Updated: May 2026 · by Frank Spitzer

Cartagena Colombia Travel Itinerary 3 Days

Crafted by Pelecanus · Bogotá-based · RNT 51402 · IAGTO member · Updated May 2026

This 3-day Cartagena itinerary covers the main attractions and experiences of the destination. Below: full day-by-day plan, route map, and practical notes. We build longer or custom-length trips on request.

Good for: travelers who want a focused Cartagena stay with hand-picked hotels and a private guide.

Cartagena Trip Summary

Day 1 – Cartagena
Day 2 – Cartagena
Day 3 – Cartagena – Rosario Islands – Cartagena

Planned Places

Cartagena

Regarding tourism, Cartagena is probably the most important Colombian city after Bogota. It is the capital of the department Bolivar, on the northern coast of Colombia. It has an average temperature of 32°C (89°F), the climate is hot but breezy since it is located at sea level. There are over 500 years of history to be found here and Cartagena was also cataloged as UNESCO World Heritage in 1984. Its perfect location right on the Caribbean Sea and its beautiful colonial old town (Ciudad Amurallada) enchant national and international tourists, who also choose to arrive on cruise ships. In the historical part, you will find many sights, boutique hotels, and restaurants. The walled city is known to be a common honeymoon destination due to the romanticism of its streets and architecture. Cartagena is a city with a lot of history and fascinating places to visit, such as San Felipe de Barajas Castle and the historic center.

Rosario Islands

The Rosario Islands, known locally as “Islas del Rosario,” are a group of idyllic and paradisiacal islands located in the Caribbean Sea, off the coast of Cartagena, Colombia. This archipelago is famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, coral reefs, and diverse marine life, making it a sought-after destination for beach lovers and snorkelers.

The Rosario Islands offer a true Caribbean paradise experience with their white sandy beaches, palm-fringed shores, and warm tropical waters. The islands are an escape from the bustling city life of Cartagena, offering a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere.

The archipelago is part of the Rosario and San Bernardo Corals National Natural Park, which was established to protect the valuable marine ecosystems, coral reefs, and diverse aquatic species found in the area.

The Rosario Islands are a haven for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. The coral reefs are teeming with colorful marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, and rays.

Isla Grande is the largest and most popular island in the archipelago. It offers various accommodation options, restaurants, and beach clubs, making it a convenient base for exploring the area.

The Rosario Islands are easily accessible from Cartagena, and many tour operators offer day trips and excursions to the islands.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Cartagena

Arrival to Cartagena

You will be picked up at the airport and driven to your hotel.

The bilingual guide will be waiting for you at the exit of the airport.

Accommodation

Here you will find the best hotel recommendations in Cartagena

Day 2: Cartagena

Full Day City Tour and Mercado Bazurto

Your guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel to take you to the Bazurto market, a very busy place in Cartagena, a maze of colorful stalls, exotic foods and local handicrafts. This guided tour will take you to the heart of the market, where you will have the opportunity to meet the vendors, watch the artisans at work, taste local delicacies and if you prefer, enjoy a delicious typical Colombian lunch.

On the way back you will have a 3 hour tour of the city of Cartagena, visiting the residential neighborhoods that border the Bay of Cartagena. You will visit the Monastery of San Pedro Claver and its church, built in honor of the patron saint of slaves – Pedro Claver. The church is considered a national monument and, because of its history and charm, is one of the favorite churches for weddings in Cartagena. You can also visit the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, the most important work of military engineering in the New World. This fortress was built by the Spanish during the colonial era (from 1536) to protect the city from pirates and invaders. Today it is one of the 7 wonders of Colombia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 3: Cartagena – Rosario Islands – Cartagena

Private Boat tour to Rosario Islands

The driver will pick you up at the hotel and take you to the pier. Where you will have a tour through the Rosario Islands, an archipelago in the Caribbean Sea formed by 28 islands. The natural national park was created to protect one of the most important coral reefs of the Caribbean coast of Colombia. From Cartagena, it takes about 45 minutes by boat. During the private boat excursion to the islands, the captain and an assistant will take care of you. Cold drinks such as champagne, beers and water, as well as delicious snacks, will be the perfect accompaniment to the views over the blue ocean. You will be able to discover the beaches and islands at your leisure or do other activities.

Departure

You will be picked up at the hotel and driven to the airport Rafael Nuñez in Cartagena.

Very Important Info to Know Visiting Colombia

Cartagena Colombia travel Guide

Tips & Tricks for travelers visiting Colombia

Medical advice and recommendations for travelers visiting Colombia

Climate and weather overview for Colombia

Related Itineraries

Need a different length or focus? Browse other Pelecanus itineraries:

• Shorter Cartagena trips: 1 day · 2 days
• Longer Cartagena trips: 4 days · 5 days · 6 days
• Try another destination: Bogotá 3d · Medellín 3d · Cali 3d · Coffee Triangle 3d · Santa Marta 3d

Want a custom length? Tell us your dates and we’ll build it.

References

• Colombia Travel Guide
• Best Places to Visit