7 Things You Must See In Cartagena

Cartagena is a port city on Colombia’s Carribbean coast, boasting colorful buildings, a rich history and plenty of things to see and do. Here’s a list of the top sights and activities in the city.

# Ciudad Amurallada

Located in the heart of Cartagena, this walled city, protected by a fortress, was once used to shelter the city from pirates and storms. Within this small sector you will find an incredible array of bars, restaurants, shops and some beautiful (and rather expensive) hotels. Despite it being filled with tourists pretty much all year round, this historic corner of the city has not lost its charm.

# Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas

You cannot visit Cartagena without making a trip up to this huge castle, which peers out over the city. This grand construction was started in 1639 but not completed until 150 years later. However, since its completion it has been the crowning landmark in the city and visitors can now stroll through the battlements, weave their way through underground passages and admire the impressive architecture.

# Playa Blanca

Playa Blanca is undoubtedly one of Colombia’s most beautiful beaches. Located on Baru island, it is 45 minutes by boat from Cartagena port, or around a two-hour car journey from the main city. Crystal-clear waters lap the perfectly white sand and visitors have the option to spend a day relaxing on this incredible beach or, should that not be enough, you can also stay over night. Come for the day and make the most of some delicious fresh fish served alongside coconut rice. Stay the night and you can appreciate the beach in complete stillness and silence once all the day trippers leave. Either way, a visit to this beach is a must for anyone spending more than a day in Cartagena.

# Museo de Oro

Almost every large Colombia city has a gold museum, and Cartagena is no exception. Although it is small, the Museo de Oro hosts a fantastic collection of the gold and pottery of the Zenú (also known as Sinú) people, who inhabited the departments of Bolívar, Córdoba, Sucre and northern Antioquia before the Spanish Conquest. Look out for special exhibitions and the guided tours, offered in both English and Spanish.

# Mercado de Bazurto

It’s loud, busy and pretty overwhelming, but for those travelers looking to experience the real Cartagena, a visit to Mercado de Bazurto is a must. This food market sells everything from fresh fruit to cooked turtle (which is discouraged by authorities but considered a traditional meal in many indigenous communities). You are sure to revel in the sheer array of produce and food on offer at Mercado de Bazurto and you’ll be stunned by the prices too: expect a two-course lunch to set you back no more than about $2. Remember to be mindful of your belongings as you wander through the market.

# Party on a chiva

A night spent on a chiva (party bus) is a very Colombian activity – expect live musicians playing Vallenato, an open bar with local liquor and a lot of dancing. While the party starts on the bus, you’ll then be dropped off at various bars around the city, ending in a larger club where your chiva will leave you to dance the night away. Most of the hostels in the city arrange chiva tours, and for those travelling alone this is a great way to meet new people. Just make sure you’re ready to have fun!

# Dance salsa at one of the city's best bars

Café Havana is the place to be if you like listening or dancing to salsa music. Even if you’ve never danced it in your life, it’s still worth heading to the city’s cultural and party center, Getsemani, to try out this Cuban-style bar. Café Havana draws a mixed crowd of locals and expats and welcomes talented live salsa bands who keep the crowd entertained until the early hours. Even if you’ve two left feet, head on down for some perfectly mixed cocktails, enjoy the music and watch others take to the dance floor.