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Cultural Delights and Coastal Charms: 9-Day Cartagena Exploration

Cultural Delights and Coastal Charms: 9-Day Cartagena Exploration Itinerary

Last updated: 2024 Jun 14

Historic Wonders and Caribbean Views

Morning
Begin your Cartagena adventure with a delightful breakfast at Restaurante Bar Costa, offering a local touch. Afterward, immerse yourself in the rich history of the city with a visit to the iconic San Felipe de Barajas Castle (Castillo San Felipe de Barajas). Explore the strategic fortress and enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Caribbean Sea.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to El Arsenal The Rum Box for a fusion of flavors in a historic setting. Post-lunch, take a leisurely walk through the charming streets of Old Town Cartagena, admiring the well-preserved colonial architecture and vibrant plazas. Don't miss the opportunity to shop for local crafts and souvenirs.
Evening
As the sun sets, savor a sophisticated dinner at Mirador Gastro Bar, where the cuisine is as impressive as the view. Cap off the evening with a relaxed stroll along the ancient walls of Las Bovedas, enjoying the sea breeze and the lively atmosphere of the nearby cafes and bars.
Bedtime
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Visit San Felipe de Barajas Castle (Castillo San Felipe de Barajas) in Cartagena
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San Felipe de Barajas Castle (Castillo San Felipe de Barajas)

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Visit Old Town Cartagena in Cartagena
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Old Town Cartagena

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Cultural Icons and Artistic Expressions

Morning
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Café del Mar Ltda., known for its stunning sunset views. Afterward, visit the impressive Cathedral of San Pedro Claver (Iglesia de San Pedro Claver), a testament to the city's religious heritage. Explore the nearby Cartagena Museum of Modern Art (Museo de Arte Moderno de Cartagena) to appreciate contemporary Colombian art.
Afternoon
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Bukash Bar & Delicatessen, offering a laid-back atmosphere and a variety of international dishes. Post-lunch, take a guided tour of the Palace of Inquisition (Palacio de la Inquisicion) to learn about a darker chapter of Cartagena's history. Then, stroll through the serene Plaza de San Diego and its surrounding boutiques and cafes.
Evening
Dine at Bourbon St. Cartagena, where the New Orleans-inspired cuisine and live music create a vibrant atmosphere. After dinner, experience the local nightlife at Cocteleria Torre de reloj, a popular spot for cocktails and dancing with a view of the famous clock tower.
Bedtime
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Visit Cathedral of San Pedro Claver (Iglesia de San Pedro Claver) in Cartagena
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Cathedral of San Pedro Claver (Iglesia de San Pedro Claver)

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Visit Cartagena Museum of Modern Art (Museo de Arte Moderno de Cartagena) in Cartagena
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Cartagena Museum of Modern Art (Museo de Arte Moderno de Cartagena)

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Island Escapade and Marine Marvels

Morning
Indulge in a hearty breakfast at Members Only, a hidden gem in the city. Then, set off for a day of relaxation and adventure at the Rosario Islands (Islas del Rosario). Explore the pristine beaches, go snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, and enjoy a sumptuous seafood lunch on the island.
Afternoon
After returning from the islands, visit the National Aviary of Colombia (Aviario Nacional de Colombia) to witness the diverse bird species native to the region. Take your time to appreciate the natural beauty and learn about conservation efforts.
Evening
For a sophisticated evening, dine at El Barón, a restaurant known for its elegant ambiance and innovative cuisine. Afterward, take a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride through the enchanting streets of the Old Town Cartagena, soaking in the magical atmosphere under the starry sky.
Bedtime
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Visit Rosario Islands (Islas del Rosario) in Cartagena
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Rosario Islands (Islas del Rosario)

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Visit National Aviary of Colombia (Aviario Nacional de Colombia) in Cartagena
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National Aviary of Colombia (Aviario Nacional de Colombia)

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Volcanic Spa and Sunset Serenade

Morning
Enjoy a breakfast with a view at Bar Tu Candela, where the morning light enhances the flavors. Post-breakfast, embark on a unique experience at the Totumo Mud Volcano (El Totumo). Take a relaxing mud bath and let the natural minerals rejuvenate your skin. Afterward, rinse off in the nearby lagoon.
Afternoon
Head back to Cartagena for a late lunch at Demente BAR TAPAS, where the small plates and vibrant atmosphere make for a memorable meal. Spend the rest of the afternoon at the La India Catalina Monument, learning about the indigenous history of the region and taking in the statue's graceful presence.
Evening
As the day winds down, enjoy a dinner at Cocteleria Torre de reloj, where the cocktails and seafood are top-notch. Afterward, take a leisurely walk to the Cartagena Cruise Port and watch the ships come in as the sun sets on another beautiful day in Cartagena.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Cartagena.
Visit Totumo Mud Volcano (El Totumo) in Cartagena
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Totumo Mud Volcano (El Totumo)

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Visit La India Catalina Monument in Cartagena
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La India Catalina Monument

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Day of Relaxation and Reflection

Morning
Start your day with a peaceful breakfast at LA RUMBA Lounge Bar, where the morning light filters through the open space. After breakfast, take a moment for quiet reflection at the Rafael Nuñez House Museum, the former home of the Colombian president and a place of historical significance.
Afternoon
For lunch, visit Restaurante La Latina Música, Color y Sabor for a lively atmosphere and a menu that celebrates local flavors. Afterward, spend the afternoon at the Naval Museum of the Caribbean, exploring the maritime history of the region and the impact of the sea on Cartagena's development.
Evening
Dine at León de Baviera Cartagena, a restaurant that brings a taste of Germany to the Caribbean. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront, enjoying the cool evening breeze and the sight of the city lights reflecting on the water.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Cartagena.
Visit Rafael Nuñez House Museum in Cartagena
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Rafael Nuñez House Museum

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Visit Naval Museum of the Caribbean in Cartagena
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Naval Museum of the Caribbean

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Day Trip to Barranquilla

Morning
Catch an early breakfast at Café Havana, where the lively atmosphere will get you in the mood for a day of exploration. After breakfast, take a 1.5-hour drive to the neighboring city of Barranquilla.
Afternoon
Upon arrival, visit the Museum of the Caribbean (Museo del Caribe) to learn about the cultural and historical significance of the region. Then, enjoy a traditional Barranquillero lunch at restaurante y terraza la gran esquina, where the flavors of the coast come alive.
Evening
Take a walk through the Gold Museum (Museo de Oro Zenu) to admire the intricate gold artifacts and learn about the indigenous Zenu culture. Afterward, head back to Cartagena and have a relaxed dinner at Solar Bar & Food, sharing stories of your day trip with friends and family.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Cartagena.
Visit Plaza de la Constitucion in Cartagena
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Museum of the Caribbean (Museo del Caribe)

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Visit Gold Museum (Museo de Oro Zenu) in Cartagena
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Gold Museum (Museo de Oro Zenu)

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Day Trip to Santa Marta

Morning
Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Texas Resto Bar before embarking on a 4-hour drive to the beautiful city of Santa Marta, the oldest surviving city in Colombia.
Afternoon
Upon arrival, visit the Tayrona National Natural Park (Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona) for a day of hiking, swimming, and exploring the stunning natural beauty of the area. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the park or dine at one of the local eateries.
Evening
After a full day in the park, return to Santa Marta for a relaxing evening by the sea. Enjoy a seafood dinner at El Patio Getsemaní and take a leisurely stroll along the beach, reflecting on the wonders of nature.
Bedtime
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Visit Club Hipico in Cartagena
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Tayrona National Natural Park (Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona)

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Hidden Gems and Local Delights

Morning
Start your day with a breakfast at Bozha CafeBar, a cozy spot with a variety of morning treats. After breakfast, explore the lesser-known sites of Cartagena, starting with the Old Shoes Monument (Los Zapatos Viejos). Then, visit the serene Convento de la Popa de la Galera for panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to Members Only, a local favorite, and enjoy a meal in a relaxed setting. Afterward, spend your afternoon at the Santo Domingo Church (Iglesia de Santo Domingo), one of the oldest churches in the city, and the nearby Cartagena Cathedral (St. Catherine of Alexandria Cathedral), a stunning example of colonial architecture.
Evening
Dine at Mirador Gastro Bar for a memorable meal with a view. After dinner, take a guided walking tour of the city's vibrant street art scene, exploring the colorful murals and learning about the local artists and their work.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Cartagena.
Visit Old Shoes Monument (Los Zapatos Viejos) in Cartagena
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Old Shoes Monument (Los Zapatos Viejos)

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Visit Convento de la Popa de la Galera in Cartagena
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Convento de la Popa de la Galera

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Farewell to Cartagena

Morning
Enjoy a final breakfast at Restaurante La Latina Música, Color y Sabor, where the lively atmosphere will set the tone for the day. After breakfast, take a guided bike tour of the city, exploring the historic streets and learning about Cartagena's fascinating past.
Afternoon
For lunch, visit León de Baviera Cartagena for a taste of German cuisine in a Caribbean setting. Afterward, take a relaxing horse-drawn carriage ride through the Old Town Cartagena, soaking in the sights and sounds of the city one last time.
Evening
As the sun sets on your Cartagena adventure, enjoy a farewell dinner at Bozha CafeBar, reminiscing about the highlights of your trip. End the evening with a visit to Teatro Adolfo Mejia (Teatro Heredia) for a cultural performance, celebrating the arts and the spirit of Cartagena.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Cartagena.
Visit Old Town Cartagena in Cartagena
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Old Town Cartagena

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Visit Teatro Adolfo Mejia (Teatro Heredia) in Cartagena
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Teatro Adolfo Mejia (Teatro Heredia)

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