Official Language:
Spanish
Secondary Language:
English
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Currency:
Columbian Peso & US Dollar
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Population:
Approximately 1 million people call Cartagena home
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Weather:
Climate and current weather information for Cartagena: The climate is tropical, hot and humid most days are hot and moist while the evenings are cooled by the pleasant breeze coming from the sea. No matter when you visit Cartagena, it will be hot and humid. The temperatures are virtually the same year round daytime highs in the 90s°F (30s°C) and nighttime lows in the 70s °F/20s °C. The rainy season is May-November. The best time to visit is in the dry season December-April is the dry season while the months of October to November have the most rainfall.
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Cartagena is the jewel of Colombia; a true vacation paradise on the shores of the Caribbean Sea that invites visitors to revel in its scenic and cultural splendor. The city is divided into several regions, each with its own unique character and charm. You will most likely be spending the majority of your time in the downtown area, home to the Walled City, the Puerta del Reloj, the beautiful Plaza de San Pedro, as well as many museums and fine restaurants. The San Diego region of Cartagena is home to the Escuela de Bellas Artes (School of Fine Arts) as well as some superb vistas of the expansive Caribbean Sea. The Getsemani neighborhood is the site of many picturesque churches, including the glorious Iglesia de la Tercera Orden. Cartagena was founded in 1533 by Pedro de Heredia. Several years later, the Spanish empire decided to protect their new land from English, French, and Dutch pirates by constructing a walled fortress around the Old City. The remains of this fortress are still intact, but in the 16th century, it did little to deter invaders. Attacks by the French and British prompted the Spanish Empire to further fortify the city walls. Cartagena flourished in the 17th and 18th centuries as a major South American slave port, but today tourism is the backbone of the local economy.
However, in recent years, Cartagena has seen far fewer tourists pass through its port. In general, political upheaval in Colombia has prompted many prospective travelers to look elsewhere for an ideal Caribbean cruise destination. Yet throughout the turmoil, Cartagena has fared tremendously, and the city is still a scenic and safe haven for all international travelers. If you are planning on exploring the surrounding regions of Colombia, be sure to speak with knowledgeable guides before doing so. If you confine your stay to seaside Cartagena, you will enjoy Caribbean vacation life at its finest. Cruise ships dock at the Port of Cartagena (tel. 05/660-7781), located at Colombia Manga at the Termincal Maritimo. Taxis and buses will be available at the port to take you to your destination in the city.Local Transportation in CartagenaCartagena is a fabulous walking city, therefore, you might find that the majority of your time here is spent on foot. You can take advantage of the city's affordable and prevalent taxis as well. If you can't hail a cab from the street, stop by one of the city's many hotels, and they'd be happy to call one to pick you up. In addition, you can rent a car while in Cartagena. Contact Hertz Rent-a-Car, located in the Hilton Cartagen (tel. 05/665-0661) at Avenida Almirante Brion.
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Attractions |
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Cartagena allows cruise visitors to go back three to four hundred years in time and relive the days of the Spanish Armada. The Old City features the San Felipe fortress which offers visitors a chance to explore the dark passageways where colonial soldiers frequently went to battle. If you are interested you can take a tour at the Palace of the Inquisition, where detailed exhibits display the instruments of torture used against the witches and heretics years ago.
Plaza de la Bovedas:
Formerly a prison, it is now a popular shopping place. As you venture through the city you will cannot help but notice the beautiful Spanish colonial homes, with wooden shutters and flower boxes at every window. There is nothing like seeing the upstairs, balconies that overlook the cobblestone streets below.
There is a nice view of the harbor and the city from the summit of La Popa Hill. The church and monastery of Santa Cruz and a restored convent dating from 1608 stands at the top. The church houses the image of the Virgin of La Candelaria, said to be the deliverer from plague and a protector against pirates. For nine days before her feast day on February 2 thousands of people go up the hill by car, on foot or on horseback. On the day itself they carry lighted candles.
The Museo del Oro:
(tel. 05/660-0778), located at Centro Carrera 4, No. 33-26 in the Plaza de Bolivar, is a fascinating museum that specializes in the works and study of the Sinu culture, the original inhabitants of the Colombian coastal region. The museum specifically brings to light their great advancements in agriculture, social organization, and metalworking. The Museo del Oro is open from 8:30 to noon, and from 2-4 Monday through Friday.
Archivo Historica de Cartagena:
If you are a veteran history buff and would like to study the colorful past of Cartagena in great detail, you will love a trip to the Archivo Historica de Cartagena (tel. 05/664-7381), located at Centro Carr era 3, as well as the Biblioteca Bartolome Calvo Diaz (tel. 05/660-0777), located at Centro Calle de la Inquisicion No. 3-44. The Archivo Historica de Cartagena contains rare manuscripts and priceless photographs that take you back to Cartagena life during colonial times. Biblioteca Bartolome Calvo Diaz was named after Bartolome Calvo Diaz, a writer and poet who lived in Cartagena. It is a world-class research library containing many fascinating books and manuscripts, as well as beautiful stained-glass artwork inside the impressive architectural structure.
Puerto del Reloj:
located at Avenida Venezuela, is a famous clock-tower gate that signifies the entrance into the Corralito de Piedra (Old City). It is a tremendously popular meeting place with locals and tourists alike, who come here to marvel at the beautiful 16th and 17th century architecture and shop amongst the throngs of craftsman and local merchant kiosks.
Shopping:
Centro Comercial Bocagrande (tel. 05/665-5024) can be found at Avenida San Martin No. 8-110 and is a great shopping destination for the whole family. Featuring a wonderful assortment of men's, woman's and children's clothes, in addition to boutiques, furniture and jewelry shops, and even a cinema, the Centro Comercial Bocagrandewill surely fulfill your shopping desires. If you are looking for a store specializing in fine jewelry, look no further than Joyeria Nancy (tel. 05/665-0345) on Avenida San Martin No. 6-29. Joyeria Nancy features beautifully designed jewelry known throughout Colombia for their wonderful attention to detail and craftsmanship. Magali Paris (tel. 05/660-5900) is located at Callejon Miramar, No 2a-117, and is the finest department store in Cartagena. Here you will find clothing galore, a supermarket, a stationary store, jewelry, leather goods, and even a delicious ice-cream parlor!
Nightlife:
Cartagena has several casinos that cater to the card-playing tourist. Casion del Caribe (tel. 05/665-0728) is one of the finest in the city. Head to Centro Comercial Pierino and revel in an array of slot machines, roulette wheels and poker tables. If you would rather strut your stuff on the dance floor, be sure to visit Discoteca de La Marina (tel. 05/660-0381). Located on Calle Santa Teresa, this disco is an elegant, upscale establishment featuring two dance floors; one playing live music nightly, the other featuring the best local DJ's in action. If you are in the mood to spend some time in a great local bar, head to the Bar La Voite (tel. 05/665-8811) located in the Hotel Almirante Cartagena on Avenida San Martin. Located on the 15th floor of this beautiful hotel, you will be treated to amazing views of the city while sipping a terrific cocktail.
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More Information |
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Useful Links About Cartegana:
Cartegana Travel Information
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