What Not To Miss In Cartagena, Colombia

Cartagena+Colombia
 

Lately it seems like Cartagena, Colombia flight deals are cheaper than ever and more people are heading South to explore one of the best coastal cities in South America. I planned a trip to South America to take my mom on our first mother daughter trip. Here’s our ultimate guide on what not to miss in Cartagena, Colombia.

Day 1:

  • Explore Old Town

    • Plaza San Pedro Claver

    • Plaza de Bolívar

    • Plaza Santo Domingo

  • Walk along Bocagrande and admire the ocean views

  • Take in some history at Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas

  • Have lunch at Cevicheria

  • Stop in Las Bovedas and do some shopping for your friends and family back home

    • Take a picture with the women in traditional Colombian dresses, but be ready to pay them - this is not a free pic!

  • Head to dinner at El Gobernador

Day 2

  • Take a boat out to the Rosario Islands and spend the day relaxing on the beach with a drink in hand

  • Have dinner at Maria or any of the other amazing spots listed here

Day 3:

  • Wake up early and head to Totumo Mud Volcano

    • We booked a tour on Viator linked here

    • The mud volcano is super fascinating because even though you’re standing straight up, there is no floor beneath your feet. Yes, you read that correctly. It’s the strangest feeling! And what they don’t tell you is that afterwards, women wash you clean in the ocean. There is no privacy so be prepared to be handled by these sweet older ladies.

  • On the way back, stop by Manzanillo beach for a beer and lunch

  • Get back to your hotel, chill and head to dinner at La Vitrola

Day 4

  • Tour the streets of Getsemani - if you book a walking tour you’ll see all of the best street art that is hidden down little side streets of this neighborhood

  • Enjoy lunch at a local spot in Getsemani

  • Walk around Torre del Reloj and enjoy the people watching

  • Stop by NH Galeria and enjoy some of the local art of Cartagena

  • Enjoy sunset at Cafe Del Mar - be sure to come early because this place fills out quickly and you definitely want one of the tables by the edge that overlooks the ocean.

  • Finish the trip off with dinner at Marea by Rausch