A perfect 3 days in Cartagena itinerary – with the best things to do, stay & eat

March 22, 2026March 22, 2026 Anjali Wadhwa

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The South American continent is full of wonders, and one of them is the city of Cartagena. Spending a few days in Cartagena before flying home from Medellin was an excellent decision on my part.

3 days in Cartagena is the ideal amount of time to explore this intriguing Colombian city. It was once a port for slave traders, but now it is a city filled with beauty, fun, and culture in an old city.

There are countless places to explore in Cartagena, and the city offers a wide variety of activities for every traveler. From wandering colorful streets and visiting historic landmarks to discovering local cuisine and vibrant nightlife, there’s always something to do.

I even took a day trip to the beautiful Rosario Islands, which added another layer of adventure to my trip. Experiencing so much in just three days has made Cartagena one of my favorite destinations in Colombia.

How to get around in Cartagena?

Getting around Cartagena is most convenient by taxi. Taxis are plentiful and easy to find throughout the city, but it’s important to negotiate the fare before you get in, as most taxis do not use meters. This will help you avoid overpaying for your journey.

For added peace of mind, ask the front desk at your hotel about typical fare prices or have them arrange a taxi for you. Most hotels are happy to assist with booking taxis for both short rides around the city and longer trips to nearby attractions.

Best time to visit Cartagena

Cartagena enjoys pleasant weather, especially from December to May when rainfall is minimal. This period also marks the city’s peak tourist season, with plenty of sunshine and lively events.

For the best experience, plan your visit to Cartagena during these months to take advantage of the ideal climate and vibrant atmosphere.

Where to stay for 3 days in Cartagena

For a 3-day trip to Cartagena, I would recommend staying in Bocagrande. It is very near to Centro (Cartagena’s historic center) and the city’s main attractions. Due to its close proximity to the beaches, this area is also very popular amongst vacationers looking for a relaxing stay. To help you plan better, below are my highly recommended accommodations you should choose from to stay in Cartagena.

Budget: Oz Hotel is a vibrant hotel with beautiful rooms located in the heart of Bocagrande. The hotel offers facilities like airport shuttle, an on site restaurant, free WiFi access, sundeck, rooftop, and cozy rooms. The hotel staff is very attentive and friendly. If you are looking for a budget-friendly hotel with great location and facilities, Oz Hotel will certainly meet your expectations.

Mid Range: San Martin Hotel is another hotel in Bocagrande that provides excellent accommodation to its guests. Rooms are spacious, comfortable, and well-equipped with all the modern amenities. Family rooms are available too. The hotel is also located very close to the beach, restaurant, and convenience stores.

Luxury: Hyatt Regency is undoubtedly the best luxury hotel located in Bocagrande, Cartagena. Swimming pool with views, fitness center, spa services, modern soundproofed rooms, and fantastic breakfast are some of the highlights of the hotel. Wake up to the sight of mesmerizing beach views from your hotel room. Other facilities include a kids’ club, free private parking space, a kids’ pool, and free WiFi.

Here is a day-by-day itinerary that answers what to do in Cartagena in 3 days. It includes information on all the best places in Cartagena that you must visit during your stay.

Cartagena in 3 days: Day One

Puerta del Reloj (Clock Gate)

My first day started by visiting the popular Clock gate also known as Peurta del Reloj. It is the grand entrance that will welcome you into the historic Cartagena old city. As the old parts of the city are mostly wall enclosed, this huge gate, along with the clock tower, served some significant functions during ancient times.

It protected the people from the enemy attack. I felt quite fascinated by this creation. The architecture of this old monumental landmark will fill your eyes with wonder.

After visiting this beautiful landmark, make your way to Portal de Los Dulces for a taste of traditional Colombian sweets. This spot is easily walkable and conveniently located just opposite the Puerta del Reloj.

Next, head over to Plaza Bolívar to begin your walking tour of the historic walled city. Before you set off, consider stopping at one of the nearby restaurants or cafes for a quick snack and refreshing drinks to fuel your exploration.

A walking tour of the walled city

Cartagena has a rich and intriguing history. Wandering through the streets of the places you visit is the best way to learn more about them. One of the best things to do in Cartagena is to go on a walking tour of the walled city. I had booked a tour through Get Your Guide a couple of days ago. It made the navigation through the walled city to be a seamless experience.

Visiting the buildings filled with colonial history, like the Palace of Inquisition and San Pedro Claver church , seeing through the charming doors and walking across the vibrant plazas like Plaza de Santo Domingo, would keep you captivated throughout this tour.

By the end of this tour, you will reach Cafe del Mar, known for one of the most scenic sunsets in the city. The cost of these tours is generally minimal. Getting familiar with the historic center would be a kick-start for your exploration in Cartagena. Below are the must visit attractions you must see on the walled city walking tour.

San Pedro Claver

One of the first sights to see in Cartagena is the historic and incredible San Pedro Claver church. It will certainly catch your attention with its interesting architecture.

The Palace of Inquisition

To understand the city in an empathetic manner, you might want to go back in time. For that, the Palace of Inquisition is the best place to be. It is also called the Inquisition Palace and is considered as the seat of the holy office of the Inquisition in the city. The building was made in the eighteenth century and is one of a kind on the whole continent.

It has all the equipment from that time. The tools used by slaves for farming and mining, the devices used by rulers to torture the slaves; the history of the freedom fight and the revolt. You will find the urns and the utensils used in those times, as well as some documented proof of the Inquisition.

Plaza de Santo Domingo

A lively and pleasant place to visit in Cartagena is Plaza de Santo Domingo. Here you will find the sculpture of a reclining woman created by a famous Colombian artist, Fernando Botero. There are many cafes and restaurants too, where you can have some delicious snacks.

Admire artworks at Museum of Modern Art

Cartagena has a centuries-old history of slavery. But the moment the people freed themselves from colonialism. The real birth of the nation started from there. People have still not forgotten where they came from

Evidence of this spirit is The Museum of Modern Art. An old building, built in the old architecture, and then there are the numerous artists and their arts on the walls of this building. This can prove to be a kick start for your morning on the second day here. The paintings have a touch of humor and a wide variety of colors and styles.

Sunset at Cafe del Mar

End your day by experiencing one of Cartagena’s most iconic sunset spots: Café del Mar. Perched atop the city walls, this popular restaurant draws a lively crowd thanks to its unbeatable location and stunning views over the Caribbean Sea. Despite its popularity, the experience is truly special—tables are set under the open Colombian sky, with the shoreline aglow in golden lights.

As you savor delicious food and drinks, the gentle sea breeze and breathtaking twilight create an unforgettable atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot to relax after a day of exploring, soaking in the magic of Cartagena as the sun dips below the horizon.

True taste of Cartagena : Mercado de Bazurto

After spending an entire day busy in the rendezvous with the city. In the evening, you might want to relax a little bit and breathe the Colombian air. If you are just in the spirit to know more, you must visit the local market called Mercado de Bazurto.

This is the most visited place for both locals and tourists. It is an old market. The local food, other shops, and shopping goods would all be available for you here. A Food tour is also a great way to have a fun culinary experience in Mercado de Bazurto.

Cartagena in 3 days: Day Two

San Felipe de Barajas Fort

San Felipe de Barajas is the most popular landmark in Cartagena, and a must-visit for tourists. The Spanish Empire built this structure throughout history to protect itself from foreign invasions.

Dutch, French, and English armies always tried to attack the city from the waterfront as well. Hence, the native Spanish army made a huge fort on the tallest of the mountains to make sure that they remain protected. They named the fort San Felipe de Barajas.

The barrier from back in time turned from a fort to a monument and still stands strong to tell the historical tales. Being located on the hill of San Lazaro, it was the best place to keep an eye on the enemies.

In today’s time, San Felipe de Barajas is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a wonderful place to catch panoramic views over the city of Cartagena.

Convento de la Popa

Perched atop Mount Popa, which is at a 9-minute distance by car from the fort, Convento de la Popa is a convent, cloister, and chapel. The construction of this place started from a small wooden shack where priests used to worship the Virgin Mary. It took almost 6 to 7 years for this lovely place to be built. It has also changed its name over the course of history.

As you reach the mountain top and near the cross, you will find the lovely chapel on one side and an entire city view on the other side. The city and the sea against the blue sky and white, spluttered clouds are always a sight to behold from there.

I had opted for this guided tour of San Felipe de Barajas and Convento de la Popa. It was inclusive of hotel transfers and entrance fees to these attractions. Plus, with the guide, it was easier to navigate and get to know about the history, culture, and architecture of the monuments.

The Getsemani Street Art In The Evening

One of the most unmissable parts of your Cartagena itinerary is admiring the interesting artworks in the Getsemani neighborhood. Graffiti, art, and painting have always been an important part of the revolt. The proof of this sentence can be found through the Getsemani street art. This local neighborhood has walls covered with some of the finest creations by the native people.

These picturesque streets of the city make for an Insta-worthy visit. The perfect blend of colors and raw art leads you on a different journey altogether. You won’t find the same art piece again, and you would love to be left speechless on every corner of the street.

The Salsa Bar at Night

Once you have spent your day in the lap of art and nature, one night at the vibrant Salsa Bars is what will bring up an exciting night for you. Some of the honorable mentions among these Salsa Bars are Crazy Salsa, where you can learn Salsa lessons. For a magical view of the clock tower and the native crowd enjoying you can head towards Donde Fidel.

Café Havana is the salsa bar where Hillary Clinton danced on her visit to the city. It is located just outside Getsemani and is one happy place to be at.

Cartagena in 3 days: Day Three

Islas de Rosario or Playa Blanca

Rosario Islands - Cartagena Itinerary — Rosario Islands – Cartagena Itinerary

Cartagena is a port, and hence it has a long-range of beaches as well as Islands surrounding them. Once a spot for the slave trade, these beaches are now a place for tourists who spend hours in luxurious and adventurous activities. Islas de Rosario and Playa Blanca are the two most visited and famous beaches of the city. You can choose either of the two beaches to visit, or simply visit both of them one by one.

Adventures like snorkeling, swimming, exploring aquatic life, deep-sea diving, and others are all part of your visit here, apart from relaxing on the beach. You can have a day or an overnight stay at these places. The days are mostly crowded and full of activities, but the nights are quiet and starry.

Take A Ride Of Chiva Party Bus

A tourist favorite activity in the city is the Chiva Party Bus. It is organized at night. A lot of people sit aboard in a colorful bus where they sing and dance in a musical environment while touring the city.

After an entire day relaxing at the beach, this nighttime activity will fill you with zeal and excitement. There could be a local band performing or any event. Irrespective of the fact, from where you have arrived, for a night, everyone becomes a part of the family and enjoys this one big party on a bus ride.

I hope you enjoy your 3 days in Cartagena itinerary as much as I did. Let us know if you have any questions or share with us about your favorite place in Cartagena in the comments section below.

Cheerful Trails

A perfect 3 days in Cartagena itinerary – with the best things to do, stay & eat

Table of Contents

How to get around in Cartagena?

Best time to visit Cartagena

Where to stay for 3 days in Cartagena