Begin your journey by exploring the historic Walled City of Cartagena, which is filled with charming cobblestone streets and colorful colonial buildings. Visit the Palace of Inquisition and learn about the city's dark history followed by a walk around Compania de Jesus, a 17th-century convent-turned-art museum. Catch the sunset from the famous Plaza Santo Domingo and take a romantic horse-drawn carriage through its narrow streets before grabbing dinner at La Vitrola, one of Cartagena's most famous restaurants.
Start your day by visiting Plaza de la Trinidad in Getsemani and get a taste of local street art that has taken over the walls of this old part of town. Head to the Museo del Oro Zenú, known for its impressive collection of gold artifacts made by the pre-Columbian Zenú indigenous people, and then have lunch at Quero Arepa Bar. In the afternoon, visit the Centro de Convenciones de Cartagena and walk around the modern part of the city before grabbing dinner at La Cevicheria, a seafood restaurant where Anthony Bourdain once dined.
Take a day trip to the Rosario Islands to soak up the sun and experience the Caribbean Sea. Activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and boat tours are available for an additional cost. Visit Cayo de Agua, known for its crystalline waters, soft white sand beaches, and rows of coconut trees, and have a fresh seafood lunch at one of the island's restaurants. Return to Cartagena by late afternoon and explore the city one last time in the evening.
Cartagena is a walkable city, so be sure to bring comfortable shoes. Taxis and Ubers are also available for longer distances, and renting a bike is a great way to explore the city. Travel time from Rafael Nunez International Airport to downtown Cartagena is approximately 15-20 minutes, and a taxi or Uber costs about $10-15.
If you have more time, consider taking a night tour of Cartagena or visiting the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, a 17th-century fortress. If you have less time, skip the Museo del Oro Zenú or Centro de Convenciones de Cartagena. Be sure to bring sunblock, a hat, and cash for local restaurants that may not accept credit cards.
Rafael Nunez International Airport (CTG) is located approximately 4 miles (6 km) from the city center of Cartagena. It offers domestic and international flights and serves as a hub for Caribbean destinations. You can take a taxi or Uber from the airport to reach the city center.