There are many things to do in Cartagena, Colombia. You can walk on cobblestone streets or relax on the beach. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy.
Visiting Cartagena, Colombia, you will be greeted by a feast for the senses. You will feel the hot sun, while admiring the colorful Andalusian architecture, and smelling the local dishes for you to sample.
Most importantly, if you enjoy an old walkable town with something new around every corner, then Cartagena is the place for you.
The cultural activities offered in Cartagena have to do with national festivals, museums, markets, and local cuisine.
You can find out about the history of Cartagena, Colombia, and its surroundings for free while enjoying cheap delicacies.
The main festivals going on in Cartagena and its surroundings are religious festivals related to Christmas, Easter, and New Year.
For example, the locals visit Barranquilla (which is only about two hours and a half drive from Cartagena) during February for one of the liveliest festivals in the world: Carnival.
There are museums to visit, and while many of them have to do with local culture, history, and traditions, you can find great works of art in Cartagena.
For instance, the permanent exhibition at the Cartagena Museum of Modern Art has works of art by local and international artists that you can check out.
Previously having hosted galleys, it is now home to pieces made by Colombian artist Alejandro Obregón and more.
Cartagena, The Walled City
In Cartagena, Colombia, you will discover colonial and Andalusian churches while roaming the streets of the city. The most famous is the San Pedro Claver Church, which houses important religious relics and artifacts.
Still walking around Centro (the Old Town) where the San Pedro Claver Church is, most of the museums are, and most of the activities and things to do in Cartagena are, you will find the house of Rafael Nuñez, which has become a museum.
Rafael Nuñez was an important Colombian author, journalist, and multiple term president. He composed the national anthem of Colombia, and the Colombian Constitution of 1886 was signed in his house.
All admirers of the seafaring ways and colonial history have to stop by the Naval Museum of Cartagena.
You will learn all about the historical trade of the port of Colombia and can follow up the museum with a tour of the local fortress, San Felipe de Barajas.
The structure was used to protect Cartagena from pirates. Also it’s an Unesco World Heritage site.
There are plenty of other museums and festivals to visit in Cartagena, but the main reason you are there is to visit the beaches.
The main beach is Playa de Bocagrande, although there are a handful of close by options to choose from. If you are looking for a less crowded and touristy beach, you can take a short excursion outside of Cartagena for even more options.
While in Cartagena don’t miss out on the estuary nearby, islands to visit, and an abundance of nature’s charms.
Be sure to take boating trips to see the sea life, go to the nearby National Parks to immerse yourself in the local wildlife, and enjoy the turquoise waters and white sandy beaches nearby.
Other notable things to do in Cartagena include spa treatments, mud baths, local markets with a great selection of local fishes, and learning all about the local indigenous tribes.
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