🇨🇴 Cartagena · Itinerary
3 Days in Cartagena: The Perfect Itinerary
Three days suits Cartagena — a day in the walled old town, a day on the Caribbean islands, and a day at the fortress and the beaches. The colourful Ciudad Amurallada is small and walkable; the boats and beaches are a short ride or sail away.
Best for: Couples and beach-lovers wanting colonial colour, Caribbean islands and warm-water swims.
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Day 1: The walled city
Based around Ciudad Amurallada & Getsemaní
Morning
Wander the old town’s balconied lanes — Plaza Santo Domingo, the Clock Tower and Las Bóvedas.
Afternoon
Street art and cafés in buzzing Getsemaní.
Evening
Sunset drinks up on the old city walls, then dinner in Getsemaní.
Day 2: Caribbean islands
Based around Rosario Islands (day trip)
Morning
A boat out to the Rosario Islands — clear water and coral reefs.
Afternoon
Beach time, snorkelling and a seafood lunch on the sand.
Evening
Back to the city for a long Caribbean dinner.
Day 3: Fortress & views
Based around San Felipe & Bocagrande
Morning
The Castillo San Felipe de Barajas fortress and its tunnels.
Afternoon
Up to La Popa convent for the city view, then the modern Bocagrande beach strip.
Evening
A farewell meal in the old town.
Cartagena itinerary tips
- Explore in the cooler morning and evening — the midday Caribbean heat and humidity are intense.
- Agree taxi fares before getting in, or use a ride app.
- Getsemaní is the best area for nightlife and budget eats; the walled city is pricier.
Where to stay in Cartagena
Compare Cartagena hotels in one placeBrowse and compare prices across Booking.com, Expedia, Agoda, Hotels.com and more on one map.Cartagena itinerary FAQs
Is 3 days enough for Cartagena?
Yes — 3 days is a great length to see Cartagena's highlights at a comfortable pace. It's best for couples and beach-lovers wanting colonial colour, Caribbean islands and warm-water swims. The plan groups sights by area so each day flows naturally instead of criss-crossing the city.
How should I spend 3 days in Cartagena?
Spend it like this: Day 1 is The walled city (Ciudad Amurallada & Getsemaní), Day 2 is Caribbean islands (Rosario Islands (day trip)), Day 3 is Fortress & views (San Felipe & Bocagrande). Each day is built around one area to keep walking and transport to a minimum.
Which areas does this Cartagena itinerary cover?
It's based around Ciudad Amurallada & Getsemaní, Rosario Islands (day trip), San Felipe & Bocagrande — chosen so you explore one part of Cartagena per day.
What should I know before visiting Cartagena?
Explore in the cooler morning and evening — the midday Caribbean heat and humidity are intense.
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