A stroll through Parque Centenario
Beat the heat (and the jetlag) and take a morning stroll through the city park of Cartagena close to the old town: Parque Centenario. It’s maybe not the most pretty park you have ever seen, but you can spot some great wildlife here! Think about sloths, monkeys and iguanas. The locals will be happy to help you find them.
Amazing coffee and pastries in café Nia
When you leave the park it’s time to enter the gate that will take you to the old city. After a 5 minute stroll you will get to café Nia. One of the most beautiful (and delicious) coffee places I have ever been to! Colombia is know for it’s great coffee, and café Nia will not dissapoint. They also have some great juice and smoothie options. And let’s not forget about the pastries, because they are amazing too. So be sure to taste one while you’re there.
Best pastry
Reveal secret tip
Wander around the old town of Cartagena and Getsemani
In Cartagena I really recommend to just stroll and wander around in El Centro, the historic part of the city. You will be mesmerized by every little corner of this vibrant and colourful city. In the afternoon you can go to Plaza De Bolivar, where you can see all kind of dancers. On a short walking distance you can also find Getsemani, a colourful and vibrant little town with lots of beautiful street art. For lunch there are so many great options. I recommend to just live in the moment and step inside a restaurant if you see something nice. In almost all places you don’t need a reservation for lunch.
Sunset at Baluarte de Santo Domingo
After exploring the city by day you can go and see the sunset at Baluarte de Santo Domingo, also inside the walled city. A very popular place for locals and tourists. Until a year ago there was a famous café (Cafe Del Mar) but unfortunately this is closed. Instead there are a lot of locals who sell beer and other drinks so you can still enjoy a drink while watching the sunset over the city walls. In this spot you also have a great view over the Cartagena skyline, which gives a great view!
Dinner at Apogeo
After sunset it’s time to eat. There are so many good options to choose from in Cartagena. We went to Apogeo Restaurant, and it was great. You have a very nice view at the rooftop and there is a DJ that brings a nice and chill vibe. The food is so delicious and refined!
Best dish on the menu
Reveal secret tip
Best seats in the restaurant
Reveal secret tip
End the day at Plaza De La Trinidad
At night the city really comes alive. There is a lot of music and the locals gather at Plaza De La Trinidad to meet up and have a streetfood dinner. It’s such a fun experience and the food is really good as well, so make sure you still have some room after your dinner at Apogeo :-) Or you can choose to share some starters at the restaurant and have your ‘main’ on the street.
Best streetfood
Reveal secret tip