What to see in Cartagena
Cartagena is said to be the most beautiful city of Colombia. And it is in fact colorful and of beauty in it’s historic center. But the surroundings of that destroys all the beautiful impressions immediately, when you leave. Due to its importance in the history of South America, there are also some interesting places to visit.
Museo Naval del Caribe
This museum tells the whole history of maritime shipping in Cartagena including the history of Francis Drake and the importance of Cartagena for the Spaniards. It’s good to visit this place before going to the Castillo.
Modern Art Museum
This small modern art museum shows a fix collection of Colombian artists and changing exhibitions on two floors. The building itself and the collection seem a bit mixed up. But the changing exhibitions are showing worth seeing Colombian contemporary artists. Entrance fee is 8’000 Col$ (2.50$).
Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas
This fortress was built to protect the city better from pirates and other enemies, as Cartagena used to be the port where the Spaniards shipped the American Gold to Europe, there where regular attacks. A tour through the fortress and its tunnels is extremely interesting. The entrance fee is 25’000 Col$ (7.80$), which seems to be much, but there is so much to discover, that it’s definitely worth it. Be prepared to spend several hours for this activity.
El Centro and San Diego
This is the nucleo of the historical city center. It’s surrounded by the wall, which can be visited too. Within the center you will find all the important places, such as the Plaza Bolivar, the Iglesia de Santo Domingo, the Plaza de los Coches, the Catedral, the Plaza de la Aduana and las Bovedas. The Puerta del Reloj is the most popular Gateway.
Getsemani
This quarter is the less shiny one of Cartagena’s historical center. There are lots of bars and restaurants an the Plaza Trinidad is a meeting point day and night.
Islas del Rosario
These coral islands are just about 40 km from Cartagena. There are daytrip tours to the protected islands. Lunch is included (maybe not for vegans). Some things like entrance fee to the park and port taxes are not included. There is also an aquarium on one of the islands!
I stayed in a very nice hostel (the three dog’s house manga), but unfortunately it was a bit far off the center. This was a big disadvantage. I would recommend to stay in the center or as close as possible.
I must apologize, it is already two weeks ago since I have been in Cartagena and I don’t remember all the prices….! Hopefully this post is useful nevertheless.
