I’ve been to Cartagena three times, and I learned this the hard way: location matters more than you think.
My first trip, I stayed far from the action and spent a fortune on taxis. The second time, I picked a spot in the thick of things and barely slept.
By my third visit, I finally got it right. Cartagena has five main areas, and each one fits different travel styles. The Old City brings colonial charm.
Getsemaní pulses with street art and nightlife. Bocagrande offers modern beaches. Manga shows you real local life.
And the nearby islands? Pure relaxation. Let me help you skip my mistakes and find your perfect spot.
Things to Know Before Booking Your Stay
Before you book anything, here’s what you need to know. Safety varies by area. The Old City and Bocagrande are generally safe, but stick to main streets at night.
Getsemaní has improved a lot but stay aware of your surroundings. For getting around, taxis are cheap and Uber works great. Walking is perfect in the Old City.
The best time to visit is December through March when it’s dry and cooler. Hotel prices jump during this season though.
You’ll find everything from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Airbnbs are popular too, especially in Getsemaní. Just read reviews carefully before booking.
Top 5 Stay in Cartagena
Here are the five best areas to stay in Cartagena, each offering something different for your Colombian vacation.
1. Old City (Ciudad Amurallada)
The Old City sits behind massive stone walls built in the 1500s. Cobblestone streets wind past colorful colonial buildings, flower-covered balconies, and historic plazas.
This UNESCO World Heritage site is the heart of Cartagena. You’ll find museums, churches, restaurants, and shops at every turn.
Pros of Staying in the Old City
- Walking distance to all major attractions
- Romantic atmosphere with colonial charm
Cons of Staying in the Old City
- Higher hotel prices than other areas
- Gets crowded with tourists during peak season
Recommended Hotels in the Old City
Hotel Casa San Agustin offers luxury in a 17th-century mansion with high ceilings and modern amenities. Sofitel Legend Santa Clara sits in a former convent with beautiful gardens.
Casa Pestagua is a boutique option with just eight suites. For mid-range stays, try Hotel Quadrifolio or Casa India Catalina. Budget travelers can check out Hotel 3 Banderas or Casa del Coliseo.
2. Getsemaní
Getsemaní sits just outside the Old City walls. Colorful street art covers the walls. Small cafes, hostels, and bars fill the streets. Plaza de la Trinidad is the social hub where locals gather at sunset. The vibe is more laid-back and artsy than the Old City.
Pros of Staying in Getsemaní
- Lower prices than the Old City
- Great nightlife and rooftop bars
Cons of Staying in Getsemaní
- Can get noisy near Plaza de la Trinidad
- Some streets feel unsafe at night
Recommended Hotels & Guesthouses
Casa Canabal is a stylish boutique hotel with a rooftop pool. Townhouse Hotel offers modern rooms in a colonial building.
The Makondo Guesthouse has colorful rooms and a social atmosphere. Selina Cartagena attracts digital nomads with coworking spaces. For hostels, try Ananda Boutique Hotel or Hostal Casa Mafalfa. El Viajero Hostel has a party reputation.
3. Bocagrande
Bocagrande is Cartagena’s modern beach district. High-rise hotels and condos line the peninsula. The beach here isn’t the prettiest in Colombia, but it’s convenient. You’ll find shopping malls, chain restaurants, and casinos. It’s a 15-minute taxi ride to the Old City.
Pros of Staying in Bocagrande
- Direct beach access from hotels
- Better for families with kids
Cons of Staying in Bocagrande
- No colonial charm or historic character
- Need taxis to reach main attractions
Recommended Hotels
Hilton Cartagena has a beachfront location with ocean views. Hotel Caribe by Faranda offers all-inclusive packages and multiple pools.
Dann Cartagena is a solid mid-range choice with beach access. Hotel Almirante Cartagena provides good value near the beach. Check Airbnb for condo rentals with kitchens and weekly discounts.
4. Barú & Rosario Islands (For a Beach Stay)
These islands sit off Cartagena’s coast. Barú is technically a peninsula but feels like an island. Playa Blanca is the famous white-sand beach here. The Rosario Islands are a collection of small coral islands. You’ll reach them by boat from Cartagena with limited development and a castaway vibe.
Pros of Staying on Barú or Rosario Islands
- Beautiful beaches with turquoise water
- Peaceful and quiet environment
Cons of Staying on Barú or Rosario Islands
- Isolated from Cartagena’s culture and history
- Boat transfers add time and cost
Recommended Hotels & Resorts
Hotel Isla del Pirata on Isla Grande offers overwater bungalows. Punta Faro Resort on Barú has beachfront rooms and a spa.
Hotel San Pedro de Majagua sits on a private island with nature trails. Cocoliso Island Resort provides all-inclusive packages. For budget stays, try hostels in Playa Blanca village steps from the beach.
5. Manga & Laguito
Manga is a residential island connected to the mainland by bridges where middle-class Colombians live. You’ll see beautiful old mansions alongside regular apartment buildings.
Laguito is a small peninsula with a lagoon between Bocagrande and the airport. Both offer a local experience without tourist crowds.
Pros of Staying in Manga & Laguito
- Significantly lower hotel costs
- Authentic Colombian daily life experience
Cons of Staying in Manga & Laguito
- Far from Old City and attractions
- Dependent on taxis for everything
Recommended Accommodations
Hotel Capilla del Mar in Laguito offers beach access and reasonable rates. Casa Lola Deluxe Boutique Hotel in Manga has colonial charm.
NH Collection Cartagena La Merced in Manga is a reliable chain hotel. Look at local rental options through Airbnb, where many homeowners rent spare rooms at budget-friendly prices.
Tips for Choosing the Best Stay in Cartagena
- Match your budget and style first. Luxury seekers should book the Old City, while budget travelers save money in Getsemaní or Manga.
- Book 2-3 months ahead for the high season (December-March). Prices jump 30-50% during peak times, and the best hotels sell out fast.
- Compare prices on multiple sites before booking. Check hotel websites directly after seeing deals on Booking.com or Expedia for better rates.
- Read recent reviews about safety and location. Focus on comments from the last six months about noise levels, street safety, and actual distance to attractions.
- Consider proximity to what matters most to you. Beach lovers need Bocagrande or the islands, while history buffs should stay in the Old City or Getsemaní.
Conclusion
After all my trips to Cartagena, I’ve learned there’s no single perfect neighborhood for everyone. The Old City works if you want history at your doorstep.
Getsemaní gives you nightlife and local flavor. Bocagrande suits families who need beach access. The islands offer pure relaxation away from the city.
And Manga saves you money while showing real Colombian life. Think about what matters most to you. Do you want to walk everywhere or take taxis?
Need a beach or prefer cobblestone streets? Once you answer these questions, your choice becomes clear. Book early, read recent reviews, and trust your gut. You’ll find your perfect spot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the safest neighborhood to stay in Cartagena?
The Old City and Bocagrande are the safest areas for tourists. Stick to main streets at night and keep valuables secure, and you’ll be fine in most neighborhoods.
How much should I budget for accommodation in Cartagena?
Budget hostels start at $15-25 per night, mid-range hotels run $60-120, and luxury options cost $200+. Prices double during December and January peak season.
Is it better to stay in the Old City or Getsemaní?
The Old City offers more historic charm and upscale hotels but costs more. Getsemaní has better nightlife, lower prices, and a younger crowd with an artsy vibe.
Do I need to speak Spanish to stay in Cartagena?
Most hotels in tourist areas have English-speaking staff. However, knowing basic Spanish helps a lot in local neighborhoods like Manga and when dealing with taxi drivers.
Can I walk between neighborhoods or do I need taxis?
You can walk between the Old City and Getsemaní in 10 minutes. For Bocagrande, the islands, or Manga, you’ll need taxis which are cheap and readily available.