Top 39 Activities and Attractions in Cartagena – Shortlist

Updated on 04/17/2024

Dear reader,
I would also like to recommend our Cartagena travel guide, which offers a perfect overview of the tourist attractions in Cartagena. Enjoy reading it!

Activities and Attractions in Cartagena that you will find detailed in our Cartagena Travel Guide

1. Palace of the Inquisition (Historical Museum of Cartagena): A baroque-style building that houses a museum detailing the history of the Spanish Inquisition in Cartagena. Displays include torture devices and historical records.
2. Zenú Gold Museum: Exhibits dedicated to the Zenú culture, showcasing pre-Columbian gold artifacts and pottery.
3. Naval Museum of the Caribbean: Chronicles the naval history of the Caribbean, including major sea battles and the evolution of naval technology.
4. Museum of Modern Art, Cartagena: Features modern and contemporary art from Colombian and international artists.
5. Bastion of Santa Catalina: A historic vantage point offering panoramic views of the city and the sea.
6. The Vault Market: A bustling market space within historical structures, where various shops sell local wares.
7. Bulwark of Santo Domingo: A part of Cartagena’s defensive walls, providing insights into the city’s military history.
8. Monument to India Catalina: A statue honoring India Catalina, an indigenous woman who played a pivotal role during the Spanish colonization.
9. Café del Mar: A popular cafe offering panoramic sunset views atop Cartagena’s old defensive wall.
10. San Francisco Javier Bastion: A section of Cartagena’s old city walls, representing the city’s colonial past.
11. Bocagrande: Modern beachfront neighborhood known for its skyscrapers, beaches, and shopping.
12. San Felipe de Barajas Castle: A massive fortress built by the Spanish for protection against pirates, offering breathtaking views of the city.
13. Muelle de la Bodeguita y de los Pegasos: A pier where one can catch boats to the Rosario Islands and enjoy waterfront views.
14. Convento de la Popa: Situated on a hill, this convent provides stunning city and sea views, known also for its beautiful courtyard and chapel.
15. San Pedro Claver Monastery and Church: Dedicated to Saint Peter Claver, a patron saint of slaves, showcasing beautiful colonial architecture.
16. Cartagena Cathedral: An iconic cathedral with a mix of colonial and Gothic architecture.
17. Santo Domingo Monastery: A beautiful monastery displaying Baroque architectural features.
18. Santo Toribio Church: A historic church known for its beautiful facade and religious significance.
19. Plaza de los Coches: A vibrant square surrounded by colonial buildings, filled with vendors and musicians.
20. Plaza de la Aduana: The oldest and largest plaza in Cartagena, surrounded by colonial-era buildings.
21. Plaza de Bolívar: A peaceful square with a statue of Simon Bolívar, surrounded by the city’s important historic buildings.
22. Las Bóvedas: Originally dungeons, these vaulted structures now house boutiques and souvenir shops.
23. Mercado Bazurto: A local market providing a glimpse of daily life in Cartagena, filled with fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies.
24. Wall of Cartagena: Walk along the ancient walls that once protected Cartagena from pirates and invaders.

Other Activities and Attractions in Cartagena