Cartagena Colombia Travel Guide: Old City, Beaches & Honest Safety Tips

Cartagena de Indias is Colombia’s most photogenic city — a UNESCO World Heritage walled colonial city with colourful balconies, Caribbean heat, and a relentless energy. It’s also one of the most tourist-saturated places in the country. Here’s how to navigate it well.

The Old City (Ciudad Amurallada)

The walled city is genuinely beautiful. Walk the city walls at sunset for the best views. Plaza de los Coches, Plaza de Bolívar, and the Cathedral are the landmarks. El Centro and San Diego neighbourhoods inside the walls have the best architecture and restaurant density. Getsemaní just outside the walls is grittier, artsy, and increasingly gentrified — it's where the best street food and independent bars are.

Beaches

Cartagena’s city beaches are not worth your time — crowded and not particularly clean. For good beaches, take a boat to the Islas del Rosario (30–45 minutes). Playa Blanca on Isla Barú is beautiful but commercialised; try to visit on a weekday. Cholón on Isla Barú is a lively beach bar scene.

Safety

Cartagena is relatively safe for a Colombian city. The tourist areas are well-patrolled. The main issues are overcharging, scams targeting tourists (especially around the beach boat tours), and pickpocketing in busier areas. Getsemaní has improved significantly but still warrants awareness after dark.

Costs

Cartagena is Colombia’s most expensive city — and significantly overpriced by regional standards. Accommodation in the Old City commands a heavy premium. Consider staying in Bocagrande (the modern strip) or Getsemaní for better value.

Community Tips

The Cartagena community on Parada has current tips on boat tour operators, which restaurants are still worth the price, and safety updates from people in the city right now.