Your Guide to Tourism in Cartagena DE India 

The city of Cartagena de Indias is a large city located on the coast of the Caribbean in Colombia. It is a tourist favorite due to its gorgeous beaches, scenic lifestyle, and huge mansions. If you are considering taking a vacation to this location, this article will tell you all you need to know about its rich history. You will also learn why it is such a tourist hotspot and what you can do on your visit. 

History of Cartagena 

The modern city of Cartagena as we know it today was founded in 1533. In Colonial times, it was a major port for the export of treasures such as gold. It played a vital role in the expansion of the Spanish empire due to heavy political and economic activities. 

By 1811, Cartagena declared independence, leading to years of fighting. It was eventually recaptured, and after suffering a massive economic decline, it rose to become Colombia’s fifth-largest city in the 20th century.

Why is Cartagena a Tourist’s Dream? 

Statistics show that Cartagena is one of the most visited cities in the Americas. Why is that? It has a humid Caribbean climate, perfect for anybody who wants to escape the harsh winter climate. Or the rich culture and history of Cartagena make it a great tourist attraction. Below are some things you should look out for during your first visit to Cartagena. 

The Beaches 

The city is off the Caribbean Coast, meaning several gorgeous beaches and islands border it. You can sit by the water and relax with friends and loved ones. However, if you are feeling particularly adventurous, rent a boat Cartagena, and sail to the Playa Blanca or the Rosario Islands to get the perfect sun tan. 

History 

The city has a beautiful history. Once a colonial slave port, the resident Spanish had to protect it from constant pirate attacks. The locations still have much of the same architecture used during colonial times, and some places still hold weapons used to fight wars. 

Delicious Food 

Not only does Cartagena boast some of the best restaurants in the world, but the city also possesses many local stalls. They are always ready to give a hungry tourist an assortment of local dishes. Also, there is plenty of fresh native fruit and juices for the more health-conscious tourist.

Culture 

Cartagena is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which means it is known to have unique cultures, customs, and histories that are worth preserving. There is wondrous art to behold, both on the streets and in the museums. Cartagena hosts many cultures, so it is the home of different genres of art and music.

Things to Do When Visiting Cartagena

At this point, you may be wondering if Cartagena is safe or if doing all these activities is affordable. Cartagena is considered one of the safest places in Colombia. Regarding cost, Cartagena is budget-friendly, with luxury hotels costing an average of $150 and transportation costing about $3 per ride.

Make sure to carry around the local currency, which is the Colombian peso, to make transactions easier. Cartagena is packed full of activities to enjoy and places to visit. Here are seven things you can do if you ever find yourself vacationing in Cartagena. 

Explore the Walled City

This location is also known as “Old Town.” As you tour the Walled City, you will come across some historic colonial architecture and a gorgeous view of the Cathedral. If you are exploring the location with a tour guide, they will tell you about the rich history as you move. 

Explore the Neighborhood of Getsemaní 

This is one of the oldest parts of Cartagena. It is sometimes referred to as the bedrock of Cartagena’s rich culture. The location is filled with lovely street art, quaint restaurants, and trendy clubs. 

Visit the San Felipe Fortress

South America’s biggest colonial fort was built on top of a hill in 1657. Many battles were fought on the fortress, and it stood as a defense for the people against foreign invaders. 

Sail to the Rosario Islands 

These islands are just off the coast of Cartagena and offer various activities, such as snorkeling and boat tours. Don’t worry if you don’t know how to swim; safety measures are put in place to help you in an emergency. 

Try Some Street Food 

The streets of this city are lined with stalls ready to stuff you full of local dishes such as the Arepa Huevo, a cornmeal snack, empanadas, and more. 

Visit the Museums 

Cartagena is a historical city, and the best way to learn about it is by visiting its many museums. One of the best museums is the Museo Naval del Caribe. 

Seize the Night 

Cartagena has an active nightlife for those who love to party in the dark. There is an assortment of bars and clubs to choose from when you get there. 

Conclusion 

Cartagena is a lovely city with many activities to help you make the most of your stay in this historic location. There’s so much beauty to behold, so why not plan a trip to Cartagena today?