The city rose to prominence in the 16th century as the main port for trade between Spain and its overseas empire. And the years since have been good to it: the present-day city maintains a prestigious position, championing an energy—fueled by the beat of its vallenato rhythms—found few other places in the Caribbean.
Colombia's Cartagena
This former Spanish colonial entrepôt has something for everyone
"Ohhh Cartagena has a whole vibe and then some. 😍
There’s just something about Cartagena that stays with you long after you leave. The cobblestone streets, the colorful colonial buildings, the music flowing through the plazas… it’s a city that feels alive in the best way. Every corner tells a story, every balcony drips in flowers, and every sunset feels like a movie scene.
The culture? Rich.
The food? Incredible. Fresh ceviche, arepas, Caribbean flavors that just hit different.
The energy? Unmatched.
And don’t even get me started on the neighboring islands. A quick boat ride away and you’re in paradise — crystal-clear water, powdery white sand, and some of the warmest, prettiest beaches you’ll ever dip your toes into. Hello, island glow. ☀️🌊
Cartagena is color.
Cartagena is rhythm.
Cartagena is the kind of place that feeds your soul.
If it’s not on your travel list yet… it should be. 💛"
Marisol Rosario
646-715-9252
Cartagena de Indias
Immerse yourself in the rhythms and sights of Cartagena. Runtime: 1 min.
Meet a Local in Cartagena
In this episode of DW Travel, join bookseller Martin Murillo Gomez on a stroll through the colorful streets of his Colombian city. Runtime: 3 min.
Colonial Cartagena de Indias
With its cobblestone streets and ornamented buildings, Cartagena has what is arguably the best-preserved colonial center in the Western Hemisphere. In this short film from Jungles in Paris, locals give their perspective on Colombia's most beautiful city. Runtime: 2 min.
To Read . . .
The Flowers of Cartagena
A quick guide to the bright flowers climbing over walls, trees and stately facades in the old city.
Have you tried this neon-colored Colombian soda?
Why Cartagena goes crazy for Kola Román. By Allie Wist.
To Listen . . .
Vallenato, a wildly popular genre of music in Colombia's north, is a mix of Spanish and West African rhythms with expressive lyrics—and it's on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list. Learn more in this Historias del Corazón de Colombia podcast.
Stories from the Heart of Colombia | Cesar
In this episode, visit the spiritual home of Colombia’s vallenato music, Valledupar, in the northern department of Cesar. This genre is found throughout the north Colombian coast and countryside and features a trio of musicians lead by an accordion player. Runtime: 14 min.
Stories from the Heart of Colombia | Cesar (in Spanish)
Los acordeones que suenan por sus calles guardan en sus fuelles la tradición popular al igual que los mitos y las leyendas alrededor de sus intérpretes. Valledupar es la capital mundial del Vallenato y su festival preserva los valores de una cultura forjada en torno a su folclor. Runtime: 21 min.
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