4 Days in Cartagena: A Complete Itinerary

Four days covers Cartagena's Walled City, its best fortress, Getsemani's street art, and a Rosario Islands day trip without rushing.

Day 1: Walled City

Enter through the Clock Tower at Plaza de los Coches, visit Plaza Santo Domingo, and spend the afternoon wandering the Walled City's streets before heading to Baluarte de Santa Cruz for sunset.

Day 2: Castillo San Felipe and Getsemani

Visit Castillo San Felipe de Barajas in the morning, before the heat sets in. Spend the afternoon in Getsemani tracking down its street art, and stay for the neighborhood's bars and salsa scene after dark.

Day 3: Rosario Islands

Take an early boat from Muelle de la Bodeguita for a full day on the Rosario Islands — clear water, snorkeling, and a welcome break from the city's heat.

Day 4: Bocagrande or a second pass

Spend a relaxed day on Bocagrande's beaches, or use the day for the Walled City's museums, including the Palace of the Inquisition, at an unhurried pace.

Getting around

The Walled City and Getsemani are walkable; Uber or InDriver are the more reliable options for anything farther, including the Rosario Islands pier.

What to pack

Lightweight clothing, sun protection, and comfortable shoes for cobblestones — see our [[link:/blog/cartagena-travel-guide|Cartagena travel guide]] for the fuller packing breakdown and more on choosing where to stay.