Old Town Cartagena
Centro, Cartagena, Bolivar
With its brightly colored buildings, colonial landmarks, and bougainvillea-covered balconies, it's easy to see why Old Town Cartagena is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Highlights include the leafy Plaza de Bolivar, the striking Clock Tower (Torre del Reloj), and the Gold Museum (Museo de Oro), home to a glittering collection of gold and pottery of the Zenú people. It’s the ideal place to wander aimlessly within its 16th-century walls, as every corner brings a photo opportunity.
The Basics
The Old Town is a staple of most Cartagena sightseeing tours, which provide a comprehensive introduction to the walled city for first-time visitors. Explore top attractions, including the Palace of the Inquisition (Palacio de la Inquisición), the church of San Pedro Claver, and Las Bóvedas (a series of vaults beneath the city) on foot or by bike, Segway, or air-conditioned minibus. Tours typically also cover the nearby San Felipe de Barajas Castle (even though it’s not technically part of the Old Town).
Things to Know Before You Go
Old Town Cartagena is one of the city’s highlights, popular with first-time visitors and history buffs.
Cobbled streets and uneven surfaces can make tours bumpy for travelers in wheelchairs and families with strollers.
There are plenty of accommodation, restaurants, and bars in Old Town Cartagena. During peak season, make hotel and restaurant recommendations in well in advance.
How to Get There
The vast majority of Cartagena hotels are located in the Old Town, within walking distance of the main square and other attractions. From Cartagena Airport, you can take a private taxi to the Old Town or opt for a local colectivo (shared taxi), which depart from just outside the arrivals hall.
When to Get There
To avoid the heat of the day, try getting to the Old Town in the early morning or late afternoon. The Plaza de Bolivar also offers shady spots comfortable in the middle of the day, as well as air-conditioned museums and restaurants.
San Felipe de Barajas Castle
No visit to Cartagena would be complete without a visit to San Felipe de Barajas Castle, the city’s most visible architectural symbol. The 14th-century fortress, built by the Spanish, protected the coastal city from English invasion. The castle attracts visitors interested in its history and its panoramic harbor views.
Ways to explore
The Old Town is a staple of most Cartagena sightseeing tours, which help you navigate its tightly packed streets on foot, by bike, Segway, or air-conditioned minibus. Most itineraries cover the 18th-century Palace of the Inquisition, which harbors a troubling history; the Church of San Pedro Claver, dedicated to a religious revolutionary; and Las Bóvedas, a series of vaults beneath the city. Tours typically also cover the nearby San Felipe de Barajas Castle (even though it’s not technically part of the Old Town).
Accessibility
Cobbled streets and uneven surfaces in Old Town Cartagena can make tours bumpy for travelers in wheelchairs and families with strollers.
Age limits
None
What to pack
As well as plenty of water and sun protection, take a shawl or shirt to cover your shoulders if you plan on entering any of the churches in the Old Town.
What to wear
Cartagena is generally hot and humid, so wear light and breathable clothing that’ll keep you cool.
Not allowed
Loud or disruptive behavior
Amenities
Restaurants, souvenir stalls, historical attractions, ATMs, hotels, tours
Address
The vast majority of Cartagena hotels are located in the Old Town, within walking distance of the main square and other attractions.
Driving
From Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG), drive straight on Calle 70. Merge onto Avenida Santander and follow signs for Centro/Centro Histórico. Continue straight until you reach the Old Town area.
Public transportation
From Cartagena Airport, you can take a private taxi to the Old Town or opt for a local colectivo (shared taxi), which departs from just outside the arrivals hall.
Best times to visit
To avoid the heat of the day, try getting to the Old Town in the early morning or late afternoon.
Best days to visit
Most Old Town Cartagena museums close on Mondays, so visit on other weekdays for your culture fix.
Best months to visit
The dry season runs from December through April; bear in mind that hotel prices are much higher during the start of peak season.
Special events
Colombia loves a party, and Cartagena is no different, with its year-round roster of events: Go in November to catch the parades of Independence Day.
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