to see why so many travelers fall in love with this country. I know I did. I’m already planning a trip back.
Whether you're planning a girls' trip, a solo adventure, or your dream bucket-list vacation, Peru deserves a spot on your travel list.
