Cartagena is a city that is rich in history, culture, and beauty. It is a popular tourist destination for people from all over the world. There are many things to see and do in Cartagena, but here are 9 of the best things to do in Cartagena in June 2024.
June is a great time to visit Cartagena because the weather is warm and sunny. The average temperature in June is around 86 degrees Fahrenheit. There is also less rainfall in June than in other months of the year, so you are less likely to get rained out of your activities.
Cartagena is a walkable city, so you can easily get around on foot. However, there are also plenty of taxis and buses available if you need them. The city is also very safe, so you can feel comfortable exploring it on your own.
Cartagena is a great place to try some of the local cuisine. There are many restaurants in the city that serve traditional Colombian dishes. Some of the most popular dishes include arepas, empanadas, and ceviche. Cartagena is also known for its nightlife. There are many bars and clubs in the city where you can dance and listen to music.
Cartagena is a city that has something to offer everyone. Whether you are looking for history, culture, beauty, or just a fun time, you will find it in Cartagena.
1. Visit the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas
The Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas is a 16th-century fortress that is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Cartagena. The fortress was built to protect the city from pirates and other invaders. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered to be one of the most important examples of military architecture in the Americas.
The fortress is open to the public and you can take a guided tour or explore it on your own. There are many different exhibits in the fortress, including a museum, a chapel, and a dungeon. You can also climb to the top of the fortress for stunning views of Cartagena and the Caribbean Sea.
2. Walk the Walls of Cartagena
The Walls of Cartagena are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. The walls were built in the 16th century to protect the city from pirates and other invaders. They are over 11 kilometers long and are up to 12 meters high. You can walk along the walls for free and enjoy stunning views of Cartagena and the Caribbean Sea.
3. Visit the Getsemani Neighborhood
The Getsemani Neighborhood is a historic neighborhood in Cartagena that is known for its colorful buildings and vibrant street life. The neighborhood is home to many artists and musicians, and there are many art galleries and live music venues in the area. You can also find many restaurants and bars in the neighborhood.
4. Take a Boat Trip to the Rosario Islands
The Rosario Islands are a group of 27 islands that are located about an hour boat ride from Cartagena. The islands are known for their beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush vegetation. You can take a boat trip to the islands for a day trip or you can stay overnight in one of the many hotels or guesthouses on the islands.
5. Visit the Museo del Oro Zenu
The Museo del Oro Zenu is a museum that is dedicated to the pre-Columbian goldwork of the Zenu people. The museum has a collection of over 500 gold pieces, including jewelry, masks, and figurines. The museum is located in the historic center of Cartagena and is open to the public.
6. Go Shopping at the Centro Comercial La Serrezuela
The Centro Comercial La Serrezuela is a large shopping mall that is located in the Bocagrande neighborhood of Cartagena. The mall has over 150 stores, including many international brands. You can also find many restaurants and a movie theater in the mall.
7. Visit the Cartagena Cathedral
The Cartagena Cathedral is a 16th-century cathedral that is located in the historic center of Cartagena. The cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most important examples of colonial architecture in the Americas. The cathedral is open to the public and you can take a guided tour or explore it on your own.
8. Take a Salsa Dance Class
Salsa is a popular dance in Cartagena and there are many dance schools in the city where you can take a class. Salsa is a great way to learn about Colombian culture and have some fun at the same time. You can find salsa dance classes for all levels, from beginners to advanced.
9. Enjoy the Nightlife
Cartagena has a vibrant nightlife scene with many bars and clubs to choose from. You can find live music, DJs, and dancing in many of the city’s bars and clubs. Cartagena is also known for its rooftop bars, which offer stunning views of the city and the Caribbean Sea.
Culture
Cartagena is a city with a rich and diverse culture. The city has been influenced by many different cultures over the centuries, including the Spanish, the African, and the indigenous peoples of Colombia. This has resulted in a unique culture that is unlike any other in the world.
Cartagena is a city that is full of life and energy. The people of Cartagena are known for their friendly and welcoming nature. The city is also known for its music, dance, and food. Cartagena is a great place to experience the culture of Colombia.
Best Months to Visit
The best time to visit Cartagena is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. During the dry season, the weather is warm and sunny, and there is less rainfall. However, Cartagena is a popular tourist destination, so it is important to book your accommodations in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season.
The shoulder months, May and November, are also a good time to visit Cartagena. The weather is still warm and sunny, but there is less rainfall and fewer tourists. The off-season, June to October, is the least expensive time to visit Cartagena. However, the weather can be hot and humid during this time, and there is more rainfall.
Nearby Transportation
Cartagena is easily accessible by air and land. The Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG) is located about 10 kilometers from the city center. There are many direct flights to Cartagena from major cities in Colombia and around the world. You can also take a bus or a car to Cartagena from other cities in Colombia.
Once you are in Cartagena, you can get around on foot, by taxi, or by bus. The city is also very walkable, so you can easily explore the historic center and other popular tourist areas on foot.
Local Food
Cartagena is a great place to try some of the local cuisine. There are many restaurants in the city that serve traditional Colombian dishes. Some of the most popular dishes include arepas, empanadas, and ceviche. Cartagena is also known for its seafood dishes, such as fried fish and shrimp.
If you are looking for a more upscale dining experience, there are many fine dining restaurants in Cartagena. These restaurants serve a variety of international cuisines, including French, Italian, and Asian. Cartagena is also known for its rooftop restaurants, which offer stunning views of the city and the Caribbean Sea.
Best Hotels
There are many great hotels in Cartagena to choose from. If you are looking for a luxury hotel, the Hotel Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena is a great option. The hotel is located in the historic center of Cartagena and offers stunning views of the city and the Caribbean Sea. Other great luxury hotels in Cartagena include the Hotel Charleston Santa Teresa Cartagena and the Hotel Tequendama Cartagena.
If you are looking for a more affordable hotel, there are many great options to choose from. The Hotel Las Americas Torre del Mar is a great option for budget-minded travelers. The hotel is located in the Bocagrande neighborhood of Cartagena and offers comfortable rooms at a reasonable price. Other great affordable hotels in Cartagena include the Hotel Casa de la Merced and the Hotel Santa Catalina.
**Conclusion**
Cartagena is a city that has something to offer everyone. Whether you are looking for history, culture, beauty, or just a fun time, you will find it in Cartagena. The city is easily accessible and there are many great hotels to choose from. The local food is delicious and there are many great restaurants to choose from. Cartagena is a great place to visit any time of year, but the best time to visit is during the dry season.