Learn how to Spend One Day in Cartagena, Colombia

In search of the best way to spend the right day in Cartagena? For those who’re looking for the last word issues to do in Cartagena, however solely have at some point to soak all of it in, don’t fear, I’ve received you! I spent my birthday month there researching all the most effective locations to see, eating places to eat at and actions to do, so that you don’t need to stress concerning the planning.

From sipping Colombian espresso at Cafe del Mural to catching a panoramic sundown whereas strolling alongside the historic metropolis partitions, right here’s an itinerary that claims precisely the best way to fill the day.

12-Hour Cartagena Itinerary

 9:30 AM: Seize a Colombian Espresso

First issues first—espresso! Colombia is world-renowned for its espresso, and Café del Mural within the Getsemaní neighborhood takes your morning cup of joe to the following degree. In fact you may get a easy sizzling espresso, but it surely’s actually enjoyable to strive a few of their different espresso drinks, just like the Caribbean latte that’s a chilly brew with coconut. 

You’ll discover it on a quiet aspect road that’s surrounded by murals (therefore the identify), making it one of many prettiest and most photographed spots in Cartagena. Snap some pics of the colourful paintings when you sip on a superbly brewed cup. 

10:30 AM: Take a Colombian Meals Cooking Class

Channel your internal chef with a cooking class at Lunático, one in all Cartagena’s finest spots to study conventional Colombian delicacies. The journey begins with a visit to Mercado de Bazurto, a bustling, gritty market the place the substances on your culinary creations are sourced.

Bazurto isn’t for the faint of coronary heart—it’s chaotic, loud, and sure, smelly—but it surely’s additionally a sensory wonderland. Suppose unique fruits you’ve by no means seen earlier than, contemporary seafood, and piles of fragrant herbs. It’s a fantastic expertise having a chef navigate the maze of stalls and clarify what’s what. Plus, there will probably be meals to pattern (when you select!).

Again at Lunático, you’ll dive into making Colombian classics like arepas, empanadas, and ceviche (I made the finest ceviche of my life right here). You’ll go away with a full stomach, new expertise, and possibly even just a few recipes to impress your pals again dwelling.

2:00 PM: Stroll By means of Barrio Getsemani

Barrio Getsemaní has remodeled from a tough previous into one in all Cartagena’s coolest neighborhoods. The colourful colonial streets are buzzing with life—the power right here is contagious—and the road artwork on each nook tells highly effective tales concerning the neighborhood’s journey and challenges.

Calle de la Sierpe is legendary for its artwork, however that’s not the one one. Two of essentially the most Instagram-worthy spots are within the slender streets of Callejón Angosto and Calle de la Magdalena, that are adorned with colourful umbrellas that create a whimsical cover overhead. 

Don’t miss Plaza Trinidad—it’s the center of Getsemaní. Seize a chilly Cerveza from a nook vendor, chat with locals, and take in the environment. And naturally, no journey to Getsemaní is full with out a picture with the long-lasting Las Palenqueras. These ladies in vibrant attire, balancing fruit baskets on their heads, are greater than only a fairly image—they’re a logo of resilience and historical past. 

Tip: Getsemaní is just a few blocks, so don’t fear an excessive amount of about lacking something, simply maintain strolling.

3:30 PM: Discover Castillo De San Felipe De Barajas

Subsequent, step again in time at Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, a fortress constructed within the Sixteenth century to defend Cartagena from pirate assaults. Climb its partitions, discover the tunnels, and luxuriate in panoramic views of town and sea.

When you’re within the space, swing by Los Zapatos Viejos (the Outdated Sneakers Monument), a enjoyable photo-op that includes an enormous pair of bronze sneakers. This quirky sculpture honors Cartagenero poet Luis Carlos López, who as soon as wrote concerning the consolation of coming dwelling to his metropolis is like slipping into an previous pair of sneakers.

Tip: you may get there both by taxi or Uber. For those who resolve on taxi, simply keep in mind to barter earlier than entering into the automotive. 

6:00 PM: Stroll On The Metropolis’s Partitions for Sundown

Cartagena’s historic heart is wrapped in 11 kilometers of UNESCO-recognized stone partitions, full with fortifications and bastions. The Sixteenth-century metropolis partitions had been constructed to keep off pirates, and in the present day, they provide a few of the finest views on the town—espically at sundown. 

As you stroll, you’ll be handled to nice views of the ocean and Cartagena’s charming neighborhoods. You’ll additionally discover the uneven heights and thickness of the partitions, every part tells a narrative of Cartagena’s previous. 

Tip: A well-liked route is to enter close to Charleston Santa Teresa Resort, then stroll the partitions all the best way to Las Bovedas. From there you may stroll again via town. However, the partitions are tremendous accessible with many stairways periodically, so you may simply hop on and off in a number of areas. 

7:00 PM: Pre-Dinner Cocktails at Alquímico

Do you know Cartagena is dwelling to one of many high 50 finest bars on the planet? Yep, you heard that proper! For those who love good ambiance and even higher cocktails, Alquímico is the place to get your pre-dinner drink (and after dinner one too!). The place is in a fantastically restored colonial constructing, and every of its three flooring affords a novel vibe and a unique menu to match. We sipped our drinks on ground 2, Classicos Alquimistas. 

Whether or not you’re into basic cocktails or love adventurous new concoctions, their knowledgeable employees will suggest the right mix. They picked the Te Caribeno for me that was a mix of gin, maraschino liquor, inexperienced tea and dehydrated coconut. 

Regardless of which drink you decide, you will be assured that their concentrate on high-quality, domestically sourced substances and beautiful presentation.

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