Best Areas to Stay in Cartagena Colombia

If you had to pick just one city to visit in Colombia, I’d recommend Cartagena without hesitation.

A true explosion of colors, charming streets where life slows down, and impressive historical landmarks await you! It’s the perfect destination for solo travelers, families, and couples alike.

I’ve already shared the top 20 things to do to get to know the city. Today, I’ll help you decide where to sleep. Keep reading to discover the best areas to stay in Cartagena Colombia and some hotel suggestions!

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Best Areas to Stay in Cartagena Colombia + Hotel Suggestions:

Centro
San Diego
Getsemaní
Bocagrande
Canapote

Cartagena in a Few Words

Cartagena de Indias is located on the northern coast of Colombia, bordered by the Caribbean Sea. Nestled in the Bolívar department, this historic and vibrant city spans approximately 572 square kilometers.

Home to over 1.1 million residents, Cartagena boasts a variety of neighborhoods, with the most notable being:

El Centro: Situated in the walled old town, it’s filled with colonial buildings and charming plazas. As the historical and tourist heart of Cartagena, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Getsemaní: A must-visit spot for travelers, known for its vibrant street art, lively atmosphere, and trendy restaurants.
Bocagrande: Representing the city’s modern side, this neighborhood features skyscrapers, luxury hotels, and bustling beaches, ideal for a seaside escape.

With its stunning colonial beauty and rich Afro-Colombian culture, Cartagena has rightfully become the most visited destination in the entire country.

ALSO READ: 10 Places You Can’t Miss in Cartagena

Best Areas to Stay in Cartagena Colombia

Choosing the right neighborhood is key to a successful stay, but it’s not always easy when you’re unfamiliar with the city.

To make it simpler, I’m here to guide you through 5 of Cartagena’s most interesting neighborhoods. And for an extra helping hand, I’ve included a selection of hotels to suit every budget!

1. Centro

Centro is the must-visit neighborhood, with its colorful facades, colonial buildings, and cobblestone streets. As you wander through it, you’ll quickly see why it’s been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Beyond its captivating beauty, Centro offers a chance to immerse yourself in local daily life while savoring the flavors of the region.

The neighborhood is, of course, surrounded by the iconic city walls, perfect for scenic walks with breathtaking views of both the city and the sea.

Hotels in Centro

Hotel Don Pedro De Heredia ($$): This hotel is especially popular with couples, thanks to its rustic charm. The rooms, featuring antique wooden furniture and traditional ceilings with exposed beams, offer a cozy retreat before enjoying the panoramic views from the rooftop.

Casa Movida Hostel ($): This hostel is perfect for solo travelers. Its terrace and indoor pool provide relaxing spaces as well as opportunities to meet other travelers.

Casa India Catalina ($$): Set in a charming Republican-era building, this delightful hotel features traditional decor with arches, exposed wooden beams, and brass chandeliers.

Hotel Casona del Porvenir ($$$$): This upscale hotel is perfect for couples. The beautifully decorated rooms offer a relaxing retreat before taking advantage of the outdoor pool.

What to Do in Centro?

Join a free tour: Discover all the secrets of Cartagena’s historic center.
Stroll along the city walls: Enjoy stunning views of the city while appreciating the military ingenuity of the colonial era.
Visit the Santa Catalina Cathedral: Admire its architecture, which blends Baroque and Neoclassical influences.
Explore the city’s squares: Get a feel for the city by wandering through its lively squares.
Visit the Museum of the Inquisition: Learn about one of the darkest chapters in history.

2. San Diego

Located right next to the walled old town, San Diego is a neighborhood that charms visitors with its peaceful atmosphere and Bohemian vibe. It’s definitely less touristy than Centro, making it the perfect place to stroll and enjoy the cobbled streets.

Here, boutique hotels, art galleries, and cozy cafes spring up everywhere, creating a vibrant meeting point that comes alive with terraces and musicians in the evening.

Hotels in San Diego

Casa Logos Hotel Boutique ($$): The rooms, with their lovely wooden decor, appeal to couples who appreciate simplicity. The hotel has only a few rooms, ensuring a peaceful stay. The hot tub is another added bonus that will surely delight!

Casa Lorenza Hotel ($$): This beautifully decorated hotel is highly favored by couples. The interior courtyard and garden add undeniable charm to this ideally located accommodation.

Hotel Kartaxa ($$$): The Bohemian decor of this hotel is absolutely stunning. Its indoor patio, as well as the rooms, invite travelers to relax before heading out to explore the streets once again.

Republica Hostel Cartagena ($): For solo travelers or those on a budget, this hostel is the perfect option. Plus, the outdoor pool and terrace provide spaces to relax and meet fellow travelers.

What to Do in San Diego ?

Relax on the Plaza de San Diego: Watch local life unfold while sitting comfortably on a bench.
Visit the Convent of Santa Clara: Admire its architecture and serene interior garden.
Explore local art galleries: Take the opportunity to discover works by local artists.
Shop at Las Bóvedas: Buy your souvenirs at this artisan market.

ALSO READ: Best things to do in Cartagena de Indias

3. Getsemaní

If you love street art and nightlife, Getsemaní is one of the best areas to stay in Cartagena Colombia you should consider. It attracts a fairly young crowd, but not only!

Unlike Centro, which is constantly crowded with tourists, Getsemaní has a calmer atmosphere while still being lively.

Its streets buzz with trendy restaurants, cafés, and shops. It’s the perfect neighborhood to enjoy the city’s charm.

Hotels in Getsemaní

Hotel Casa de Las Palmas ($$): This accommodation is located in a colonial-style house with a fountain and a pool. The rooms, adorned with red tiles, feature carved wooden furniture and ornate chandeliers. Charm and comfort at their best!

Voilá Signature Casa Isabel ($$$): This boutique hotel offers superior comfort to its guests, who can enjoy carefully decorated rooms and a jacuzzi. The rooftop provides a great opportunity to relax while taking in the view!

Casa Belia ($$): Perfect for couples or solo travelers, this hotel offers simple rooms, each featuring a balcony where guests can relax in the sun.

Hostal La Española de Getsemani ($): This is the most budget-friendly option, with double rooms at very reasonable rates, even for solo travelers. There are also options for families and groups of friends.

What to Do in Getsemaní?

Join a free tour: Get all the essential information to better understand the neighborhood.
Admire the street art: Let yourself be immersed in this true open-air museum where the walls tell stories.
Stroll around Plaza de la Trinidad: Enjoy the atmosphere amidst street artists and food trucks.

4. Bocagrande

Bocagrande is a neighborhood that stands in stark contrast to the previous three, offering a glimpse into a different side of Cartagena.

With its skyscrapers and shopping malls, modernity takes center stage in this cosmopolitan and chic area, where international hotels and upscale accommodations abound.

It is also a favorite among tourists who want to enjoy the beach without venturing too far.

Hotels in Bocagrande

Hotel Barlovento ($$): A simple yet chic decor welcomes guests at this hotel, which features a beautiful terrace with a pool. Close to the beach, it’s an excellent choice!

Hotel Amoek ($): This hotel stands out for its proximity to the beach and its very affordable rooms for couples. Modernity and comfort await guests at this peaceful accommodation.

Hotel Capilla del Mar ($$$): Close to the beach, this accommodation stands out with its pool offering a panoramic view. The cocktail bar is also an undeniable plus! It’s a perfect choice for couples!

Hotel Blue Concept ($$): Another great option for couples looking for beachside accommodation, this hotel also offers an outdoor pool!

What to Do in Bocagrande?

Relax on the beaches of Bocagrande: Spend a leisurely day soaking up the sun.
Go shopping at the malls: Find the best local and international brands.
Explore the Bocagrande Malecon: Take a stroll along the coast for stunning views of the sea and the neighborhood’s skyscrapers.
Taste fresh seafood: Enjoy typical dishes like ceviche or pargo frito.

5. Canapote

I know, it’s a strange recommendation, and I’m probably the only travel blogger who makes it. Hahaha.

I love staying away from touristy areas to immerse myself in the local life and build relationships with the people who live there. I regularly visit the same restaurants, shop at the same boutiques, and always prefer staying with locals.

I try to do this in every destination I visit, and Cartagena de Indias was no exception.

That’s how I ended up in Canapote. Here, you won’t find colonial walls or crowded plazas, but instead, a laid-back, authentic atmosphere. Situated by the Caribbean Sea, it’s the perfect place to discover another side of Cartagena and connect with the local community.

What’s great about this neighborhood is that it’s very close to the airport. It’s also quite safe and offers plenty of supermarkets, shops, and restaurants for a comfortable stay. By moto-taxi, you can reach the tourist center in about ten minutes.

There are few hotels in this area, but plenty of guesthouses, offering a more responsible way to travel because you know your money is going directly to the locals.

Hotels in Canapote

Hospedaje Casa Pachi en Cartagena de Indias ($): You can go there with your eyes closed! I spent a week at this place run by a Colombian couple who were as attentive as they were kind!

Hostal Cartagena Sun ($): A very budget-friendly hostel with simple rooms, perfect for solo travelers, couples, and families!

What to Do in Canapote?

Visit the nearest beaches: explore the local favorite beaches surrounded by residential areas.
Dine at local restaurants: taste the most authentic flavors in the neighborhood’s family-run eateries.

I hope this article about the best areas to stay in Cartagena Colombia will help you planning your next trip.