The Best Colombian Movies | A Top 10
In my introductions of North American and South American movies, like Argentinian movies, Mexican movies, and Brazilian movies, I have extensively written about these countries’
What are the best places in the walled city Cartagena?
It’s a question I asked myself, now that I’m visiting my girlfriend’s birth city for the first time. Luckily, I also had some help from another friend: Jenny.
Jenny Desmond is a Colorado, USA, tour operator and friend of Cultural Reads. Her company, Vive Más Tours, takes travelers 55+ on small group tours in Cuba and Colombia.
I asked if she would share her favorite activities in Cartagena, Colombia. Jenny has unique insights about what her travelers enjoy the most, and I can’t thank her enough for sharing them with us!
The heart of Old Town Cartagena is the famous Walled City Cartagena, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through narrow, colorful streets adorned with flower-filled balconies, grand plazas, and historical landmarks. This well-preserved colonial area is perfect for a leisurely stroll or breathtaking photography of the 17th-century buildings.
The heart of Old Town Cartagena is the famous Walled City Cartagena, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through narrow, colorful streets adorned with flower-filled balconies, grand plazas, and historical landmarks. This well-preserved colonial area is perfect for a leisurely stroll or breathtaking photography of the 17th-century buildings.
Overlooking Old Town Cartagena, the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas is a fortress that was built to defend the city from pirates and enemy invasions. Wander through its impressive tunnels and ramparts while enjoying panoramic views of the city and harbor. It is the largest in all of the Americas!
Just outside the Walled City Cartagena, the Getsemaní neighborhood is a vibrant hub of street art, creativity, and local life. Colorful murals, painted by both local and international artists, tell stories of Cartagena’s history and culture. This is a must-see for art lovers and photographers. It’s also a quieter part of the city for a hotel stay, whereas inside the walled city, many hotels are sandwiched between discotecas (nightclubs).
No trip to Walled City Cartagena is complete without a sunset walk along the city walls. The golden hour casts a magical glow over the city and the Caribbean Sea, offering the perfect backdrop for a peaceful evening stroll. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the stunning views. If you are lucky, you can get a table at Café del Mar overlooking the ocean.
For a true taste of Coastal Colombian cuisine, make a reservation at Celele, one of South America’s top restaurants. Located in the Getsemaní neighborhood, walking distance from Old Town Cartagena, Celele puts a modern twist on traditional dishes, created by one of Colombia’s best chefs. With a reputation as one of the top 50 restaurants in South America, this is a dining experience you won’t want to miss. Make reservations weeks in advance though!
If you are looking for something a little more budget-friendly, we love the quiet, La Sierpe restaurant in Getsemaní. If you want ’50s-era Caribbean entertainment, eat at Candé Restaurant. Delicious and energetic!
There are lots of options to go for a cruise around the bay if you plan in advance. There are party boats, dinner boats, and pirate-themed boat options. You don’t need to fret about getting seasick, and it’s incredible to see the modern Cartagena in contrast with the historic walled city from the water.
Immerse yourself in the spooky side of Old Town Cartagena with a visit to the Naval Museum of the Caribbean. Located near the old port, this museum offers guided tours in English that share stories of the pirates who fought for control of this strategic city. The museum is built over a cemetery, and ghost stories abound.
If you’re interested in more Colombian stories, check out these best Colombian movies.
Nature lovers will enjoy a day trip to the Colombian National Aviary on nearby Barú Island. This aviary is home to a wide range of birds, from colorful macaws to majestic condors, all in beautifully designed natural habitats. You can book a tour or hire a taxi for a more flexible schedule.
Colombia is world-renowned for its coffee, and Old Town Cartagena is a great place to sample the best. Whether you visit the San Alberto tasting room or explore the options close to your hotel, a coffee-tasting experience will take you through the various brewing methods and help you appreciate Colombia’s rich coffee culture. Be sure you buy a few bags to take home! Transport them in your carry-on, as they might get opened by security in a checked bag.
Do you want to learn more about coffee? Check out my post about the wonderful world of coffee, with everything you need to know to become a low-key coffee snob.
Treat yourself to a luxurious four-hands massage at Uraku Spa. After a week of travel and sightseeing, this relaxing experience is just what you need to recharge. At around $92 USD, this treatment is an affordable indulgence compared to prices in the U.S.
Colombian emeralds are world-famous for their quality, and Old Town Cartagena offers a comfortable shopping experience. While prices may be higher than in Bogotá, Cartagena’s emerald shops are air-conditioned, and salespeople speak English and accept U.S. dollars. Our favorite spot is Lucy Jewelry, a family-owned business known for its stunning selection of jewels.
From historical tours to island escapes, coffee tastings to emerald shopping, Old Town Cartagena has something for everyone.
Whether you’re relaxing along the city walls at sunset or savoring a world-class meal at Celele, I hope Walled City Cartagena’s charm and beauty will captivate you, like it does for me every time. What will you choose to explore first?
In my introductions of North American and South American movies, like Argentinian movies, Mexican movies, and Brazilian movies, I have extensively written about these countries’
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