Once the richest city in the Americas, Cartagena's gilded past can still be read in its ornate landmarks. Little wonder that it is today a UNESCO World Heritage city, resplendent with Spanish colonial architecture that will have you reaching for your camera at every opportunity. Sitting on Colombia's Caribbean coast, Cartagena is also famed for its association with the legendary novelist Gabriel Garcia Marquez. With serene white sand beaches, an atmospheric old town bedecked by cobbled streets and thick city walls, and colorful local markets – not to mention restaurant tables spilling onto beautiful squares, and the sounds of Latin music around every corner – Cartagena is a city ripe for discovery.
Cartagena abounds with historic sites. The Palacio de la Inquisition offers a glimpse into some of Cartagena's darkest chapters of history, while the Museo del Oro Zenu offers up some of its most glittering treasures. Don't miss a trip to Castillo de San Felipe, a fortress dating back to the 17th century that provides some stunning views over the city and the sea. If you're staying at your Cartagena vacation rental with kids, you should make a beeline for the aquarium on the island of San Martin de Pajarales, where you can come face to face with majestic marine life, including dolphins and turtles.
From your Cartagena vacation rental, the best way to get your bearings is on a trolley bus tour, but exploring the districts of the old, walled city can be easily and pleasurably done on foot. A considerable amount of gentrification has happened in recent years, with luxury hotels, upscale restaurants, bodegas, and bars flourishing in the area. Head to Getsemani to enjoy authentic nightlife, with Latin rhythms, coffeeshops, bars, and street food to be found around Trinidad Square. Or, book an excursion to the Islas de Rosario archipelago for a day trip to laze on its beautiful beaches.
If you're planning a vacation around the weather, June, July, August and September are the hottest months to visit, when temperatures average 83°F.
Cartagena's Bocagrande beachfront is lined with bars and cafes where you can enjoy an oceanfront coffee in stylish surroundings. Or, for a more relaxed beach experience, the nearby Rosario islands have sparkling, sandy coves, and clear turquoise waters perfect for learning to snorkel or scuba, and are easily reached by boat. For a trip with a difference, outside town on the road to Barranquila, you'll find the Volcan del Totumo, Columbia's smallest volcano. Here, you can enjoy a mud bath in its crater before washing off in the nearby lagoon.
Fly into Rafael Nunez Intl. Airport (CTG), the closest airport, located 2.7 mi (4.4 km) from the city center.
Whatever your getaway needs, you'll find a rental in or around Cartagena that's a match made in heaven. These are some of our top picks:
For even more great options, use the search bar at the top of the page to find the perfect Cartagena vacation rental for you.
If you're in need of somewhere to completely switch off for a couple of nights, you'll find lots of fantastic weekend getaways in and around Cartagena. Enjoy some downtime at one of these top options:
Studio apartments are a simple yet stylish option, ideally suited for traveling couples or solo stays. Spend your days getting acquainted with the area and your nights resting up in your comfy hideaway. These vacation rentals in or near Cartagena are sure to please:
From modern apartments to large vacation rentals, Vrbo has your whirlwind escape sorted. Here are just two of our top picks in and around Cartagena:
Whether spent in a cabin, a cottage or a houseboat, a romantic weekend getaway is one of the best ways to spice up your relationship. Whisk your sweetheart off for a couple of leisurely days at one of these appealing escapes in or near Cartagena:
If you're looking for somewhere to reconnect with the family this vacation, why not make it memorable? These mansions for rent in or around Cartagena will fit your entire gang while doing it in serious style:
Take a look at these large group vacation rentals in or near Cartagena and forget about leaving anyone off your invite list:
Nothing screams good times like a pool. Pump up your unicorn floatie and check out these houses in or near Cartagena that come with this must-have amenity:
Unsure what to pack for your Cartagena escape? This impressive destination has a tropical savanna climate. During summer, expect average temperatures ranging from 80 ºF to 90 ºF. Check out our selection of Cartagena vacation rentals by using the search bar at the top of the page. Simply adjust the filters to get more ideas about where to stay.
A family getaway should be all about spending time together and sharing new experiences. If you're searching for a home away from home that's big enough for all the gang, have a look at these large family vacation rentals in and around Cartagena:
Vacation with the kids in a family cabin rental in or near Cartagena and get ready to create some beautiful new memories together. Here's just a taste of what we've got:
For more options, use the search bar at the top of the page and adjust the filters to find the Cartagena vacation rental that's perfect for your needs.