Cartagena Holidays

• This 16th-century Spanish castle commands a commanding view of Cartagena Bay and the city below.
• The court, a Unesco World Heritage Site, is a maze of tunnels and turrets that is undoubtedly one of the city's must-see attractions.
• Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, located on a hilltop just a short drive from the city walls, is regarded as one of the most significant forts the Spanish ever built in the new world.
  Its complex tunnel system and overall design, triangular in shape, set it apart from other Spanish forts.
• The tunnel system is the fort's most impressive feature.
• The tunnels were designed with acoustics in mind, allowing the Spanish to hear even the slightest noise made by anyone attempting to approach.
• It also allowed accessible communication, as sound could travel long distances through the tunnels.

• Getsemani, once a hotbed of vice, has quickly evolved into Cartagena's hippest and most exciting neighbourhood.
• The buzzing Trinidad Square is the area's focal point, where locals and tourists alike gather each night to eat, drink and dance.
• Getsemani is a pleasant neighbourhood just outside the walled city. This area is old and has similar characteristics, such as impressive architecture, wood balconies, and narrow streets and alleys.
• Getsemani, on the other hand, is more residential, less touristy, and has a much more authentic Colombian feel.
• Some streets are known for their nightlife, while others are known for their quiet retreats.
• Street vendors selling a variety of good foods, street performers, and tourists sitting on the steps of Iglesia de la Trinidad can all be found at Plaza de la Trinidad, Getsemani's most famous square.

• Many visitors will enter the walled city via the Torre del Reloj, the Puerta del Reloj or Boca del Puente, the grand gate to the old city.
• Thanks to the massive yellow clocktower that rises from the top of the gate, it's easy to spot.
• Trinket sellers, musicians, mimes, and other performers shop in front of the clocktower, especially in the evenings.
• Plaza de Los Coches is a large, triangular square inside the wall, frequently filled with people milling about with no real purpose. 
• Admire the centuries-old architecture and the line of horse-drawn carriages waiting to take tourists on a city tour.
• If you want to go somewhere inside the gate, you can also get a taxi.
• Vendors selling a variety of sweets are set up along the main arcade behind the horses, and there are a few restaurants behind them.

• Isla Grande's beautiful blue waters and mangroves, just under an hour by boat from Cartagena, are ideal for relaxing and enjoying a few hours in the Caribbean sun or hiring a kayak and exploring the island.
• The beauty of the Rosario Islands, an archipelago 34 kilometres (24 miles) off the coast of Cartagena, is Isla Grande.
• It's a popular day-trip destination, but we recommend staying for at least two nights to explore the island entirely.
• Unlike Cartagena, Isla Grande has stunning white-sand and turquoise water beaches.
• This makes it an ideal destination for beach relaxation and water sports such as kayaking and scuba diving.

• The indigenous Zenu people, who once inhabited the southwest of the coastal region of Cartagena, were incredible goldsmiths.
• This excellent museum is a living testament to their inventiveness and talent.
• It may not be as large as Bogota's Gold Museum, but it is well worth a half-hour visit.
• Not all of the gold looted from South America by the Spanish was lost. Some of it, priceless relics of the Zenu people's pre-Columbian civilisations, survived.
• This museum on Plaza Bolivar houses these exquisitely crafted artefacts.
• Aside from gold, there are ceramics, exhibitions on the burial of the dead, and an explanation of ancient drainage systems.

• Playa Blanca, another popular day trip from the city, can get crowded on weekends, but for a good reason: the picturesque white-sand beaches and palm trees make it the archetypal Caribbean destination.
• Playa Blanca, one of Colombia's most beautiful beaches, is located on Isla Baru, or the Baru islands, about two hours from the city.
• One highlight is the beach, which is only 45 minutes by speed boat from Cartagena.
• Tourists usually take a day off and relax on this white sand beach that contrasts with the Caribbean's crystal clear turquoise waters.
• The beach is crowded during the day; head north to avoid the crowds or spend the night peacefully.
• After the day-trippers leave the evening, the beach becomes still and quiet, ideal for immersing yourself in its serenity.

• San Basilio de Palenque, a short day trip from Cartagena, is famous for being the Americas' first free slave city.
• The village is a Unesco-recognised Unesco site that offers a fascinating glimpse into Afro-Colombian culture, with its distinct language, customs, and musical genres.
• Culture Trip can take you there as a day trip from Cartagena on our specially curated eight-day Colombian Caribbean tour led by a local insider.
• Visit this village, which is only 35 miles (56 kilometres) from Cartagena, to see where those vibrant palenqueras originate.
• It gave birth to well-known Colombian musicians and music genres such as champeta and palenque.
• It was one of the first towns in the Americas to be built entirely of escaped and freed slaves.

• Santo Domingo Square, one of the most bustling squares in Cartagena's Old Town, is the ideal place to grab a cold beer in the sun and watch the world go by.
• Beautiful old buildings also surround it, and in the centre of the plaza, one of Fernando Botero's most famous sculptures stands.
• Santo Domingo Square is the centre of the city's nightlife.
• There are numerous bars, antique stores, jewellery stores, cafes, and restaurants in this area.
• The square is popular not only with tourists but also with local actors, musicians, dancers, and other artists who perform next to the Santo Domingo church and Fernando Botero's "Gertrude" sculpture.

• The Palace of the Inquisition is now one of the city's most beautiful structures. Still, it once housed the notoriously bloodthirsty Inquisition, whose bloody task was to stamp out heresy in colonial Cartagena.
• The palace is now a museum that displays the inquisitors' torture instruments, some of which are pretty horrific.
• The museum also houses pre-Columbian pottery and depicts the city's history through armaments, paintings, furniture, and even church bells.
• Although the site had been the home of the Holy Office's Punishment Tribunal since 1610, the palace wasn't finished until 1776.
• It's an excellent example of late-colonial architecture, with an elaborate stone gateway topped by the Spanish coat of arms and long balconies on the facade.
   

• Getting lost in Cartagena's historic centre is the best way to enjoy it.
• Explore the winding streets that lead past brightly coloured structures and trim, leafy parks or sprawling plazas.
• Stroll through the city ramparts, built beginning in the 16th century to protect the city from foreign enemies and marauding pirates.
• You'll find everything from emerald emporiums to local design boutiques to street vendors between the churches and gardens.
• The city's dark history stands in stark contrast to the candy-coloured and lively present and should not be overlooked: The Palace of Inquisition museum and some of the memorials at sites where locals sold African captives into slavery reveal Cartagena's bloody past.
• Knowing a bit of what came before adds texture and context to a town that might otherwise appear to be a touristy set piece.

• Manga is located south of Centro on an island sheltered by a spit of land that houses the skyscrapers of Bocagrande.
• This area is a leafy residential area with a laid-back atmosphere, a world away from the pastel buildings and crowds of the historical centre.
• Manga is a leafy neighbourhood to the south of Gethsemane with some of the city's best budget restaurants and Club de Pesca, arguably the city's best seafood restaurant.
• While it lacks the glitz of El Centro and the buzz of Gethsemane, it does have a more relaxed vibe, making it a popular spot for families and couples.
• Despite a lovely promenade overlooking a beautiful bay of yachts – Manga is home to some of Cartagena's most extensive yacht moorings – tourists largely ignore this neighbourhood, making it an excellent place to discover a different side of the city.
   

• Getsemani is a trendy neighbourhood northwest of Manga.
• Previously known as a crime haven (and still somewhat sketchy at night in some areas), the district is known for its street art and cool edge that other parts of the city lack.
• Located south of the Old Town and is regarded as the best area for backpackers and nightlife enthusiasts.
• It used to be a dangerous area, but it is rapidly changing, with hipster cafes and alternative bars sprouting up here and there.
• This is also one of the most remarkable and busiest neighbourhoods, with vibrant street art and graffiti on every corner; perhaps this is why Marbella attracts a community of musicians, artists, and backpackers!
• So, if you are a younger traveller, I would recommend staying near Plaza de Trinidad because it is a popular hang-out spot where you can meet other travellers.

• San Diego is located in the northeastern part of the old walled city.
• Despite being bordered to the south by Centro, San Diego is far less about luxury and has a more bohemian, alternative vibe.
• San Diego is located within the walls and is only a short distance from the Old City (its North-East corner).
• Like Bocagrande, I would recommend this area for families because it is a quiet part of the Old Town, and all of the attractions are within walking distance.
• You will love this district because it offers as much history (with its old churches and buildings) and a vibrant atmosphere as in most tourist areas but at a quieter pace of life!
• And if you're looking forward to trying the local food, you need to try the best street food in Cartagena (around the famous San Diego square).
• You will also be pleasantly surprised to see some of the city's best restaurants and the number of great hotels in the area!
   

• Finally, we make our way to Bocagrande.
• New Cartagena is a spit of land dotted with skyscrapers that exemplify modern Colombia.
• This relatively affluent neighbourhood is also home to the city's main beach, complete with international hotels, casinos, and shopping malls.
• Bocagrande is a peninsula located just outside the city walls.
• If you're looking for beachfront accommodation close to the Centro, this is a great option – some even refer to it as "Cartagena's Miami Beach"!
• Many beautiful skyscrapers and international big chain hotels like Hilton and Hyatt are here if you're looking for well-known names.
• With gated communities and wealthy families, Bocagrande is one of the most expensive areas in Colombia, not just in Cartagena but throughout the country, so don't be surprised if prices are higher and most accommodations are luxurious and modern.

• Mote de queso is a traditional Colombian soup from the Atlantic Coast region.
• It includes yam, salty and crumbly Costeo cheese, onions, garlic, scallions, tomatoes, cumin, and lime juice.
• Numerous variations on the soup, and almost every family has their recipe.
• Once cooked, the soup should have a creamy texture with small and tender yam chunks scattered throughout.
• Fried plantains or tostones frequently accompany it on the side.

• Arepa de huevo is a popular Colombian dish commonly sold at street stalls, particularly in Colombia's Caribbean region.
• Corn arepas are filled with eggs and fried until fully cooked.
• They are widely served for breakfast, but they also make a tasty afternoon snack when paired with a cup of coffee on the side.

• Arepas de queso is a Colombian variation of arepas that have a dough that has been mixed with cheese, such as queso fresco or queso seco.
• When served, these arepas are split in half, then spread with butter and filled with additional cheese to taste, though they can also be eaten plain.
• They are frequently served with a cup of hot chocolate in Colombia.

• Sancocho is a chicken stew made with fish, plantain, beef, or pork traditionally served after most parties.
• Originally from the El Valle region, it was made entirely of hens.
• With the addition of potatoes, corn, and plantains, it is a hearty stew.
• White rice, spicy aji sauce, and avocado slices are traditionally served on the side.
• The thick broth is filling and could easily feed a family of four, and the best part is that it can be made in just one pot.
• Some people like to add fresh coriander, onions, and a squeeze of lime juice to the dish to enhance the flavours even more.
• White rice, spicy aji sauce, and avocado slices are traditionally served on the side.
• The thick broth is filling and could easily feed a family of four, and the best part is that it can be made in just one pot.
• Some people like to add fresh coriander, onions, and a squeeze of lime juice to the dish to enhance the flavours even more.

• Arroz con coco, a flavorful Colombian side dish made of white rice, coconut milk, sugar, salt, and water, is savoury and sweet.
• Arroz con coco becomes slightly sweeter when mixed with raisins, whereas the version without raisins is more delicious and traditionally served with fish dishes.
• It is recommended to use coconut milk without stabilisers to separate the fat and solids.

• Arepas are cornbread made from ground corn dough or precooked corn flour.
• Arepas are eaten at any time of day, throughout the country, and by all socioeconomic groups in Venezuela.
• Venezuela, Colombia, Panama, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic are among the countries that enjoy it.
• The golden disks with a crispy, browned crust are commonly stuffed with various ingredients, seemingly infinite combinations ranging from beans, cheese, and avocado to shredded beef and onions.
• Arepas are traditionally served with strong coffee and hot dipping chocolate forbreakfast in Venezuela.
• This is referred to as the viuda because they are not filled with breakfast (widow).
• The name arepa comes from the indigenous word for cornbread, erepa, and its origins are thought to be from Venezuelan indigenous tribes such as Timoto-Cuicas, Arawak, Carib, and Karina.
• Nowadays, arepas are typically served at traditional eateries known as areperas.

• The Centro Comercial Getseman shopping centre, which resembles a bazaar, does not cater to tourists.
• Hundreds of small mom-and-pop shops sell everything from computer supplies to notebooks, beauty supplies, handicrafts, and knickknacks.
• You can probably also get your nails done here.
• Centro Comercial Caribe Plaza, located near the Castillo de San Felipe, is an upscale modern mall with numerous clothing and shoe stores, movie theatres, and a food court.

 The best way to connect with the authentic Cartagena is to visit the sprawling, grimy Mercado de Bazurto.

• Peruse the seafood area on the market's outskirts, where women sell the day's catch to restaurant owners.
• Be astounded by the variety of fruits on offer.
• Take a bus from Avenida Santander or a taxi from the Old City to get to the market.

• Las Bóvedas is the most historic place to buy Colombian handicrafts.
• Once a military storage facility, it is now a place to purchase colourful hammocks and various Colombian artesanas of varying quality.
• Artesanas de Colombia is a better bet for high-quality handicrafts.
• This is a government organisation whose mission is to promote Colombian handicrafts and artisans.
• This shop sells handicrafts from all over the country.
• Still, it specialises in masks from the Carnaval de Barranquilla, woven mochilas (handbags) from indigenous groups in the Sierra Nevada, and colourful embroidery on molas from indigenous groups Darien Gap region near Panama.

• Colombian emeralds are regarded as among the finest in the world.
• Many jewellers in Centro Histórico sell emerald jewellery and create custom pieces for you.
• Galera Cano is one of the most well-known jewellers.
• They specialise in jewellery made of gold, silver, and emeralds.
• Cano also has locations in the airport, the Hotel Santa Clara, and Bogotá.

• Boutiques of top Colombian designers along with Calle Santo Domingo.
• Bettina Spitz in Bogota sells women's casual, beach, and formal clothing, as well as a variety of accessories, shoes, and some men's items.
• Jon Sonen is a Colombian menswear label with stores throughout the country.
• You'll notice that men in Cartagena wear guayabera shirts to restaurants and events.
• You can spend a fortune on them, but if you want to blend in without breaking the bank, go to Arte y Creaciones, where a cotton guayabera will set you back about COP$55,000.
• Centro de Artesanas de San Jacinto is another option for low-cost guayaberas.

• This active mud volcano, also Colombia's smallest volcano, is well-known for its alleged healing properties and is a popular backpacker day trip.
• Up to 15 guests can bathe in the dense, warm mud (with an optional message) before being washed off in the nearby sea.
• It's filthy but relaxing fun!

• Head to La Cevichera for a break from all the Fritos (fried food) you've been eating and experience some incredible Peruvian-Colombian fusion food.
• Regarded as one of the city's best ceviche and fish restaurants.
• Expect fresh fish, bold flavours, plenty of lime, and some delicious cocktails.
• Because the place is always crowded, you'll most likely have to wait for a table.

• If you enjoy listening to or dancing to salsa music, Cafe Havana is the place to be.
• Even if you've never danced it before, it's worth going to Getsemani, the city's cultural and party centre, to try out this Cuban-style bar.
• Cafe Havana attracts a mixed crowd of locals and immigrants and features talented live salsa bands that keep the group entertained until the early hours of the morning.
• Come down for some perfectly mixed cocktails, listen to the music, and watch others dance.

• A night on a Chiva (party bus) is a very Colombian experience; expect live musicians playing Vallenato, an open bar with local liquor, and plenty of dancing.
• While the party begins on the bus, you'll be dropped off at various bars throughout the city before arriving at a more prominent club, where your Chiva will leave you to dance the night away.
• Most of the city's hostels organise Chiva tours, an excellent way for solo travellers to meet new people.
• Just make sure you're ready to have a good time!