What to Do in Cartagena, Colombia from a Cruise Ship

Cartagena, Colombia is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture. It’s also a popular cruise ship destination, with many ships docking in the city’s historic port. If you’re planning a cruise to Cartagena, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to things to do. From exploring the city’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town to taking a day trip to the nearby Rosario Islands, there’s something for everyone in Cartagena.

In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best things to do in Cartagena if you’re visiting on a cruise ship. We’ll cover everything from must-see attractions to hidden gems, so you can make the most of your time in this beautiful city.

Activity	Description	Cost
Visit the Old Town	Explore the historic center of Cartagena, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and lively plazas.	$10-20
Take a boat trip to the Rosario Islands	Spend the day swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing on one of the many beautiful islands that make up the Rosario Islands archipelago.	$30-50
Visit the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas	Explore this massive fortress, which was built by the Spanish in the 16th century to protect Cartagena from pirates.	$10-20
Take a cooking class	Learn how to make some of Colombia’s most famous dishes, such as ajiaco, bandeja paisa, and empanadas.	$20-40
Go shopping	Find souvenirs, clothes, and other goods at Cartagena’s many markets and shops.	$10-20

Cartagena, Colombia is a beautiful city located on the Caribbean coast. It is a popular tourist destination due to its rich history, culture, and natural beauty. If you are visiting Cartagena from a cruise ship, there are many things to see and do in the city.

This itinerary will help you plan a two-day trip to Cartagena, Colombia from a cruise ship. On your first day, you will visit the walled city of Cartagena, take a walk along the Malecn, and visit the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas. On your second day, you will take a day trip to the Rosario Islands, go snorkeling or scuba diving, relax on the beach, and have lunch at a beachside restaurant.

Day 1:

• Visit the walled city of Cartagena

The walled city of Cartagena is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Colombia. The city is surrounded by a wall that was built in the 16th century to protect it from pirates. The walled city is home to many beautiful churches, plazas, and museums.

You can spend an entire day exploring the walled city. Some of the highlights include:

• The Plaza de Bolvar, which is the main square in the walled city. The plaza is home to the Cathedral of Cartagena, which is one of the oldest churches in the city.
• The Palacio de la Inquisicin, which was the headquarters of the Spanish Inquisition in Cartagena. The palace is now a museum that tells the story of the Inquisition in Colombia.
• The Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, which is a fortress that was built in the 17th century to protect the city from pirates. The castle offers stunning views of the city and the Caribbean Sea.

• Take a walk along the Malecn

The Malecn is a waterfront promenade that runs along the Caribbean Sea. It is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to relax and enjoy the views. The Malecn is lined with restaurants, bars, and shops.

You can spend an hour or two walking along the Malecn. Some of the highlights include:

• The Torre del Reloj, which is a clock tower that was built in the 18th century. The tower is one of the most iconic landmarks in Cartagena.
• The Plaza de la Aduana, which is a square that is home to the customs house. The customs house is now a museum that tells the story of Cartagena’s history as a port city.
• The Parque de Bolvar, which is a park that is home to a statue of Simn Bolvar, who is considered to be the father of Colombia.

• Visit the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas

The Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas is a fortress that was built in the 17th century to protect the city from pirates. The castle is located on a hill overlooking the city. It offers stunning views of the city and the Caribbean Sea.

You can spend an hour or two exploring the castle. Some of the highlights include:

• The moat, which surrounds the castle.
• The ramparts, which offer views of the city and the Caribbean Sea.
• The dungeons, which were used to hold prisoners.
• The chapel, which is one of the oldest buildings in the castle.

Have dinner at a traditional Colombian restaurant

There are many great restaurants in Cartagena that serve traditional Colombian cuisine. Some of the dishes you might want to try include:

• Arroz con pollo (chicken and rice)
• Bandeja paisa (a platter of rice, beans, meat, eggs, and plantains)
• Sancocho (a hearty soup made with chicken, pork, and vegetables)
• Arepas (corn cakes filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables)

Day 2:

• Take a day trip to the Rosario Islands

The Rosario Islands are a group of 27 islands located just off the coast of Cartagena. The islands are a popular day trip destination for tourists. They are known for their white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush vegetation.

You can spend a day or two exploring the Rosario Islands. Some of the activities you can enjoy include:

• Snorkeling or scuba diving
• Sunbathing on the beach
• Hiking in the jungle
• Fishing
• Visiting a local village

• Go snorkeling or scuba diving

The Rosario Islands are a great place to go snorkeling or scuba diving. The clear waters and abundant marine life make for a memorable underwater experience.

You can rent snorkel gear from one of the many tour operators in Cartagena. There are also several dive shops that offer guided scuba diving trips to

Day 3:

On your third day in Cartagena, you can visit the San Basilio de Palenque, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This town is home to the descendants of escaped African slaves who founded the community in the 17th century. You can learn about the history of Palenque and its culture by visiting the Palenque Museum. There are also several restaurants in Palenque where you can enjoy traditional Colombian cuisine.

Day 4:

On your fourth day in Cartagena, you can take a boat trip to the Tierra Bomba Island. This island is located just a short distance from Cartagena and is a popular day trip destination. You can go swimming, fishing, or kayaking in the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea. There are also several beaches on Tierra Bomba where you can relax and enjoy the sun.

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These are just a few of the many things you can do in Cartagena during a cruise ship stopover. With its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant culture, Cartagena is a must-see destination for any cruise ship passenger.

What are the best things to do in Cartagena Colombia from a cruise ship?

• Visit the walled city of Cartagena. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-see for any visitor to Cartagena. The city’s narrow streets are lined with colonial buildings, and there are plenty of shops, restaurants, and bars to explore.
• Take a boat trip to the Rosario Islands. These beautiful islands are located just a short distance from Cartagena, and they offer stunning white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and plenty of activities like swimming, snorkeling, and fishing.
• Visit the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas. This imposing fortress was built by the Spanish in the 16th century to protect the city from pirates. It’s now a museum, and you can climb to the top for panoramic views of Cartagena.
• Learn about the city’s history at the Museo del Oro Zen. This museum houses a collection of gold artifacts from the Zen civilization, which flourished in the region before the arrival of the Spanish.
• Take a cooking class and learn how to make traditional Colombian dishes. There are plenty of cooking schools in Cartagena where you can learn how to make everything from paella to empanadas.

How long do I need to spend in Cartagena?

The amount of time you need to spend in Cartagena depends on your interests and how much time you have. If you’re only interested in seeing the main sights, you can get by with a two-day stay. However, if you want to explore the city in more depth, you’ll need at least three or four days.

What is the best time of year to visit Cartagena?

The best time to visit Cartagena is from December to April, when the weather is warm and sunny. The average temperature during this time is around 80 degrees Fahrenheit, and there is very little rainfall. However, the city can be very crowded during this time, so if you’re looking for a more relaxed experience, you might want to consider visiting during the off-season (May to November).

What is the currency in Cartagena?

The currency in Cartagena is the Colombian peso. The exchange rate is currently around COP$3,800 to US$1. You can exchange money at banks, exchange bureaus, and hotels. You can also use credit cards and debit cards at most shops and restaurants.

How do I get from the cruise ship to Cartagena?

The easiest way to get from the cruise ship to Cartagena is by taxi. The ride takes about 30 minutes and costs around COP$30,000. You can also take a bus or a water taxi.

Where should I stay in Cartagena?

There are plenty of great hotels in Cartagena, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious beachfront resorts. Some of the most popular areas to stay include the walled city, the Getsemani neighborhood, and the Bocagrande district.

What should I pack for my trip to Cartagena?

The best things to pack for your trip to Cartagena depend on the time of year you’re visiting. In general, you’ll want to pack light, comfortable clothes that you can layer. You’ll also want to pack a swimsuit, sunscreen, and a hat. If you’re visiting during the rainy season, you’ll also want to pack a raincoat or umbrella.

What are the best restaurants in Cartagena?

Cartagena has a wide variety of restaurants to choose from, serving everything from traditional Colombian cuisine to international fare. Some of the most popular restaurants include El Piragua, La Mulata, and La Cevichera.

What are the best bars and clubs in Cartagena?

Cartagena has a vibrant nightlife scene, with something to offer everyone. Some of the most popular bars and clubs include Cafe Havana, The Rooftop, and El Baron.

Is it safe to travel to Cartagena?

Cartagena is generally considered to be a safe city, but like any major city, there is some petty crime. It’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions, such as not walking alone at night and not leaving valuables unattended.

What are the main transportation options in Cartagena?

The main transportation options in Cartagena include taxis, buses, and water taxis. Taxis are the most convenient way to get around, but they can be expensive. Buses are a more affordable option, but they can be crowded and slow. Water taxis are a good option for getting to and from the islands.

Cartagena, Colombia is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture. It is a popular destination for cruise ships, and there are many things to see and do in the city. In this article, we have discussed some of the best things to do in Cartagena from a cruise ship. We hope that this article has helped you to plan your next trip to Cartagena.

Here are some key takeaways:

• Cartagena is a vibrant city with a lot to offer visitors. It is a great place to learn about Colombian culture and history.
• There are many things to see and do in Cartagena, including exploring the old city, visiting the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, and taking a boat trip to the Rosario Islands.
• The best way to get around Cartagena is by walking or taking a taxi.
• The best time to visit Cartagena is during the dry season, which runs from December to April.

We hope that you enjoy your stay in Cartagena!