Hotels in Cartagena

Cartagena: Where History Meets the Caribbean's Embrace

Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia dazzles with its rich history and vibrant culture. Wander the enchanting cobblestone streets of the walled city, marvel at centuries-old monuments, and explore fascinating museums. Relax on sun-kissed beaches and discover the beauty of nearby natural parks, where lush landscapes meet the sparkling Caribbean Sea. The city’s blend of cultural heritage and coastal charm offers a unique escape for history buffs, art lovers, and beach enthusiasts alike.

Discover great hotels near Cartagena

Cartagena offers a range of hotel accommodations, from relaxed B&Bs to upscale resorts. Many hotels feature modern amenities, comfortable lounges, and scenic views of the historic city or nearby coastlines. The area provides a friendly, traveler-focused atmosphere ideal for exploring Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our travelers near Cartagena:

1. Hotel Restaurante Selva Negraopens in new window: This 3.0-star hotel impresses with a guest rating of 8.0 out of 10, offering adventurous travelers a mix of excitement and comfort. Guests can enjoy curated adventure sports and recreational activities such as nearby hiking, biking, and mountain biking. The property features a romantic ambiance with spa services and an outdoor pool equipped with sun loungers, perfect for a relaxing and stylish retreat. The hotel's design and amenities cater to those seeking a distinctive and memorable experience with high-quality touches that elevate the journey.
2. Eco Hotel Villa Marthaopens in new window: This 3.5-star hotel delights leisure travelers with a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, boasting a full-service spa with poolside bar and an outdoor pool that create a refreshing oasis. Guests appreciate the seamless blend of relaxation and modern comfort, enhanced by features like express check-in and curated experiences. The hotel's well-appointed facilities and contemporary design ensure a smooth and high-quality stay, making it a top choice for travelers seeking a refined and invigorating escape.
3. Sofitel Barú Cartagenaopens in new window: This 5.0-star resort captivates with a guest rating of 9.6 out of 10 and a historic, luxurious setting. It offers a blend of adventure with recreation activities such as waterskiing, segway rides, and windsurfing, all set against a backdrop of classic architectural elegance. The resort's high-end amenities, including a full-service spa, infinity pool, and elegantly curated experiences, create a premium environment for leisure travelers seeking a unique and immersive getaway. The hotel's inspiring history and exceptional design promise a smooth, high-quality journey with every stay.

Where to stay in Cartagena

Some of the best areas to stay in Cartagena, Bolívar, are Espinal, Arroyo de Piedra, and La Quinta. Espinal offers cultural experiences and local cuisine, while Arroyo de Piedra is known for its beautiful beaches and water activities. La Quinta provides a tranquil atmosphere with easy access to the city’s historic sites. For first-time visitors, La Quinta is the ideal choice.

1. Espinalopens in new window: With its vibrant local flavor, Espinal stands out as a popular destination for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the lively culture of Cartagena. The area offers a variety of shopping spots, cozy stays, and cultural attractions that highlight local art and history. Explore quaint markets and enjoy nearby parks that showcase the community spirit. It's an ideal spot if you're keen on blending relaxation with a genuine taste of local life.
2. Arroyo de Piedraopens in new window: Arroyo de Piedra offers a charming escape with its inviting ambiance and locally cherished spots. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate a mix of leisure and cultural experiences. Stroll through scenic areas and take in the artistic vibe that permeates the local scene, including unique cultural attractions that celebrate the region’s heritage. This area is a great pick for a more laid-back stay, with plenty of opportunities to explore local crafts and enjoy community events.
3. La Quintaopens in new window: La Quinta provides a relaxed retreat with a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. It's a favorite among visitors who enjoy a blend of quiet neighborhoods and lively shopping areas. The location boasts a range of local attractions and cultural spots that give you a taste of Cartagena’s unique charm. Whether you’re in the mood for a leisurely walk around the area or exploring local markets, La Quinta offers a balanced mix of calm and activity for a pleasant stay.

Things to do in Cartagena

Cartagena is a vibrant coastal gem, where sun-kissed beaches meet lush natural parks. Explore scenic trails perfect for hiking, or dive into the crystal-clear waters for unforgettable underwater adventures. With lively music filling the air, dance the night away after a day of boating and tours, soaking in the city’s rich spirit.

• Bocagrande Beachopens in new window – Enjoy the sun and surf at Bocagrande Beach, where you can relax on the sandy shores and take in views of the ocean. This destination offers a mix of natural beauty and urban energy, making it a lively spot to start your Cartagena adventure.
• San Fernando Fortopens in new window – Visit San Fernando Fort to explore historic structures and learn about Cartagena’s past. Wander around the fort’s grounds and appreciate its role in the city’s defense, providing a tangible connection to history amidst the coastal scenery.
• San Felipe de Barajas Castleopens in new window – Discover San Felipe de Barajas Castle, an impressive example of military architecture. Roam through its winding passages and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area, as the castle stands as a testament to Cartagena’s strategic importance over the centuries.
• Clock Toweropens in new window – Stop by the Clock Tower to see this iconic landmark that marks the heart of the city. Its distinctive design invites visitors to pause and reflect on the blend of historical and modern influences in Cartagena.
• Castillo Grande Beachopens in new window – Finally, head to Castillo Grande Beach for a more tranquil coastal experience. Its serene atmosphere and soft sands provide a perfect setting to unwind and absorb the maritime charm of Cartagena.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Cartagena

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Cartagena is between September and November, when hotel prices are generally lower. For a great value for money, staying for at least 3 to 4 days is recommended to fully experience the city's rich history and culture. During your visit, you can explore historical landmarks, enjoy local cafes, participate in lively dancing and live music, visit museums, and relax on the beach. Additionally, consider taking tours of natural parks and dining at local restaurants to enhance your experience.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to Cartagena, visit the Deals or Last-Minute Dealsopens in new window section on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. Consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to stay informed about flash sales and special promotions, ensuring you don't miss any chances to save. Additionally, the Smart Shopping tool available via the app could help you compare hotel prices and amenities, so if rooms become available or prices drop, you’ll be the first to know and ready to book your getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates may help you find a better deal for your stay in Cartagena. If you’re interested in a more personalized experience, boutique hotels might provide unique accommodations and sometimes offer better value. When you book with Hotels.com, we’ll inform you if the price for your selected dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher side, we’ll suggest alternative dates that could lead to more affordable options.
4. Consider your location: Staying close to major attractions or city centers can be convenient, but it often comes with a higher price tag. To find more affordable options, think about hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, where you can balance cost with accessibility to the sites you want to visit. You might also look into independent hotels a bit further out, as they usually tend to be cheaper and can 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.