Welcome to Cartagena! One of Colombia’s most charming destinations, known for its colonial architecture and its history. In this edition of Ahead Recommends we share ideas to explore the history, the culture and everything this city has to offer.
Explore the Old City
Start your adventure in the Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Walking its streets and squares, surrounded by colonial houses with flower-filled balconies, you’ll feel like you’ve travelled back in time. Don’t miss the Convento de la Popa for a panoramic view of the whole city.
Walk the city walls
The walls are Cartagena’s great symbol. Walk or bike along them with the sea on one side and the city on the other. Visit the fortresses of San Felipe and San Sebastián del Pastelillo to learn how the city was defended.
Dreamy beaches
Cartagena has beaches for every pace. Playa Blanca, on Isla Barú, is famous for its white sand and crystal-clear water. If you’d rather stay close, Bocagrande and Castillogrande are perfect for a sunny day by the sea.
Arepa de huevo, shrimp ceviche and coconut rice: the Caribbean is something you taste.
Caribbean food
Try the dishes that make Cartagena’s cooking unique: arepa de huevo, shrimp ceviche and coconut rice. For an authentic experience, wander local markets like Mercado de Bazurto.
Nightlife and culture
Cartagena is famous for its nightlife. Plaza Santo Domingo and Getsemaní are the places for live music and dancing. To discover Afro-Caribbean culture, visit the Afro-Caribbean Museum.
We hope this guide helps you make the most of your stay. Enjoy this gem of the Colombian Caribbean and live the #AheadExperience at every step of your trip.
