Best Things to Do in Cartagena, Colombia (2025 Guide)
Introduction: Welcome to Cartagena
The sugarcane is reflected by sugary sands, and agriculture by the full spread of insistent beauty and lively culture. This city of history, architectural charm, and vibrant cultures is a hotspot for visitors. Some of the top things to do in Cartagena are walking the labyrinthine alleys of the infamous Walled City, lazing in the tropical sun on the powdery soft beach of an island nearby, snorkeling amongst otherworldly coral reefs just offshore, and so on. What to See and Do in Cartagena, Colombia.
BETWEEN 2023 AND 2025, sustainable tourism, new boutique hotels, and ramped-up cultural programming have helped shape the city into an even more attractive destination for visitors. This guide provides a menu, a curated one, of the best experiences for travelers in 2025, with an eye to recent trends and developments.
The Walled City of Cartagena (Ciudad Amaralda).
At the heart of the city—its history, its culture—is Cartagena’s colorful, historic center: the Walled City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The place is dripping with old-school character, all colonial architecture, baroque facades, and bustling plazas.
Why Visit:
Immaculately preserved 16th-century buildings;
Boutique establishments and elegant cafes;
Street musicians and cultural performances.
Walking the Walled City is certainly one of the most iconic things to do in Cartagena, Colombia.
Sunset at Café del Mar
Set on the old city walls, Café del Mar offers a front-row seat for watching the sun set into the Caribbean Sea. Together with a well-made drink and tailored itsc, it’s downright magical.
Travel Insight: Get there before the sun goes down to claim the perfect spot. The venue has also extended its outdoor seating (more great sunset watching).It’s high on the list of romantic things to do in Cartagena, Colombia.
Visit the Rosario Islands
The Rosario Islands are an ideal escape from the strafing pace of the city, with crystal-clear waters, abundant foliage, and peaceful beaches.
Key Attractions:
Coral reef snorkeling and diving;
Private island resorts;
All-inclusive maritime excursions.
These islands are some of the chillest—and most“fu”—things to do in Cartagena, Colombia. Conditions of the coral reef were better in 2023 and 2024 thanks to conservation efforts.
Castillo San Felipe de Barajas
A symbol of colonist survival, this 17th-century fortress is a military-architecture feat of genius. Its impressive maze of tunnels and lookouts makes it an interesting historical landmark.
Expert tip: Hire a guide for context and insight; restoration work in 2023 has opened the fortress up to visitors of all abilities.
One of those cultural activities, “n t “ things to do in Cartagena, Colombia, is a list.
Playa Blanca
The third place on Barú Island is Playa Blanca, famous for its pure sand and shallow water. It’ss a tourist magnet, but visit at the right time and you can enjoy some relative peace.
In 2024 and 2025, a regulated visitor cap protected the beauty of this beach.
A tried-and-true day trip—one of the most popular“things to do in Cartagena, Colombia”
Getsemaní Neighborhood
A once down-and-out barrio, Getsemaní has risen like a phoenix from humble beginnings to become an artsy hotbed—the theatrical murals, atmospheric hideaways, and musical spirit attest to the city’s evolving personality.
Must Experience:
Plaza de la Trinidad;
Local street fare
The iconic umbrella street.
Additions of new dimensions have come year by year: Getsemaní has been the annual street art festival since its inception. It’ss cultural immersion at its best—and an absolute must-taste when it comes to the““things to do in Cartagena, Colombia.
Local Street Food
Nobody can deny that Cartagena’s street food exists. Each flavor, from the ladles of arepas to coconut drinks, is a story.
Suggested Tastes:
Arepa de huevo
Empanadas with ají sauce
Coconut lemonade.
Tourism: By 2024, the guided street food tours by local chefs were a hit, and for a positive experience of the Harry Hole series.
Reminded us that there are “things to do other than just eat in Cartagena, Colombia.” Poppies—An excellent option for organic food in Cartagena, Colombia.
Salsa at Café Havana
If you are looking for a nightlife spot, Café Havana, with its great salsa music, eager crowds, and true Caribbean beat, is the place to be. You’re on a direct to it’s a wonderful time. The club, in 2023, was celebrating its 20th year of fun and entertainment.
Quite simply, one of the most exciting nd memorable things to do in Cartagena, Colombia.”
Palace of the Inquisition
Located in the historic district, a lot of history is explained in a nice setting.
The museum received a significant upgrade in 2023, upgrading both its exhibits and accessibility.
One of our more interesting “things to do in Cartagena,” Lombi, is when it comes to history.
Sunset Cruise on Cartagena Bay
In the evening, a calm, scenic cruise around Cartagena Bay at dusk is a popular way to gain a fresh perspective on the city’s waterfront beauty and elegance.
Highly recommended for anyone looking for more “amazing things to do in Cartagena, Colombia.” This experience has since been transformed with the introduction of new luxury catamaran options. In Cartagena’s Church, the city’s holy landmarks—including the San Pedro Claver Church and the Cartagena Cathedral—are unique for their architectural beauty and religious ambience.
Preservation work happening each year was completed in 2023 and helped us preserve these historic churches for the next generation.
Great for those intrigued with religious and cultural things to do in Cartagena, Colombia””
Rooftop Bars
Cartagena looks beautiful from the stylish rooftop lounges of the city, several of which coservemazing food and make creative drinks.
New rooftops have opened in the city since 2023, further enhancing its cosmopolitan appeal.
A chic new addition to the “Things to do in Cartagena, Colombia” list.
Mercado de Bazurto
A lively market filled with locals, fresh fruits and vegetables, seafood, and everyday trading. Visitors should watch their footing and may want a guided tour.
And guided culinary tours, launched in 2024, are a safer and more informative way to visit the market.
One of the most killer things to do in Cartagena is Lomb”
Cooking Classes
Receive hands-on instruction from skilled chefs on how to make typical Colombian fare. This hands-on experience provides a glimpse into a local tradition.
Interest in cooking classes has spiked every year since 2020, and it’s remained high in 2025, keeping this a steady fan favorite.
Educational and fun too, among the top things to do in Cartagena, Lombi in terms of a culinary experience.
El Totumo Volcano
A little mud volcano, where visitors float upon mineral-laden clay. Quirky and fun, it adds a bit of adventure to an itinerary.
Upgrades to visitor facilities in 2024 have made this trip less uncomfortable and less daunting.
A charming little gem for “you “ things to do in Cartagena, Colombia itinerary.
Island Hopping
Beyond the Rosario Islands, other destinations include Tierra Bomba and Isla Del Encanto, should you wish to explore and relax some more.
Island hopping was easier—a lot easier—when enhanced ferry service debuted in 2023.
A worthwhile pursuit for anyone in search of other things to do in Cartagena, Colombia.
Artisan Shopping
Support local artisans by picking up accessories, woven bags, and mementos that reflect Colombia’s rich cultural legacy.
In the local artisan venues (quarterly market since 2024), local artists are showcased.
One of the things to do in Cartagena, Colombia, is for a reason.
Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride
Experience life in colonial times by taking a carriage ride through Cartagena’s gleaming streets. Great for couples, for weddings.
In 2023, the city brought in new rules to increase animal welfare and improve the rider experience.
Easily one of the most fun things to do in Cartagena, Colombia.
Discover Bocagrande
This new area on the beach is dense with high-end hotels, boutiques, and a city vibe far different from the old town.
New as of early, there’s a promenade with lovely walkways and beach access.
Do an exclusive list on “things to do in Cartagena, Colombia”
Attend a Local Festival
Whether it’s literary events, music, or film festivals, creativity is celebrated all year long in Cartagena. The Hay Festival and the International Music Festival are the big events of the cultural year.
The two events grew considerably from 2023 to 2025, with international acts and higher attendance.
A festive, inspiring ending, “the things to do in Cartagena,” Lomb lists.
Final Thoughts
Visitors are drawn to the city’s history, coastal landscape, and vibes. Here’s what the city could look like between 2023 and 2025 and why it will be an even more attractive destination for travelers from around the world. This guide offers a solid structure to include““the to “ things to do in Cartagena, formally and properly published!
Safe travels, and I hope you have an experience of a lifetime.
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“For more information on Cartagena’s top attractions, check the official Colombia tourism site.