Curator’s statement
Cartagena is pure magic. Every corner bursts with color, music, culture, flavor, and an unmistakable passion for Colombia. I’ve been traveling to Cartagena since I was little, and somehow, I fall more in love with it every time. Just a quick three-hour flight from Miami, discover why Cartagena is the Caribbean’s most captivating and charming escape.
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Things to do in Cartagena
Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Pool
Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, this is how I’d spend a perfect day in the Walled City—packed with vibrant colors, bold flavors, and unmistakable Cartagena energy. Use it as inspiration for a perfect day, or let me craft a longer escape that brings these moments (and more) to life.
Start your day with a beautiful breakfast at Sofitel Legend Santa Clara—my go-to for fresh tropical fruit, authentic bites, and an unbeatable setting. Paired with a Colombian coffee, of course.
After breakfast, I like to head toward Hotel Charleston Santa Teresa, the perfect starting point for a shopping stroll. Just across the street is Silvia Tcherassi, where the iconic Colombian designer’s boutique is filled with elevated pieces.
Continue to:
Agua by Agua Bendita: A must for timeless resortwear rooted in Colombian craft.
St. Dom: A multi-designer boutique for both men and women (I always find something special here).
Loto del Sur on Calle 35: A Colombian beauty brand inspired by native botanicals (and the perfect scent to take home).
For lunch, head to La Cevichería, a casual Cartagena staple loved by locals and Anthony Bourdain alike. Arrive around 12:45 pm to grab a table before they open at 1:00 (no reservations). The parrillada is my favorite—perfect for sharing!
Spend your golden hours lounging at your hotel’s pool—my favorite pool in the city is at the Sofitel Legend Santa Clara. It’s tucked into the courtyard of a former convent, surrounded by period arches and lush greenery. Absolute heaven.
After a couple of hours in the afternoon sun, it’s time to freshen up for the evening. Throw on a light linen look (perfect for the Cartagena humidity) and make your way to El Barón—my favorite spot for a pre-dinner mojito and some of the best people-watching in town.
From there, head to dinner at one of my go-tos:
Restaurante Alma: Refined, romantic, and full of coastal flavor.
Juan del Mar: Lively atmosphere, great seafood, and perfect for ending the night on a high note.
Places to eat & drink in Cartagena
Ceviche de pescado at La Cevicheria
Cuzco Cocina Peruana or Baruco by Cuzco: Both beautiful Peruvian restaurants with some of my favorite ceviche, seafood, and sushi! Baruco has a stunning outdoor rooftop and bar as well.
Andres Carne de Res: A very fun and unique restaurant inside of Cartagena’s mall, La Serrezuela. This spot is great for an afternoon lunch after shopping or for a fun dinner to be followed by dancing on their dance floor! You cannot miss out on the experience you will have here—be sure to get the mojito and the toston con todo!
Agua de Leon: A fun, trendy, restaurant with an incredible Mediterranean menu.
Juan del Mar: Located in the Plaza de San Diego, Juan del Mar has some of the best fresh seafood and pizza in the city! Make sure to get an order of the crab claws.
La Cevicheria: A casual spot for the best ceviches, also loved by Anthony Bourdain! Be sure to try the parillada (to share with a few friends)!
La Unica: A fun and vibrant Mexican restaurant with nightly live music.
La Paletteria: Because there is nothing better than a refreshing popsicle on a warm day!
El Baron: An unpretentious drink spot and home to one of my favorite mojitos in the city! Sit outside for great people-watching, too!
Need to know
While this guide highlights one perfect day in Cartagena, the Walled City is best enjoyed over at least 3–4 days. There’s so much more to explore—rooftop cocktails, lively dinners in historic spaces, music-filled plazas, sunset sails, and slow afternoons on cobblestone streets.
And if you’re staying longer, I always recommend adding a couple nights on Isla Baru. Just a quick boat ride away, you’ll find turquoise waters, sandy beaches, and a slower pace that pairs perfectly with Cartagena’s coastal energy.
Travel Advisor
Mariana Galindo
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Cartagena page.