Cartagena de Indias is a colonial town located in the center of the northeastern Caribbean coast of Colombia. With easy access, whether by air, land or sea, it is visited every year by thousands of tourists who find it the perfect place to relax or work.
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This charming city has a diverse hotel infrastructure, with mostly bilingual (English–Spanish) staff. The official currency is the Colombian peso, which fluctuates at a representative rate relative to the U.S. dollar. Its average temperature is 30 degrees Celsius (90ºF), and the beaches keep warm waters all year round. This is a great reason to consider it an excellent destination in any season.
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Cartagena's historic center was declared National Patrimony by Colombia in 1959 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984.
WHAT'S CARTAGENA'S TEMPERATURE?
The average temperature is 30 degrees Celsius (90ºF), with an average relative humidity around 82% to 84%.​
Attractions
Palacio de la Inquisición
This palatial building is one of the most historically notable constructions of the colonial era. Here is where enemies of the Catholic church were condemned, hence the many torture instruments, documents and paintings from the Inquisition on display.
Castillo de San Felipe
Venture through the mysterious, hidden tunnels that run within this impressive fortress, built by the Spanish in the 16th and 17th centuries as a defense against pirates. It'll leave you breathless.
Plazas
Each has its charm, inviting you to relax and watch the world go by. Plaza de San Diego sits between Hotel Sofitel Legend Santa Clara and the Escuela de Bellas Artes and has a particularly unique and bohemian feel to it.
Torre del Reloj
The BBC declared the Torre del Reloj one of the "world's most beautiful clock towers," with good reason. This eminent structure, built in 1631, grants access to the historic city, known as the "walled city," the most charming part of Cartagena.
Churches
San Pedro Claver, Catedral Santa Catalina de Alejandría, Santo Toribio and Santo Domingo.
Travel & Transportation
Travel
FLIGHT
Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG).
It's about a 15–20 minute taxi or rideshare
from the airport to the Old City.
TRANSPORTATION
Taxis at the airport are reliable.
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The Uber app is available.
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Alondra Express, in case you want to book a car or van in advance: alondraexpress.com ·
+57 323 502 5921
Tips for Your Stay
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Wear sunglasses and sunblock, and dress in light, comfortable clothes.
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Always keep an eye on your personal belongings.
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Only exchange money at official exchange offices (casas de cambio), never in the street.
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Check the daily exchange rate.
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The tip is included in your bill at restaurants, but the amount you pay is up to your discretion.
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The only authorized departure and arrival dock for passengers headed to the Islas del Rosario is the Muelle Turístico La Bodeguita in the city center.
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You can walk to most places and tourist sights, but if you'd rather use transport, we suggest ordering a taxi. It is not necessary to tip them. Uber is also available in town.
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Leave your original passport at the hotel and carry a photocopy of it instead.
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Any questions? Ask the locals; they are always ready to help.