Spending 5 Days in Cartagena, Colombia was an adventure filled with color, history, heat, and a few surprises along the way. From walking through the charming streets of the Old Town to climbing historic castles, this city offers an unforgettable mix of culture, architecture, and local flavors. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about exploring Cartagena like a pro. Follow along with Money Left For Travel as we dive into our experiences, tips, and lessons learned during our five-day stay.

Old Town Exploration: Wandering Through History

Cartagena’s Old Town is the heart of the city. Narrow cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, vibrant buildings, and horse-drawn carriages transport you back in time. Staying in Old Town made it easy to explore the charm of the city at a leisurely pace.

The Yellow Clock Tower marks the entrance to the historic district, and just beyond it, the streets are a maze of colorful facades and quaint cafes. Take your time wandering through hidden plazas, soaking up the atmosphere, and snapping pictures at every turn. Even simply strolling along the walls of the city provides panoramic views of Cartagena’s skyline and coastline.

Preservation is key here—every corner feels authentic, yet lively with modern energy. Street vendors may approach you with souvenirs, but a polite “gracias” keeps your walk uninterrupted.

Castillo de San Felipe: History With a View

No trip to Cartagena is complete without visiting Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, a fortress that tells the story of Spanish colonial defense strategies. While many visitors take taxis, we decided to walk the 20-minute journey under the scorching sun. This may not be the most comfortable choice, but the payoff is worth it.

Upon arrival, the entrance fee of 15,000 pesos per person (around $11 USD) grants access to the castle’s tunnels, lookout points, and lush surroundings. Exploring the tunnels feels like stepping into a time capsule, and reaching the top rewards you with a breathtaking view of the city below.

Pro tip: Bring water and wear comfortable shoes, as the walk up is steep. The breeze at the top is a relief, making the climb feel less grueling. A selfie with the Colombian flag at the castle is a must-have for your Instagram feed.

Convento La Popa: Panoramic Views Without the Hike

While Convento La Popa may not offer as much historical intrigue as Castillo de San Felipe, its views are spectacular. Located atop a hill, the convent requires a taxi ride to reach, as walking through the surrounding neighborhoods is not recommended.

Negotiate your taxi fare in advance—our ride cost 40,000 pesos (around $14 USD) round trip. The entrance fee is minimal, just 8,000 pesos ($2.75 USD). Inside, the convent is small, but the overlook gives you a sweeping view of the city and coastline.

If you’ve already visited Castillo de San Felipe, you might find the views at La Popa slightly less impressive. However, it’s still worth a quick visit if you want to see Cartagena from multiple vantage points.

Sweet Escapes: Ice Cream Stops in Cartagena

One of the less obvious joys of Cartagena is its ice cream. With a single scoop costing only 1,000 pesos (roughly 33 cents), it’s impossible to resist stopping frequently during your walks around the city.

The tropical heat makes these icy treats feel heavenly, though you’ll need to eat fast before they melt in the Caribbean sun. Try local flavors for a unique experience—coconut, guava, and passion fruit are popular choices that capture the taste of the region.

Experiences We Skipped: Playa Blanca and the Mud Volcano

While Cartagena offers plenty to see, there are a couple of attractions we opted not to visit. Playa Blanca, a nearby white sand beach, seemed overcrowded compared to the pristine beaches of San Blas Islands.

We also skipped the mud volcano, where tourists climb into a pit of warm mud. It sounded fun in theory, but we weren’t keen on leaving our camera behind or navigating the logistics of photos. Sometimes, knowing what to skip is as important as knowing what to see.

Challenges of Cartagena: Heat and Vendors

The most consistent challenge during our 5 Days in Cartagena, Colombia was the intense heat. Having traveled through Belize, Guatemala, and Panama, we thought we knew hot weather—but Cartagena redefined it. Most afternoons were spent hiding in our air-conditioned apartment to escape the oppressive sun.

Street vendors are another hurdle. They’re persistent, offering Colombian hats, souvenirs, and trinkets. A simple “gracias” works wonders compared to saying “no.” Learning this little trick can save you endless repetition and frustration.

Postal Adventures: The Mystery of Mailing Postcards

Mailing postcards in Cartagena was unexpectedly difficult. Despite buying stamps and planning to send mail early in our trip, we spent four days searching for a post office without success. Eventually, a friendly British shop owner directed us to a small, almost hidden mailbox marked “472.”

It was a strange but memorable lesson: navigating Cartagena often requires patience, flexibility, and a sense of humor.

Safety and Local Insights

Contrary to the concerns of friends and family, we never felt unsafe during our stay. Police presence is noticeable, ensuring law and order. Like any city, you should avoid flashing valuables, wandering into unfamiliar neighborhoods at night, or acting recklessly.

The main challenge for tourists is negotiating fares. Taxis aren’t metered, so always ask locals or research fair prices before hopping in. Brush up on basic Spanish, but don’t be surprised if coastal Colombian Spanish feels nearly impossible to understand. Even so, basic phrases and gestures go a long way.

Walking Tours vs. Taxi Rides

Walking in Cartagena’s Old Town is both scenic and practical. Most attractions are within short distances, making strolls enjoyable. For sites like Castillo de San Felipe or Convento La Popa, taxis or rideshares are more practical, especially during the midday heat.

Walking allows you to stumble upon hidden gems—cafes, murals, and small shops that you’d miss otherwise. Just remember to wear breathable clothing and carry sunscreen.

Dining and Nightlife in Cartagena

Cartagena offers a vibrant food scene, from casual street eats to fine dining. Sample local dishes such as arepas, ceviche, and seafood stews. Outdoor restaurants in plazas often provide the best atmosphere, combining live music with warm Caribbean evenings.

Nightlife thrives around Old Town, with bars and clubs offering everything from salsa dancing to relaxed rooftop lounges. Whether you’re seeking a lively night out or a quiet evening with drinks, Cartagena has something for every traveler.

Cultural Highlights: Museums and Galleries

While we focused primarily on outdoor attractions, Cartagena’s museums and art galleries are worth exploring. Small museums showcase colonial history, Afro-Colombian culture, and local art. Galleries often feature colorful paintings, contemporary sculptures, and handcrafted souvenirs.

Even if you only spend an hour inside, these cultural stops provide a deeper understanding of the city beyond its tourist façade.

Where to Stay: Choosing Your Base

For our 5 Days in Cartagena, Colombia, we chose an apartment in Old Town. This location is ideal for first-time visitors due to its proximity to major attractions, restaurants, and nightlife. Other options include beachside resorts or boutique hotels, each offering unique experiences.

Consider air conditioning essential. The heat in Cartagena can be overwhelming, and having a cool retreat makes sightseeing more enjoyable.

Day-to-Day Itinerary Suggestions

Day 1: Arrival and Old Town stroll. Explore plazas, cafes, and enjoy your first Colombian ice cream.
Day 2: Castillo de San Felipe in the morning, followed by relaxed Old Town wandering in the afternoon.
Day 3: Convento La Popa for panoramic views, then sample street food and enjoy local music.
Day 4: Take a guided walking tour, visit a museum, and enjoy rooftop views.
Day 5: Souvenir shopping, last ice cream stops, and postcard mailing adventures before departure.

Lessons Learned From Our Trip

• Less can be more: 5 days in Cartagena is longer than necessary for sightseeing; 2-3 days could suffice for major attractions.

• Patience pays: navigating mail services and vendors requires humor and flexibility.

• Respect the heat: plan activities for mornings or evenings, and stay hydrated.

Final Thoughts on 5 Days in Cartagena, Colombia

In conclusion, our 5 Days in Cartagena, Colombia offered a mix of vibrant history, unforgettable architecture, and cultural encounters. While the heat and persistent vendors were challenging, the charm of Old Town, Castillo de San Felipe, and the local cuisine made the visit worthwhile.

Cartagena might not be our favorite destination for future travels due to the weather, but for first-time visitors seeking color, history, and adventure, it’s an essential stop in Colombia. Travel wisely, plan carefully, and embrace the energy of this unique city.

Follow along with Money Left For Travel to explore more cities, hidden gems, and practical travel tips for unforgettable adventures around the world.