Cartagena 5-day itinerary

How many days do you need in Cartagena?

5 days is enough for Cartagena. This plan fits 19 stops, about 4 a day, so nothing feels rushed.

Day 1 in Cartagena: Getsemaní Immersion

Start at Local Artisan Workshop Visit, then Explore the colorful streets of Getsemaní, Getsemaní Street Food Tour, finish at Restaurante Alma.

• 1:00 PM Local Artisan Workshop Visit
  Engage with local artisans and discover unique handcrafted goods, from intricate jewelry to colourful textiles. This is an opportunity to support local craftspeople and find authentic souvenirs.
• 3:10 PM Explore the colorful streets of Getsemaní
  Wander through the lively streets of Getsemaní, known for its stunning street art, colonial architecture, and lively atmosphere. This neighbourhood is a living canvas.
• 5:10 PM Getsemaní Street Food Tour
  Set off on a guided exploration of Getsemaní's lively street food scene. Sample local delicacies like arepas, empanadas, and fresh tropical juices.
• 9:45 PM Restaurante Alma
  Experience excellent Colombian cuisine with a modern twist in a romantic courtyard setting. This restaurant offers a refined dining experience that highlights local ingredients.

Day 2 in Cartagena: Historic Heartbeat

Start at Cafe del Mar Cartagena, then Plaza de Bolívar, Palacio de la Inquisición, Convento de San Pedro Claver, Torre del Reloj, Las Bóvedas, finish at Walk along the city walls (Las Murallas).

• 10:00 AM Cafe del Mar Cartagena
  Enjoy breathtaking sunset views over the Caribbean Sea from this iconic bar atop the city walls. It's a perfect spot to relax and soak in the atmosphere.
• 11:10 AM Plaza de Bolívar
  A lively central square surrounded by important colonial buildings, including the Palace of the Inquisition and the Metropolitan Cathedral. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
• 1:00 PM Palacio de la Inquisición
  Housed in a grand colonial building, this museum details the dark history of the Spanish Inquisition in Cartagena, with exhibits on torture and religious persecution.
• 2:30 PM Convento de San Pedro Claver
  A beautiful 17th-century church and former monastery dedicated to Saint Peter Claver, a Jesuit missionary who ministered to enslaved Africans. Features a cloister and museum.
• 4:30 PM Torre del Reloj
  The iconic Clock Tower, a grand entrance to the walled city, serving as a prominent landmark and a gateway to the bustling port area.
• 4:30 PM Las Bóvedas
  A historic complex of 23 dungeons built into the city walls, now housing artisan shops selling local crafts, souvenirs, and artwork.
• 5:30 PM Walk along the city walls (Las Murallas)
  Stroll along the historic ramparts that once protected Cartagena from pirates. Offers stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and the city skyline.

Day 3 in Cartagena: Island & Old Town

Start at Museo Naval del Caribe, then Cartagena Cooking Class, Museo del Oro Zenú, finish at Restaurante Carmen.

• 11:00 AM Museo Naval del Caribe
  Explore the rich maritime history of Cartagena and Colombia through fascinating exhibits. The museum is housed in a beautiful colonial building.
• 1:30 PM Cartagena Cooking Class
  Get stuck into Colombian flavours with a hands-on cooking class. Learn to prepare traditional dishes using fresh, local ingredients, followed by a delicious meal you helped create.
• 4:10 PM Museo del Oro Zenú
  Discover the pre-Hispanic gold artifacts of the Zenú culture. This museum showcases intricate craftsmanship and offers a glimpse into the region's ancient history.
• 7:40 PM Restaurante Carmen
  Dig into a sophisticated culinary trip with creative dishes and impeccable service. This restaurant is renowned for its innovative approach to Colombian flavours.

Day 4 in Cartagena: Forts & Flavours

Spend it at Playa Blanca, Barú.

• 09:30 AM Playa Blanca, Barú
  A stunning white-sand beach on Isla Barú, offering crystal-clear waters and a relaxed coastal vibe. It's a perfect escape from the city's historical intensity.

Day 5 in Cartagena: Flavours of Cartagena

Start at Cerro de La Popa Viewpoint, then Convento de la Popa, finish at Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas.

• 10:00 AM Cerro de La Popa Viewpoint
  The summit of La Popa hill provides breathtaking, unobstructed 360-degree views of Cartagena, the Caribbean Sea, and surrounding islands. It's a perfect spot for photos and soaking in the coastal calm.
• 12:00 PM Convento de la Popa
  Perched atop the highest hill, this 17th-century Augustinian monastery offers panoramic views of the city and bay. Explore its calm cloisters and learn about its historical significance.
• 1:40 PM Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas
  A massive Spanish fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering panoramic views of Cartagena. Explore its complex network of tunnels and ramparts.

Where to eat in Cartagena?

Start with Restaurante 1621 in Centro Histórico, then work down this list.

• Restaurante 1621, Centro Histórico
  Experience fine dining in a stunning colonial courtyard, offering a romantic ambiance and excellent Colombian fusion cuisine.
• Alma Restaurante Bar, Centro Histórico
  Located in a beautiful colonial house, Alma serves modern Colombian dishes with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
• La Cocina de Pepina, Getsemaní
  A no-frills, highly authentic spot serving hearty, traditional Colombian home-style cooking that will make you feel like family.
• Restaurante Intriga Tropical, Getsemaní
  Offers a great fusion of Caribbean and international flavours in a lively, art-filled setting.
• El Boliche Cebicheria, Centro Histórico
  A popular spot for fresh ceviche and other seafood highlights, with a lively atmosphere.
• La Mulata, Centro Histórico
  Known for its delicious coconut rice and traditional Caribbean seafood dishes, served in a charming courtyard.

Can Vouched plan my own Cartagena trip?

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