City Guide: Cartagena

The historical city of romance, stunning architecture and seaside beauty, Cartagena is the most visited city in Columbia. There is no surprise, for Cartagena has so many enchanting faces. The favorite part of the city is the historic old town, surrounded by the city wall built in 15th century to protect the prosperous Cartagena from the pirates. The romantic downtown with the narrow streets and horse-drawn carriages, incredible colonial architecture, imposing churches and cozy open-air cafés offers you a little journey to the past. To return back to present times you don’t have to travel far, the Bocagrande neighborhood with magnificent skyscrapers, art galleries, high-class restaurants and bustling nightlife is right around the corner. And don’t forget about the nearby white-sand beaches, coral reefs and warm water of the Caribbean Sea. Cartagena has so much to offer.

The city offers you a variety of accommodations to suit every pocket. Book the cheapest hotels in Cartagena and the most luxurious ones at the lowest price possible at Booked.net. In the vast database at Booked.net you will find the best deals and save money.

The perfect way to explore Cartagena is on foot. Stroll through the maze of the narrow streets where you can marvel at the stunning colonial architecture with enormous balconies veiled in the blossoming flowers. Stop at the numerous shady plazas to enjoy little cup of coffee while discovering the outstanding architectural heritage of the city. Visit charming Puerta del Reloj on the Plaza de los Coches, the monumental three-story Convent of San Pedro from the 17^th century on the San Pedro Claver Square and fabulous Santo Domingo Church built in 16^th century in front of Plaza Santo Domingo. Plaza de Bolivar with the most exquisite buildings, the Cathedral of Cartagena from the 16^th century, the Palace of the Inquisition and the Government Palace is a must-visit place. Try out the Caribbean and creole dishes in the outstanding restaurants, then shop in the numerous stores in Cartagena and buy beautiful emeralds which Columbia is famous for.

Attractions include;

- Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas is the monumental fortress just 20-minute walk from the old town. Constructed between 1639 and 1657 and expanded in 1762, the fortress was never penetrated. Explore the complex system of underground tunnels, some of them are open for the visitors.

- Convento de la Popa is located on top of the highest hill in the city. The convent houses the chapel of La Virgen de la Candelaria, the patron saint of Cartagena, and offers a fantastic view of the city.

- Museo del Oro y Arqueología on the Plaza Bolivar houses a glittering collection of gold and pottery of the Sinú Indians.

- Palacio de la Inquisicíon, completed in 1776, is a stunning example of late colonial architecture with the beautiful baroque gateway. The palace houses the museum with the interesting collections of art from pre-Colombian, colonial and independence periods; and instruments of torture.

- A day tour to Islas del Rosario, designated as a Natural National Park, will take you to a set of 27 small coral islands. You will visit an aquarium and spend a few hours on the beautiful Playa Blanca.

Cartagena is famous for the lively nightlife and excellent discotheques with all kinds of music. If you’re dying to learn how to dance Salsa, Cartagena with the numerous Latin dance classes is the perfect place. The city is also the home to the interesting events such as the 50 years old Cartagena Film Festival showcasing the movies from around the world with the highlights on the Latin American films and the Cartagena International Music Festival with the numerous concerts and exciting programme of entertainments.

The fortifications of Cartagena together with the group of monuments are on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Make your trip to the beautiful historical city unforgettable with the help of Booked.net. From the cheapest hotels in Cartagena to the ones with luxuries you will find the best deals at Booked.net