Colonial stays in Cartagena, Colombia.

Cartagena: the jewel of the Caribbean

Cartagena de Indias was founded by Spanish conquistadors in 1533 and became one of the most important ports in the Spanish Empire. The 13-km city walls (Murallas) are perfectly preserved and UNESCO World Heritage-listed.

The Walled City (Centro Histórico) — colonial mansions with flower-draped balconies, boutique hotels in converted palaces, cobblestone streets. The most romantic accommodation in South America.
Getsemaní — the neighbourhood outside the walls. Street art, backpacker energy, the real Cartagena. Rapidly gentrifying.
Bocagrande — the beach area and modern Cartagena. High-rise apartments, Caribbean Sea.
Rosario Islands — day trip (1 hour by speedboat). Coral reefs, clear water, deserted beaches.

Getting to Cartagena

Cartagena Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG) has direct flights from Bogotá (1 hour), Medellín (1 hour) and international connections from Miami, New York, Madrid and Panama City.