Nestled on Colombia’s idyllic Caribbean coastline, Cartagena (Cartagena de Indias) is a port city with a rich history of Spanish trade routes, pirate attacks and, these days, urban booms. You can travel back in time while exploring the cobbled laneways, centuries-old churches and colonial buildings dotting the Old Town, which overlooks the city’s alluring beaches and nearby white-sand islands.
With more than 400 million annual visitors to HotelsCombined, we’ve found the most popular neighbourhoods and hotels in Cartagena among travellers. From the historical sights of Centro to the sandy beaches and palm-fringed promenades in Bocagrande, we have discovered the very best of this Colombian jewel.
Why You Should Stay in Centro
Staying in Centro places you in the heart of Cartagena’s Old Town, where you’re greeted with historical monuments and churches every time you step outside your hotel. You’ll experience the old-world traditions and culture of Cartagena as you wander past flower-strewn plazas, colonial architecture and tucked-away restaurants. It’s one of the city’s busier neighbourhoods, but it also has quieter spots for relaxing, such as Parque De La Marina.
Must-Do Experiences around Centro
- Learn more about the city’s fascinating past at the Palace of the Inquisition Cartagena Historical Museum.
- Admire the elaborate wood carvings within the 1700s colonial mansion, Casa Del Marqués De Valdehoyos.
- Stroll beside the water along Avenida Santander and duck into Mureta Café del Mar for a light snack.
Top Hotels near Centro
Casa Cochera del Gobernador
Nestled in the heart of Old Town, Casa Cochera del Gobernador is a place of opulence and comfort. Housed in a 16th-century colonial house, the bed and breakfast is full of character, from the chandeliered and marbled lounge areas to the open-air courtyard with lush foliage. It also boasts an intimate day spa offering luxe treatments and massages.
The rooms and suites effortlessly combine the manor’s historical aspects with modern furnishings and in-room entertainment. Premium Rooms overlook the courtyard and feature king-size beds, coffee pods and mini bars, while the El Aljibe Suite is a magical abode with a large bath and concave ceiling.
Nearby Attractions
- Museo del Oro Zenú (140 metres)
- Museo Naval Del Caribe (400 metres)
- Casa Del Marqués De Valdehoyos (450 metres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 184 – USD 400
Guest Rating: 9.7
Address: Calle Cochera del Gobernador No 33 -23, Centro, Cartagena de Indias, Colombia
Hotel Noi Cartagena 1860
Immerse yourself in two centuries of local tradition and history at Hotel Noi Cartagena 1860, a boutique 5-star hotel with original building walls and fine marble detailing. Every room and suite treats you to period furnishings, a private balcony and a “spa-style” bathroom with a rain shower. Book a suite if you want Caribbean Sea views and a separate living room.
On-site dining takes centre stage at the rooftop bar and terrace with fountains and manicured gardens, while the daily breakfast includes Colombian coffee and hot local dishes. There’s also a swimming pool on the rooftop (as if it needed to be any more inviting), a pampering day spa and knowledgeable concierge.
Nearby Attractions
- Palace of the Inquisition Cartagena Historical Museum (270 metres)
- NH Galería (100 metres)
- Parque da La Marina (450 metres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 184 – USD 518
Guest Rating: No Rating
Address: Playa del Triunfo, Centro Historico Cra. 2 No. 32-50, Centro, Cartagena de Indias, Colombia
Hotel Location
Why You Should Stay in Getsemaní
Bordering the Old Town, Getsemaní epitomises Cartagena’s modern culture of lively dance halls, intricate street art and food vendors all encapsulated within Spanish architecture. It’s here you’ll find many of the city’s boutique hotels, along with a number of plazas with open-air dining. Gastropubs, cocktail speakeasies and local cafes are all part of the hip scene here in Getsemaní.
Must-Do Experiences around Getsemaní
- Soak up the architecture, frequent the boisterous restaurants and watch street dances in Plazuela del Pozo.
- Browse the local retailers at Empresarial Getsemani.
- Visit Demente or Café du Mural for a drink with locals.
Top Hotels near Getsemaní
Hotel Capellan
Luxury and rich culture reign supreme at Hoel Capellan, where you can enjoy 5-star facilities surrounded by colonial architecture. The outdoor swimming pool is paired with a pool bar serving cocktails, while the day spa offers a Jacuzzi and indulgent treatments. One level up from the pool, the rooftop terrace pairs expansive city views with classic Colombian cuisine.
Colonial elegance and modern comforts accentuate the stylish rooms and suites, which all have king or queen-size beds, complimentary Wi-Fi and LCD TVs. The Premium room has its own Jacuzzi and direct access to the pool and inner courtyard, while the two-storey Suite Capellan has two bedrooms, two bathrooms and exclusive bath products.
Nearby Attractions
- Plazuela del Pozo (400 metres)
- Baluarte De Santa Teresa (650 metres)
- Parque del Centenario (90 metres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 155 – USD 322
Guest Rating: No Rating
Address: GETSEMANI KR 9 # 29 – 52, Getsemani, Bolivar Department, Cartagena de Indias, Colombia
Hotel Boutique Casa Isabel
Positioned on the serene Laguna de San Lázaro, Hotel Boutique Casa Isabel is a cosy enclave with only 10 rooms that have been remodelled and adorned with colourful furnishings. Some of the rooms have private balconies and you can expect views of the fortification of San Felipe de Barajas, San Lazaro Lagoon or the Getsemaní Neighborhood Walls.
You can also soak up water views from the hotel’s terrace bar, where cocktail service is never far from hand. Don’t forget to check out the various local artwork around the hotel and treat yourself to a rejuvenating massage on site. You can also order various skewers and tapas to your room.
Nearby Attractions
- Baluarte De Santa Teresa (500 metres)
- Parque del Centenario (450 metres)
- Plazuela del Pozo (450 metres)
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 84 – USD 153
Guest Rating: 9.4
Address: Getsemani, Avenida El Pedregal (Carrerra 11) #29-159, Getsemani, Bolivar Department, Cartagena de Indias, Colombia
Hotel Location
Why You Should Stay in Bocagrande
Nestled to the south of Cartagena, Bocagrande is bordered by water and is renowned for its beachfront hotels overlooking kilometres of sandy shores backed by swaying palms and promenades popular with beachgoers. The upmarket neighbourhood is home to multiple casinos and a global dining scene, while designer boutiques line the streets alongside international retailers.
Must-Do Experiences around Bocagrande
- Browse the high-street fashion and accessories in the stores at Plaza Bocagrande.
- Sunbathe and swim at one of the many beaches on the western side.
- Test your luck on slots and table games at Casino Rio or Masters Royale Casino.
Top Hotels near Bocagrande
Hyatt Regency Cartagena
You’re guaranteed that world-renowned Hyatt standard of luxury and service while staying at the beachfront Hyatt Regency Cartagena. The on-site Aqoral Spa is utterly intoxicating with its various treatment menu and rooms overlooking the Caribbean Sea and swimming pool. When it comes to dining, you can taste local flavours and signature cocktails at Kokaú Restaurant & Bar or pair city views with grilled meats at Amacagua Lounge & Grill.
Most of the rooms and suites have uninterrupted ocean vistas and the rooms come in modern configurations with one king-size or two double beds. The extravagant Presidential Suite has a 10-seat dining table, living room and sprawling bedroom, while the residences offer self-contained living with gourmet kitchens, ocean-facing balconies and multiple bedrooms.
Nearby Attractions
- Casino Rio (1.5 kilometres)
- Estadio Base Naval (800 metres)
- La Tienda de Parques Nacionales (1 kilometre)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 141 – USD 417
Guest Rating: 9.2
Address: Carrera 1 #12-118, Bocagrande, Bolivar Department, Cartagena de Indias, Colombia
Oz Hotel
Oz Hotel boasts modern rooms and suites within a five-minute walk from the beach, all of which have flat-screen TVs, complimentary Wi-Fi and mini bars. The Junior Suite upgrades you to a king-size bed, while the Suite Room can fit two king-size beds and has more space for separate seating.
Visit the on-site Oz Restaurant for a variety of specialty dishes, including linguini marinara, fried rice with shrimp and chicken and American spaghetti. You can opt to dine on the open-air rooftop terrace, which offers stunning sunset views across the neighbourhood.
Nearby Attractions
- Playa Castillo Grande (600 metres)
- Masters Royale Casino (900 metres)
- Casino Rio (350 metres)
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 53 – USD 118
Guest Rating: 8.6
Address: Carrera 3 Nª4-63, Bocagrande, Bocagrande, Bolivar Department, Cartagena de Indias, Colombia
Hotel Location
Why You Should Stay in San Diego
A few blocks from Centro, San Diego offers a completely different vibe with its bohemian bars and luxury hotels. It centres around Plaza de San Diego, which is dotted with trees and people in equal measure and often features street stalls and live music and dancing. Within this neighbourhood, you’ll also find some of Cartagena’s best restaurants and a craft market housed in a former jail.
Must-Do Experiences around San Diego
- Dine at one of the restaurants surrounding Plaza de San Diego, such as Cuba 1940 or Teriyaki.
- Browse the handmade goods at the historic craft market, La Bovedas.
- Admire historical fortifications and panoramic ocean views at Bulkwark of La Merced.
Top Hotels near San Diego
Hotel Casa Quero
A few blocks from Plaza de San Diego, Hotel Casa Quero offers boutique accommodation with furnishings and architecture that reflects Colombia’s romantic past. The all-suite accommodation features high ceilings, timber furnishings and plantation shutters, while the Grand Suite boasts luxe bedding and a small balcony.
The eco-friendly hotel is known for its sustainability practices, including efficient energy and water usage, use of environmentally-friendly products and waste treatment. The hotel also serves Caribbean-inspired breakfasts and hearty lunches in its dining room, offers airport transfers and organises city tours.
Nearby Attractions
- Casa de Gabriel Garcia Marquez (450 metres)
- Baluarte de San Pedro Martir (200 metres)
- Walls of Cartagena (500 metres)
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 158 – USD 279
Guest Rating: 9.7
Address: Calle Quero No 9-53, San Diego, Cartagena de Indias, Colombia
Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena
Housed in a former convent, the opulent Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena is popular among HotelsCombined visitors for its on-site dining and central swimming pool encircled by sun loungers and palm trees. Dining, meanwhile, centres around old-world cuisine and recipes at Restaurante 1621 and delicious cocktails at the poolside bar.
The contemporary rooms and suites exude executive comfort with signature Sofitel MyBeds, Lanvin bathroom products, Nespresso coffee machines and BOSE SoundDocks. The entry-level Classic Room has a king-size bed and a small terrace, while the Deluxe Room has butler services and a balcony overlooking the ocean. Don’t forget to visit the on-site spa for a hammam experience or a massage.
Nearby Attractions
- Las Bóvedas Market (270 metres)
- Casa Del Marqués De Valdehoyos (750 metres)
- Casa Museo Rafael Núñez (750 metres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 293 – USD 3,145
Guest Rating: 9.2
Address: Calle Del Torno 39-29, San Diego, Cartagena de Indias, Colombia
Hotel Location
Why You Should Stay in Crespo
Are you looking for a quiet neighbourhood with a stronger local atmosphere? Book your hotel in Crespo, which caters to budget-savvy travellers, but also offers easy access to the Cartagena de Indias international airport and various beaches. Crespo is ideal for laid-back vacations spent drinking and snacking with locals and occasionally venturing into the city centre.
Must-Do Experiences around Crespo
- Relax on the sand and swim in the calm water at Lineal Malecon de Crespo Park.
- Stroll along the residential streets to stumble upon local boutiques and cafes.
- Sip beers and cocktails with the local crowd at Francho Fruits & Beer.
Top Hotels near Crespo
GHL Corales de Indias
One block back from the beaches of Crespo, GHL Corales de Indias offers a range of enticing services and facilities, including multiple pools, a playground, well-equipped gym and five meeting rooms. The hotel’s day spa features a Turkish hammam and body treatments, while Alcatraz Bar has an outdoor terrace overlooking the water. And let’s not forget about the Peruvian cuisine and seafood at Manglares Restaurant.
Every room and suite has a private balcony and Caribbean Sea vistas, including the Standard Room with two double beds or one king-size bed. You can upgrade to a Junior Suite if you want a separate lounge area or opt for the Special Suite for an extra-wide king-size bed, two balconies and a sofa bed in the lounge room.
Nearby Attractions
- Lineal Malecon de Crespo Park (550 metres)
- Mercado Santa Rita (900 metres)
- Restaurante Rancho Paisa (140 metres)
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 72 – USD 143
Guest Rating: 8
Address: Carrera 1 No 62-198, Crespo, Cartagena de Indias, Colombia
Varanasi Hotel Boutique Aeropuerto
A certified sustainability hotel, Varanasi Hotel Boutique Aeropuerto is one of Cartagena’s best airport hotels for a quick stay. The modern rooms have king-size beds, mini bars, work desks and Smart TVs. Groups can opt for the Deluxe Room, which has two queen-size beds and extra closet space.
The hotel is particularly proud of its on-site swimming pool area, which is paired with a vertical garden. There are also tables by the pool where you can order food and drinks from the Lounge Bar & Restaurant.
Nearby Attractions
- Park Crespo Portal (900 metres)
- Lineal Malecon de Crespo Park (700 metres)
- EL Patio Grill (180 metres)
Star Rating: 3*
Price: USD 54 – USD 79
Guest Rating: 9.2
Address: Calle 70 #5-69, Sector de Crespo, Cartagena de Indias, Colombia
Hotel Location
Why You Should Stay in La Boquilla
Travellers who like to forego the tourist trails should head to La Boquilla. This chilled-out fishing village just north of Cartagena is blessed with enchanting mangrove forests and a strong African influence that extends to the local clothing, food, language and music. And did we mention that La Boquilla is home to some of the region’s most beautiful and peaceful beaches?
Must-Do Experiences around La Boquilla
- Embark on a riverboat tour through the verdant mangrove forests.
- Drink, party and socialise at the rambunctious Sagrada Beach Club Cartagena.
- Witness traditional dance and music at the Convention Center of the Americas.
Top Hotels near La Boquilla
Sonesta Hotel Cartagena
Enjoy direct access to the beaches of La Boquilla while staying at Sonesta Hotel Cartagena. The upmarket hotel offers excellent value for money with its Standard Double Bed Room, which has a private balcony and ocean views. Upgrade to the Executive Suite for a hydromassage shower and a separate living room.
All guests have access to the hotel’s first-class facilities, including a business centre, two event rooms, a tennis court, gym and three swimming pools. Start your day off with the hearty buffet breakfast in Palenke Restaurant, book a relaxing treatment at the day spa and finish with a cocktail or beer in the lobby bar.
Nearby Attractions
- Convention Center of the Americas (2.4 kilometres)
- Puerto Vallarta Mexico Taqueria (2.2 kilometres)
- Restaurante y Eventos Botswana (800 metres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 72 – USD 113
Guest Rating: 7.8
Address: Carrera 9 No 35 104 Barrio La Boquilla, La Boquilla, Cartagena de Indias, Colombia
Holiday Inn Cartagena Morros
Leisure and relaxation abound at Holiday Inn Cartagena Morros, where you can swim and enjoy massages at the pool, sip cocktails on the sun loungers, wander straight to the beaches or work out in the fitness centre. Don’t leave without visiting the on-site Spa Privilegio for a signature deep-tissue massage or Blue Restaurant & Lounge Bar for a fusion of Asian and Mediterranean flavours.
The contemporary rooms and suites have marble bathrooms, black-out blinds, soaking baths, mini bars and coffee makers. The guest rooms typically overlook the Caribbean Sea and have wide flat-screen TVs, while the suites usually have work desks and views of La Boquilla’s mangrove forests.
Nearby Attractions
- Convention Center of the Americas (2.2 kilometres)
- Play Mar Restaurante (1.1 kilometres)
- Restaurante y Tienda Donde Javier (850 metres)
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 92 – USD 307
Guest Rating: 9
Address: Anillo Vial CRA 9 NO 34-166 La Boquilla, La Boquilla, Cartagena de Indias, Colombia
Hotel Location
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Get the Inside Track to Cartagena
Cartagena’s neighbourhoods offer an eclectic mix of old and new cultures, beachside and mangrove settings and museums and galleries. Fortunately, Cartagena’s small size makes visiting multiple neighbourhoods in one stay quite simple. It’s also easy to find a cosy hotel with on-site dining, luxurious suites and a pampering spa.
Where do you want to stay in Cartagena? Let us know in the comments below.
