Old Town Cartagena

Overview

Old Town Cartagena, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a historic gem with colorful colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and vibrant plazas. It offers a rich blend of history, culture, and Caribbean charm.

Old Town Cartagena is a well-preserved example of Spanish colonial architecture and urban planning, with a history dating back to the 16th century. It was a key military and trade center during colonial times.

Cultural Historical Architectural

Location

Address

Centro, Cartagena, Bolivar

Neighborhood: Old Town

Coordinates

10.397300, -75.495500

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday varies by attraction, generally 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

tuesday varies by attraction, generally 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

wednesday varies by attraction, generally 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

thursday varies by attraction, generally 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

friday varies by attraction, generally 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM

saturday varies by attraction, generally 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM

sunday varies by attraction, generally 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$0 (most of the area is free to explore), varies by attraction (e.g., $5-$20 for museums and tours)

Children

often free or discounted at attractions

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

December to April

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds and cooler temperatures

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

2 hours

Recommended

4-5 hours

Full Experience

full day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

warm and humid

• colorful flowers
• lively fiestas

summer

hot and humid, rainy season

• open-air markets
• beach parties

autumn

warm and humid, rainy season ends

• festive decorations
• holiday markets

winter

pleasant and warm

• holiday lights
• outdoor concerts

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tours in advance
Bring identification
Check weather forecast

What to Bring

essential

ID water bottle tickets

seasonal

rain jacket umbrella

not allowed

large bags drones

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate (cobblestone streets and uneven terrain)

• stay hydrated
• protect against sun and rain

Medical facilities: first aid available at tourist information centers

Payment Information

Accepted

cash (COP), credit/debit cards

Currency

COP (Colombian Peso)

Typical Costs

entry $0 (most of the area is free to explore)

tours $15-$50

food $5-$20

souvenirs $5-$30

Dress Code

casual, comfortable clothing, lightweight clothing, comfortable shoes, walking shoes or sandals, inappropriate or revealing clothing for churches

Booking Tips

• at least 1 week
• official tourism website or trusted online platforms
• varies by tour operator, typically 24-48 hours
• available for some attractions

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Cartagena Tourist

Size: 45 MB

Features: interactive map, audio guide, tickets and tours booking, local recommendations

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: tourist information centers, some plazas and cafes

Charging Stations: some cafes and restaurants

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG)

Distance: 3 km

Travel Time: 10-15 minutes

taxi

$5-$10 10-15 min

public_transport

$1-$2 20-25 min

From City Center

Distance: within the city center

walking

$0 varies by starting point

taxi

$3-$5 5-10 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Old Town Cartagena is a source of pride for locals, showcasing the city's rich history, culture, and resilience

Historical Significance: Old Town Cartagena played a crucial role in Spain's colonial empire, serving as a key port for trade and military defense

Insider Tips

Visit the rooftop of Café del Mar for the best sunset views
Explore the hidden courtyards and balconies of the old town for unique photo opportunities
Try the local fruit juice 'lulada' from street vendors

Local Recommendations

• Try local street food like arepas and empanadas
• Ask locals for recommendations on hidden gems
• Visit Café del Mar for stunning sunset views

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hola

thank_you Gracias

where_is ¿Dónde está?

how_much ¿Cuánto cuesta?

beautiful Hermoso/a

ticket Boleto

Guide Languages: Spanish, English, French

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Plaza de los Coches

Best Time: Golden hour in the late afternoon

Tips: Capture the colorful buildings and bustling square

Result: vibrant and lively photo

#Cartagena #OldTown #Colombia

Photography Rules

allowed areas outdoor areas, plazas, and streets

prohibited areas inside churches and museums without permission

flash photography not allowed in churches and museums

commercial photography permit needed for commercial shoots

drone policy prohibited without special permission

tripod policy restricted, check with specific locations

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Cartagena Cathedral

Distance: 200m

Walking: 3 min

Type: Religious

Palacio de la Inquisición

Distance: 300m

Walking: 5 min

Type: Museum

Castillo San Felipe de Barajas

Distance: 1.5km

Walking: 20 min

Type: Historical

Reviews

4.7

Based on 15,000 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

"Wear comfortable shoes"
"Visit early to avoid crowds"
"Try local food"
"Explore hidden courtyards and balconies"

Contact Information

+57 5 664 6630

info@cartagenadeindias.travel

www.cartagenadeindias.travel

Social Media

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