The way to Spend One Day in Cartagena, Colombia

Searching for easy methods to spend the proper day in Cartagena? If you happen to’re trying to find the final word issues to do in Cartagena, however solely have in the future to soak all of it in, don’t fear, I’ve obtained you! I spent my birthday month there researching all the very best locations to see, eating places to eat at and actions to do, so that you don’t need to stress in regards to the planning.

From sipping Colombian espresso at Cafe del Mural to catching a wide ranging sundown whereas strolling alongside the historic metropolis partitions, right here’s an itinerary that claims precisely easy methods to fill the day.

12-Hour Cartagena Itinerary

 9:30 AM: Seize a Colombian Espresso

First issues first—espresso! Colombia is world-renowned for its espresso, and Café del Mural within the Getsemaní neighborhood takes your morning cup of joe to the following degree. In fact you will get a easy scorching espresso, however it’s actually enjoyable to strive a few of their different espresso drinks, just like the Caribbean latte that’s a chilly brew with coconut. 

You’ll discover it on a quiet facet road that’s surrounded by murals (therefore the identify), making it one of many prettiest and most photographed spots in Cartagena. Snap some pics of the colourful art work when you sip on a superbly brewed cup. 

10:30 AM: Take a Colombian Meals Cooking Class

Channel your internal chef with a cooking class at Lunático, one in all Cartagena’s greatest spots to study conventional Colombian delicacies. The journey begins with a visit to Mercado de Bazurto, a bustling, gritty market the place the substances in your culinary creations are sourced.

Bazurto isn’t for the faint of coronary heart—it’s chaotic, loud, and sure, smelly—however it’s additionally a sensory wonderland. Assume unique fruits you’ve by no means seen earlier than, contemporary seafood, and piles of fragrant herbs. It’s an incredible expertise having a chef navigate the maze of stalls and clarify what’s what. Plus, there shall be meals to pattern (if you happen to select!).

Again at Lunático, you’ll dive into making Colombian classics like arepas, empanadas, and ceviche (I made the greatest ceviche of my life right here). You’ll depart with a full stomach, new expertise, and perhaps even a number of recipes to impress your folks again residence.

2:00 PM: Stroll By Barrio Getsemani

Barrio Getsemaní has reworked from a tough previous into one in all Cartagena’s coolest neighborhoods. The colourful colonial streets are buzzing with life—the vitality right here is contagious—and the road artwork on each nook tells highly effective tales in regards to the group’s journey and challenges.

Calle de la Sierpe is legendary for its artwork, however that’s not the one one. Two of essentially the most Instagram-worthy spots are within the slender streets of Callejón Angosto and Calle de la Magdalena, that are adorned with colourful umbrellas that create a whimsical cover overhead. 

Don’t miss Plaza Trinidad—it’s the guts of Getsemaní. Seize a chilly Cerveza from a nook vendor, chat with locals, and absorb the environment. And naturally, no journey to Getsemaní is full with no picture with the enduring Las Palenqueras. These ladies in vibrant clothes, balancing fruit baskets on their heads, are greater than only a fairly image—they’re a logo of resilience and historical past. 

Tip: Getsemaní is only some blocks, so don’t fear an excessive amount of about lacking something, simply hold strolling.

3:30 PM: Discover Castillo De San Felipe De Barajas

Subsequent, step again in time at Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, a fortress constructed within the Sixteenth century to defend Cartagena from pirate assaults. Climb its partitions, discover the tunnels, and revel in panoramic views of town and sea.

Whilst you’re within the space, swing by Los Zapatos Viejos (the Previous Footwear Monument), a enjoyable photo-op that includes a large pair of bronze footwear. This quirky sculpture honors Cartagenero poet Luis Carlos López, who as soon as wrote in regards to the consolation of coming residence to his metropolis is like slipping into an outdated pair of footwear.

Tip: you will get there both by taxi or Uber. If you happen to resolve on taxi, simply keep in mind to barter earlier than stepping into the automotive. 

6:00 PM: Stroll On The Metropolis’s Partitions for Sundown

Cartagena’s historic middle is wrapped in 11 kilometers of UNESCO-recognized stone partitions, full with fortifications and bastions. The Sixteenth-century metropolis partitions had been constructed to keep at bay pirates, and at this time, they provide among the greatest views on the town—espically at sundown. 

As you stroll, you’ll be handled to nice views of the ocean and Cartagena’s charming neighborhoods. You’ll additionally discover the uneven heights and thickness of the partitions, every part tells a narrative of Cartagena’s previous. 

Tip: A well-liked route is to enter close to Charleston Santa Teresa Resort, then stroll the partitions all the way in which to Las Bovedas. From there you possibly can stroll again by way of town. However, the partitions are tremendous accessible with many stairways periodically, so you possibly can simply hop on and off in a number of places. 

7:00 PM: Pre-Dinner Cocktails at Alquímico

Do you know Cartagena is residence to one of many high 50 greatest bars on the planet? Yep, you heard that proper! If you happen to love good ambiance and even higher cocktails, Alquímico is the place to get your pre-dinner drink (and after dinner one too!). The place is in a superbly restored colonial constructing, and every of its three flooring gives a singular vibe and a unique menu to match. We sipped our drinks on ground 2, Classicos Alquimistas. 

Whether or not you’re into basic cocktails or love adventurous new concoctions, their skilled employees will suggest the proper mix. They picked the Te Caribeno for me that was a mix of gin, maraschino liquor, inexperienced tea and dehydrated coconut. 

Irrespective of which drink you choose, you could be assured that their give attention to high-quality, regionally sourced substances and beautiful presentation.

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