Cartagena, neighbourhood by neighbourhood
Where you stay changes the trip. 5 areas, compared straight, so you book the right one.
01
Old town
Walled City
Cartagena's UNESCO-listed old town inside the walls: colonial streets, plazas, churches, boutique hotels and the ramparts. I would stay here when the trip is the walking.
Vibe
Colonial, romantic
Water
No beach; walls by the sea
Best for
First-timers, couples
02
Street art
Getsemaní
The historic barrio just outside the walls, known for street art, Plaza de la Trinidad, hostels and nightlife.
Vibe
Lively, local
Water
No beach
Best for
Budget, nightlife
03
Beach towers
Bocagrande
The high-rise beach peninsula south of the old town, with chain hotels, apartments and a long city beach.
Vibe
Modern, high-rise
Water
Open sea, city beach
Best for
Families, beach access
04
Near airport
Marbella
The coast north of the walls toward the airport and the fishing village of La Boquilla, with open beaches and resort hotels.
Vibe
Quiet, residential
Water
Open sea
Best for
Short stays, resorts
05
Islands
Barú and the Rosario Islands
Island and beach stays south of Cartagena, in and around the Corales del Rosario y San Bernardo National Natural Park.
Vibe
Remote, beach
Water
Clear Caribbean
Best for
Beach escapes