Curator’s statement
Get ready for an amazing adventure in Cartagena! This city has it all - from the stunning historic Old Town with its colorful streets and lively vibes, to the beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters of the Rosario Islands. You can explore unique architecture, savor delicious Colombian cuisine and soak up the Caribbean sun. Cartagena offers a perfect blend of history, relaxation and fun!
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Where to stay
Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena
Reinvented and innovative hotel, which recreates a tropical palace where the walls and ceilings retain the historical magic of this 17th Century Colombian building.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 food / beverage credit.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
- ★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Casa San Agustin
If you are looking for luxury, Cartagena, Colombia has no better hotel than Casa San Agustin to unwind and pamper.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 hotel / resort credit.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
- ★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Unlock perks by contacting Holly to book your trip.
Day 1: Exploring the Walled City
Arrival
Arrive in Cartagena at Rafael Núñez International Airport. After checking into the hotel, head directly to La Cevicheria, a renowned seafood restaurant.
Enjoy a delightful al fresco lunch with fresh ceviche, a local specialty.
Afternoon
Walk off your meal by exploring the charming streets of the Walled City. The area is extremely walkable so you can start to get your bearings on the surrounding area. Take in the lively energy of the street vendors and appreciate the colorful buildings covered in flowers just as vibrant.
Early Evening: Drinks at Alquimico
Head to Alquimico, a trendy cocktail bar in the Walled City that is rated as one of the best bars in the world. Enjoy creative cocktails across all three levels as each floor has its own unique menu. There is a strong focus on locality and sustainability here so you can ensure everything going into your drink is nothing but the best!
Night: Dinner with Live Music at Alma
Make a reservation at Alma, a restaurant known for its live music and Caribbean cuisine. Enjoy a delicious dinner in the open-air courtyard while being serenaded by local musicians.
Day 2: History & culture
Morning: Breakfast and Private City Tour
Start your day with a sumptuous breakfast buffet at the Sofitel Santa Clara. There is a wide range of food from classic Colombian staples and some traditional American options as well. Don't miss the daily unique fruit choices!
After breakfast, meet your private tour guide at the hotel's lobby. Embark on a guided tour of the city's historical and cultural highlights. This can include visits to La Popa Convent, San Felipe Fortress, Torre del Reloj and historic squares like Plaza de Santo Domingo and Plaza Bolívar. Learn about the rich history and culture of Cartagena as you explore its charming streets.
Lunch: Juan del Mar
Head to Juan del Mar, a renowned seafood restaurant just a minute walk from the hotel.
Afternoon: Hotel Behind-the-Scenes Tour and Rum/Chocolate Tasting
Return to the Sofitel Santa Clara for a unique behind-the-scenes tour of the hotel. Explore the history of this property, including its past as a convent and a hospital, and how it came to transform into a luxury hotel. Conclude the tour by heading into a special rum and chocolate tasting, experiencing the flavors and products local to Colombia.
Evening: Dinner at Carmen
In the evening, make a reservation at Carmen, a highly acclaimed restaurant known for its innovative cuisine. Indulge in a 9-course tasting menu that showcases the flavors and ingredients of
Colombia. Don't forget to add on the drinkundefinedpairing!
Day 3: Getsemaní
Morning
Depending on how early you wake up, you may want to skip breakfast because the first activity of the day is a Street Food Tour! Not only do you get to explore the vibrant streets of the city, sampling local delicacies such as arepas, empanadas, and fresh tropical fruits but your guide will also provide historical significance of the recipes and specific shops being sampled.
Afternoon
Spa Treatments at Sofitel Santa Clara
Return to the Sofitel Santa Clara for a relaxing spa afternoon. Indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments, such as massages or facials, in the serene spa facilities.
Late Afternoon
Leisurely exploration of Getsemaní.
Once you are recharged from a relaxing afternoon you can head out to explore the nearby Getsemaní neighborhood. Explore the colorful streets filled with street art and local culture. Be sure to stop by the Plaza de la Trinidad, a bustling square with street vendors and a lively atmosphere.
Evening
Dinner at Celele.
After you are done exploring the neighborhood, you can make your way over to Celele, a renowned restaurant known for its inventive Caribbean cuisine. Enjoy a delectable dinner featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients in a charming setting.
Day 4: Rosario Islands
Morning
Breakfast at Sofitel Santa Clara.
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy a delicious meal to fuel up for your day of adventure.
Late Morning
Private Boat Tour to the Rosario Islands.
Depart from your hotel to the Cartagena Marina, where you'll board a private boat including a captain and bilingual guide. Embark on a scenic boat ride to the stunning Rosario Islands, a pristine archipelago in the Caribbean Sea. Arrive at a picturesque spot for snorkeling including a look at a sunken plane.
Continue your boat tour to Cholon, a popular party spot known for its lively atmosphere. Anchor in the shallow waters and join in the fun with other boaters, swim and enjoy the festive ambiance. After Cholon, head to a tranquil beach club on one of the islands for a different vibe. Enjoy a delicious and relaxing lunch with fresh seafood and Caribbean dishes. Sip on tropical cocktails and enjoy the beachside setting.
Evening
Dinner at Mar y Cielo
Return to Cartagena in the late afternoon. Freshen up at your hotel and prepare for dinner. For your final dinner you will head to Mar y Cielo, a popular restaurant with a romantic ambiance.
Day 5: Poolside relaxation
Morning
Breakfast at Sofitel Santa Clara.
Begin your final morning with one more delightful breakfast at the Sofitel Santa Clara restaurant.
Late Morning to Early Afternoon
Poolside relaxation.
After breakfast, make your way to the hotel's pool area. Lounge by the pool, soak up the sun, and take in the beautiful surroundings.
Mid-Afternoon
Prepare for Departure.
As your departure time approaches, return to your room to freshen up and pack your belongings. Your pre-arranged transfer service will pick you up for transport back to Rafael Nuñez Airport.
![Advisor - Holly Lacombe](https://media.foratravel.com/image/upload/v1711120753/contentful-migration/advisors/image/a154f4981d5e-1544_MV_FAM_2023.jpg)
Travel Advisor
Holly Lacombe
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For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Diana Morales’s guide, Three Days to Discover Cartagena.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Cartagena.