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We are sure that a visit to Cartagena de Indias is within your guide of what to see in Colombia. And it is not surprising knowing that it is one of the most beautiful and best-preserved cities in Latin America.
In fact, Cartagena de Indias is known as the beautiful girl of Colombia, so only with its nickname, you can imagine how dazzling it is.
Below we talk about what to do in Cartagena de Indias in 2 days, although we know you will like it so much that you will want to stay longer.
What to do in Cartagena de Indias in 2 days
If you are planning to travel around Colombia it is probable that your visit to Cartagena de Indias is just a stopover and your stay is short. However, 2 days are enough to discover everything that is hidden in every corner of this city.
Day 1: Historic Centre, Barrio San Diego and sunset on the walls
The best way to get to know a city is to walk around all its streets. That’s why to know Cartagena de Indias during your first day of visit you can walk through its historic centre , which is a World Heritage Site. You will love its colourful houses, its cobbled streets and its balconies full of flowers.
Don’t forget to visit some places like the Plaza de Los Coches, the famous Clock Tower, the Cathedral of Cartagena, the Plaza de la Aduana, the Bolivar Park and the San Diego neighbourhood.
And when the sun goes down, it is worth taking a walk along the walls that surround the historical centre that are also a World Cultural Heritage Site. The best time to do this is when it starts to get dark as it is also when it is less hot.
From them, you can watch the nightfall on the Caribbean Sea. And also the other side of the city, where Bocagrande is located, which is the modern and luxurious area and has nothing to do with the historical center.
Day 2: San Felipe Castle and Barrio Getsemaní
During your second day in Cartagena de Indias in the morning, you can go up to the San Felipe de Barajas Castle. It is considered one of the seven wonders of Colombia and built to protect the city from English and French attacks.
Inside you can see the original cannons, tunnels and above all incredible views of the city of Cartagena de Indias.
And when it’s time to eat, you can make a stop for lunch at a typical restaurant in the historic center and try the traditional foods of this wonderful city. You can’t leave without trying some of its most famous dishes such as coconut rice, fish stew or cheese mote, perfect to recover your strength during your trip!
In the afternoon, after a little rest, it is time to get to know the nightlife of Cartagena de Indias. The best areas to do this are inside the Walled City and the neighbourhood of Gethsemane. There you can have a drink and finish your visit to Cartagena in the best way. Maybe you even want to have a few dances to the rhythm of Colombian music!
What to do around Cartagena de Indias
Cartagena de Indias is also well known for its beautiful beaches and archipelagos. Perfect to spend a few days of calm and rest from the hustle and bustle of the trip. So if you have enough time, taking a trip out of the city is always a good plan.
Here are some ideas of what to do around Cartagena de Indias. Although we warn you that you probably won’t want to leave this paradise…
Rosario Coral Islands
A relaxation plan can be to visit the Rosario Islands National Park. Or more specifically to visit La Isla del Pirata, which is the most exclusive of all and is only one hour away from the city of Cartagena.
These paradisiacal islands stand out for their crystalline waters and are perfect for spending a day of disconnection sunbathing on the beach. There you can do activities such as snorkelling, jet skiing or kayaking.
Baru Peninsula
The Baru Peninsula is a coastal area located 45 minutes by boat from Cartagena de Indias well known also for its white beaches and turquoise water.
There you can swim in Playa Blanca. Although it is one of the only public beaches of the peninsula so it can become very crowded.
There is no doubt that if you travel to this city you will not be bored for a second! Now that you know what to do in Cartagena de Indias in two days (or more), it’s time to plan your trip as you see best and then… you just need to pack your bags!
Are you ready for your trip to Colombia?