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A vibrant city where deep-reaching history mingles with a buzzing, modern energy. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, its Old Town is a maze of cobbled alleys, turmeric-bright houses with bougainvillea-filled balconies and grand churches. Whether you're looking for a luxury hotel with ocean views or a quaint guesthouse right in the centre of things, Cartagena caters to all tastes. Besides exploring the city's rich heritage, there are art galleries to peruse and plenty of time to tuck into local favourites like mojarra and coconut rice, and a slice of tres leches for dessert.
Cartagena's Old Town feels like an open-air museum with its well-preserved colonial architecture. The salsa beats that echo through the winding streets after sunset just add to this city's unique charm.
Make the most of Cartagena's coastal position with a boat trip to the white-sand beaches of Isla de Barú or the Islas del Rosario, famous for their beautiful coral reefs.
Consider what kind of experience you're after before deciding where to stay as neighbourhoods like the Miami-esque Bocagrande are a huge contrast to the Old Town.