Hugging the stunning Caribbean coast of northern Colombia, Cartagena de Indias is the country’s most visited city and largest port. Its Old City, surrounded by 17-foot-thick fortification walls, reflects layers of history in its brightly colored colonial architecture, elegant courtyards, churches, monasteries and other sites. One of the most beautiful, well-preserved cities in the Americas, Cartagena sparkles with stylish accommodations, exciting nightlife, cultural festivals, a sizzling gastronomic scene and white-sand beaches.
GETTING THERE & AROUND
Most visitors fly into Rafael Núñez International Airport, just 3.5 miles from the city. Flights arrive from several U.S. cities including New York (JFK), Atlanta (ATL), Miami (MIA) and Fort Lauderdale (FLL). Inexpensive taxis operate 24/7; rideshare options are also available at the airport and within the city. You can explore much of Cartagena on foot, especially the walled city. Taxis are plentiful but unmetered; agree on a fare in advance. Uber now partners with TaxExpress in Cartagena, allowing you to request a traditional, licensed local yellow taxi using the Uber app.
LODGING
Casa San Agustín
A member of The Leading Hotels of the World, this boutique hotel graces three redesigned 17th-century houses with 20 guestrooms and 11 suites blending colonial heritage with modern luxury. Guests enjoy sumptuous outdoor spaces and vibrant cuisine at on-site Alma and Animare restaurants.
Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Cartagena
Opened in April 2026 in the Getsemaní neighborhood, this hotel embraces luxury at every turn. The 131 guestrooms include 27 colonial-style rooms and the flagship Catroux Suite with private elevator and terrace. Two rooftop pools with city and harbor views, full- service spa inside a restored cloister, and fitness center are also on site.
Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena
Set in a renovated convent, Sofitel Legend Santa Clara combines the mystery and colonial charm of Cartagena with luxury and flawless service. The property features a lush courtyard with a Botero sculpture, an inviting heated pool in the former orchard, a spa and the elegant 1621 restaurant.
DINING
1621
A former cloister dining room located at Sofitel Legend Santa Clara houses this award- winning restaurant fusing French culinary techniques with fresh Caribbean coastal ingredients. Also enjoy sommelier-developed pairings designed to marry with the flavors of the cuisine.
Candé
This upscale restaurant embodies Cartagena’s culture through gastronomy, décor, and music and dance. The menu features seafood, wild meats such as ram and rabbit, and soups like higadete (liver and ripe banana soup), based on generations-old recipes.
Carmen Cartagena
Enjoy a leisurely dinner in an intimate colonial house in the historic center. Carmen puts a contemporary spin on the flavors and ingredients of the Colombian Caribbean, paired with artisanal cocktails highlighting fruit, freshness and ancient liquors.
ATTRACTIONS
Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas
One of the great military wonders of the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site, this massive fortress built by the Spanish fortified the wealthy city against attacks. Take a self- guided audio tour (available in English) through the labyrinthine tunnels.
Museo del Oro Zenú
Learn about the daily lives of pre-Columbian people who inhabited the area for 6,000 years. Exhibits, offering English translation, showcase beautifully preserved gold work, pottery, wind instruments and filigree jewelry made by the indigenous Zenú people. Free admission.
Parque del Centenario
This popular park designed in the Neoclassical style of French gardens was built to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Cartagena’s independence from Spain. Today it not only offers a tranquil oasis of natural beauty but also hosts concerts, art exhibitions and traditional dance performances.
GT PICKS
Writer Jillian Dara recommends Casa Carolina, a holistic wellness oasis: “A stay here juxtaposes Cartagena’s past and modern day with original marble and old frescoes meticulously preserved under seven layers of paint alongside a rooftop pool, Ayurvedic spa treatments and a yoga studio — all housed within a stunning example of Spanish colonial architecture.” She also suggests dining at newcomer De Indias, where the menu reflects the chef’s Colombian upbringing and experience in European kitchens. Try crispy burrata with plantains or ceviche with coconut milk and quinoa.
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