Luxury and Charm in Cartagena: A Colombian Coastal Escape

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Advisor - Melanie Ferrara-Bermejo
Curated By

Melanie Ferrara-Bermejo

  • Cartagena

  • Arts & Culture

  • Beaches

  • Boutique Travel

  • History

  • Local Culture

  • Coastal

City with brown walls.
Curator’s statement

Cartagena fascinates me with its rich history, vibrant culture and colonial charm infused with modern luxury. The walled Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, transports visitors to another era with its colorful buildings and cobblestone streets. I'm enamored by the way high-end experiences here often come with a story, whether it's a gourmet meal in a centuries-old mansion or a yacht trip to private islands. The warmth of the local people, combined with the city's thriving arts scene and Caribbean flair, makes Cartagena a truly special destination for those seeking a luxurious yet culturally immersive experience.

The Fora Difference

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Where to stay in Cartagena

Sofitel Baru Calablanca

Coastal resort with sophisticated rooms and suites offering ocean views.

Fora Perks
  • ★

    Hotel / resort 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.

Charleston Santa Teresa Cartagena

Colonial-style hotel overlooking the Caribbean Sea known for its colorful rooms with a restaurant, cafe and eatery.

Fora Perks
  • ★

    $100 hotel / resort credit.

  • ★

    Welcome treat in room on arrival.

  • ★

    Upgrade & guaranteed late check-out.

Hotel Capellan de Getsemani

Spanish, colonial-style hotel with a refreshing plunge pool in the artful neighborhood of Getsemani.

Fora Perks
  • ★

    Breakfast daily.

  • ★

    Welcome treat in room on arrival.

  • ★

    Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Movich Hotel Cartagena de Indias

A stunning blend of colonial charm and modern luxury nestled in the heart of Cartagena's historic walled city.

Fora Perks
  • ★

    $50-$100 food / beverage or spa credit.

  • ★

    Breakfast daily.

  • ★

    Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Unlock perks by contacting Melanie to book your trip.

Things to do in Cartagena

A person enjoying the view from a roof top pool overlooking the city during the day.

  • Explore the Walled City: Wander through the colorful streets of the historic Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

  • Visit Castillo San Felipe de Barajas: Explore this impressive 16th-century fortress overlooking the city.

  • Enjoy sunset at Café del Mar: Sip cocktails while watching the sun set over the Caribbean from this popular spot on the city walls.

  • Visit the Getsemaní neighborhood: Explore this trendy area known for its street art, local culture and nightlife.

  • Take a food tour: Sample local delicacies and learn about Cartagena's culinary traditions through a guided food tour.

  • Makani Beach Club: A chic day club on Tierra Bomba Island offering a luxurious beach experience with panoramic views of Cartagena. The club features infinity pools, lounging areas, water sports and upscale dining just a short boat ride from the city.

  • Lunatico Experience: Learn to cook authentic Colombian cuisine in a vibrant Cartagena setting with Lunatico Experience. This hands-on cooking class teaches traditional recipes and techniques using fresh, local ingredients.

Day trips

Island-Hopping Boat Tour: Take a day trip to explore the Rosario Islands and Barú, featuring stops at various beaches and opportunities for swimming and snorkeling in the Caribbean waters surrounding Cartagena.

Places to eat & drink in Cartagena

A food view with octopus served with vegetables on a white plate.

Restaurants:

1. Alma: Elegant fusion cuisine in a romantic colonial mansion setting.

2. Mar y Zielo: Rooftop restaurant offering panoramic views and innovative seafood dishes.

3. Pascal: French-inspired fine dining with a focus on local ingredients and artistic presentation.

4. Mistura: Peruvian-Colombian fusion restaurant known for its ceviche and pisco cocktails.

5. Celele: Avant-garde eatery celebrating Caribbean cuisine through research and modern techniques.

6. Carmen: Sophisticated restaurant serving creative Colombian dishes in a chic, tropical atmosphere.

Bars:

1. Alquímico: Multi-level cocktail bar in a restored mansion, famous for its innovative drinks and sustainability practices.

2. El Barón Café & Liquor Bar: Intimate craft cocktail bar with a speakeasy vibe and expert mixologists.

3. Cafe Havana: Lively salsa club and bar with a Cuban flair, popular among locals and tourists alike.

4. La Jugada Club House Gastrobar: Trendy sports bar offering a mix of international cuisine and craft cocktails in a modern setting.

Advisor - Melanie Ferrara-Bermejo

Travel Advisor

Melanie Ferrara-Bermejo

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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, Medellín Unveiled: Luxury, Culture and Adventure Await.