Plan to spend several days in Cartagena, also known as Cartagena de Indias, Colombia's fascinating Caribbean resort and most popular attraction. History and nightlife, beaches and churches, a walled city and colonial architecture make it a living museum, perfect for honeymoons, family vacations and adult adventures.
1. Centro Amurallado - Old Town
ClipArt.com
This is the heart of Cartagena, the old walled city protected by the fortress intended to protect the city from pirates and storms. Within the walls, there are colonial buildings, plazas, churches and convents. Accommodations and restaurants within this area, called El Centro, highlight their colonial origins. Also within the walled area, the section of Getsemani is less expensive, but worth a daytime stroll.
2. Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas
ArtToday.com
This is the huge fortress dominating the town. Begun in 1533, the strategic location called for a fortress, and the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas was started in 1639, but not completed for 150 years. Visitors now can walk the battlements, stroll through underground passages and wonder at the labor that went into building a fort that was never used defensively.
3. Rosario Islands
"This small archipelago is located south of the Bay of Cartagena, only one hour away by boat. Its crystal clear waters and multicolors are great for recreational diving. There are cabins for rent at any of this islands, all with the commodities at everyone's reach."4. Bocagrande and El Laguito
These two areas are located on an L-shaped peninsula facing the Caribbean. Here, upscale restaurants, hotels, clubs and bars offer just about everything the visitor can wish for.5. La Popa Convent
Jane Susan Elliff-Glennon
Alternately called a convent and a monastery, this colonial complex is a great palce to visit for a look at colonial religious life, superb views of the city, the Caribbean and nearby islands.
6. Playa Blanca
"Playa Blanca,definitely is the best beach close to Cartagena - you can reach it overland or by boat.With its white sand & crystal water Playa Blanca is probably one of the best “playas” in Colombia! It is definitly worth to stay there for some days. There are several places where you can rent hammocks, get food & drinks."7. Las Bóvedas
ArtToday.com
Shop and enjoy art in what once were jail cells or storerooms for the fortresses.