Cartagena Colombia 4 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Walled City (Ciudad Amurallada) & San Diego Fortress

  • Morning: Check-in at your hotel located in the historic district. Some recommendations include: Hotel Casa San Agustín, Hilton Cartagena, or Movich Boutique Hotel.

  • Afternoon: Start your day with a guided tour of the Walled City, visiting key sites like the Clock Tower (Torre del Reloj), Palace of Inquisition (Palacio de la Inquisición), and St. Peter’s Church (Iglesia de San Pedro Claver).

  • Evening: Explore the vibrant streets of Getsemaní neighborhood, known for its colorful street art, bustling cafes, and lively bars. Have dinner at Carmen, a restaurant housed in an 18th-century mansion with stunning views of the city and bay.

Day 2: Island Hopping & Rosario Islands

  • Morning: Embark on a full-day tour to the Rosario Islands, a group of more than 30 islands and cays located about 70 km off the coast of Cartagena. You can snorkel, swim, relax on pristine beaches, or enjoy water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding.

  • Afternoon: Lunch will be served at one of the restaurants on the islands. Return to Cartagena in the evening.

Day 3: Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas & Beach Relaxation

  • Morning: Visit the iconic Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, a sprawling fortress that offers panoramic views of the city and bay. Learn about its strategic importance during colonial times.

  • Afternoon: Spend the rest of your day relaxing on Playa Blanca or Bocagrande Beach, both popular options for tourists. Enjoy fresh seafood at beachfront restaurants like La Cevicheria (Playa Blanca) or El Santo Mateo (Bocagrande).

Day 4: Tierra Bomba Island & Departure Preparation

  • Morning: Take a boat tour to Tierra Bomba Island, where you can explore the Cartagena Naval Museum and enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants.

  • Afternoon: Return to Cartagena, spend some time shopping for souvenirs in the local markets or boutiques around the city. Prepare for your departure.

Transportation:

  • Taxis are readily available throughout Cartagena. You can also use apps like Tappsi and MovilTap. Alternatively, renting a bike is an eco-friendly option to explore the city.

Things to Know:

  • Colombian pesos (COP) are the official currency. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s always good to have some cash on hand.

  • The tropical climate in Cartagena means rain showers can occur at any time of year, so be prepared with an umbrella or waterproof jacket.

Tips:

  • Bargain at local markets and shops for the best prices.

  • Stay aware of your surroundings, especially when walking around at night.

  • Embrace the vibrant Colombian culture and make friends with locals to get a truly authentic experience!