Best Things to Do in Cartagena, Colombia (2026)

This guide is built on real experience – not just a quick visit, but actually living life in this incredible city. Whether you've got 3 days or as long as a week to explore, we'll give you the lowdown on the must-see sights, hidden gems that most tourists miss, and how to craft an itinerary that's just right for you. And before you buy an expensive physical SIM card with data after landing, take a moment to check out our honest eSIM pros and cons guide — it might help you decide whether getting an eSIM before your trip is the smarter option

Cartagena is the Colombian city that everyone wants to visit – and for good reason. Sure, it's busier and pricier than Medellín or Bogotá – and the heat and humidity will be a constant reminder of where you are in the world. But trust us, when it comes to things to do in Cartagena Colombia, it's worth it – a city that combines Caribbean vibes, colonial history and the modern energy of Latin America.

Must-Do Things in Cartagena

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty details, let's get down to the things you absolutely need to see in Cartagena – the stuff that'll make your trip truly unforgettable. That means: exploring the historic walled city (Centro Histórico) with its winding cobblestone streets and stunning plazas; wandering through the colorful streets and street art of Getsemaní; watching the sunset from the city walls or a rooftop bar; taking a day trip to the Rosario Islands for some beach time and snorkelling; climbing the ramparts of Castillo San Felipe de Barajas; and eating your way through local seafood restaurants and street food stalls.

When it comes to things to do in Cartagena Colombia, these highlights are essential for any visitor wanting to experience the city's unique charm and vibrant culture.

As for how long to spend in Cartagena, plan on at least 3 days (2 nights) to get the highlights in without feeling rushed. With 4 to 7 days on your side, you can start adding in island excursions, cultural days out like San Basilio de Palenque, and a slower pace of life in neighbourhoods beyond the tourist areas.

When it comes to the best time to visit, the dry season from December to April is when the sun shines bright, the humidity's not too bad, but the crowds and prices will be peaking. Shoulder months like May/June and September to November will give you a bit of rain, but fewer tourists and lower prices – and a much more local feel. September and October? Best to give those a miss if you're not a fan of getting wet – they're the wettest months of the year.

Below, we've put together the essentials of Cartagena – from neighbourhoods to activities, food, nightlife, side trips and practical tips – so you can build your own custom itinerary based on what matters to you.

Explore the Historic Walled City (Centro Histórico)

The historic walled city is where Cartagena's magic really comes alive. Wander through the clock tower gate – Puerta del Reloj – and you enter a world of cobblestone streets, house fronts draped in fragrant flowers in every colour of the rainbow, and plazas where horse-drawn carriages clip-clop past cafes.

This UNESCO World Heritage site has been fortified since the 16th and 17th centuries, when Spanish colonists built 11 kilometres of stone walls – Las Murallas – to keep the pirates and rival empires at bay. The city survived sieges from English explorer Sir Francis Drake in 1586 and loads more over the centuries. Walking around here, you're literally walking in the footsteps of history.

Start with a free walking tour departing from Plaza Santa Teresa. The late afternoon tour is our pick – the heat's started to ease, the light's golden, and the crowds have thinned out just in time for dinner. The tours last about 2.5 to 3 hours and cover the major plazas, fortification history and stories behind the colonial architecture.

Neighbourhoods and landmarks to look out for when you're on your own or with a walking tour include:

Practical Tips for the Old Town:

• Get out early (before 9) or late (after 4) to avoid the worst of the heat

• Wear comfy shoes – the cobblestone streets are pretty but uneven

• Bring water, sunscreen and a hat – shade is at a premium in open plazas

• Keep valuables close – pickpocketing can happen in crowded areas, especially around the clock tower

• Budget 3-4 hours for a thorough first explorationFor some truly great photos, try chasing the horse drawn carriages at night near Plaza de los Coches, then walk off along Calle de las Damas and take in the picture perfect flower covered balconies - they're a real treat. & the colorful doorways in San Diego neighborhood within the walls are a photographers dream.

Photography Spots in the Old Town

The old town has a handful of particularly photogenic corners that are just begging to be popped in front of the camera lens. There's Callejón Angosto, which straddles the border between Getsemaní and is just a riot of flags and lights. Calle de la Sierpe on the other hand, is home to some incredible street art that seamlessly connects the old town to Getsemaní’s thriving street art scene. Plaza Santo Domingo is a great spot for that classic travel shot of sculptures and café tables, and just to the side of Baluarte de Santo Domingo at golden hour gives you one of those amazing sweeping views of the city skyline and caribbean sea.

if you want to get those empty streets with the soft morning light, try getting to the area around 6:30-8:00 before the tour groups start to turn up. Come back in the late evening for some night shots of the illuminated churches and plazas with that warm colonal glow.

Shooting approach:
capture a few wide shots of the colorful streets, then get up close with the balcony details, door knockers and window boxes. And when it comes to candid street scenes, just remember to be respectful - ask before photographing locals, especially the palenqueras in traditional dress who tend to expect a tip for posing.

Wander the Colorful Streets of Getsemaní

Just outside the historic district walls you'll find Getsemaní - this former working class neighborhood has morphed into Cartagena’s creative and nightlife hub. While Centro Histórico feels polished and touristy Getsemaní still has its rough edges - murals cover almost every building, colorful umbrellas hang over its narrow streets and local corner shops sit alongside trendy hostels and cocktail bars.

The heart of the neighborhood is Plaza de la Trinidad, the kind of place where locals and travelers mix on the church steps, street vendors sell arepas and cold beers, and drummers set up impromptu performances after sunset. The vibe here is loads more authentic than the manicured plazas of the old city.

Key areas to explore:

• Plaza de la Trinidad – the social hub of the neighborhood, best visited after 19.00 when things really start to liven up

• Callejón Angosto and Calle Ancho – this pair of narrow lanes is bedecked with colourful flags, lanterns, and overhead installations that are just begging to be photographed

• Calle de la Media Luna – this is the main nightlife artery, lined with bars, restaurants and clubs that really crank up after dark

To get the most out of your visit , try popping into Getsemaní in the morning for some street art photography when the sidewalks are quiet, then come back in the evening for food, drinks and live music. The neighborhood is generally safe but just use your common sense after dark - stick to busy streets, keep cash to a minimum and bear in mind that you’re walking through a residential area where families still live alongside the hostels and bars.

Street Art & Culture in Getsemaní

If you want to give yourself a street art walking tour, start at Parque del Centenario (just outside the clock tower) and then loop along Calle de la Sierpe, turn onto Calle del Espíritu Santo and work your way back to Plaza de la Trinidad. This route should take you around 45 minutes to an hour depending on how many photos you stop for.

The street art here isn’t just some pretty decorations – it’s also a reflection of the communities history, identity and culture - you'll see portraits of community elders, scenes of daily market life, and bold statements about social justice.

Respect the space: don’t block doorways while snapping photos, don’t touch or lean on the murals and ask before photographing residents. If you really want to get some deeper context, consider a guided graffiti or culture tour run by local artists who can explain the story behind each piece and the neighbourhood’s transformation from an overlooked barrio to a bohemian hotspot.

Day Trip to the Rosario Islands & Nearby Beaches

No trip to Cartagena is complete without a boat trip to the Rosario Islands – a 27 island archipelago about 45 minutes by speedboat from the city. This national park - Corales del Rosario - protects the world’s second largest coral reef system and some of the clearest turquoise water in the Caribbean.

Different ways to visit:

Plan for at least one full day if you’re doing a day trip. Tours typically depart from Muelle de la Bodeguita around 8:00–9:00, returning by 16:00–17:00. Overnight stays on the islands reward you with peaceful evenings once the day-trippers leave.

Deciding on the best beach around Cartagena:

• Rosario Islands – In a nutshell, if snorkelling is your thing then these are the islands to head to. The water is crystal clear and the snorkelling is top-notch requiring a boat tour, it's a bit pricier than other options but totally worth it

• Playa Blanca (Barú) – The beach itself is stunning with its powdery white sand and the iconic photo opportunities are a real draw. Just watch out on the weekends when it gets very crowded and you'll be hassled by vendors who won't take no for an answer

• Tierra Bomba – It's the closest island to the city (only a 10 minute boat ride away) making it a great option if you're on the lookout for a quick beach escape & get some great views of the skyline

• Bocagrande beaches – They're right in the heart of the city, not the prettiest but you can easily walk to them from your hotel

Some practical tips when planning an island trip:

• Book your tour 1-2 days in advance, especially during high season (December to April and Holy Week)

• Don't forget to pay the mandatory port tax in cash, it's usually separate from the tour price

• Reef-safe sunscreen, a hat and some motion sickness meds if you're prone to getting seasick would all be good ideas to bring along

• Return boats usually leave mid-afternoon when the seas get a bit choppy

• Bring some extra cash for tips, drinks and any beach chair rentals

A day in the sun at Tierra Bomba & Island Hopping Options

Tierra Bomba is literally just over the water from Cartagena bay, so if you're short on time or on a tight budget it's an easy escape. There are some lovely beach clubs on the island that offer lounge chairs, some fresh seafood and the views back toward the city skyline are a nice bonus

Some of the tours will combine a trip to Tierra Bomba with some snorkelling and then a visit to historic sites like Castillo San Fernando, the 18th century fort that used to guard the bay entrance. This mix of beach time and history is perfect for those who want a bit of everything but don't want to commit to a full day at the Rosario islands

Use Tierra Bomba when you've got limited time, need to save some cash or you'd rather just skip the longer open sea rides. Its also a good option when the weather is looking a bit iffy and the 45 minute crossing to the Rosario islands isn't looking so appealing

Taking a step back in time with Cartagena's Fortifications

Castillo San Felipe de Barajas is the largest Spanish colonial fort in all of South America - a massive stone structure utterly dominating the hill that towers above Cartagena. The fort's construction kicked off way back in 1536 and dragged on until 1767 - I reckon the engineers were keen to get it up and ready to defend against any invaders that came knocking. Over the course of nearly 230 years, the engineers came up with all sorts of clever ideas - like building mazy tunnels that allowed defenders to hear any incoming enemies and sneak around without getting spotted.

Exploring the fort will have you discovering all sorts of things that'll get your heart racing - like steep ramps that'll leave you gasping for breath and uneven surfaces that'll have you scrambling to stay on your feet. You'll also get to see the fort's ramparts, which offer some of the most breathtaking views of Cartagena bay, the Bocagrande skyline and the old town in the distance.

What you can expect:

• Allow at least 1 and a half to 2 hours to do this place justice

• Comfortable shoes are a must - the steep ramps and uneven surfaces wont be kind to you if you're not wearing the right footwear

• There's limited shade around here so don't forget to bring water, sunscreen, and a hat

• Local guides are available at the entrance and they can really bring the history to life with their stories of sieges and pirate attacks

• The entrance fee is roughly COP$25,000 - COP$30,000 (check the current rate before you go)

Get to the fortress early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the blistering midday heat. Midday is when all the tour buses turn up and that's when it gets really busy and crowded - not to mention the lighting for photos isnt exactly ideal.

Pair the fortress up with some nearby attractions for a history-focused half-day:

1. Castillo San Felipe de Barajas - 1.5 – 2 hours

2. Museo Naval del Caribe - loads of cool stuff on maritime history and model ships (about 45 minutes)

3. Palace of the Inquisition / Museo Histórico de Cartagena - a weird and wonderful mix of colonial era torture devices, architecture and city history (about 45 minutes)

The ramparts are a great place to snap some photos - wide-angle views of the bay and old town, and atmospheric shots of the tunnel entrances and cannon placements.

Enjoying the City Walls at Sunset

Walking Las Murallas in late afternoon as the sun dips towards the caribbean sea has got to be one of the most memorable free things you can do in Cartagena. The light softens, the ocean breeze picks up and the pastel buildings of the old town glow golden.

Start at Baluarte de Santo Domingo, which gives you a great view of the sea and the modern Bocagrande skyline. Walk along to Baluarte de San Francisco Javier for some different angles on the city. Try to time your walk so you reach the café del mar area - or nearby spots along the wall - right as the sun disappears below the horizon.

Once its gone dark, pop into the old town for dinner. The transition from the golden hour on the walls to candlelit restaurant patios is just fantastic.

Watch an Unforgettable Caribbean Sunset

Cartagena’s sunsets are legendary. The sky transforms into layers of orange, pink, and purple as the sun drops into the bay, and the whole city seems to pause and watch.

Best ways to experience sunset:

Arrive 45–60 minutes before sunset to claim a good spot—this is especially important for popular rooftop bars that fill up quickly. Some rooftops have minimum spends; ask before ordering to avoid surprises.

For sunset cruises, book 1–2 days in advance during December–April, Holy Week, and around New Year when availability gets tight. Choose between party boats with music and open bar versus mellower catamaran options.

Photographers should stay 15–20 minutes after the sun dips for blue-hour shots when the sky turns deep blue and the city walls and churches light up.

Eat Like A Local: Seafood, Street Food & Coffee

Cartagena is a coastal city that gets fresh seafood in every single day, it's the perfect place to find fried snacks to munch on in the afternoon - and if you're looking for a coffee fix you'll find that the locals know their beans - even if they don't grow them in the city itself.

Seafood & Local Cuisine

The traditional dishes in Cartagena are all about what comes out of the sea that morning - you can get fried whole red snapper with coconut rice and patacones, or marinated shrimp or fish in lime and 'tiger's milk', or even a seafood stew cooked in coconut milk. Sounds good to me

Where to eat:

For dinner at popular spots during December–April, book 2–3 days in advance. Mid-range restaurants ($15–30/person) offer great quality without the wait.

Street Food Favorites

Colombian caribbean street food has its own unique language - here are the things you have to try:

• Arepas de huevo: Deep-fried corn pockets stuffed with egg (and sometimes meat or shrimp) - best tried at breakfast or late afternoon. (Around COP$5,000–8,000 / $1.25–2)

• Carimañolas : Crispy yuca fritters with seasoned meat or cheese - you can find vendors frying them up fresh on the streets

• Empanadas : Fried corn pastries with meat or potato filling - cheap, and you can find them almost anywhere

• Patacones con todo : Fried plantain "pizzas" with cheese, meat or seafood on top

• Fresh fruit : Grab some mango, pineapple, papaya, or lulo from a street vendor - it usually comes pre-cut and bagged

The best spots to try the street food are around Plaza de la Trinidad in Getsemaní, Parque Centenario outside the walls, and the side streets off Plaza de los Coches in the historic centre.

Safety tips: Choose places with lots of turnover, watch for food being fried fresh, and have some small bills on you (most of the time they won't be able to make change easily). Also, be sure to ask for the sauce on the side if you're sensitive to spice - a street food tour with a local is a great way to get a taste of what the city has to offer and learn the local lingo.

Specialty Coffee - & the Coolest Cafes in Town

Cartagena might not be a coffee-growing hotspot, but it's one of the best places to experience Colombia's finest. And when you factor in the seriously skilled baristas whipping up a storm behind the counter - you've got a real treat in store.

Top spots for a great coffee:

• Café San Alberto (in the beautiful Plaza Santo Domingo) - they've won awards for their coffee & it's grown right on their own Quindío estate - if you want to get all fancy & do a proper coffee tasting they do those too - but you'll need to book ahead.

• Café del Mural (Getsemaní) - they do coffee tastings and all sorts of weird and wonderful brewing methods that are definitely worth checking out - plus the staff are super knowledgeable & always happy to help.

• Libertario Coffee Roasters - really trendy spot with a super minimalist vibe & they're all about that modern third-wave coffee culture.

• Folklore Café - good spot to get some work done on your laptop & enjoy some tasty brunch options if you're in the mood - and the espresso's not bad either.

• Black Cat Café - it's a cat cafe (because, who doesn't love cats?) - the coffee's not the best in town but it's a nice spot to grab a drink if you're a cat lover.

Try getting to the cafes mid-morning or mid-afternoon to avoid the heat of the day, & if you do fancy doing a fancy formal coffee tasting at some places like San Alberto you'll probably need to book ahead. Buying some beans as a souvenir is a great idea too - look for single-origin bags that tell you exactly where they came from

Relax, People-Watch & Get the Vibe of Plaza de la Trinidad

Plaza de la Trinidad is the heart of Getsemaní - by evening it's packed with locals, backpackers, expats & curious travellers all mixing together - grabbing beers from street vendors, munching on street food from arepa carts & watching the street performers - drummers, dancers & just a bit of chaos going on.

The plaza centres on the pretty whitewashed Iglesia de la Santísima Trinidad. Around it are loads of budget eateries serving up full meals for COP$15,000–25,000, bars that do cheap cocktails, and street performers setting up wherever they can find a bit of space.

Best time to visit:

• Get there between 19:00–22:00 when the square is really rocking - kids playing, old men arguing, musicians competing for attention, & the whole neighbourhood seems to converge.

Practical tips:

• Bring some small bills for the street vendors & tips

• If all the cafe tables are taken, grab a seat on the church steps or low walls like the locals do - it's the best way to soak up the atmosphere.

• Keep an eye on your bags in the crowds - petty theft can happen when people get distracted

• Come with an open attitude & be prepared to strike up conversations with complete strangers - you never know who you'll meet along the way

Before or after strolling through the plaza, take a wander down the nearby streets that are all decked out in decorations & string lights - Callejón Angosto and Calle Ancho - great for getting some snaps for the 'gram, especially in the evening when the flags & lights are really popping.

Beyond the Main Attractions: Hidden Gems & Offbeat Experiences

Beyond the main sights, Cartagena's got loads of quirky experiences that add some real depth to a longer stay. These options give you a glimpse into local life & landscapes that most travellers miss.

Some of these involve pretty basic infrastructure & aren't for everyone - so consider your comfort level & interests before committing.

Totumo Mud Volcano & Nearby Lagoons

About an hour from Cartagena, the Totumo mud volcano's one of Colombia’s strangest experiences. You climb wooden stairs to the crater rim, then descend into warm, buoyant mud that supposedly has all sorts of therapeutic properties - & while helpers take photos & offer massages, you float around feeling like you're in a dream. Afterward, you rinse off in a nearby lagoon where local women assist with buckets of water (tip expected).

Good bits: Truly unique experience, loads of great photos, fun story to tell, warm mud feels sort of relaxing.

Not-so-good bits: Basic facilities, can feel a bit touristy & crowded, loads of vendors, you'll smell like sulfur & mud afterward.

Tips:

• Bring an old swimsuit you don't mind staining

• Pack a plastic bag for your muddy clothes

• Carry small bills for tips - helpers, photographers, rinse assistants

• Book through a reputable tour operator to avoid transportation hassles

Parque Centenario & the Wild Animals

Just outside the clock tower, Parque Centenario is a shady park where sloths hang from tree branches, iguanas sun themselves on the lawns, and tropical birds flit between the palms. It’s not a zoo — these are wild animals living in the urban canopy.

Visit late morning or afternoon when the animals are most active. Combine it with the free Museo del Oro Zenú inside the park, a small museum showcasing indigenous gold artifacts and pre-Colombian culture.Respect the wildlife - keep hands off, no flash photography too close, stick to the paths. And dont be surprised if you start spotting sloths - theyre actually pretty easy to catch a glimpse of once you start keeping an eye up in the trees.

San Basilio de Palenque: A Day Trip to Afro-Colombian Heritage

South of Cartegena, about an hour away, lies San Basilio de Palenque. Its a town thats been around since 1603; founded by a handful of enslaved africans who broke free and set up a community here under the leadership of benkos bioho, the communities leader. They managed to get the spanish crown to officially recognise the place as the first free black town in the americas.

Today theres around 3,500 people living there and they are doing their best to keep the traditions alive. Thats pretty cool because the spanish crown has given the place UNESCO intangible cultural heritage status. Some of the things that qualify include:

• Palenquero language: a weird but cool creole language that was born out of a mix of spanish and bantu languages. If you get the chance to hear it being spoken then take it - just dont expect to be able to have a conversation if you cant speak it

• Champeta music - this rough and ready afro-caribbean sound really took off in Cartegena.

• Traditional hairstyles and herbal remedies - the hair styles are pretty eye catching and the herbal remedies are still something that the community is really proud of passing on from generation to generation

Make no mistake, this is a cultural experience. This is not about snapping photos, its about learning about the place and the people. So, better do it with a local guide or join a community organised tour that will help keep the money within the community. If history, social justice and the african diaspora are your thing then this place is something you really need to see.

Mangrove Tours & The National Aviary

Sometimes you just need to get away from the beaches and find some other kind of natural beauty. Around La Boquilla theres a mangrove that you can boat through - if you get a local fisherman to take you through the tunnels of mangrove trees and explain the traditional fishing techniques you will get a much better sense of the place. Some of the tours even include a simple lunch , thrown together by the community.

The National Aviary on Baru has got over 1800 birds - all sorts from toucans to macaws to flamingos. If you're staying around the area and make a pitstop then its definately worth stopping off.

But make sure to choose an operator thats got its heart in the right place. You dont want to be the tourist that's all about getting a good snap or getting a tan - you want to be the one that's making a difference. So check out the way they dispose of waste, how respectful they are of the wildlife and whether they are paying the guides a fair wage.

Adventure & Active Experiences Near Cartagena

For travelers who are looking for a bit more than just strolling around and lounging on the beach, Cartagena has some really active options that'll get you moving and exploring beyond the city center.

Just a word of warning: the tropical climate means it's hot and humid even in what you might consider the 'cooler' months. Start your activities early, bring plenty of water and know your limits.

ATV Tours on Tierra Bomba & Coastal Trails

If you're into a thrill, ATV tours on Tierra Bomba Island are a great way to go. You'll get to ride across the beaches, take in some amazing views of the city skyline, and even visit some historic ruins like the 18th-century fortress Castillo San Fernando that helped protect Cartagena from naval attacks.

What to expect from a typical tour:

• a short boat ride from Cartagena (about 10-15 minutes)

• a safety briefing and gear up (helmet, goggles)

• 2-2.5 hours of riding along coastal trails

• a break to swim or grab a bite to eat on the beach

• a return boat ride to take you back to Cartagena

Safety 101:

• make sure you're booking with a licensed operator that has a good safety record

• follow the guide's instructions, especially when you're in sand or uneven terrain

• wear closed-toe shoes (not sandals) - trust us, you won't regret it!* Think about your experience level - some trails can be pretty tough on beginners

City Bike Tours, Walking Routes & A Walk Around the Block

Guided bike tours are a great way to get a taste of the city while checking out some of Cartagena's best history, street art, and food spots. They usually take you to the walled city, some awesome murals in Getsemaní, the Bocagrande seafront promenade, and possibly the leafy Manga neighbourhood with its beautiful early 20th-century mansions.

And for those who'd rather get some exercise on foot, a leisurely morning stroll works out pretty well:

1. Start off at the city walls near Baluarte de Santo Domingo

2. Take a walk through the old city and arrive at Plaza de Bolívar

3. Cross over into Getsemaní to do some proper mural-hunting

4. End up at Parque Centenario for a spot of wildlife-watching

Things to Watch Out For: Keep an eye out for potholes and traffic, don't forget to slather on the sunscreen before starting your day, bring a hat and a bottle of water, and try to avoid riding in the middle of the day when it's scorching hot.

Planning Your Cartagena Trip

How many days do you need?

When to go:

• Dry season (December–April): Best weather, most crowds, highest prices. Book hotels and restaurants well ahead.

• Shoulder season (May–June, September–November): Some rain, fewer tourists, better deals. Rain usually comes in short afternoon bursts.

• Events to consider: Cartagena International Music Festival (January), Hay Festival Cartagena (late January), Cartagena Independence Day (November 11)—these attract crowds and affect availability.

Safety and comfort:

• Cartagena is generally safe in tourist areas, but petty theft exists. Use ATMs in secure locations like malls or hotels.

• Don’t drink tap water—stick to bottled or filtered.

• Dress light but modest in churches (covered shoulders).

• Prepare for strong sun and humidity with SPF, hats, and breathable clothing.

Where to stay by neighborhood:

Getting there is straightforward: Rafael Núñez international airport (CTG) receives cheap flights from major Colombian cities and some international routes. Many travelers use it as an entry point for exploring the colombian caribbean.

Final Thoughts - Choosing Your Cartagena Highlights

So building your Cartagena itinerary is all about mixing it up: one or two must-see historical sites (the walled city, San Felipe), a beach day and a night out with some live music or dancing and a cultural excursion or two if you have the time (Palenque, La Boquilla mangroves etc).

Use the sections above as a starting point. A 3 day trip can be all about the historic centre, Getsemaní, one sunset experience and some great food. Allowing yourself a full week lets you explore the Rosario Islands, some of the more off the beaten path adventures like the mud volcano and some of the quieter neighbourhoods like La Boquilla.

La Heroica, Cartagena's nickname, means "the heroic city". Cartagena rewards those who wander without rushing - the fortress walls that protected this place for centuries now frame some of the Caribbean coast's most photogenic sunsets. At night the plazas come alive with rhythms that have been evolving from African, Spanish and indigenous roots for over 500 years. There's some amazing photos to be taken, in doorways, in alleys and in moments of local life when you least expect it while wandering. These are just a few of the many things to do in Cartagena Colombia that make the city such a vibrant and unforgettable destination.