Friends, picture sunrise spilling gold over coral-stone façades, bougainvillea tumbling from balconies, and car-free lanes echoing with music and laughter.

Cartagena on Colombia’s Caribbean coast blends polished boutique stays with easy day trips—white-sand beaches, a warm-water “mud spa,” and plazas made for slow evenings. Use this curated, dollar-priced plan to pack a week with style, flavor, and zero guesswork.

Why Cartagena

Inside the centuries-old walls, grand mansions hide leafy courtyards, rooftop pools, and art-filled lobbies. Beyond them, island national parks and calm bays invite a full-day escape. It’s a city where you can wander by day, island-hop tomorrow, and savor street snacks any time.

Best Time

May–June and September–November are calmer for crowds and often better prices, with brief showers. Book island boats and special experiences 1–2 days ahead year-round.

Where To Stay

El Centro (Walled City): Boutique hotels from $140–$320 per night highlight restored stonework, rooftop dips, and quiet courtyards—perfect for a splurge.

Isla Barú: Beachfront cabanas $120–$250 put you steps from turquoise water—ideal for one unplugged night.

Old City Stroll

Start at Plaza de los Coches and loop through flower-draped streets to Plaza de la Aduana. Pop into house-museums and galleries ($2–$6). Mornings are cooler; evenings glow for photos. Comfortable sandals are essential—many lanes are cobbled.

City Walls

The 16th-century ramparts circle the historic core. A relaxed circuit takes 60–90 minutes with sea views and sunset light. Access is free; use handrails on blustery days and carry water. Benches dot the route for quick breathers.

Carriage Ride

In the cooler evening air, a classic carriage loop reveals lantern-lit streets. Typical fares run $20–$40 for 25–40 minutes depending on route and season; confirm price before boarding.

Volcano Mud

El Totumo—about 55–70 minutes from town—offers a buoyant dip in warm mineral mud. Entry is roughly $4, while half-day group tours run $15–$25 per person including round-trip transport. Rinse off in the nearby lagoon; bring a quick-dry towel and small bills for optional local helpers.

Bazurto Market

Cartagena’s largest produce and fish market hums from early morning. Go with a local guide ($15–$30 pp) for the best routes and safe tasting stops. Wear closed shoes, keep valuables minimal, and bring curiosity—the fruit samples are a highlight.

What To Eat

Ceviche: Lime-marinated fish with onions and herbs; plates $7–$15 near the walled city.

Arepas de huevo: Crisp corn pockets with egg; street stands $1–$2.

Empanadas: Cheese or chicken fillings; typically $1–$2 each.

Red Snapper & Coconut Rice: Coastal classic with plantains; mains $10–$18.

Fresh Juices: Lulo, soursop, mango—tall cups $2–$4.

Tip: Many restaurants add a voluntary service charge; review the bill and tip extra only if you wish.

Day Plans

Day 1–2: Settle in, walk the walls, and tour plazas and house-museums. Carriage ride after sunset.

Day 3: Volcano morning + Getsemaní street-art walk.

Day 4: Beach day by public boat—bring cash for loungers ($3–$6) and a simple seafood lunch ($6–$12).

Day 5: Boutique hotel day: rooftop swim, spa treatment ($25–$60), slow dinner in a shaded patio.

Day 6: Private boat split with friends—snorkel coves and quiet beaches.

Day 7: Last-minute shopping at artisan courtyards; treat yourself to a fruit tasting flight ($4–$6).

Getting Around

From the airport to the walled city, taxis and ride-hailing run $8–$12 depending on time and traffic; the ride takes 15–25 minutes. Inside the walls, walking is best. For farther trips, vetted taxis cost $3–$6 within central zones—always agree on price or use the meter if available.

Entry & Fees

Most visitors receive a 90-day stamp on arrival at no cost. Always carry passport, onward ticket proof, and health coverage details. Some island docks collect small environmental or port fees ($2–$8)—keep change handy.

Safety Smarts

Use a cross-body pouch in crowded areas and keep phones pocketed when not needed. Withdraw cash inside malls or supermarkets during daylight. At the beach, rent a lockbox float ($3–$5) or leave valuables at your hotel.

Trip Budget

Comfortable daily ranges per person:

• Frugal walker (hostel + street eats + public boats): $45–$65

• Mid-range mixer (guesthouse + cafés + guided outings): $85–$140

• Boutique treat (design hotel + private boat share + spa): $180–$320+

Prebook top restaurants or experiences 1–3 days ahead during peak months.

Final Thoughts

Cartagena rewards unhurried days: stroll, snack, swim, repeat—then lift the pace with an island dash or mud-bath morning. Which chapter will lead your boutique week—lantern-lit lanes, powder-soft beaches, or a courtyard breakfast you’ll dream about later?