If you only have one day to enjoy Cartagena, don't worry! This charming city offers a wealth of activities that will allow you to get to know the best of its history, culture and natural beauty in a short time . Famous for its unique blend of colonial history, vibrant Caribbean life and fascinating coastal landscapes, Cartagena de Indias is a destination that can surprise you even if your stay is short.
From a tour of the colorful streets of the historic center , surrounded by walls and flower-filled balconies, to a quick escape to the nearby beaches , Cartagena offers a perfect combination of experiences for all types of travelers. Whether you are passionate about history and want to immerse yourself in the stories of the colonial era, or prefer to relax with a spectacular view of the Caribbean Sea, in this itinerary you will find options that fit your preferences .
This itinerary is designed for those who only have a few hours to discover the magic of Cartagena, but don't want to miss the essentials . We'll talk about the must-see places, the secret corners and the activities that will make you feel like you've seen the best of this jewel of the Colombian Caribbean, even if you're only here for one day. From morning to sunset, here's the perfect guide to make a day in Cartagena an unforgettable experience.
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What to do in one day in Cartagena? (First option)
Tomorrow: 
Breakfast in the Historic Center (8:00 am - 9:00 am): Start the day with a delicious breakfast at one of the iconic downtown cafes, such as La Brioche or Época Espresso Bar. Enjoy a good Colombian coffee and a local dish such as egg arepas or carimañolas.
Walled City Tour (9:00 am - 11:00 am): After recharging your batteries, explore the heart of Cartagena: the Walled City. Walk through its colorful cobblestone streets, lined with colonial mansions. Make sure to visit iconic places like: Plaza Santo Domingo , where you’ll find the famous sculpture of “Gertrudis” by Fernando Botero. The Cartagena Cathedral , one of the oldest in the Americas. The Zenú Gold Museum , to learn a little about the pre-Columbian history of the region (free admission). The Clock Tower , one of the most iconic symbols of the city.
Visit to the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas (11:00 am - 12:30 pm): Just a few minutes by taxi or walking from the historic center, the Castillo de San Felipe is a must-see. This fortress, built in the 17th century, offers a panoramic view of the city and tells the story of the numerous battles for Cartagena. A tour of its tunnels and walls will transport you back to the days of conquistadors and corsairs.
Noon: 
Lunch with an Ocean View (1:00 pm - 2:30 pm): For lunch, you can choose to stay in the historic center or head to a restaurant with an ocean view. A great option is Restaurante El Muelle , located in front of the bay, which offers a relaxed atmosphere and spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea. Here you can enjoy fresh seafood and typical dishes such as fried fish with coconut rice and patacones. Another outstanding option is Buena Vida Marisquería , in the heart of the historic center. This three-story restaurant, with an outdoor terrace, offers a Caribbean dining experience with a modern twist. Its ceviches, seafood rice dishes, and refreshing cocktails are ideal to enjoy in a vibrant and colorful environment.
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Late: 
Getsemaní Walk (2:30 pm - 4:00 pm): After lunch, head to Getsemaní, a neighborhood full of urban art, history, and culture. Stroll through the famous Plaza de la Trinidad, where you can appreciate the daily life of Cartagena residents. Getsemaní's streets are full of colorful murals, perfect for taking photos. Don't miss Callejón Angosto, one of the most photogenic corners of the city.
Visit to the Convento de la Popa (4:00 pm - 5:00 pm): For an unparalleled view of all of Cartagena, take a taxi to the Convento de la Popa, the highest point in the city. From here you can see the expanse of the historic center, the beaches, and the modern Bocagrande area. The convent also has a religious museum that is worth visiting.
Sunset: 
Boat Tour in Cartagena Bay (5:30 pm - 7:00 pm): There is no better way to end the day than with a boat tour in Cartagena Bay. Some companies offer sunset tours that include music, drinks, and a stunning view of the Bocagrande skyline and historic center from the water. Watching the sun set over the Caribbean is an unforgettable experience.
Evening: 
Dinner in the Historic Center (7:30 pm - 9:00 pm): To close your day, dine at one of the city's most elegant restaurants, such as Carmen or La Vitrola, which offer gourmet dishes with local ingredients and a charming atmosphere.
Bonus: Nightlife
If you still have energy left, you can enjoy the nightlife in Getsemaní, where bars like Café Havana invite you to enjoy live music, especially salsa.
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What to do in one day in Cartagena? (Second option)
Tomorrow: 
Breakfast in Getsemaní (8:00 am - 9:00 am): Start your day in the vibrant neighborhood of Getsemaní, known for its artistic and local atmosphere. Have breakfast at Café Stepping Stone, a cozy place that offers healthy dishes with Caribbean touches. Enjoy a good coffee accompanied by a tropical bowl or some egg arepas.
Walk along the Walls and Marina Park (9:00 am - 10:30 am): After breakfast, head towards the walls of Cartagena. Walk from Plaza de los Coches to Marina Park, enjoying the panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea. Take the opportunity to visit the Monumento a los Zapatos Viejos, which pays tribute to the famous Cartagena poet Luis Carlos López.
Visit to the Palace of the Inquisition and Museum of History (10:30 am - 12:00 pm): Immerse yourself in the history of Cartagena by visiting the Palace of the Inquisition. This museum offers a fascinating insight into the colonial era, the Inquisition, and the history of the city. The interior courtyards and colonial architecture make it an interesting place for both its content and its aesthetics.
Noon: 
Lunch in the Historic Center (12:30 pm - 2:00 pm): For lunch, a great option is Alma Restaurant , located in the boutique hotel Casa San Agustín. This fine dining restaurant offers a fusion of Caribbean and Mediterranean flavors, with dishes such as fresh ceviches, rice with seafood, and other local delicacies. The atmosphere is elegant, ideal for recharging your batteries in the heart of the historic center.
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Late: 
Visit to the Caribbean Naval Museum (2:00 pm - 3:30 pm): After lunch, head to the Caribbean Naval Museum, a perfect place to learn about Cartagena's naval history and its importance as a strategic port in colonial times. Here you can learn about naval battles and life at sea, ideal for history lovers.
Relax in Bocagrande (3:30 pm - 5:00 pm): If you prefer a relaxing time, take a taxi to Bocagrande, the modern part of the city, famous for its beaches. Relax on the beach, take a walk along the boardwalk, or if you prefer, enjoy a coffee or a cocktail in one of the nearby bars while watching the sunset over the sea.
Sunset:
Climb to Cerro de La Popa (5:30 pm - 6:30 pm): To watch the sunset, climb Cerro de La Popa, the highest point in Cartagena. The view from here is unmatched, as you can see the entire city, from the historic center to the nearby islands and the modern skyline of Bocagrande.
Evening: 
Dinner at Plaza Santo Domingo (7:00 pm - 9:00 pm): To close out your day, enjoy dinner at the iconic Plaza Santo Domingo. One of the recommended restaurants is La Cevichería , famous for its excellent offering of fresh seafood and its relaxed outdoor atmosphere. Enjoy ceviches, seafood, and other local dishes while immersing yourself in the city's vibrant nightlife.
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