Cartagena Colombia 2 Day Itinerary

Cartagena, Colombia: 2-Day Itinerary

This itinerary focuses on the historical and cultural highlights of Cartagena, with a blend of exploration and relaxation.

Day 1:

Morning:

  • Arrival & Check-in (8:00 AM - 10:00 AM):
    • Arrive in Cartagena (Rafael Núñez International Airport - CTG)
    • Take a taxi to your accommodation within the walled city (around $15-$20 USD). Be sure to agree on a price beforehand, as taxis don’t use meters.

Things to Know:

  • Weather: Cartagena is hot and humid year-round. Pack light clothing, sunscreen, and mosquito repellent.
  • Currency: The Colombian Peso (COP) is the currency. US dollars are generally accepted, but expect to receive change in pesos.

Itinerary:

  • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Explore the Walled City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Start at the impressive Clock Tower (Torre del Reloj) and wander through the historic streets. Visit:
    • Plaza de Bolívar: The heart of the historic district, with beautiful colonial architecture and plenty of history.
    • The Palace of the Inquisition (Palacio de la Inquisición): A fascinating museum that explores the history of the Spanish Inquisition in Cartagena.

Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:30 PM):

  • La Cevicheria: Enjoy fresh and delicious ceviche in a vibrant atmosphere.
  • Don Juan: This restaurant offers traditional Colombian cuisine with a focus on seafood.

Things to Do:

  • Wander the streets of the Walled City: Explore the charming, narrow streets, colorful colonial buildings, and bustling plazas.

  • Visit the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas: This impressive fortress offers stunning views of the city.

  • Afternoon:

  • Relax on the beach at Playa Bocagrande or Playa Manzanillo.

  • Stroll through the Parque Bolívar, enjoying street performers, vendors, and the lively atmosphere.

  • Evening:

  • Dinner & Drinks: Indulge in a traditional Colombian meal at La Mulata for a vibrant, cultural experience. For drinks, enjoy the sunset and ocean views with a cocktail at Café del Mar.

  • Tip: Consider joining a food tour within the walled city to sample local delicacies and learn about their history.

Day 2:

  • Morning:

  • Explore the historic Getsemaní neighborhood, known for its street art, vibrant nightlife, and charming colonial architecture.

  • Things to do:

    • Wander the streets of the walled city, checking out the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas again, this time with the sun setting over it, or visit the colorful murals in Getsemaní, a great way to see how the local culture is expressed.
    • Learn about Colombian cuisine at Mercado Bazurto.

  • Afternoon: Enjoy the sunshine and relax by the pool at your hotel.

Evening:

  • Dinner & Dancing (7:00 PM - 9:00 PM): Experience the vibrant nightlife of Cartagena’s historic city center with a delicious dinner and a night of dancing.
  • Things to do: Enjoy a cooking class in Getsemaní, where you can learn how to make some of the dishes from the local market.

Day 2 Itinerary (cont.):

  • Evening: Enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Cartagena’s historic city center.
    • Explore the nightlife and bars along Calle del Arsenal.
    • Experience a salsa lesson, a fun and unique activity for your last night in Cartagena.
  • Things to do:
    • Attend a live music performance: Enjoy the lively music scene at Café Havana or La Jugada.

Transportation:

  • Taxis are readily available within the walled city and are a convenient way to get around.

Tips for Travelers:

  • Learn some Spanish phrases: It will be helpful when interacting with locals, as English is not widely spoken in Cartagena.
  • Negotiate fares before getting into a taxi: Taxi drivers in Cartagena don’t use meters.
  • Be aware of your surroundings: Especially in crowded areas and at night.
  • Carry small bills for paying: Taxis may not have change for large bills.

Other things to consider:

  • Safety: While Cartagena is generally safe, it’s always wise to be cautious. Stick to well-lit and populated areas, avoid wearing flashy jewelry, and don’t walk alone at night, especially in less touristy parts of the city.**

  • Weather:

  • Rainy season (May - October): Expect afternoon showers, but they are usually brief and intense. Pack accordingly!

  • Transportation: For transportation outside the walled city, taxis are the easiest option. Be sure to negotiate a price before you start your journey.

  • Things to do:

  • Carry sunscreen: The sun is strong even on cloudy days.

  • Take advantage of the heat: Enjoy outdoor activities like swimming and exploring the beach.

Important Note:

  • Always be prepared for crowds.

  • Tip: Be patient and remember that a little patience goes a long way in Cartagena.

  • Enjoy the local culture: Visit the vibrant Mercado de Bazurto, but remember to be aware of scams.

  • Bring cash for small purchases like souvenirs, snacks, and taxi fares.

  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and juices throughout your trip.