Cartagena is the fifth-largest city in Colombia. And this old port city is located on the Colombia Caribbean coast. Do you know that part of Cartagena is surrounded by a large fortress-like wall? It was constructed during colonial times to protect the city from continual pirates’ attacks. That’s why Cartagena is known as the Walled City. The city offers unique blends of beautiful sandy beaches, mouth-watering cuisine, amazing cultural heritage, and history. There’s plenty of activities and places for you to explore, among all the best hotels in Cartagena Colombia. Whether you’re traveling with family, on a business trip, or traveling with friends and couples, you will find something to do.
There are tons of things to do in Cartagena, from historical landmarks, museums, parks, to restaurants and shops. You can climb the San Felipe Castle and enjoy the views of the city. With tropical weather, you shouldn’t miss the beaches around the city. Visit Playa Blanca, one of Colombia’s most beautiful beaches. Grab some beer or fresh exotic fruit from a street cart that can be refreshing under the Colombian heat.
Many agree that December to March is a fantastic time to visit Cartagena. At these months, the weather is warm and not too humid during the day. In the evening, the ocean breeze makes the weather cooler. However, you may encounter more crowds, and prices can be more expensive. Getting around Cartagena is quite easy, especially around the Walled City (Centro). You can visit most of the main attractions on foot. Or, just rent a bike! If you head outside Centro, taxis are the easiest way. Now, let’s find you the best area to stay in Cartagena first.
Where to Stay in Cartagena
Do you prefer exploring the historical walled city or enjoying the sun and sand most of the time? Whatever your traveling styles, there’s a wide range of hotels in Cartagena, Colombia. No doubt, the city center is always the best place to stay. Centro (it’s what they call for the city center in Cartagena, and it’s also known as Old City) offers just about everything you need or want. The iconic city wall is the main tourist spot. Furthermore, Centro offers luxury hotels to hostels, historical monuments, and museums. Besides, there are plenty of cocktail bars, restaurants, and night bars.
Another alternative to stay is in the Bocagrande neighborhood. It boasts coastal views to the west and east. Bocagrande is filled with skyscrapers, beach resorts, and international restaurants. Chill out on one of several beautiful beaches. For shopaholics, you can walk around the streets with many fashion shops or explore the mall of Plaza Bocagrande.
For travelers who have plenty of beach time but also want to know about the city, San Diego is a perfect choice. Visit the Rafael Núñez House and the Walls of Cartagena. Don’t miss enjoying the mojitos and cigars at Cuba 1940.
Planning a trip with your best friends? Book in advance in one of the budget and boutique hotels in the Getsemani neighborhood! Known as one of Colombia’s hippiest neighborhood, Getsemani offers many things. Find cool street art, lots of restaurants and cafes, and nightlife. It’s a great place to meet other travelers.
San Diego neighborhood can be a good choice with fewer tourists. It’s home to Bella’s Artes Art College. You’ll also find many hotels in Cartagena Colombia, the best food, historic churches, and street performances. With our list below, we hope you’ll find the best Cartagena Colombia hotels that suit your needs. Flying in from Bogota? Stop by at one of the 11 Best Hotels in Bogota.
Ibis Cartagena Marbella
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For those who want to stay close to Rafael Núñez International, Ibis Cartagena Marbella is the best option. Located 3km from the airport, it’s one of the hotels in Cartagena Colombia that’s perfect for a quick business trip. Besides, the hotel rates are affordable for everyone, makes it also perfect for those traveling on a budget.
Even better, beaches and some most visited attractions are only minutes away! The hotel doesn’t have a pool, but Marbella beach is only short walks from the hotel, while Crespo Beach is only 950 m (0.6 mi). Visit the Rafael Nunez House, Cartagena’s Walls, Coffee Museum. These places are located less than 2km (1.2 mi) from the hotel. Or, you can reach the city center in 25 minutes by walking and 10 minutes by taxi.
The hotel features clean and comfortable rooms. You will find that the room is a little small and needs more amenities like a fridge and kettle. However, some rooms offer a terrace and ocean view. If you choose a room package that includes breakfast, you’ll have lots of options to choose from. Plus, you can enjoy the amazing sea view. You have free access to Wi-Fi and private parking in case you bring a car. Paid airport shuttle and laundry service are available.
Hotel Dorado Plaza Centro Histórico
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Hotel Dorado Plaza Centro Histórico features a convenient location between the old city and Getsemani. Some of the most famous attractions in the city are less than 1 km (0.6 mi). Visit Cartagena’s Walls, Bolivar Park, San Felipe de Barajas Castle, and many more on foot. And Trendy Getsamani is just minutes of walking.
It’s one of the hotels in Cartagena Colombia that offer spacious rooms with a private balcony. So, you get to have a wonderful view of the park or city. Complimentary Wi-Fi and daily breakfast are available during your stay. A 24-hour front desk and a shared lounge are also available.
The hotel doesn’t have a pool and fitness center, but the beaches are nearby. You can swim, have some food and drink, and watch the sunset. For lunch and dinner, there are refreshments and meals in on-site restaurants. Or just walk to some of the restaurants in the beautiful Old Town.
Oz Hotel Cartagena
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Next in our list of Cartagena Colombia hotels is Oz Hotel Cartagena. The hotel has a good location with everything you may need. Supermarkets, beauty salons, restaurants, and shops are close. Besides, most of Cartagena’s top places are less than 2 miles (3.2 km). Spend your day strolling around Cartagena’s Pegasos’s Wharf.
Featuring nice, spacious, and comfortable rooms, we recommend opting for a room with a view. Daily breakfast is included, and you have access to free Wi-Fi. A rooftop bar is available for you to relax while you’re enjoying the view. Besides, there’s an outdoor terrace.
The hotel doesn’t have parking, fitness center, and swimming pool. However, you can walk to the three beaches nearby. Bocagrande Beach, Castillogrande Beach, and Laguito Beach are only 500 meters (0.3 mi) away from the hotel.
Hampton by Hilton Cartagena
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Hampton by Hilton Cartagena is one of the hotels in Cartagena Colombia with a rooftop pool. Enjoy views of the city for relaxing! Besides, you can do some laps in the pool, or do some workouts in the on-site gym. And the hotel is beachfront! Bocagrande Beach is only a short walk from the hotel. Have yourself a full day activity, including swimming and trying some water sports on the beach.
The hotel has a good location. If you want to explore, some of the top city’s attractions are walking distance. Museums, parks, and churches are less than 2 miles (3.2 km) away. Stroll around Cartagena’s Walls, or visit La Bolivar Park and Cartagena’s Gold Museum.
Got some works to do? Free Wi-Fi is accessible in all areas, so you work anywhere in the hotel. The hotel features spacious rooms, and a daily breakfast is included. Have a buffet breakfast with great views from the 16th floor! The reception area is also on the same floor. So, the elevator can be overcrowded.
The hotel doesn’t have a parking lot. So, if you bring a car, you should park your car in the street or nearby mall. Other amenities are available with an additional charge, including laundry service and airport shuttle.
Hotel InterContinental Cartagena
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Hotel InterContinental Cartagena is one of the Cartagena Colombia hotels that offer an amazing view of the Caribbean-sea. Located beachfront, there are some of the best beaches in Cartagena. Go to Bocagrande Beach, Laguito Beach, and Castillogrande Beach on foot. Whichever you want! Besides, Bocagrande Shopping Centre and some restaurants are only a few minute’s walk.
The hotel features a rooftop terrace and bar. Have some cocktails and beers while enjoying the sea view from up here. Each spacious and comfortable room boasts an iPod dock and laptop-friendly workspace. You can also access free Wi-Fi in all areas, especially in your elegant décor room.
If you want to keep up your workout routine, use the free access to the fitness center and swimming pool. However, you may want to check the temp first as the water in the pool can be too cold. Laundry service, airport shuttle, and parking are available with an additional charge.
Hotel Las Americas Casa de Playa
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Featuring three swimming pools, Hotel Las Americas Casa de Playa is one of the best hotels in Cartagena Colombia for a family vacation. Plus, the hotel is only 2.1 km (1.3 mi) away from Rafael Núñez International Airport, so you’ll have less fuss on your way from and to the airport. An outdoor swimming pool is equipped with a water slide and toboggan. Your kids would definitely love this!
For more fun, there’s a nice playground with sand and structures to climb on. An indoor pool is perfect for a quick lap in the morning. Enjoy the rooftop pool for relaxing after your full-day activities. Plus, it offers a great view. You can also try other amenities, including a fitness center, a mini-golf course, and a spa. Or watch salsa show or do some karaoke in the evening.
The hotel is a bit far from the city center. However, taxis are easy to get in front of the lobby and will take you there in 10 minutes. On the other hand, La Boquilla Beach is only 100m (0.06 mi), while Crespo Beach is only 850 m (0.5 mi). Try some water sports, swimming, and enjoy foods and drinks while watching the sunset.
The hotel features spacious and comfortable rooms with a balcony. You get a complimentary Wi-Fi, but unfortunately, there’s no coffee maker in the room. Free parking, ATM, and currency exchange are also available for your convenience. It would be nice if there’s an on-site shop selling foods and drinks. However, there are on-site bars, including La Isla and El Chicho. You’ll also find Mesón de Don Cristobal, which serves local and international food. Meanwhile, Fogon del Navegante serves grilled meats and seafood with fresh salads.
Hotel Boutique Castillo Ines Maria
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If you’re looking for hotels in Cartagena Colombia that feel like home, Hotel Boutique Castillo Ines Maria can be a perfect choice. It’s located in a quiet neighborhood, yet it’s only minutes of walking to the walled city. In less than 500 m (0.3 mi), you’ll reach La Casa Rafael Núñez, Cartagena’s Walls, and Lake Laguna Del Cabrero.
This beautiful hotel features spacious and comfortable rooms with colonial-style décor. Besides, it offers balconies with garden and sea views. Relaxing and reading a book in a nice hammock on the terrace is something you couldn’t miss! If the weather is getting too hot, you can refresh yourself into the pool. Or swim in Marbella beach, which is only 100 m (0.06 mi) away.
Enjoy the complimentary Wi-Fi in all areas. Start your day with a delicious traditional Colombian breakfast every morning. There are not many places to eat, but few restaurants are available near the hotel. You can also shop in the supermarket and grocery stores less than 300 m (0.19 mi) from the hotel. Private parking is available for free.
República Hostel Cartagena
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Are you planning on a trip to Cartagena with your best friends? Or solo traveling on a budget? You can book a room at the República Hostel Cartagena. This beautiful hostel is located in the heart of the Old City, so you get to explore the city by walking. Cartagena’s Walls, Cartagena’s Modern Art Museum, and Marbella beach are located less than 1km (0.6 mi). What’s more, Rafael Núñez International Airport is only 4 km (2.5 mi) from the hostel.
Featuring a pool and terrace, it’s a great place to chill yourself after a hot and sweaty day out. Or just relax in the air-conditioned shared TV room for an evening movie night. The rooms feature nice décor, and you can access free Wi-Fi in all areas. The on-site bar offers a nice vibe and lots of games. It’s a great place to meet new people.
Breakfast is not included in your room rates, and drinks can be too expensive. However, you can opt for some restaurants and cafes nearby. Besides, there’s a shared kitchen if you want to prepare some meals.
When you’re here, join the free walking tour from the hostel. Just simply check with their 24-hour front desk staff. Parking is not available, but there’s a laundry service with an additional charge.
Hotel Casa Lola Deluxe Gallery
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An oasis in the bustling of Cartagena, Hotel Casa Lola Deluxe Gallery features great architecture and antique decoration. It’s located in the Getsemani neighborhood, which simply makes it one of the best hotels in Cartagena Colombia. The hotel is only a short walking distance to a wide variety of attractions, museums, supermarkets, and restaurants. Bolivar Park, Trinidad Square, and San Felipe de Barajas Castle are less than 1 km (0.6 mi) away.
The hotel features spacious rooms with a fine mixture of modern elements and antiques. Complimentary Wi-Fi and airport shuttle are available for your convenience. If you opt for a room include breakfast, you’ll love the breakfast sitting areas under a tree.
There are a rooftop bar and pool with a panoramic view and an inner courtyard with a fine lounge area. It’s a welcome escape from the hot city streets. There’s no fitness center in the hotel, but you can access the three swimming pools or spa and wellness center (with additional charge). Besides, Marbella Beach and Bocagrande Beach are less than 1 mile (1.6km). And Rafael Núñez International Airport is only 5 km (3.2 mi) away.
Bastión Luxury Hotel
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Bastión Luxury Hotel is one of the Cartagena Colombia hotels located in Centro. This 5-star hotel is walking distance to everything. The hotel is perfect if you want to experience the combination of modern architecture with a 16th-century colonial house.
Discover a wide variety of restaurants, museums, churches, and parks nearby. Enjoy Marbella beach, which is only 700m (0.4 mi) away. Fernandez Madrid Park and Del Tejadillo Square are only 200 m (0.12 mi) from the hotel. And you can stroll around Cartagena’s Pegasos’s Wharf. It’s only 500 m (0.3 mi) away!
The hotel features luxury rooms and suites with contemporary décor. Selected rooms and suites offer a balcony and city view. There is a rooftop pool with a terrace and a shared lounge for you to enjoy. Relax and watch the sunset while having some cocktails. Though it offers limited equipment, there’s a fitness center you can access.
Free Wi-Fi is available in all areas. Enjoy the complimentary delicious breakfast before you start your day. And have your diner in the on-site restaurant and bars. Or you can go to nearby restaurants. The hotel doesn’t have parking, but there are other amenities you can use, including an airport shuttle and bike rent.
Hyatt Regency Cartagena
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Hyatt Regency Cartagena is in our top pick for the best hotels in Cartagena Colombia. Centro is 20 minutes of walking and 5 minutes ride. Cartagena’s Modern Art Museum, San Pedro Claver’s Museum, and some other museums are less than 2km (1.2 mi) away. It’s a perfect hotel for you, museum lover!
The hotel features comfortable and spacious rooms for your good night’s rest. What’s more, the hotel has three infinity pools with striking views of the ocean and bay! You can relax while watching the sunset from the pool area. Or enjoy the spacious terrace for sunbathing.
Complimentary W-Fi and parking are available, which makes the hotel also perfect for the family. Take your family strolling around Cartagena’s Pegasos’s Wharf. Wandering through the tunnels of the San Felipe de Barajas Castle also can be an unforgettable experience. Or have some fun at the beaches nearby.
Breakfast is not included in the room rate, but the on-site restaurant offers a buffet or a la carte breakfast. Refresh your body after full day activities at the spa and wellness center (charges apply). Enjoy complimentary wine and beer from 5 to 7 pm. Besides, you have access to a fitness center and hot tub or jacuzzi. 24-hour front desk and room service are available.
Recommended Restaurants / Bars in Cartagena:
- Celele – Celele serves a unique Colombian Caribbean cuisine. Try their five-course tasting and enjoy the colorful dining room.
- Restaurante 1621 – Combining French culinary techniques with Colombian Caribbean cuisine, Restaurante 1621 also offers a wide range of special cocktails and wines. The charming atmosphere is perfect for a romantic dinner with your couple.
- El Barón – Located in Centro, you can taste crafted cocktails, wine, coffee, and incredible food in El Barón. Try their most popular drinks, such as Agave Margarita with Tequila Herradura Plata and Gin Basil Smash with Citadelle Gin and Basil.
Recommended Activities In Cartagena:
- Walled City Walking Tour – The ideal thing to do if you want to know more about the walled city of Cartagena. You’ll see and learn about the history of all the main historic monuments and places.
- Best Street Food with Local Chef – Discover and taste Caribbean street food influenced by Spanish, Arabian, and African. You’ll also discover top places around Cartagena.
- Sunset Cruise with Open Bar on a Pirate Ship – Experience the unforgettable cruise while enjoying the sunset and stunning waterfront views. You can take some photos and sip some cocktails or punch from the open bar.
