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| At a glance | | |
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| Located on Colombia’s northern coast, Cartagena
charms with a combination of rich history and storybook colonial architecture, perhaps most famous for its balconies cascading with vibrant geranium and surfinia flowers. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its well-preserved 16th-century buildings, the historic city center is encircled by seven miles of defensive walls, greeting visitors today like a welcoming embrace. But it’s Cartagena’s mixture of Caribbean soul with Spanish customs and an African flair that truly sets it apart. The city brims with color and buzzes with tropical vibes — from its historic plazas to its modern glass high-rises — and its people are lively and warm. Spend five minutes there, and immediately
you’ll understand why it’s known as La Ciudad Magica (The Magic City). | | | |
| | The bucket list | |
| | Cartagena is full of surprises | |
| | Everywhere you turn, you’ll find something new to spark your interest. Whether it’s historical sites with legends of pirates, graffiti murals, colorful buildings, or the biggest party scene at one of the city’s smallest beaches — Cartagena delights your senses.
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The Walled City
Wandering through the streets of Cartagena’s historic center is like traveling back in time to the 16th century. A trip to the Torre del Reloj at the entrance to the city is a must — it’s considered one of the most beautiful clock towers in the world. And be sure to stroll through Plaza de Santo Domingo where you’ll always find a festive atmosphere and bustling restaurants. | |
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Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas
Originally built to protect the city from pirate attacks, construction of the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas began in 1536, but took 200 years to complete. Today, it stands as the largest Spanish colonial fortress in South America. The castle has an elaborate maze of tunnels, designed by famed engineer Antonio de Arévalo to carry noise and alert the Spanish of enemy advances. | | |
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| Getsemani
Home to a happening art scene, Getsemani is one of Cartagena’s hippest neighborhoods. Its winding streets and narrow alleys are lined with impressive murals that pop with color. Swing by Calle de la Sierpe to get a glimpse of the area’s most elaborate street art created by both local and international artists, many showcasing Colombian themes. | |
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| | Cholón
Cholón is Cartagena’s ultimate party island, located 45 minutes from the heart of the city. Its small beach gets swarmed by boats carrying locals and tourists, all dancing to thumping beats. To get there, rent a private boat departing from the historic center to ferry you there. Then, hop into the crystal water, eat some fresh crab and drink a coco loco, probably Cartagena’s most famous drink. | |
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KNOCK-KNOCK, WHO’S THERE?
During colonial times, social status was displayed by a homeowner’s door knocker. A lizard signaled the home belonged to royalty. A lion to a military leader. A fish to a sea merchant. Find examples throughout the historic center. |
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| Cartagena has something for everyone — a historic center, a bustling city and fascinating nature. For the latter, going off the beaten path has never been this cool. Get ready to discover nature in ways you’ve never seen before. Explore the salt mines of Salinas de Galerazamba located an hour from Cartagena. Then head to Volcan del Totumo — only a 15-minute car ride away. You may just ask yourself, is this true magical realism? |
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| Colombia’s Pink Sea
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| No, it’s not a filter. The water really is pink! The gorgeous hue in the Salinas de Galerazamba is caused by the presence of microalgae and high salt content in the water. To see the pink at its highest intensity, visit between December and February. |
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| Tiny Volcano
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| Take a mud bath inside Volcan del Totumo, one of the world’s smallest volcanoes measuring roughly 50 feet. The mud’s natural ingredients are believed to have healing properties. For a little extra indulgence, you can even get a massage for about $1.50 USD. |
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Grab delicious street grub
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| Street food here is a must. Luckily, food vendors are everywhere. Try the arepa con huevo, a fried corn cake with egg. Or local-favorite ceviche, shrimp cooked in citrus juice and doused in herbs, mayo, tomato and onions. Pair any dish with a coconut lemonade or a cold Kola Román — Cartagena’s own soft drink and one of the oldest sodas in the world. |
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| For some of the sweetest tropical fruits you’ll ever eat, head to Mercado Bazurto. Or just find a Palenquera — brightly dressed women balancing bowls of freshly chopped fruit on their heads you can always spot posing for photos. With over 400 varieties grown locally in Colombia, you could eat a different fruit every day of the year. Be sure to try exotic options like granadilla, curuba and naranjilla. |
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| Ready for truly top-notch nightlife? From rooftops bars with panoramic views to pulsing nightclubs, Cartagena’s streets are filled with sultry rhythms. Most spots have live music and the party goes on until 3 or 4 in the morning. If you want to show off your salsa skills or learn some champeta moves, check out Donde Fidel, where the dancing is as hot as the city’s Caribbean nights. |
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Intimate. Immersive. Unforgettable. | | | | If you love memory maxing — you’ll love
Rhapsody of the Seas®. Reach new heights while rock climbing at sea, indulge in gourmet globetrotting and applaud show-stopping entertainment. And marvel at Colombia’s vibrant coastal city of Cartagena along the way. It all starts December 2023. | |
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* Price is per person, in USD, cruise only, applies to select sailings, Interior stateroom, based on double-occupancy, and reflects any promotional savings. |
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