Long Weekend Retreat to Cartagena

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Advisor - Bethany Rinehart
Curated By

Bethany Rinehart

  • Cartagena

  • Group Travel

  • Wellness Travel

  • Couples Travel

  • Boutique Travel

  • History

  • Relaxation

  • Local Food

A night view of people roaming on the street of Cartagena.
Curator’s statement

Cartagena is a vibrant tropical city full of beautiful colorful and historic buildings that make for dreamy backdrops. Located on the Caribbean Sea, this UNESCO World Heritage Site makes for a quick trip from the East coast, great for a weekend with your friends or significant other. There is something for everyone whether you want to relax by the pool, indulge in a spa treatment, eat amazing food or take a day trip by boat to Rosario Island.

The Fora Difference

Book with Bethany to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.

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Killer perks

Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you

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Insider knowledge

Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there

Where to stay in Cartagena

Charleston Santa Teresa Cartagena

Colonial-style hotel overlooking the Caribbean Sea known for its colorful rooms with a restaurant, cafe and eatery.

Fora Perks
  • ★

    $100 hotel / resort credit.

  • ★

    Welcome treat in room on arrival.

  • ★

    Upgrade & guaranteed late check-out.

Casa San Agustin

If you are looking for luxury, Cartagena, Colombia has no better hotel than Casa San Agustin to unwind and pamper.

Fora Perks
  • ★

    $100 hotel / resort credit.

  • ★

    Breakfast daily.

  • ★

    Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Tcherassi Hotel + Spa

A 250 year old colonial mansion comes to life in the heart of Cartagena's old city in fashion designer Silvia Tcherassi's first hotel.

Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena

Reinvented and innovative hotel, which recreates a tropical palace where the walls and ceilings retain the historical magic of this 17th Century Colombian building. 

Fora Perks
  • ★

    $100 food / beverage credit.

  • ★

    Breakfast daily.

  • ★

    Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Casa Claver Loft Boutique Hotel

A charming fusion of colonial-era architecture and contemporary design in the heart of Cartagena's Old Town, offering an intimate and luxurious stay.

Unlock perks by contacting Bethany to book your trip.

Things to do in Cartagena

handicrafts shop in Cartagena's local market

  • Watch the sunset from "Las Murallas de Cartagena". Finished in 1796 these stone walls took almost 2 centuries to construct. Walk the walls and enjoy the scenic views.

  • Indulge in a spa treatment at Tcherassi Hotel & Spa. Colombian fashion designer Sylvia Tcherassi laced her elegant aesthetic in the renovated 250 year old mansion. Spa treatments are rooted in a holistic approach and will leave you feeling relaxed, refreshed and pampered.

  • Take a Zumba class - find a local instructor and get shaking with your pals.

  • Rent a bike and sightsee.

  • Check out the historic buildings in Plaza Santo Domingo.

  • Go shopping and pick up a locally made Wayuu Mochila bag.

Places to eat & drink in Cartagena

Waitress setting the table up in a fancy Mexicans restaurant.

EAT

  • María - Bogotá-born chef Alejandro Ramirez is a culinary great after years of studying under Daniel Boulud, Donjuán

  • La Vitrola - Meaning "jukebox" in English is a vibrant Cuban restaurant and an institution in Cartagena

  • La Cevichería - Take advice from Anthony Bourdain and check this place out.

  • Mila - Great for breakfast/brunch or an amazing pastry.

  • Gelateria Paradiso or La Paleteria - Cool down with a sweet treat.

  • Grab an fresh arepa on the street.

DRINK

  • Café Del Mar - Grab a drink and watch the sunset from this bar atop the walls around the city.

  • Hotel Charleston Santa Teresa or Alma - Dreamy locations for a lovely spot to post up with a cocktail.

Day trips

Go on a day trip to Islas del Rosario or Isla del Sol. Book a tour to get transportation by boat, drinks and lunch.

Advisor - Bethany Rinehart

Travel Advisor

Bethany Rinehart

Get in touch with Bethany

Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.

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For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Diana Morales's guide, Three Days to Discover Cartagena.

This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Cartagena.