Destination: Cartagena, Colombia

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Advisor - Andrea Waxman
Curated By

Andrea Waxman

  • City Travel

  • Off-the-Beaten-Path Travel

  • Beaches

  • Cartagena

  • Colombia

  • Local Culture

  • Local Food

A yellow cathedral as seen from between colorful city streets.
Curator’s statement

Colombia is a must-see destination on your next South America trip. Cartagena has a myriad of things to do, which makes it a unique destination within the vibrant country of Colombia. Its contrast between the old city and the beach is incredible to see and experience. You can go from relaxing on the islands off the coast or on the main beaches to dining in the old city and dancing salsa. It's got something for everyone and if you're into gluten, don't miss out on trying the pan de bono!

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Where to stay in Cartagena, Colombia

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Things to do in Cartagena, Colombia

A vibrant graffiti mural of a person’s face on an urban wall.

  • Old City Cartagena: Walk the old city and explore the cathedral, the plazas, the shops, the coffee shops, the art galleries and the Museum of Modern Art.

  • Shopping in La Serrezuela: Walk around the streets and go into boutique shops.

  • Getsemani: Explore the next town over — walk the graffiti streets and see the flags on the streets and the art everywhere.

  • Take a boat out to Islas Rosario and Baru or any private boat to the beautiful remote islands in the area.

Places to eat & drink in Cartagena, Colombia

Sushi on a black background with one piece being picked up by chopsticks

  • Harry Sasson Restaurant: Pretty plaza feel

  • Cafe Del Mar: Views and vibes, on top of the mural

  • Niku: Sushi / Japanese

  • Find a pan de bono shop and purchase a pan de bono, eat it and thank me later. Unless you're gluten free — then stay away

Need to know

How to get there from NY/NJ area

JetBlue has a daily direct flight from JFK to CTG at 10 am (a five-hour flight, arrives at 2:10 pm).

Avianca, American Airlines, COPA and Spirit also have non direct options.

How to get there from Miami area

Spirit flies FLL-CTG 10:30 am and gets in at 12:23 pm (about a three-hour flight).

American Airlines has daily flights from MIA-CTG at 10:25 am or 12:15 pm (three-hour flights).

LATAM and Avianca are popular airlines in Latin America and equivalent to JetBlue or American Airlines.

Advisor - Andrea Waxman

Travel Advisor

Andrea Waxman

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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Cartagena. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, Iceland by Land.