Travel Gude: Cartegena, Colombia




With delicious food, beautiful historic sites, friendly people, and a tremendous selection on chic and colorful clothing boutiques, it's easy to see why Cartagena creates some serious wanderlust. Here are a few spots to visit in the historical center if you get the chance to visit the beautiful city of Cartagena.

A preview of Carmen's tasting menu

Food & Drink

  • Alquimico: An upscale bar with good music and artisanal cocktails. This spot is perfect spot to catch a vibe pre- or post-dinner.
  • Carmen: The tasting menu at Carmen should not be missed. It is a stunning selection of 7 inventive and creative dishes. You can add an amazing wine pairing with each course. The vegetarian tasting menu is equally delicious. If you only go to one restaurant in Cartagena, this should be it.
  • Alma: Beautiful food in a beautifully rustic and charming setting. The steak and caesar salad were absolutely delicious
The beach at Hotel Felix

Activities

  • Beach: Hang out at the beach. Hotel Fenix has a great beach to relax, grab great food, and swim. Added bonus, the hotel offers spa services and table massages on the beach.
  • Sites: Walk through the historical city center and visit sites such as the San Felipe Castle
  • Dancing: Check out the bar and nightlight scene for salsa dancing and live music. Cafe Havana is one of the most famous spots for Salsa
  • Explore the coffee scene: You can grab a coffee while exploring the bookstore/cafe outpost Abacus Books and coffee

Shopping

  • AGUA DE LEON Heritage: General store for vibrant clothes, accessories, and headwear
  • Casa Chiqui: An amazing interior design, jewelry, and handbag shop. You will probably find yourself revisiting the boutique for multiple shopping hauls during your stay
  • St. Dom: This high end boutique sells loads of colorful, trendy dresses, shoes, and handbags, it is similar to the US boutique Intermix but with a diverse selection of South American brands
  • Silvia Tcherassi: The Colombian born designer has a boutique which features her designs which include bold silhouettes, beautiful colors, and dramatic details.
  • Evok: Artisanal chocolates with unique flavors
  • Loto del Sur: Premium soaps, fragrances, lotions, essential oils, and other beauty products