Things to do in Cartagena

THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Cartagena (2025) - Must-See Attractions

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Things to Do in Cartagena

Explore the best-preserved old colonial city in Latin America from the comfort of a party bus, or while on a walking tour. Prefer beaches instead? The Rosario Islands await. For personalised recommendations, try our AI trip-planning product.
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Book these experiences for a close-up look at Cartagena.

From quick jaunts to full-day outings.

Top Attractions in Cartagena

These rankings are informed by Tripadvisor data—we consider traveller reviews, ratings, number of page views, and user location.

Historic neighborhood with preserved colonial architecture and cobbled streets, ideal for walking tours. Features cosy squares, museums, and a vibrant street vendor scene.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.

Emerald-centric attraction in the old city district provides insights into gem history and processing; includes a jewellery showcase and impromptu tours.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.

Vibrant neighborhood known for its colourful street art and murals with a lively atmosphere, featuring a mix of dining options, bars, and cultural events amidst historic cobbled alleys.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.

Historic site with lush gardens, museum, and religious artworks. Discover the legacy of human rights advocate Pedro Claver, enjoy scenic balcony views, and serene ambiance.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.

Transformed historic bullfighting arena featuring high-end retail, top-floor dining with panoramic city views, and striking architecture. A blend of shopping and cultural allure.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.

Convent with a history since the 1600s, featuring informative exhibits, charming courtyard, and panoramic Caribbean views. Accessible by taxi, includes a gift shop.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.

Geothermal mud bath experience with warm, odorless mud and on-site assistance, complemented by a refreshing lagoon dip and optional photo service. Basic changing facilities available.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.
Points of Interest & Landmarks

Historic neighborhood's vibrant plaza surrounded by significant landmarks, with street vendors, live music, and shaded spots for relaxation amidst colonial architecture.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.
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Other Top Attractions around Cartagena


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Tours, activities and experiences bookable on Tripadvisor, ranked using exclusive Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, popularity, user preferences, price, and bookings made through Tripadvisor.
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What travellers are saying

  • jads4u
    Aurora, CO221 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Took a tour with Daniel through our cruise ship. He was excellent and brought is to several sites including the Fort de Filipe, Saint Pedro church and grounds and the walled city. Very informative with great suggestions for food and gifts.
    Written 5 February 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • lucycan
    San Diego, CA3,714 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Great historic fort that over looks the city. Its like 36k COP to enter. Make sure you walk all around and check out the tunnels. Try and go earlier in the AM to avoid the big tours and crowds. This is a must see.
    Written 3 February 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Tony G
    4 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    We had the most wonderful experience today at Caribe Emeralds here in Centro Cartagena. Our sales person, Darlene, was just great. Friendly, patient, professional and spent a lot of time with us helping us and made our purchase so very pleasant. We were never pressured and only educated about the magnificent emeralds in the store. If you visit beautiful Cartagena and want to purchase the finest emeralds, by all means, visit Caribe and seek out Darlene.
    Written 12 December 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • lucycan
    San Diego, CA3,714 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    This is THE neighborhood in Cartagena. Its in the old city. It has many shops and restaurants and bars. The people seem super friendly. Many places to stay in this area as well. We stayed in a house here. We would definitely stay in the area again.
    Written 3 February 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • R. K. V.
    Bogota, Colombia2,696 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    one of my absolute favorite places in Cartagena- a sobering piece of history thru the lens of a historical figure and a true saint
    Written 26 July 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • stephanie v
    Laval, Canada10 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Beautiful architecture. I have never seen anything like it. A must see if visiting Cartagena. Nice shops as well for those who want to spend .
    Written 19 October 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Allen B
    Muskegon, MI1,282 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    This is a must do while in Cartagena. Columbia, if not for the amazing history and artifacts, then for the breath taking view over the city.
    Written 10 December 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • elizabeth M
    51 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    This was fun but a bit dirty alot of bugs in the mud. The staff was funny and friendly it's a unique experience. Be ready to tip for everything shower, massage, bathing etc.
    Written 7 August 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Rschagrin
    Delray Beach, FL15,638 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Very nice plaza in the middle of the walled city. Surrounded by tons of stores and restaurants. There are tables in the middle of the plaza so you sit and eat and at night, enjoy the music.
    Written 1 January 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Aprylgem5
    Norfolk, VA507 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    This was definitely the hub of the city. There was always something going on and so much to see. Vendors, locals, restaurants, shops etc.
    Written 2 June 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • ksufan88
    Wichita, KS7,045 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    We had hoped to visit this free (air-conditioned) museum on a Monday, but that is the day that they are closed so we rearranged our schedule to visit instead on Tuesday. Immediately after we entered, an employee encouraged us to enter a small room on the ground floor where a video was being shown about the musical instruments of the indigenous people that we would later see displayed in the museum. This movie was not all that interesting but it did help us better understand what we later saw. The upper floor has lots of gold exhibits but also many artifacts that the native people used. The final room on this floor had another video being shown about how the locals weave hats and make filigree jewelry. This video was very interesting, and I would recommend visitors take the time to watch it entirely.
    Written 25 December 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Rschagrin
    Delray Beach, FL15,638 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    One of the 100's of Plaza de Bolívar throughout South America. Naturally there is a statue of Simon Bolivar in the middle. The plaza is surrounded by a Cathedral, the Palace of the Inquisition and a gold museum.
    Written 1 January 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
When to Visit
  • January
    27 ºC
    Coldest month
    1 day of rain
    Very busy
  • February
    27 ºC
    1 day of rain
    Moderately busy
  • March
    27 ºC
    1 day of rain
    Very busy
  • April
    28 ºC
    4 days of rain
    Moderately busy
  • May
    28 ºC
    Hottest month
    10 days of rain
    Moderately busy
  • June
    28 ºC
    11 days of rain
    Less busy
  • July
    28 ºC
    11 days of rain
    Very busy
    Busiest month
  • August
    28 ºC
    12 days of rain
    Very busy
  • September
    28 ºC
    14 days of rain
    Less busy
    Least busy month
  • October
    28 ºC
    16 days of rain
    Wettest month
    Less busy
  • November
    28 ºC
    11 days of rain
    Less busy
  • December
    27 ºC
    4 days of rain
    Moderately busy
The above attraction descriptions were created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for any of the above attraction descriptions. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information.
Reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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