Cartagena, Colombia is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture. It’s a popular tourist destination, and for good reason. There are plenty of things to see and do in Cartagena, from exploring its colonial architecture to enjoying its vibrant nightlife. If you’re planning a trip to Cartagena in May 2024, here are 9 of the best things to do:
Cartagena is a city with a rich and fascinating history. It was founded in 1533 by Spanish conquistadors, and it quickly became one of the most important ports in the Americas. Cartagena was also a major center of the slave trade, and its history is still visible in the city’s architecture and culture. Today, Cartagena is a popular tourist destination, and it’s easy to see why. The city is home to beautiful beaches, colonial architecture, and a vibrant nightlife. If you’re planning a trip to Cartagena, be sure to add these 9 things to your itinerary:
Explore the Old City
The Old City is the heart of Cartagena. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s home to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, the Clock Tower, and the Palace of the Inquisition. The Old City is also a great place to shop for souvenirs, eat at traditional Colombian restaurants, and enjoy the city’s nightlife.
Visit the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas
The Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas is one of the most impressive fortifications in the Americas. It was built by the Spanish in the 16th century to protect Cartagena from pirate attacks. The castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in Cartagena. Visitors can explore the castle’s many tunnels, dungeons, and towers, and they can also enjoy stunning views of the city from the castle’s walls.
Take a boat trip to the Rosario Islands
The Rosario Islands are a group of 27 islands located about an hour by boat from Cartagena. The islands are a popular destination for tourists who want to relax on the beach, snorkel, or dive. There are also a number of restaurants and bars on the islands, so you can easily spend the day exploring. The Rosario Islands are a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of Cartagena and enjoy some peace and quiet.
Go for a walk along the city walls
The city walls of Cartagena are one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. They were built by the Spanish in the 16th century to protect the city from attack. The walls are over 11 kilometers long, and they offer stunning views of the city and the Caribbean Sea. Visitors can walk along the walls for free, and it’s a great way to get some exercise and see the city from a different perspective.
Visit the Palace of the Inquisition
The Palace of the Inquisition is a museum that tells the story of the Spanish Inquisition in Cartagena. The Inquisition was a religious tribunal that was responsible for persecuting heretics. The museum has exhibits on the history of the Inquisition, and it also features a number of artifacts from the period. The Palace of the Inquisition is a fascinating place to visit, and it’s a good way to learn about the history of Cartagena.
Take a cooking class
Cartagena is a great place to learn about Colombian cuisine. There are a number of cooking classes available in the city, and they’re a great way to learn how to make some of your favorite Colombian dishes. You’ll learn about the different ingredients and techniques used in Colombian cooking, and you’ll also get to taste some of the delicious food that Cartagena has to offer.
Go dancing
Cartagena is a city that loves to dance. There are a number of dance clubs and bars in the city, and you’ll always find people dancing in the streets. If you’re looking for a fun night out, be sure to check out one of Cartagena’s many dance clubs.
Visit the Museo del Oro
The Museo del Oro is a museum that houses a collection of pre-Columbian gold artifacts. The museum has over 5,000 pieces of gold, and it’s one of the most important collections of its kind in the world. The Museo del Oro is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the pre-Columbian peoples of Colombia.
Relax on the beach
Cartagena is a great place to relax on the beach. There are a number of beaches in the city, and they’re all within walking distance of the Old City. The beaches in Cartagena are beautiful, and they’re a great place to relax and soak up the sun.
Culture, Best Months to Visit, Nearby Transportation, Local Food, and Best Hotels
Cartagena is a city with a rich and vibrant culture. The city is home to a number of museums, art galleries, and theaters. Cartagena is also a great place to learn about Colombian cuisine. The city has a number of restaurants that serve traditional Colombian dishes, as well as a number of international restaurants.
The best time to visit Cartagena is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. During this time, the weather is hot and sunny, and there is little rain. However, Cartagena is a popular tourist destination, so it’s important to book your accommodations in advance.
Cartagena is easily accessible by air and land. The city has an international airport, and there are a number of buses and trains that run to Cartagena from other cities in Colombia. Cartagena is also a popular cruise ship destination.
Cartagena has a variety of local food. Some of the most popular dishes include ceviche, arepas, and sancocho. Cartagena is also a great place to try tropical fruits, such as mangoes, pineapples, and papayas.
There are a number of great hotels in Cartagena. Some of the most popular hotels include the Hotel Sofitel Legend Santa Clara, the Hotel Charleston Santa Teresa, and the Hotel Las Americas Cartagena.
Conclusion
Cartagena is a beautiful and vibrant city that has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just relaxing on the beach, you’re sure to find something to love in Cartagena. The 9 Best Things to Do in Cartagena May 2024 are just a starting point. With so much to see and do, you’re sure to have a memorable trip to Cartagena.
