Cartagena was one of those places that had been on our travel list for years. We knew it was famous for its colonial architecture, colorful streets, Caribbean setting, and history. What we didn’t expect was just how photogenic the city would be.
We spent ten days in Cartagena, splitting our time between the historic center and modern Bocagrande. Five days in each turned out to be a good balance. The old city gave us history, culture, and endless opportunities for wandering.
Bocagrande’s modern skyline provides a striking contrast to the colonial charm in the old city.
Modern Bocagrande gave us a Miami type skyline, beaches, ocean views, and a welcome escape from the crowded historic center.
Of course, Cartagena comes with a few challenges. The city is hot – not just warm – hot and humid. We visited in February during a period when we had only one rainy day, but the humidity was a constant companion. Air conditioning quickly became one of our favorite amenities. Morning walks were generally more comfortable than afternoons, and carrying water was essential.
One thing became apparent almost immediately. Cartagena is colorful. Really colorful.
The brightly painted buildings, flower-covered balconies, street art, fruit vendors, and traditional dresses create a city that seems designed for photographers.
Fresh fruit carts are a common sight throughout Cartagena, adding even more color to the city’s already vibrant streets.
The food was another highlight. Seafood appeared on our table frequently, usually accompanied by fresh tropical juices or Colombian coffee. The coffee deserves special mention. Colombia’s reputation is well deserved. Whether ordered in a restaurant, a small café, or from a street vendor, it was consistently excellent.
Every time we turned a corner, another scene demanded a photo.
The historic center is enclosed by massive stone walls that were built to defend the city from pirates and foreign invaders. Today those walls are lined with visitors enjoying sunset views, street performers entertaining crowds, and locals going about their day.
Walking the narrow streets inside the walls often felt like stepping back several centuries, except for the occasional café serving excellent Colombian coffee.
Colorful flags, murals, and everyday life make Getsemaní one of Cartagena’s most enjoyable neighborhoods to explore on foot.
Our favorite neighborhood was Getsemaní. Years ago it was considered rough around the edges. Today it is one of Cartagena’s most interesting districts.
Murals cover entire buildings, colorful flags hang overhead, musicians perform in public squares, and the streets have a lively energy that feels authentic rather than manufactured.
We found ourselves returning there several times simply because it was fun to wander without a destination.
Centenario Park (established in 1911) is a surprising wildlife haven. It is home to Cotton-top Tamarins (small, critically endangered monkeys with white crests), sloths, and large iguanas.
One unexpected surprise was Centennial Park. Located near the entrance to the old city, it doesn’t look particularly remarkable at first glance. But slow down and look up. We spotted sloths hanging in the trees, monkeys moving through the canopy, and large iguanas sunning themselves on branches.
Local legend says the animals are there because a smuggler abandoned them in the park years ago rather than getting caught.
It felt like a small urban wildlife refuge hidden in the middle of a busy city.
San Felipe de Barajas Fort was built to defend the city from attacks by pirates.
Cartajena’s location made it one of the most important ports in the Spanish Empire. Gold and silver from South America passed through here on the way to Spain. That wealth made Cartagena a target and pirates and privateers—most famously Sir Francis Drake—attacked repeatedly.
What impressed us most about Cartagena was the contrast. On one side you have centuries-old colonial architecture, historic forts, and cobblestone streets.
On the other, modern high-rise buildings stretch along the coastline. Somehow the combination works. The beaches around Bocagrande offered a pleasant break from sightseeing.
While Cartagena may not have the postcard-perfect beaches found elsewhere in the Caribbean, sitting by the water with the city’s modern skyline in the background provided a completely different perspective on the city.
If you enjoy history, photography, food, and simply wandering through interesting neighborhoods, Cartagena deserves a spot on your travel list. Give yourself enough time to explore beyond the main attractions, spend some time in Getsemaní, keep an eye on the trees in Centennial Park, and don’t forget to seek out a good cup of Colombian coffee. Cartagena may be known for its history, but for us it will always be remembered for its color.