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Cartagena is straightforward to navigate: one airport 7km from the center, a walkable old town and cheap taxis everywhere else. This guide covers the practical answers, from getting out of Rafael Núñez airport to tipping, tap water and safety, so you can plan the logistics before you land.
Cartagena Travel Tips: Getting To and From the Airport
Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG) is about 7km northeast of the Walled City, a 15 to 20 minute taxi ride. A yellow taxi from the airport rank to the old town costs COP 20,000 to COP 30,000 (US$5 to US$7); agree on the price or ask for the meter before you get in. Uber and inDrive operate but drivers may ask you to meet outside the terminal, since airport pickup rules are strict. There is no train; the only alternatives are a pre-booked private transfer or a shared shuttle. Bookmark the full Cartagena guide for the complete overview.
Cartagena Travel Tips: Getting Around the City
The Walled City and Getsemaní are compact and best covered on foot; the old town is about 1km across. For Bocagrande, Manga or La Popa, take a yellow taxi for COP 8,000 to COP 15,000 (US$2 to US$4) depending on distance, and settle the fare before departing. Public buses (locally called buses de ruta) cost COP 2,500 to COP 3,000 and run along Avenida Santander, but routes are not well signed for visitors. Rent a car only for day trips to Isla Barú or Totumo; parking in the old town is scarce. Match your dates to the annual events and festivals calendar.
Cartagena Travel Tips: Money, Tipping and Costs
The currency is the Colombian peso (COP); in 2026 about COP 4,000 to COP 4,100 equals US$1. Cards are widely accepted in hotels and restaurants in the Walled City and Bocagrande, but carry cash for street food, taxis and beach vendors. Restaurants often add a voluntary 10% service charge (propina voluntaria) to the bill; if not, 10% is standard. Taxis and bars do not expect tips. A mid-range meal for two with drinks runs COP 80,000 to COP 150,000 (US$20 to US$37). Plan your days with the full things to do list, which covers hours and entry costs.
Cartagena Travel Tips: Safety and Health
The Walled City, Getsemaní and Bocagrande are safe by day and busy into the evening, but avoid empty streets late at night and do not flash phones or jewelry. Beach vendors and the young men offering “free” tours or boat trips are persistent; a firm no works. Do not drink the tap water; buy bottled water, which costs COP 2,000 to COP 3,000 a liter. Use mosquito repellent, as dengue circulates in the wet season, and apply strong sunscreen, since the sun at 10°N latitude burns fast even in cloud. To weigh weather against price, check the best time to visit guide.
Cartagena Travel Tips: Visas and Entry Requirements
Most nationalities, including the US, Canada, the UK and EU citizens, enter Colombia visa-free for up to 90 days, extendable once for another 90 days at a Migración Colombia office. Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months from entry, and you may be asked for proof of onward travel. Power is 110V with US-style type A and B sockets, and Spanish is the language, though hotels and tour operators in the tourist areas speak English. For exact monthly rainfall and sea temperatures, see the weather by month data table.
Suggested Hotels in Cartagena
Charleston Santa Teresa Cartagena
A restored 17th-century convent with a rooftop pool, spa and Harry Sasson’s restaurant, two blocks from San Pedro Claver Church. Best for travelers who want colonial luxury in the heart of the old town. Check rates and availability
Hotel Cartagena Plaza
A four-star on Bocagrande’s Avenida San Martín with a rooftop pool, disco and 382 rooms, a five-minute walk from the beach. Best for families who want a beach location with free breakfast. Check rates and availability
Media Luna Hostel Cartagena
A two-star hostel on Calle Media Luna in Getsemaní with a courtyard pool, shared kitchen and dorm and private rooms. Best for backpackers who want a social, budget stay near the nightlife. Check rates and availability
For more detail on each area and its hotels, read the full where to stay in Cartagena guide, and check the neighborhood breakdown before you commit.
