Cartagena
I realize that I say I love every place I visit. And it's true. I can't help it. Cartagena was no different, obvs. But I will say that Cartagena truly is a place that everyone can enjoy. It can be affordable or high end, cultural, historical, a big party, a shopping spree and an eating extravaganza. The old city is a 10 minute cab ride from the airport, making it incredibly accessible. If you're just going to Cartagena, you can make a long weekend out of it. If you want a longer trip, make sure you explore places beyond the city.
Walking along the old city wall
Top things to do in Cartagena
Stroll the old city- There's endless stores, street vendors, historical buildings, plazas and people watching in the old city. You can meander the streets and explore all the nooks and crannies. The streets are filled with things to buy and at cheap $USD prices. Just be prepared for extreme heat. I don't think I stopped sweating the entire time I was there.
Street vendors sell endless options of jewelry, bags, shoes, toys, and other colorful things!
Hang out in the plazas- There are a number of plazas throughout the old city and they are all equally inviting. Plaza Santo Domingo is one of the larger plazas. A great spot to watch street performers and enjoy a Club Colombia in the afternoon.
Plaza de los coches is the late night spot to be. Around midnight, the plaza is flooded with young people gathering before going into the clubs. There are a number of great bar options surrounding this plaza, including a salsa bar that feels like a time hop.
local musicians in the plaza
Eat in the old city restaurants
There are so many great options for dining. I couldn't visit them all, but here are some you should consider trying:
La Cevicheria- Just by the name, you know what to order. This spot is recommended by every person and every book. The scene isn't too special, the vibe isn't too special, but the food is fresh and yummy.
La Cevicheria
Moshi- This hidden gem is inside another restaurant, Carmen. We were trying to get into Carmen, but it was full so we ate at Moshi instead. Delicious asian-inspired food, with delicious cocktails. Quite possibly my favorite meal of the week.
Dinner at Moshi
La Mulata- Another highly recommended spot. Local favorites are served in a trendy location. All meals are served with the daily fish soup. Who doesn't love a freebie?
Espíritu Santo- Dine with the locals in this big restaurant with all the standard favorites. Better know your Spanish for this spot!
Alquimico- We didn't eat here, but the drinks were great and the roof deck is full of fun, young people. Definitely a good spot to try before going to the club.
Whole fish is my new favorite
Watch the sunset- Be sure to catch the sunset each night. Preferably with a cold beverage in hand. Cafe de Mar is a unique restauant built into the old wall and the most popular spot to watch the sun go down. Sit among history while listening to new-age jams and drinking cocktails.
Sunset at Cafe de Mar
Sunset from our roofdeck
Visit Play Blanca-It's jam packed with locals, but the white sand and blue water is still a draw. To get there you can hire a taxi for COP$150,000. (rough $50USD) The driver will take you to the beach and hang out in the parking lot until you are ready to return home.
Beautiful water at La Playa Blanca
A local bar at Playa Blanca
Hammocks along Playa Blanca offer a break from the sun
bartender at playa blanca
Find hidden gems- Ditch the intinerary and wander. The old city has a never ending list of intriguing spots. You'll find bookstores, bars, cafes, shops, locals, vendors. The list goes on and on.
A bookstore with a bar! Abaco
Buildings lit up at night
The old and the new city in one view
Loving the view from the air bnb
Hats for sale
Cartagena
