While in Cartagena, there are a few things that are considered must see attractions.

*The main attraction in Cartagena is the walled city, which is now the old town area of the city. This wall protected the city from intruders and plunderers from French, Dutch and English pirates. It was built in the mid-1500s and a great deal of it is still intact. Some of the city’s 500-year-old forts are still intact as well.

While you’re in that mode, also check out Castillo de San Felipe, a fort built in 1657 as an attempt to keep out pirates while shipping out gold to Europe. It’s open everyday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and there is a nominal entrance fee.

After you visit San Felipe, head to La Popa Hill, which offers great views of the entire city of Cartagna and the harbor. Here you can also visit the 17th Century Santa Cruz monastery, which features a beautiful, restored courtyard.

For a relaxing day, take a tour out to a small group of islands off the coast called Islas del Rosario. There, you can have lunch, enjoy the beach at Playa Blanca (one of the finest in Columbia) and visit the aquarium there.