Hotels in Cartagena

Cartagena: Where History Dances with the Sea

Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia, is a vibrant tapestry of history, culture, and sun-kissed beaches. This UNESCO World Heritage site enchants visitors with its stunning colonial architecture, including the iconic Castillo San Felipe and the colourful streets of the walled city. Dive into local art at the museums or sip cocktails by the shimmering Caribbean Sea. Explore the nearby Rosario Islands for pristine beaches and snorkelling adventures, or wander through lush natural parks. With a captivating blend of romance and rich heritage, Cartagena is the perfect escape for culture lovers and beach enthusiasts alike. For great hotel rates in Cartagena, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Cartagena

Some of the best places to stay in Cartagena are Cartagena Walled City, Bocagrande and San Diego. Cartagena is a vibrant destination with rich history and stunning landscapes. The Walled City is perfect for first-time visitors, showcasing colonial architecture and lively streets. Bocagrande offers modern beachfront hotels and a bustling atmosphere, ideal for relaxation and nightlife. San Diego, known for its charming plazas and quieter vibe, provides a more laid-back experience. Accommodations range from luxury resorts to boutique hotels, ensuring options for every traveller's preference and budget. Enjoy a memorable stay in this enchanting Colombian city! Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Cartagena:

1. Cartagena Walled CityOpens in a new window: Cartagena Walled City is a historic and cultural gem, known for its colonial architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks such as the Clock Tower and the Walls of Cartagena, making it a perfect spot for culture enthusiasts. Available hotels include Ananda Hotel BoutiqueOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star boutique hotel that caters to families with unique decor and child-friendly amenities. Another option is Charleston Santa Teresa CartagenaOpens in a new window, a 5-star hotel in a historic building, ideal for business travellers with excellent conference facilities and adventure sports nearby. Lastly, Sofitel Legend Santa Clara CartagenaOpens in a new window is also a 5-star resort that offers a blend of history and adventure, with multiple meeting rooms for business needs.
2. BocagrandeOpens in a new window: Bocagrande is a bustling city area renowned for its beautiful beaches, making it a perfect choice for sun-seekers and business travellers alike. Attractions include Bocagrande Beach and Castillo Grande Beach. Hotel_name_8 is a 4.5-star hotel providing direct beach access and casino entertainment, perfect for adventure lovers. Hotel Caribe by Faranda GrandOpens in a new window is a 4-star hotel that caters to families and business guests with its beach access and essential business amenities. Another great choice is Hyatt Regency CartagenaOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star hotel in the city centre, offering family-friendly services and business facilities.
3. San DiegoOpens in a new window: San Diego is a charming area filled with cultural sites and historic attractions, such as the Clock Tower and Las Bovedas. This location is ideal for culture buffs and those looking for a relaxed atmosphere. Hotel_name_3 is a 3-star hotel offering complimentary breakfast and entertainment options. For pet owners, Ermita CartagenaOpens in a new window, a 4-star hotel, provides pet-friendly services and business amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay for all guests. Additionally, Hotel Boutique Castillo Ines MariaOpens in a new window is a 3-star hotel with direct beach access, catering to both business and leisure travellers.

Things to do in Cartagena for first times

Three days in Cartagena offers an ideal escape to stunning beaches, lush parks, and vibrant coastal scenery. Visitors can enjoy activities like boating, sea diving, and hiking, while immersing themselves in the lively atmosphere filled with dancing and live music, making it a captivating destination for all travellers. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Cartagena:

• Day 1: Start your Cartagena adventure at the iconic Clock Tower, a beautiful landmark that marks the entrance to the walled city. After snapping some photos, stroll over to the India Catalina Monument, which commemorates the indigenous leader who played a crucial role in the city's history. Conclude your day with a visit to the Santisima Trinidad Church, where you can admire the charming architecture and peaceful atmosphere, perfect for reflection after a day of exploration.
• Day 2: Begin your day by walking along the historic Walls of Cartagena, which offer stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and the cityscape. Next, make your way to the Casa del Marques de Premio Real, a stunning colonial mansion that showcases the city’s architectural heritage. Finally, visit Santo Toribio Church, known for its beautiful interior and serene ambiance, where you can take a moment to soak in the local culture and spirituality.
• Day 3: Kick off with a visit to the impressive San Felipe de Barajas Castle, a marvel of military architecture with panoramic views of the city. After exploring the castle, head to the San Fernando Fort, another historical site that tells the story of Cartagena’s colonial past. Wrap up your day at Bolivar Square, a vibrant gathering space surrounded by important landmarks, where you can enjoy the lively atmosphere and perhaps sample some local street food.

4 tips to find a great Cartagena hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Cartagena is from September to November, when hotel rates are significantly reduced. For international travellers, it's advisable to book your flight at least three months in advance to secure more affordable fares. Domestic travellers should aim to book at least one month ahead for better deals. A stay of at least 3-4 days is recommended to fully appreciate the city’s main attractions, which include its stunning beaches and fascinating museums, providing great value for money for those looking to explore on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Cartagena, you're in for a treat! You could find excellent discounts on hotels by checking the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com. To enhance your chances of scoring a bargain, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you'll stay informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, allowing you to potentially save on your stay in this beautiful destination.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates could increase the likelihood that you may save on hotel expenses in Cartagena.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, take your location into account. Staying closer to major attractions or city centres can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come at a higher price. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighbourhoods, striking a balance between cost and the ease of getting to the places you wish to visit.

Best time to go to Cartagena

Cartagena experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 81.5°F (27.5°C), while May and June are the hottest months, with an average temperature of 82.9°F (28.3°C). October is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Cartagena, January, April, and June are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by no to moderate rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, July, September, and October are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by moderate to frequent rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.