Hotels in Cartagena

Discover Cartagena: A Tapestry of Heritage, Coastline and Verdant Escapes

Discover Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia, a captivating coastal city where history meets the sea. Wander through the enchanting streets of the Old Town, marvel at the impressive monuments and museums, and relax on sun-kissed beaches. Explore lush natural parks that offer a refreshing escape from urban life. With its vibrant culture, remarkable architecture, and seaside charm, Cartagena promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Colombia’s rich heritage.

Discover great hotels near Cartagena

Cartagena hotels offer a range of styles from luxury boutique stays near the historic centre to cosy local retreats. Many options feature modern comforts with a touch of colonial charm in Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels near Cartagena:

1. Hotel Restaurante Selva NegraOpens in a new window: This charming 3.0-star hotel provides a delightful retreat for adventure seekers and families alike. Boasting a guest rating of 8.0 out of 10, it features exhilarating activities such as nearby mountain biking and hiking. The property excels in creating memorable experiences with romance packages and a fantastic spa, complemented by outdoor pool amenities where guests can unwind. Reviewers highlight the hotel's engaging atmosphere and family-friendly environment, making it a perfect choice for those looking to explore Cartagena's adventurous side.
2. Eco Hotel Villa MarthaOpens in a new window: With a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, this 3.5-star hotel is ideal for families seeking a pet-friendly and spa-themed getaway. The property offers a variety of amenities including a full-service spa, outdoor pool, and a vibrant arcade game room. Families will appreciate the shared playground and children's breakfast options. The hotel is praised for its welcoming atmosphere and comprehensive facilities, ensuring a luxurious retreat that caters to both relaxation and family fun, all within a short distance of local attractions.
3. Sofitel Barú CartagenaOpens in a new window: This exquisite 5.0-star resort, rated 9.6 out of 10, offers an unparalleled experience for history enthusiasts and adventure travellers. Nestled in a historic national building, the hotel features a range of thrilling activities including water sports and Segway tours nearby. Guests revel in the elegant design and exceptional service, complemented by luxurious amenities. The hotel's captivating history and prime location ensure that every moment is a remarkable journey, making it a top choice for those seeking a refined and immersive experience in Cartagena.

Where to stay in Cartagena

In Espinal, Narino, San Francisco, each area offers its own appeal with Espinal boasting a vibrant local culture, Narino offering scenic neighbourhoods, and San Francisco exuding a blend of history and modernity, making it ideal for first-time visitors seeking the best of Cartagena de Indias.

1. EspinalOpens in a new window: Espinal is a sought-after spot for travellers seeking a laid-back vibe with a mix of local charm and modern amenities. Its inviting community makes it a great place to unwind while exploring local markets and cultural attractions, including quaint shops and a few cultural venues that offer a taste of the area's rich traditions. Travellers can also enjoy a variety of dining options and a friendly atmosphere that encourages relaxed evenings. Espinal stands out for its blend of local flair and comfortable living, making it a top pick for those looking to experience authentic local life in Cartagena.
2. NarinoOpens in a new window: Narino offers a vibrant setting with a range of local attractions that make it ideal for those who love a mix of shopping and engaging cultural activities. The area is known for its colourful markets and cosy neighbourhoods, where travellers can find unique, locally made crafts and traditional experiences. Whether you’re interested in exploring small bespoke shops or enjoying the local cultural venues, Narino provides a relaxed yet lively environment that captures the essence of Cartagena’s local scene.
3. San FranciscoOpens in a new window: San Francisco provides a charming retreat for travellers who appreciate a mix of modern comforts and local traditions. This area offers direct access to a few key cultural attractions that are perfect for leisurely exploration. With a selection of local shopping spots and a friendly, welcoming community, San Francisco appeals to those who desire a peaceful stay without missing out on the local cultural scene. Its neighbourhood charm and accessible amenities make it a pleasant base for experiencing the heart of Cartagena.

Things to do in Cartagena

Cartagena boasts a stunning blend of sun-kissed beaches, lush parks, and vibrant coastal scenery. Expect to dive into crystal-clear waters, hike through scenic trails, or simply relax under swaying palms. With lively music and dance filling the air, this destination invites you to explore its rich tapestry of experiences and delightful tours.

• Bocagrande BeachOpens in a new window – Begin your journey at Bocagrande Beach, a popular beach destination where you can relax by the sea and take in the coastal scenery. With its combination of monuments, museums, natural parks, and the beach itself, this spot offers a pleasant blend of leisure and local attractions. Enjoy a stroll along the shoreline and explore nearby points of interest to get a true feel of Cartagena’s dynamic seaside life.
• Clock TowerOpens in a new window – Next, visit the iconic Clock Tower. This landmark stands as a testament to Cartagena’s rich history. Its surroundings include monuments and museums that provide insight into the city’s past, while the proximity to natural parks and the beach ensures there’s always something new to discover. It’s a great spot for those interested in both history and local vistas.
• Castillo Grande BeachOpens in a new window – Continue your exploration at Castillo Grande Beach. Known for its inviting waters, this beach offers a space to unwind and enjoy the sun. The area is complemented by nearby monuments, museums and natural parks, making it an excellent location to balance relaxation with a touch of cultural discovery.
• Marbella BeachOpens in a new window – Another highlight is Marbella Beach, where the gentle waves and sandy shore provide a perfect setting for a leisurely day. This beach integrates well with the local attractions, offering easy access to monuments, museums and natural parks, inviting you to both relax and learn about the city’s heritage.
• San Fernando FortOpens in a new window – Finally, step back in time at San Fernando Fort, a historic fort that offers a unique glimpse into Cartagena’s military past. Surrounded by a mix of monuments, museums, and natural parks, it allows you to experience both the historical and natural beauty of the area. Each location on your tour provides a distinct slice of Cartagena’s charm, ensuring a varied and memorable journey.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Cartagena

1. Book for the cheapest times: Visiting Cartagena on a budget is a delightful experience, particularly from September to November when hotels often offer lower prices. For those keen on delving into the city’s rich history and vibrant culture, including its historical monuments, museums, cafés, live music venues, and natural parks, a stay of at least 3 to 4 days is recommended. This period not only offers great value for money but also a chance to immerse oneself in the affordable and authentic local atmosphere, where prices may drop further, making it an ideal destination for discerning travellers.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To uncover last-minute deals for Cartagena, begin by exploring the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute Deals sections on Hotels.com, where you may discover discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. Additionally, activating email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com could keep you informed about flash sales and special last-minute offers, helping you seize opportunities to save. The Smart Shopping tool available in the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you're more likely to see the best options available. This way, if prices drop or new rooms open up, you'll be among the first to know for your spontaneous getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may vary depending on factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and time of year; therefore, being flexible with your dates could help you save on your stay in a Cartagena hotel. For those seeking a distinctive experience, boutique hotels may offer a more personal touch and sometimes even better value. When you book with Hotels.com, we will inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average, and if it appears higher, we may suggest more affordable dates to help you find a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Staying nearer to key attractions or city centres may provide convenience, but it often comes with higher costs. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighbourhoods, striking a balance between price and accessibility to the sites you wish to visit. You might also look into independent hotels located further out, as they can often offer a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to Cartagena

Cartagena experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 81.5°F (27.5°C), while May to June are the hottest months, with an average temperature of 82.9°F (28.3°C). October is usually the wettest month. January, April, and June are the peak travel months in Cartagena, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is sunny to mostly sunny, accompanied by no to moderate rainfall. On the other hand, July, and October tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by moderate to frequent rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.